EWTN has a new web site with Catholic news, here is the link;
http://www.ewtnnews.com/
Take a look and God Bless!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
My Thoughts Today
Here is the Gospel for today. Please read through when I did I found myself asking exactly who am I. Am I like Judas? Am I a person who constantly betrays Jesus by allowing other things to come to me and put Jesus aside from my life? Or am I like Peter and deny Jesus in my life?
I think there is both in many of us. As much as we do not wish to acknowledge this fact because after all we are all saints! Sad but true just think about how we live our daily lives and how many times instead of turning towards Jesus we instead refuse him or basically just give him up for a small secular reward.
In this Holy Week we should really reflect where we are with Jesus in our lives. Please forgive me Jesus for turning away from you for rejecting you for betraying your love!
Gospel - Jn 13:21-33, 36-38
21. When Jesus had said these things, he was troubled in spirit. And he bore witness by saying: “Amen, amen, I say to you, that one among you shall betray me.”
22. Therefore, the disciples looked around at one another, uncertain about whom he spoke.
23. And leaning against the bosom of Jesus was one of his disciples, the one whom Jesus loved.
24. Therefore, Simon Peter motioned to this one and said to him, “Who is it that he is speaking about?”
25. And so, leaning against the chest of Jesus, he said to him, “Lord, who is it?”
26. Jesus responded, “It is he to whom I shall extend the dipped bread.” And when he had dipped the bread, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, son of Simon.
27. And after the morsel, Satan entered into him. And Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.”
28. Now none of those sitting at table knew why he had said this to him.
29. For some were thinking that, because Judas held the purse, that Jesus had told him, “Buy those things which are needed by us for the feast day,” or that he might give something to the needy.
30. Therefore, having accepted the morsel, he went out immediately. And it was night.
31. Then, when he had gone out, Jesus said: “Now the Son of man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him.
32. If God has been glorified in him, then God will also glorify him in himself, and he will glorify him without delay.
33. Little sons, for a brief while, I am with you. You shall seek me, and just as I said to the Jews, ‘Where I am going, you are not able to go,’ so also I say to you now.
36. Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus responded: “Where I am going, you are not able to follow me now. But you shall follow afterward.”
37. Peter said to him: “Why am I unable to follow you now? I will lay down my life for you!”
38. Jesus answered him: “You will lay down your life for me? Amen, amen, I say to you, the rooster will not crow, until you deny me three times.”
I think there is both in many of us. As much as we do not wish to acknowledge this fact because after all we are all saints! Sad but true just think about how we live our daily lives and how many times instead of turning towards Jesus we instead refuse him or basically just give him up for a small secular reward.
In this Holy Week we should really reflect where we are with Jesus in our lives. Please forgive me Jesus for turning away from you for rejecting you for betraying your love!
Gospel - Jn 13:21-33, 36-38
21. When Jesus had said these things, he was troubled in spirit. And he bore witness by saying: “Amen, amen, I say to you, that one among you shall betray me.”
22. Therefore, the disciples looked around at one another, uncertain about whom he spoke.
23. And leaning against the bosom of Jesus was one of his disciples, the one whom Jesus loved.
24. Therefore, Simon Peter motioned to this one and said to him, “Who is it that he is speaking about?”
25. And so, leaning against the chest of Jesus, he said to him, “Lord, who is it?”
26. Jesus responded, “It is he to whom I shall extend the dipped bread.” And when he had dipped the bread, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, son of Simon.
27. And after the morsel, Satan entered into him. And Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.”
28. Now none of those sitting at table knew why he had said this to him.
29. For some were thinking that, because Judas held the purse, that Jesus had told him, “Buy those things which are needed by us for the feast day,” or that he might give something to the needy.
30. Therefore, having accepted the morsel, he went out immediately. And it was night.
31. Then, when he had gone out, Jesus said: “Now the Son of man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him.
32. If God has been glorified in him, then God will also glorify him in himself, and he will glorify him without delay.
33. Little sons, for a brief while, I am with you. You shall seek me, and just as I said to the Jews, ‘Where I am going, you are not able to go,’ so also I say to you now.
36. Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus responded: “Where I am going, you are not able to follow me now. But you shall follow afterward.”
37. Peter said to him: “Why am I unable to follow you now? I will lay down my life for you!”
38. Jesus answered him: “You will lay down your life for me? Amen, amen, I say to you, the rooster will not crow, until you deny me three times.”
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Holy Week
With today's Palm Sunday Mass starts probably the most important week in our faith's teaching I guess from what I have read and learned the whole principal of our religion is based on thee historic events of this week and has provided us with something wonderful for us to absorb and live by.
With Lent winding down I guess people it is time to take out the scorecards to see how we did. Are we better people, are we more into our faith, have we prayed more, have we done good for others around us have we preached the gospel and lived it also? Tough questions. Are we big enough to admit we slipped along the way during Lent and not achieved all our goals? It seems when Lent started I saw a lot of people writing in their blogs they will be doing this and that and then never tallying up.
Not me! I did not stay the course and wandered off the path numerous times. Yes I did beg our Lord for forgiveness at those times but also did self assessment and truthfully not really happy with who I am at times. I do know who I want to be and how I want to be. It seems though our Lord has really set out a very meandering route for me to take!
Never the less I think I will come out better so maybe their was a small be it very small amount of success during this Lent for me. Certainly at least as mentioned a better understanding of who I am.
I did go to confession this Lent and even though I had gone to yearly confessions for the most part this year I finally felt like there had been a burden lifted off of me. After leaving the confessional with absolution my soul felt light like a large burden had been lifted. I told my wife and she almost laughed at me so I just kept my feelings to myself after. You know sometimes this is hard when your partner is not really into it. For what ever reason she seems to think taking out your problems on the Lord instead of having the Lord help take your problems away is the better way. Some prayer some reflection some self assessment certainly is better than harboring ill feelings and the feelings that god has punished you. Oh well another challenge but I just wish she had more zeal for the church because at times I am held back and it bothers me. I guess another hurdle to go over.
In synopsis take look at how you made out and keep working at it we are not perfect and I am not sure if we really are meant to be. But bringing God into your life can only help for the better!
Take Care and God bless!
With Lent winding down I guess people it is time to take out the scorecards to see how we did. Are we better people, are we more into our faith, have we prayed more, have we done good for others around us have we preached the gospel and lived it also? Tough questions. Are we big enough to admit we slipped along the way during Lent and not achieved all our goals? It seems when Lent started I saw a lot of people writing in their blogs they will be doing this and that and then never tallying up.
Not me! I did not stay the course and wandered off the path numerous times. Yes I did beg our Lord for forgiveness at those times but also did self assessment and truthfully not really happy with who I am at times. I do know who I want to be and how I want to be. It seems though our Lord has really set out a very meandering route for me to take!
Never the less I think I will come out better so maybe their was a small be it very small amount of success during this Lent for me. Certainly at least as mentioned a better understanding of who I am.
I did go to confession this Lent and even though I had gone to yearly confessions for the most part this year I finally felt like there had been a burden lifted off of me. After leaving the confessional with absolution my soul felt light like a large burden had been lifted. I told my wife and she almost laughed at me so I just kept my feelings to myself after. You know sometimes this is hard when your partner is not really into it. For what ever reason she seems to think taking out your problems on the Lord instead of having the Lord help take your problems away is the better way. Some prayer some reflection some self assessment certainly is better than harboring ill feelings and the feelings that god has punished you. Oh well another challenge but I just wish she had more zeal for the church because at times I am held back and it bothers me. I guess another hurdle to go over.
In synopsis take look at how you made out and keep working at it we are not perfect and I am not sure if we really are meant to be. But bringing God into your life can only help for the better!
Take Care and God bless!
