From: Mark 13:24-32
Signs of the end of the world and the coming of the Son of man [continued]
(Jesus said to His disciples,) [24] "But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, [25] and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. [26] And they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. [27] And then He will send out the angels, and gather His elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
The Time of the Destruction of Jerusalem
[28] "From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. [29] So also, when you see these things taking place you know that He is near, at the very gates. [30] Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away before all these things take place. [31] Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away."
[32] "But of that day or that hour no one knows, not even the angels in Heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."
___________________
Commentary:
24-25. It would seem that at the end of time even irrational creatures will shrink before the Supreme Judge, Jesus Christ, coming in the majesty of His glory, thus fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament (cf., e.g., Isaiah 13:10; 34:4; Ezekiel 32:7). Some Fathers, such as St. Jerome ("Comm. in Matthew, in loc.") and St. John Chrysostom ("Hom. on St. Matthew", 77) understand "the powers in the heavens" to mean the angels, who will be in awe at these events. This interpretation is supported by the liturgical use of describing the angels, taken together, as "virtutes caelorum" (cf. "Roman Missal", Preface of Martyrs). But many other commentators think the phrase, like the preceding words in the text, could mean "cosmic forces" or "stars of the firmament".
26-27. Christ here