The Sunday Reading
Palm Sunday
First Reading - Is 50:4-7
4. The Lord has given me a learned tongue, so that I would know how to uphold with a word, one who has weakened. He rises in the morning, he rises to my ear in the morning, so that I may heed him like a teacher.
5. The Lord God has opened my ear. And I do not contradict him. I have not turned back.
6. I have given my body to those who strike me, and my cheeks to those who plucked them. I have not averted my face from those who rebuked me and who spit on me.
7. The Lord God is my helper. Therefore, I have not been confounded. Therefore, I have set my face like a very hard rock, and I know that I will not be confounded.
Psalm - Ps 22:8-9,17-18,19-20,23-24
8. All those who saw me have derided me. They have spoken with the lips and shook the head.
9. He has hoped in the Lord, let him rescue him. Let him save him because he chooses him.
17. For many dogs have surrounded me. The council of the malicious has besieged me. They have pierced my hands and feet.
18. They have numbered all my bones. And they have examined me and stared at me.
19. They divided my garments among them, and over my vestment, they cast lots.
20. But you, O Lord, do not take your help far from me; be attentive to my defense.
23. I will declare your name to my brothers. In the midst of the Church, I will praise you.
24. You who fear the Lord, praise him. All the offspring of Jacob, glorify him.
Second Reading - Phil 2:6-11
6. Brothers and Sisters: Jesus Christ who, though he was in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be seized.
7. Instead, he emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men, and accepting the state of a man.
8. He humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death, even the death of the Cross.
9. Because of this, God has also exalted him and has given him a name which is above every name,
10. so that, at the name of Jesus, every knee would bend, of those in heaven, of those on earth, and of those in hell,
11. and so that every tongue would confess that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the glory of God the Father.
Gospel - Lk 22:14-23:56
14. And when the hour had arrived, he sat down at table, and the twelve Apostles with him.
15. And he said to them: “With longing have I desired to eat this Passover with you, before I suffer.
16. For I say to you, that from this time, I will not eat it, until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”
17. And having taken the chalice, he gave thanks, and he said: “Take this and share it among yourselves.
18. For I say to you, that I will not drink from the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God arrives.”
19. And taking bread, he gave thanks and broke it and gave it to them, saying: “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this as a commemoration of me.”
20. Similarly also, he took the chalice, after he had eaten the meal, saying: “This chalice is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you.
21. But in truth, behold, the hand of my betrayer is with me at table.
22. And indeed, the Son of man goes according to what has been determined. And yet, woe to that man by whom he will be betrayed.”
23. And they began to inquire among themselves, as to which of them might do this.
24. Now there was also a contention among them, as to which of them seemed to be the greater.
25. And he said to them: “The kings of the Gentiles dominate them; and those who hold authority over them are called beneficent.
26. But it must not be so with you. Instead, whoever is greater among you, let him become the lesser. And whoever is the leader, let him become the server.
27. For who is greater: he who sits at table, or he who serves? Is not he who sits at table? Yet I am in your midst as one who serves.
28. But you are those who have remained with me during my trials.
29. And I dispose to you, just as my Father has disposed to me, a kingdom,
30. so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and so that you may sit upon thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
31. And the Lord said: “Simon, Simon! Behold, Satan has asked for you, so that he may sift you like wheat.
32. But I have prayed for you, so that your faith may not fail, and so that you, once converted, may confirm your brothers.”
33. And he said to him, “Lord, I am prepared to go with you, even to prison and to death.”
34. And he said, “I say to you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you have three times denied that you know me.” And he said to them,
35. “When I sent you without money or provisions or shoes, did you lack anything?”
36. And they said, “Nothing.” Then he said to them: “But now, let whoever has money take it, and likewise with provisions. And whoever does not have these, let him sell his coat and buy a sword.
37. For I say to you, that what has been written must still be fulfilled in me: ‘And he was esteemed with the wicked.’ Yet even these things about me have an end.”
38. So they said, “Lord, behold, there are two swords here.” But he said to them, “It is sufficient.”
39. And departing, he went out, according to his custom, to the Mount of Olives. And his disciples also followed him.
40. And when he had arrived at the place, he said to them: “Pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
41. And he was separated from them by about a stone’s throw. And kneeling down, he prayed,
42. saying: “Father, if you are willing, take this chalice away from me. Yet truly, let not my will, but yours, be done.”
43. Then an Angel appeared to him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony, he prayed more intensely;
44. and so his sweat became like drops of blood, running down to the ground.
45. And when he had risen up from prayer and had gone to his disciples, he found them sleeping out of sorrow.
46. And he said to them: “Why are you sleeping? Rise up, pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
47. While he was still speaking, behold, a crowd arrived. And he who is called Judas, one of the twelve, went ahead of them and approached Jesus, in order to kiss him.
48. And Jesus said to him, “Judas, do you betray the Son of man with a kiss?”
49. Then those who were around him, realizing what was about to happen, said to him: “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?”
50. And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear.
51. But in response, Jesus said, “Permit even this.” And when he had touched his ear, he healed him.
52. Then Jesus said to the leaders of the priests, and the magistrates of the temple, and the elders, who had come to him: “Have you gone out, as if against a thief, with swords and clubs?
53. When I was with you each day in the temple, you did not extend your hands against me. But this is your hour and that of the power of darkness.”
54. And apprehending him, they led him to the house of the high priest. Yet truly, Peter followed at a distance.
55. Now as they were sitting around a fire, which had been kindled in the middle of the atrium, Peter was in their midst.
56. And when a certain woman servant had seen him sitting in its light, and had looked at him intently, she said, “This one was also with him.”
57. But he denied him by saying, “Woman, I do not know him.”
58. And after a little while, another one, seeing him, said, “You also are one of them.” Yet Peter said, “O man, I am not.”
59. And after the interval of about one hour had passed, someone else affirmed it, saying: “Truly, this one also was with him. For he is also a Galilean.”
60. And Peter said: “Man, I do not know what you are saying.” And at once, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61. And the Lord turned around and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord that he had said: “For before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.”
62. And going out, Peter wept bitterly.
63. And the men who were holding him ridiculed him and beat him.
64. And they blindfolded him and repeatedly struck his face. And they questioned him, saying: “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?”
65. And blaspheming in many other ways, they spoke against him.
66. And when it was daytime, the elders of the people, and the leaders of the priests, and the scribes convened. And they led him into their council, saying, “If you are the Christ, tell us.”
67. And he said to them: “If I tell you, you will not believe me.
68. And if I also question you, you will not answer me. Neither will you release me.
69. But from this time, the Son of man will be sitting at the right hand of the power of God.”
70. Then they all said, “So you are the Son of God?” And he said. “You are saying that I am.”
71. And they said: “Why do we still require testimony? For we have heard it ourselves, from his own mouth.”
Luke 23
1. And the entire multitude of them, rising up, led him to Pilate.
2. Then they began to accuse him, saying, “We found this one subverting our nation, and prohibiting giving tribute to Caesar, and saying that he is Christ the king.”
3. And Pilate questioned him, saying: “You are the king of the Jews?” But in response, he said: “You are saying it.”
4. Then Pilate said to the leaders of the priests and to the crowds, “I find no case against this man.”
5. But they continued more intensely, saying: “He has stirred up the people, teaching throughout all of Judea, beginning from Galilee, even to this place.”
6. But Pilate, upon hearing Galilee, asked if the man were of Galilee.
7. And when he realized that he was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him away to Herod, who was himself also at Jerusalem in those days.
8. Then Herod, upon seeing Jesus, was very glad. For he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard so many things about him, and he was hoping to see some kind of sign wrought by him.
9. Then he questioned him with many words. But he gave him no response at all.
10. And the leaders of the priests, and the scribes, stood firm in persistently accusing him.
11. Then Herod, with his soldiers, scorned him. And he ridiculed him, clothing him in a white garment. And he sent him back to Pilate.
12. And Herod and Pilate became friends on that day. For previously they were enemies to one another.
13. And Pilate, calling together the leaders of the priests, and the magistrates, and the people,
14. said to them: “You have brought before me this man, as one who disturbs the people. And behold, having questioned him before you, I find no case against this man, in those things about which you accuse him.
15. And neither did Herod. For I sent you all to him, and behold, nothing deserving of death was recorded about him.
16. Therefore, I will chastise him and release him.”
17. Now he was required to release one person for them on the feast day.
18. But the entire crowd exclaimed together, saying: “Take this one, and release to us Barabbas!”
19. Now he had been cast into prison because of a certain sedition that occurred in the city and for murder.
20. Then Pilate spoke to them again, wanting to release Jesus.
21. But they shouted in response, saying: “Crucify him! Crucify him!”
22. Then he said to them a third time: “Why? What evil has he done? I find no case against him for death. Therefore, I will chastise him and release him.”
23. But they persisted, with loud voices, in demanding that he be crucified. And their voices increased in intensity.
24. And so Pilate issued a judgment granting their petition.
25. Then he released for them the one who had been cast into prison for murder and sedition, whom they were requesting. Yet truly, Jesus he handed over to their will.
26. And as they were leading him away, they apprehended a certain one, Simon of Cyrene, as he was returning from the countryside. And they imposed the cross on him to carry after Jesus.
27. Then a great crowd of people followed him, with women who were mourning and lamenting him.
28. But Jesus, turning to them, said: “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep over me. Instead, weep over yourselves and over your children.
29. For behold, the days will arrive in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that have not borne, and the breasts that have not nursed.’
30. Then they will begin to say to the mountains, ‘Fall over us,’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us.’
31. For if they do these things with green wood, what will be done with the dry?”
32. Now they also led out two other criminals with him, in order to execute them.
33. And when they arrived at the place that is called Calvary, they crucified him there, with the robbers, one to the right and the other to the left.
34. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them. For they know not what they do.” And truly, dividing his garments, they cast lots.
35. And people were standing near, watching. And the leaders among them derided him, saying: “He saved others. Let him save himself, if this one is the Christ, the elect of God.”
36. And the soldiers also ridiculed him, approaching him and offering him vinegar,
37. and saying, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.”
38. Now there was also an inscription written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
39. And one of those robbers who were hanging blasphemed him, saying, “If you are the Christ, save yourself and us.”
40. But the other responded by rebuking him, saying: “Do you have no fear of God, since you are under the same condemnation?
41. And indeed, it is just for us. For we are receiving what our deeds deserve. But truly, this one has done nothing wrong.”
42. And he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
43. And Jesus said to him, “Amen I say to you, this day you shall be with me in Paradise.”
44. Now it was nearly the sixth hour, and a darkness occurred over the entire earth, until the ninth hour.
45. And the sun was obscured. And the veil of the temple was torn down the middle.
46. And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said: “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” And upon saying this, he expired.
47. Now, the centurion, seeing what had happened, glorified God, saying, “Truly, this man was the Just One.”
48. And the entire crowd of those who came together to see this spectacle also saw what had happened, and they returned, striking their breasts.
49. Now all those who knew him, and the women who had followed him from Galilee, were standing at a distance, watching these things.
50. And behold, there was a man named Joseph, who was a councilman, a good and just man,
51. (for he had not consented to their decision or their actions). He was from Arimathea, a city of Judea. And he was himself also anticipating the kingdom of God.
52. This man approached Pilate and petitioned for the body of Jesus.
53. And taking him down, he wrapped him in a fine linen cloth, and he placed him in a tomb hewn from rock, in which no one had ever been placed.
54. And it was the day of Preparation, and the Sabbath was drawing near.
55. Now the women who had come with him from Galilee, by following, saw the tomb and the manner in which his body was placed.
56. And upon returning, they prepared aromatic spices and ointments. But on the Sabbath, indeed, they rested, according to the commandment.
First Reading - Is 50:4-7
4. The Lord has given me a learned tongue, so that I would know how to uphold with a word, one who has weakened. He rises in the morning, he rises to my ear in the morning, so that I may heed him like a teacher.
5. The Lord God has opened my ear. And I do not contradict him. I have not turned back.
6. I have given my body to those who strike me, and my cheeks to those who plucked them. I have not averted my face from those who rebuked me and who spit on me.
7. The Lord God is my helper. Therefore, I have not been confounded. Therefore, I have set my face like a very hard rock, and I know that I will not be confounded.
Psalm - Ps 22:8-9,17-18,19-20,23-24
8. All those who saw me have derided me. They have spoken with the lips and shook the head.
9. He has hoped in the Lord, let him rescue him. Let him save him because he chooses him.
17. For many dogs have surrounded me. The council of the malicious has besieged me. They have pierced my hands and feet.
18. They have numbered all my bones. And they have examined me and stared at me.
19. They divided my garments among them, and over my vestment, they cast lots.
20. But you, O Lord, do not take your help far from me; be attentive to my defense.
23. I will declare your name to my brothers. In the midst of the Church, I will praise you.
24. You who fear the Lord, praise him. All the offspring of Jacob, glorify him.
Second Reading - Phil 2:6-11
6. Brothers and Sisters: Jesus Christ who, though he was in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be seized.
7. Instead, he emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men, and accepting the state of a man.
8. He humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death, even the death of the Cross.
9. Because of this, God has also exalted him and has given him a name which is above every name,
10. so that, at the name of Jesus, every knee would bend, of those in heaven, of those on earth, and of those in hell,
11. and so that every tongue would confess that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the glory of God the Father.
Gospel - Lk 22:14-23:56
14. And when the hour had arrived, he sat down at table, and the twelve Apostles with him.
15. And he said to them: “With longing have I desired to eat this Passover with you, before I suffer.
16. For I say to you, that from this time, I will not eat it, until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”
17. And having taken the chalice, he gave thanks, and he said: “Take this and share it among yourselves.
18. For I say to you, that I will not drink from the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God arrives.”
19. And taking bread, he gave thanks and broke it and gave it to them, saying: “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this as a commemoration of me.”
20. Similarly also, he took the chalice, after he had eaten the meal, saying: “This chalice is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you.
21. But in truth, behold, the hand of my betrayer is with me at table.
22. And indeed, the Son of man goes according to what has been determined. And yet, woe to that man by whom he will be betrayed.”
23. And they began to inquire among themselves, as to which of them might do this.
24. Now there was also a contention among them, as to which of them seemed to be the greater.
25. And he said to them: “The kings of the Gentiles dominate them; and those who hold authority over them are called beneficent.
26. But it must not be so with you. Instead, whoever is greater among you, let him become the lesser. And whoever is the leader, let him become the server.
27. For who is greater: he who sits at table, or he who serves? Is not he who sits at table? Yet I am in your midst as one who serves.
28. But you are those who have remained with me during my trials.
29. And I dispose to you, just as my Father has disposed to me, a kingdom,
30. so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and so that you may sit upon thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
31. And the Lord said: “Simon, Simon! Behold, Satan has asked for you, so that he may sift you like wheat.
32. But I have prayed for you, so that your faith may not fail, and so that you, once converted, may confirm your brothers.”
33. And he said to him, “Lord, I am prepared to go with you, even to prison and to death.”
34. And he said, “I say to you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you have three times denied that you know me.” And he said to them,
35. “When I sent you without money or provisions or shoes, did you lack anything?”
36. And they said, “Nothing.” Then he said to them: “But now, let whoever has money take it, and likewise with provisions. And whoever does not have these, let him sell his coat and buy a sword.
37. For I say to you, that what has been written must still be fulfilled in me: ‘And he was esteemed with the wicked.’ Yet even these things about me have an end.”
38. So they said, “Lord, behold, there are two swords here.” But he said to them, “It is sufficient.”
39. And departing, he went out, according to his custom, to the Mount of Olives. And his disciples also followed him.
40. And when he had arrived at the place, he said to them: “Pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
41. And he was separated from them by about a stone’s throw. And kneeling down, he prayed,
42. saying: “Father, if you are willing, take this chalice away from me. Yet truly, let not my will, but yours, be done.”
43. Then an Angel appeared to him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony, he prayed more intensely;
44. and so his sweat became like drops of blood, running down to the ground.
45. And when he had risen up from prayer and had gone to his disciples, he found them sleeping out of sorrow.
46. And he said to them: “Why are you sleeping? Rise up, pray, lest you enter into temptation.”
47. While he was still speaking, behold, a crowd arrived. And he who is called Judas, one of the twelve, went ahead of them and approached Jesus, in order to kiss him.
48. And Jesus said to him, “Judas, do you betray the Son of man with a kiss?”
49. Then those who were around him, realizing what was about to happen, said to him: “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?”
50. And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear.
51. But in response, Jesus said, “Permit even this.” And when he had touched his ear, he healed him.
52. Then Jesus said to the leaders of the priests, and the magistrates of the temple, and the elders, who had come to him: “Have you gone out, as if against a thief, with swords and clubs?
53. When I was with you each day in the temple, you did not extend your hands against me. But this is your hour and that of the power of darkness.”
54. And apprehending him, they led him to the house of the high priest. Yet truly, Peter followed at a distance.
55. Now as they were sitting around a fire, which had been kindled in the middle of the atrium, Peter was in their midst.
56. And when a certain woman servant had seen him sitting in its light, and had looked at him intently, she said, “This one was also with him.”
57. But he denied him by saying, “Woman, I do not know him.”
58. And after a little while, another one, seeing him, said, “You also are one of them.” Yet Peter said, “O man, I am not.”
59. And after the interval of about one hour had passed, someone else affirmed it, saying: “Truly, this one also was with him. For he is also a Galilean.”
60. And Peter said: “Man, I do not know what you are saying.” And at once, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61. And the Lord turned around and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord that he had said: “For before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.”
62. And going out, Peter wept bitterly.
63. And the men who were holding him ridiculed him and beat him.
64. And they blindfolded him and repeatedly struck his face. And they questioned him, saying: “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?”
65. And blaspheming in many other ways, they spoke against him.
66. And when it was daytime, the elders of the people, and the leaders of the priests, and the scribes convened. And they led him into their council, saying, “If you are the Christ, tell us.”
67. And he said to them: “If I tell you, you will not believe me.
68. And if I also question you, you will not answer me. Neither will you release me.
69. But from this time, the Son of man will be sitting at the right hand of the power of God.”
70. Then they all said, “So you are the Son of God?” And he said. “You are saying that I am.”
71. And they said: “Why do we still require testimony? For we have heard it ourselves, from his own mouth.”
Luke 23
1. And the entire multitude of them, rising up, led him to Pilate.
2. Then they began to accuse him, saying, “We found this one subverting our nation, and prohibiting giving tribute to Caesar, and saying that he is Christ the king.”
3. And Pilate questioned him, saying: “You are the king of the Jews?” But in response, he said: “You are saying it.”
4. Then Pilate said to the leaders of the priests and to the crowds, “I find no case against this man.”
5. But they continued more intensely, saying: “He has stirred up the people, teaching throughout all of Judea, beginning from Galilee, even to this place.”
6. But Pilate, upon hearing Galilee, asked if the man were of Galilee.
7. And when he realized that he was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him away to Herod, who was himself also at Jerusalem in those days.
8. Then Herod, upon seeing Jesus, was very glad. For he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard so many things about him, and he was hoping to see some kind of sign wrought by him.
9. Then he questioned him with many words. But he gave him no response at all.
10. And the leaders of the priests, and the scribes, stood firm in persistently accusing him.
11. Then Herod, with his soldiers, scorned him. And he ridiculed him, clothing him in a white garment. And he sent him back to Pilate.
12. And Herod and Pilate became friends on that day. For previously they were enemies to one another.
13. And Pilate, calling together the leaders of the priests, and the magistrates, and the people,
14. said to them: “You have brought before me this man, as one who disturbs the people. And behold, having questioned him before you, I find no case against this man, in those things about which you accuse him.
15. And neither did Herod. For I sent you all to him, and behold, nothing deserving of death was recorded about him.
16. Therefore, I will chastise him and release him.”
17. Now he was required to release one person for them on the feast day.
18. But the entire crowd exclaimed together, saying: “Take this one, and release to us Barabbas!”
19. Now he had been cast into prison because of a certain sedition that occurred in the city and for murder.
20. Then Pilate spoke to them again, wanting to release Jesus.
21. But they shouted in response, saying: “Crucify him! Crucify him!”
22. Then he said to them a third time: “Why? What evil has he done? I find no case against him for death. Therefore, I will chastise him and release him.”
23. But they persisted, with loud voices, in demanding that he be crucified. And their voices increased in intensity.
24. And so Pilate issued a judgment granting their petition.
25. Then he released for them the one who had been cast into prison for murder and sedition, whom they were requesting. Yet truly, Jesus he handed over to their will.
26. And as they were leading him away, they apprehended a certain one, Simon of Cyrene, as he was returning from the countryside. And they imposed the cross on him to carry after Jesus.
27. Then a great crowd of people followed him, with women who were mourning and lamenting him.
28. But Jesus, turning to them, said: “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep over me. Instead, weep over yourselves and over your children.
29. For behold, the days will arrive in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that have not borne, and the breasts that have not nursed.’
30. Then they will begin to say to the mountains, ‘Fall over us,’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us.’
31. For if they do these things with green wood, what will be done with the dry?”
32. Now they also led out two other criminals with him, in order to execute them.
33. And when they arrived at the place that is called Calvary, they crucified him there, with the robbers, one to the right and the other to the left.
34. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them. For they know not what they do.” And truly, dividing his garments, they cast lots.
35. And people were standing near, watching. And the leaders among them derided him, saying: “He saved others. Let him save himself, if this one is the Christ, the elect of God.”
36. And the soldiers also ridiculed him, approaching him and offering him vinegar,
37. and saying, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.”
38. Now there was also an inscription written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
39. And one of those robbers who were hanging blasphemed him, saying, “If you are the Christ, save yourself and us.”
40. But the other responded by rebuking him, saying: “Do you have no fear of God, since you are under the same condemnation?
41. And indeed, it is just for us. For we are receiving what our deeds deserve. But truly, this one has done nothing wrong.”
42. And he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
43. And Jesus said to him, “Amen I say to you, this day you shall be with me in Paradise.”
44. Now it was nearly the sixth hour, and a darkness occurred over the entire earth, until the ninth hour.
45. And the sun was obscured. And the veil of the temple was torn down the middle.
46. And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said: “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” And upon saying this, he expired.
47. Now, the centurion, seeing what had happened, glorified God, saying, “Truly, this man was the Just One.”
48. And the entire crowd of those who came together to see this spectacle also saw what had happened, and they returned, striking their breasts.
49. Now all those who knew him, and the women who had followed him from Galilee, were standing at a distance, watching these things.
50. And behold, there was a man named Joseph, who was a councilman, a good and just man,
51. (for he had not consented to their decision or their actions). He was from Arimathea, a city of Judea. And he was himself also anticipating the kingdom of God.
52. This man approached Pilate and petitioned for the body of Jesus.
53. And taking him down, he wrapped him in a fine linen cloth, and he placed him in a tomb hewn from rock, in which no one had ever been placed.
54. And it was the day of Preparation, and the Sabbath was drawing near.
55. Now the women who had come with him from Galilee, by following, saw the tomb and the manner in which his body was placed.
56. And upon returning, they prepared aromatic spices and ointments. But on the Sabbath, indeed, they rested, according to the commandment.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Sunday Reading 5th Sunday of Lent
First Reading - Is 43:16-21
16. Thus says the Lord, who gave you a way through the sea and a path through the torrent of waters,
17. who led out the chariot and the horse, the column of robust troops. They went to sleep together, and they will not arise. They have been crushed like flax, and they have been extinguished.
18. You need not call to mind the past, nor consider the things of antiquity.
19. Behold, I am accomplishing new things. And presently, they will spring forth. With certainty, you will know them. I will make a way in the desert, and rivers in an impassible place.
20. The wild beasts of the field will glorify me, with the serpents and the ostriches. For I have brought waters to the desert, rivers to inaccessible places, in order to give drink to my people, to my elect.
21. This is the people whom I have formed for myself. They will speak my praise.
Psalm - Ps 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
1. When the Lord turned back the captivity of Zion, we became like those who are consoled.
2a. Then our mouth was filled with gladness and our tongue with exultation.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
2b. Then they will say among the nations: “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3. The Lord has done great things for us. We have become joyful.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
4. Convert our captivity, O Lord, like a torrent in the south.
5. Those who sow in tears shall reap in exultation.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
6. When departing, they went forth and wept, sowing their seeds.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
Second Reading - Phil 3:8-14
8. Brothers and Sisters: Yet truly, I consider everything to be a loss, because of the preeminent knowledge of Jesus Christ, my Lord, for whose sake I have suffered the loss of everything, considering it all to be like dung, so that I may gain Christ,
9. and so that you may be found in him, not having my justice, which is of the law, but that which is of the faith of Christ Jesus, the justice within faith, which is of God.
10. So shall I know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his Passion, having been fashioned according to his death,
11. if, by some means, I might attain to the resurrection which is from the dead.
12. It is not as though I have already received this, or were already perfect. But rather I pursue, so that by some means I might attain, that in which I have already been attained by Christ Jesus.
13. Brothers, I do not consider that I have already attained this. Instead, I do one thing: forgetting those things that are behind, and extending myself toward those things that are ahead,
14. I pursue the destination, the prize of the heavenly calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Gospel - Jn 8:1-11
1. But Jesus continued on to the Mount of Olives.
2. And early in the morning, he went again to the temple; and all the people came to him. And sitting down, he taught them.
3. Now the scribes and Pharisees brought forward a woman caught in adultery, and they stood her in front of them.
4. And they said to him: “Teacher, this woman was just now caught in adultery.
5. And in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such a one. Therefore, what do you say?”
6. But they were saying this to test him, so that they might be able to accuse him. Then Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the earth.
7. And then, when they persevered in questioning him, he stood upright and said to them, “Let whoever is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her.”
8. And bending down again, he wrote on the earth.
9. But upon hearing this, they went away, one by one, beginning with the eldest. And Jesus alone remained, with the woman standing in front of him.
10. Then Jesus, raising himself up, said to her: “Woman, where are those who accused you? Has no one condemned you?”
11. And she said, “No one, Lord.” Then Jesus said: “Neither will I condemn you. Go, and now do not choose to sin anymore.”
16. Thus says the Lord, who gave you a way through the sea and a path through the torrent of waters,
17. who led out the chariot and the horse, the column of robust troops. They went to sleep together, and they will not arise. They have been crushed like flax, and they have been extinguished.
18. You need not call to mind the past, nor consider the things of antiquity.
19. Behold, I am accomplishing new things. And presently, they will spring forth. With certainty, you will know them. I will make a way in the desert, and rivers in an impassible place.
20. The wild beasts of the field will glorify me, with the serpents and the ostriches. For I have brought waters to the desert, rivers to inaccessible places, in order to give drink to my people, to my elect.
21. This is the people whom I have formed for myself. They will speak my praise.
Psalm - Ps 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
1. When the Lord turned back the captivity of Zion, we became like those who are consoled.
2a. Then our mouth was filled with gladness and our tongue with exultation.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
2b. Then they will say among the nations: “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3. The Lord has done great things for us. We have become joyful.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
4. Convert our captivity, O Lord, like a torrent in the south.
5. Those who sow in tears shall reap in exultation.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
6. When departing, they went forth and wept, sowing their seeds.
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
Second Reading - Phil 3:8-14
8. Brothers and Sisters: Yet truly, I consider everything to be a loss, because of the preeminent knowledge of Jesus Christ, my Lord, for whose sake I have suffered the loss of everything, considering it all to be like dung, so that I may gain Christ,
9. and so that you may be found in him, not having my justice, which is of the law, but that which is of the faith of Christ Jesus, the justice within faith, which is of God.
10. So shall I know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his Passion, having been fashioned according to his death,
11. if, by some means, I might attain to the resurrection which is from the dead.
12. It is not as though I have already received this, or were already perfect. But rather I pursue, so that by some means I might attain, that in which I have already been attained by Christ Jesus.
13. Brothers, I do not consider that I have already attained this. Instead, I do one thing: forgetting those things that are behind, and extending myself toward those things that are ahead,
14. I pursue the destination, the prize of the heavenly calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Gospel - Jn 8:1-11
1. But Jesus continued on to the Mount of Olives.
2. And early in the morning, he went again to the temple; and all the people came to him. And sitting down, he taught them.
3. Now the scribes and Pharisees brought forward a woman caught in adultery, and they stood her in front of them.
4. And they said to him: “Teacher, this woman was just now caught in adultery.
5. And in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such a one. Therefore, what do you say?”
6. But they were saying this to test him, so that they might be able to accuse him. Then Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the earth.
7. And then, when they persevered in questioning him, he stood upright and said to them, “Let whoever is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her.”
8. And bending down again, he wrote on the earth.
9. But upon hearing this, they went away, one by one, beginning with the eldest. And Jesus alone remained, with the woman standing in front of him.
10. Then Jesus, raising himself up, said to her: “Woman, where are those who accused you? Has no one condemned you?”
11. And she said, “No one, Lord.” Then Jesus said: “Neither will I condemn you. Go, and now do not choose to sin anymore.”
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Pope Under Attack!
Well I guess it had to happen and the feeding frenzy of the Secular media is at it again. Without the full facts and total knowledge of what went on the headlines are spewing out about Pope Benedict XVI aiding and helping out an accused priest.
Now from what I read so far and it has been hard to piece together it seems our Holy father was not totally in the know. (ironically like the press) here is an excerpt from Catholic News Agency,
News » VaticanVatican: Pope was 'completely extraneous' to Munich sex abuse decision
Vatican City, Mar 13, 2010 / 12:22 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Fr. Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy See's Press Office, released a statement on Saturday morning in which he made three "observations" regarding sexual abuse by people and in institutions of the Catholic Church. He also addressed dismissed as unfounded attempts to link the Pope to a decision to transfer a priest found to have committed sexual abuse when Benedict XVI was Archbishop of Munich.
The first of the three "observations" made by Fr. Lombardi was to point out that the "line taken" by the German Bishops' Conference has been confirmed as the correct path to confront the problem in its different aspects.
Fr. Lombardi included some elements of the statement made by Archbishop Robert Zollitsch at a Friday press conference following his audience with the Pope. The Vatican spokesman highlighted the approach established by the German bishops to respond to the possible abuses: "recognizing the truth and helping the victims, reinforcing the preventions and collaborating constructively with the authorities - including those of the state judiciaries - for the common good of society."
Fr. Lombardi drew attention to Archbishop Zollitsch's affirmation, without any doubts, of the expert opinion that the vow of celibacy of the priest has no relationship to cases of pedophilia.
He also reaffirmed that the Holy Father supports the German bishops in their plan and that this approach could be considered "useful and inspiring" to other episcopal conferences in similar situations.
Secondly, Fr. Lombardi referred to the interview given to Avvenire by the "promoter of justice" from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Monsignor Charles Scicluna, who explained in detail the norms of the Church for investigating cases of sexual abuse of minors.
The Vatican spokesman highlighted the most important element of the interview: that the Church has in no way promoted hiding the crimes, but has put an "intense activity" in motion to confront, judge and punish them in an appropriate manner "within the framework of ecclesiastical ordinance."
This is really old, and tiring to see the secular press constantly line up and fire salvos at the Church. It seems for a teacher or a coach to sexually abuse a child is now acceptable as those stories rarely get any coverage and if they do it is brief and there is no carrying on about no investigative journalism going on etc. Yes it is an easy target our Catholic faith.
Well here is my rant for today. I am sick of the press to the point where I rarely pay attention to the news. This past Monday while getting ready for work I turned on the radio to listen to the weather and get a brief in site into what has been happening in the world, especially with the disasters in Haiti and Chile and other problems in the world. First I thought a miracle had occurred while I slept and thought that all the world's ills had been cured. The first 7 1/2 minutes of a 10 minute news cast was spent on the Oscars from the night before, basically on who wore what who was with who etc. To me totally meaningless not news.
I thought to myself the troops are all home, Haiti was rebuilt as was Chile, in Africa Aids has been cured everyone on the planet has jobs, no more homelessness, no more poverty, no more not being educated, no employment, no drug problem, no inner city problems, no more racism etc.
Yes the only news for 7 1/2 minutes was the Oscars then a blip on a house fire in Toronto that eventually ended up costing a father and his daughter their lives. Truly a sad statement on the state of affairs today. Now you know why I pay no attention to the news. Mind you late in the week our Holy Father became the target of the media and I think he would have knocked the Oscars out of the limelight.
I guess being Catholic opens you up to attack. People there are many other ills in the world that also need to be addressed so please be objective, cover the story from both sides and provide all details before you condemn people! Be objective in your reporting and provide us with news that matters!
Now from what I read so far and it has been hard to piece together it seems our Holy father was not totally in the know. (ironically like the press) here is an excerpt from Catholic News Agency,
News » VaticanVatican: Pope was 'completely extraneous' to Munich sex abuse decision
Vatican City, Mar 13, 2010 / 12:22 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Fr. Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy See's Press Office, released a statement on Saturday morning in which he made three "observations" regarding sexual abuse by people and in institutions of the Catholic Church. He also addressed dismissed as unfounded attempts to link the Pope to a decision to transfer a priest found to have committed sexual abuse when Benedict XVI was Archbishop of Munich.
The first of the three "observations" made by Fr. Lombardi was to point out that the "line taken" by the German Bishops' Conference has been confirmed as the correct path to confront the problem in its different aspects.
Fr. Lombardi included some elements of the statement made by Archbishop Robert Zollitsch at a Friday press conference following his audience with the Pope. The Vatican spokesman highlighted the approach established by the German bishops to respond to the possible abuses: "recognizing the truth and helping the victims, reinforcing the preventions and collaborating constructively with the authorities - including those of the state judiciaries - for the common good of society."
Fr. Lombardi drew attention to Archbishop Zollitsch's affirmation, without any doubts, of the expert opinion that the vow of celibacy of the priest has no relationship to cases of pedophilia.
He also reaffirmed that the Holy Father supports the German bishops in their plan and that this approach could be considered "useful and inspiring" to other episcopal conferences in similar situations.
Secondly, Fr. Lombardi referred to the interview given to Avvenire by the "promoter of justice" from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Monsignor Charles Scicluna, who explained in detail the norms of the Church for investigating cases of sexual abuse of minors.
The Vatican spokesman highlighted the most important element of the interview: that the Church has in no way promoted hiding the crimes, but has put an "intense activity" in motion to confront, judge and punish them in an appropriate manner "within the framework of ecclesiastical ordinance."
This is really old, and tiring to see the secular press constantly line up and fire salvos at the Church. It seems for a teacher or a coach to sexually abuse a child is now acceptable as those stories rarely get any coverage and if they do it is brief and there is no carrying on about no investigative journalism going on etc. Yes it is an easy target our Catholic faith.
Well here is my rant for today. I am sick of the press to the point where I rarely pay attention to the news. This past Monday while getting ready for work I turned on the radio to listen to the weather and get a brief in site into what has been happening in the world, especially with the disasters in Haiti and Chile and other problems in the world. First I thought a miracle had occurred while I slept and thought that all the world's ills had been cured. The first 7 1/2 minutes of a 10 minute news cast was spent on the Oscars from the night before, basically on who wore what who was with who etc. To me totally meaningless not news.
I thought to myself the troops are all home, Haiti was rebuilt as was Chile, in Africa Aids has been cured everyone on the planet has jobs, no more homelessness, no more poverty, no more not being educated, no employment, no drug problem, no inner city problems, no more racism etc.
Yes the only news for 7 1/2 minutes was the Oscars then a blip on a house fire in Toronto that eventually ended up costing a father and his daughter their lives. Truly a sad statement on the state of affairs today. Now you know why I pay no attention to the news. Mind you late in the week our Holy Father became the target of the media and I think he would have knocked the Oscars out of the limelight.
I guess being Catholic opens you up to attack. People there are many other ills in the world that also need to be addressed so please be objective, cover the story from both sides and provide all details before you condemn people! Be objective in your reporting and provide us with news that matters!
The Sunday Reading
First Reading - Josh 5:9a,10-12
9a. And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I have taken away from you the disgrace of Egypt.”
10. And the sons of Israel stayed at Gilgal, and they kept the Passover, on the fourteenth day of the month at evening, in the plains of Jericho.
11. And on the following day, they ate unleavened bread from the grain of the land, and cooked grain, of the same year.
12. And the manna ceased after they ate from the grain of the land. And the sons of Israel no longer made use of that food. Instead, they ate from the grain of the present year, from the land of Canaan.
Psalm - Ps 34:2-7
2. I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise will be ever in my mouth.
3. In the Lord, my soul will be praised. May the meek listen and rejoice.
4. Magnify the Lord with me, and let us extol his name in itself.
5. I sought the Lord, and he heeded me, and he carried me away from all my tribulations.
6. Approach him and be enlightened, and your faces will not be confounded.
7. This poor one cried out, and the Lord heeded him, and he saved him from all his tribulations.
Second Reading - 2 Cor 5:17-21
17. So if anyone is a new creature in Christ, what is old has passed away. Behold, all things have been made new.
18. But all is of God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ, and who has given us the ministry of reconciliation.
19. For certainly God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, not charging them with their sins. And he has placed in us the Word of reconciliation.
20. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, so that God is exhorting through us. We beseech you for Christ: be reconciled to God.
21. For God made him who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the justice of God in him.
Gospel - Lk 15:1-3,11-32
1. Now tax collectors and sinners were drawing near to him, so that they might listen to him.
2. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This one accepts sinners and eats with them.”
3. And he told this parable to them, saying:
11. “A certain man had two sons.
12. And the younger of them said to the father, ‘Father, give me the portion of your estate which would go to me.’ And he divided the estate between them.
13. And after not many days, the younger son, gathering it all together, set out on a long journey to a distant region. And there, he dissipated his substance, living in luxury.
14. And after he had consumed it all, a great famine occurred in that region, and he began to be in need.
15. And he went and attached himself to one of the citizens of that region. And he sent him to his farm, in order to feed the swine.
16. And he wanted to fill his belly with the scraps that the swine ate. But no one would give it to him.
17. And returning to his senses, he said: ‘How many hired hands in my father’s house have abundant bread, while I perish here in famine!
18. I shall rise up and go to my father, and I will say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
19. I am not worthy to be called your son. Make me one of your hired hands.’
20. And rising up, he went to his father. But while he was still at a distance, his father saw him, and he was moved with compassion, and running to him, he fell upon his neck and kissed him.
21. And the son said to him: ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. Now I am not worthy to be called your son.’
22. But the father said to his servants: ‘Quickly! Bring out the best robe, and clothe him with it. And put a ring on his hand and shoes on his feet.
23. And bring the fatted calf here, and kill it. And let us eat and hold a feast.
24. For this son of mine was dead, and has revived; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to feast.
25. But his elder son was in the field. And when he returned and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.
26. And he called one of the servants, and he questioned him as to what these things meant.
27. And he said to him: ‘Your brother has returned, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safely.’
28. Then he became indignant, and he was unwilling to enter. Therefore, his father, going out, began to plead with him.
29. And in response, he said to his father: ‘Behold, I have been serving you for so many years. And I have never transgressed your commandment. And yet, you have never given me even a young goat, so that I might feast with my friends.
30. Yet after this son of yours returned, who has devoured his substance with loose women, you have killed the fatted calf for him.’
31. But he said to him: ‘Son, you are with me always, and all that I have is yours.
32. But it was necessary to feast and to rejoice. For this brother of yours was dead, and has revived; he was lost, and is found.’
9a. And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I have taken away from you the disgrace of Egypt.”
10. And the sons of Israel stayed at Gilgal, and they kept the Passover, on the fourteenth day of the month at evening, in the plains of Jericho.
11. And on the following day, they ate unleavened bread from the grain of the land, and cooked grain, of the same year.
12. And the manna ceased after they ate from the grain of the land. And the sons of Israel no longer made use of that food. Instead, they ate from the grain of the present year, from the land of Canaan.
Psalm - Ps 34:2-7
2. I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise will be ever in my mouth.
3. In the Lord, my soul will be praised. May the meek listen and rejoice.
4. Magnify the Lord with me, and let us extol his name in itself.
5. I sought the Lord, and he heeded me, and he carried me away from all my tribulations.
6. Approach him and be enlightened, and your faces will not be confounded.
7. This poor one cried out, and the Lord heeded him, and he saved him from all his tribulations.
Second Reading - 2 Cor 5:17-21
17. So if anyone is a new creature in Christ, what is old has passed away. Behold, all things have been made new.
18. But all is of God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ, and who has given us the ministry of reconciliation.
19. For certainly God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, not charging them with their sins. And he has placed in us the Word of reconciliation.
20. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, so that God is exhorting through us. We beseech you for Christ: be reconciled to God.
21. For God made him who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the justice of God in him.
Gospel - Lk 15:1-3,11-32
1. Now tax collectors and sinners were drawing near to him, so that they might listen to him.
2. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This one accepts sinners and eats with them.”
3. And he told this parable to them, saying:
11. “A certain man had two sons.
12. And the younger of them said to the father, ‘Father, give me the portion of your estate which would go to me.’ And he divided the estate between them.
13. And after not many days, the younger son, gathering it all together, set out on a long journey to a distant region. And there, he dissipated his substance, living in luxury.
14. And after he had consumed it all, a great famine occurred in that region, and he began to be in need.
15. And he went and attached himself to one of the citizens of that region. And he sent him to his farm, in order to feed the swine.
16. And he wanted to fill his belly with the scraps that the swine ate. But no one would give it to him.
17. And returning to his senses, he said: ‘How many hired hands in my father’s house have abundant bread, while I perish here in famine!
18. I shall rise up and go to my father, and I will say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
19. I am not worthy to be called your son. Make me one of your hired hands.’
20. And rising up, he went to his father. But while he was still at a distance, his father saw him, and he was moved with compassion, and running to him, he fell upon his neck and kissed him.
21. And the son said to him: ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. Now I am not worthy to be called your son.’
22. But the father said to his servants: ‘Quickly! Bring out the best robe, and clothe him with it. And put a ring on his hand and shoes on his feet.
23. And bring the fatted calf here, and kill it. And let us eat and hold a feast.
24. For this son of mine was dead, and has revived; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to feast.
25. But his elder son was in the field. And when he returned and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.
26. And he called one of the servants, and he questioned him as to what these things meant.
27. And he said to him: ‘Your brother has returned, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safely.’
28. Then he became indignant, and he was unwilling to enter. Therefore, his father, going out, began to plead with him.
29. And in response, he said to his father: ‘Behold, I have been serving you for so many years. And I have never transgressed your commandment. And yet, you have never given me even a young goat, so that I might feast with my friends.
30. Yet after this son of yours returned, who has devoured his substance with loose women, you have killed the fatted calf for him.’
31. But he said to him: ‘Son, you are with me always, and all that I have is yours.
32. But it was necessary to feast and to rejoice. For this brother of yours was dead, and has revived; he was lost, and is found.’
Monday, March 8, 2010
Special Week
It maybe early in the week but this Friday and Saturday our little parish is having it's annual Lenten retreat.
This year instead of thinking about it and wondering what goes on and what is in it for me, I actually signed up and will be going. Now my Hungarian might not be up to complete snuff but I think I should be able to read along and understand what is happening. If not I will figure it out with the help of our Lord as I have during the last few years since we started attending mass at this parish.
I am certainly upbeat about the weekend and really looking forward to this. I certainly need to learn more and to grasp more than I have so far and hopefully this gives the push or guidance in the right direction and helps opens doors within my mind to go further.
I will let all of you know how it goes. Until then take care and God Bless!
This year instead of thinking about it and wondering what goes on and what is in it for me, I actually signed up and will be going. Now my Hungarian might not be up to complete snuff but I think I should be able to read along and understand what is happening. If not I will figure it out with the help of our Lord as I have during the last few years since we started attending mass at this parish.
I am certainly upbeat about the weekend and really looking forward to this. I certainly need to learn more and to grasp more than I have so far and hopefully this gives the push or guidance in the right direction and helps opens doors within my mind to go further.
I will let all of you know how it goes. Until then take care and God Bless!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
The Sunday Reading
SUNDAY, MARCH 07, 2010
Liturgical Year C
First Reading - Ex 3:1-8a,13-15
1. Now Moses was pasturing the sheep of his father-in-law Jethro, a priest of Midian. And when he had driven the flock into the interior of the desert, he came to the mountain of God, Horeb.
2. And the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. And he saw that the bush was burning and was not burnt.
3. Therefore, Moses said, “I will go and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.”
4. Then the Lord, discerning that he proceeded on to see it, called to him from the midst of the bush, and he said, “Moses, Moses.” And he responded, “Here I am.”
5. And he said: “Lest you should approach here, remove the shoes from your feet. For the place on which you stand is holy ground.”
6. And he said, “I am the God of your father: the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Moses hid his face, for he dared not look directly at God.
7. And the Lord said to him: “I have seen the affliction of my people in Egypt, and I have heard their outcry because of the harshness of those who are over the works.
8. And knowing their sorrow, I have descended in order to free them from the hands of the Egyptians, and to lead them from that land into a good and spacious land, into a land which flows with milk and honey,
13. Moses said to God: “Behold, I will go to the sons of Israel, and I will say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you.’ If they say to me, ‘What is his name?’ What shall I say to them?”
14. God said to Moses, “I AM WHO AM.” He said: “Thus shall you say to the sons of Israel: ‘HE WHO IS has sent me to you.’ ”
15. And God said again to Moses: “Thus shall you say to the sons of Israel: ‘The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This is the name for me in eternity, and this is my memorial from generation to generation.
Psalm - Ps 103:1-4,6-8,11
1. To David himself. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and bless his holy name, all that is within me.
2. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his recompenses.
3. He forgives all your iniquities. He heals all your infirmities.
4. He redeems your life from destruction. He crowns you with mercy and compassion.
6. The Lord accomplishes mercies, and his judgment is for all who patiently endure injuries.
7. He has made his ways known to Moses, his will to the sons of Israel.
8. The Lord is compassionate and merciful, patient and full of mercy.
11. For according to the height of the heavens above the earth, so has he reinforced his mercy toward those who fear him.
Second Reading - 1 Cor 10:1-6,10-12
1. For I do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and they all went across the sea.
2. And in Moses, they all were baptized, in the cloud and in the sea.
3. And they all ate of the same spiritual food.
4. And they all drank of the same spiritual drink. And so, they all were drinking of the spiritual rock seeking to obtain them; and that rock was Christ.
5. But with most of them, God was not well-pleased. For they were struck down in the desert.
6. Now these things were done as an example for us, so that we might not desire evil things, just as they desired.
10. And you should not murmur, as some of them murmured, and so they perished by the destroyer.
11. Now all of these things happened to them as an example, and so they have been written for our correction, because the final age has fallen upon us.
12. And so, whosoever considers himself to be standing, let him be careful not to fall.
Gospel - Lk 13:1-9
1. And there were present, at that very time, some who were reporting about the Galileans, whose blood Pilate mixed with their sacrifices.
2. And responding, he said to them: “Do you think that these Galileans must have sinned more than all other Galileans, because they suffered so much?
3. No, I tell you. But unless you repent, you will all perish similarly.
4. And those eighteen upon whom the tower of Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they also were greater transgressors than all the men living in Jerusalem?
5. No, I tell you. But if you do not repent, you will all perish similarly.”
6. And he also told this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree, which was planted in his vineyard. And he came seeking fruit on it, but found none.
7. Then he said to the cultivator of the vineyard: ‘Behold, for these three years I came seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I have found none. Therefore, cut it down. For why should it even occupy the land?’
8. But in response, he said to him: ‘Lord, let it be for this year also, during which time I will dig around it and add fertilizer.
9. And, indeed, it should bear fruit. But if not, in the future, you shall cut it down.’ ”
Liturgical Year C
First Reading - Ex 3:1-8a,13-15
1. Now Moses was pasturing the sheep of his father-in-law Jethro, a priest of Midian. And when he had driven the flock into the interior of the desert, he came to the mountain of God, Horeb.
2. And the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. And he saw that the bush was burning and was not burnt.
3. Therefore, Moses said, “I will go and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.”
4. Then the Lord, discerning that he proceeded on to see it, called to him from the midst of the bush, and he said, “Moses, Moses.” And he responded, “Here I am.”
5. And he said: “Lest you should approach here, remove the shoes from your feet. For the place on which you stand is holy ground.”
6. And he said, “I am the God of your father: the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Moses hid his face, for he dared not look directly at God.
7. And the Lord said to him: “I have seen the affliction of my people in Egypt, and I have heard their outcry because of the harshness of those who are over the works.
8. And knowing their sorrow, I have descended in order to free them from the hands of the Egyptians, and to lead them from that land into a good and spacious land, into a land which flows with milk and honey,
13. Moses said to God: “Behold, I will go to the sons of Israel, and I will say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you.’ If they say to me, ‘What is his name?’ What shall I say to them?”
14. God said to Moses, “I AM WHO AM.” He said: “Thus shall you say to the sons of Israel: ‘HE WHO IS has sent me to you.’ ”
15. And God said again to Moses: “Thus shall you say to the sons of Israel: ‘The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This is the name for me in eternity, and this is my memorial from generation to generation.
Psalm - Ps 103:1-4,6-8,11
1. To David himself. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and bless his holy name, all that is within me.
2. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his recompenses.
3. He forgives all your iniquities. He heals all your infirmities.
4. He redeems your life from destruction. He crowns you with mercy and compassion.
6. The Lord accomplishes mercies, and his judgment is for all who patiently endure injuries.
7. He has made his ways known to Moses, his will to the sons of Israel.
8. The Lord is compassionate and merciful, patient and full of mercy.
11. For according to the height of the heavens above the earth, so has he reinforced his mercy toward those who fear him.
Second Reading - 1 Cor 10:1-6,10-12
1. For I do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and they all went across the sea.
2. And in Moses, they all were baptized, in the cloud and in the sea.
3. And they all ate of the same spiritual food.
4. And they all drank of the same spiritual drink. And so, they all were drinking of the spiritual rock seeking to obtain them; and that rock was Christ.
5. But with most of them, God was not well-pleased. For they were struck down in the desert.
6. Now these things were done as an example for us, so that we might not desire evil things, just as they desired.
10. And you should not murmur, as some of them murmured, and so they perished by the destroyer.
11. Now all of these things happened to them as an example, and so they have been written for our correction, because the final age has fallen upon us.
12. And so, whosoever considers himself to be standing, let him be careful not to fall.
Gospel - Lk 13:1-9
1. And there were present, at that very time, some who were reporting about the Galileans, whose blood Pilate mixed with their sacrifices.
2. And responding, he said to them: “Do you think that these Galileans must have sinned more than all other Galileans, because they suffered so much?
3. No, I tell you. But unless you repent, you will all perish similarly.
4. And those eighteen upon whom the tower of Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they also were greater transgressors than all the men living in Jerusalem?
5. No, I tell you. But if you do not repent, you will all perish similarly.”
6. And he also told this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree, which was planted in his vineyard. And he came seeking fruit on it, but found none.
7. Then he said to the cultivator of the vineyard: ‘Behold, for these three years I came seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I have found none. Therefore, cut it down. For why should it even occupy the land?’
8. But in response, he said to him: ‘Lord, let it be for this year also, during which time I will dig around it and add fertilizer.
9. And, indeed, it should bear fruit. But if not, in the future, you shall cut it down.’ ”
Thursday, March 4, 2010
A Reading to Live By!
Today's first reading is quite ideal to reflect on during Lent and to live by always.
First Reading - Jer 17:5-10
5. Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is a man who trusts in man, and who establishes what is flesh as his right arm, and whose heart withdraws from the Lord.
6. For he will be like a saltcedar tree in the desert. And he will not perceive it, when what is good has arrived. Instead, he will live in dryness, in a desert, in a land of salt, which is uninhabitable.
7. Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, for the Lord will be his confidence.
8. And he will be like a tree planted beside waters, which sends out its roots to moist soil. And it will not fear when the heat arrives. And its leaves will be green. And in the time of drought, it will not be anxious, nor will it cease at any time to bear fruit.
9. The heart is depraved above all things, and it is unsearchable, who can know it?
10. I am the Lord, who examines the heart and tests the temperament, who gives to each one according to his way and according to the fruit of his own decisions.
First Reading - Jer 17:5-10
5. Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is a man who trusts in man, and who establishes what is flesh as his right arm, and whose heart withdraws from the Lord.
6. For he will be like a saltcedar tree in the desert. And he will not perceive it, when what is good has arrived. Instead, he will live in dryness, in a desert, in a land of salt, which is uninhabitable.
7. Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, for the Lord will be his confidence.
8. And he will be like a tree planted beside waters, which sends out its roots to moist soil. And it will not fear when the heat arrives. And its leaves will be green. And in the time of drought, it will not be anxious, nor will it cease at any time to bear fruit.
9. The heart is depraved above all things, and it is unsearchable, who can know it?
10. I am the Lord, who examines the heart and tests the temperament, who gives to each one according to his way and according to the fruit of his own decisions.
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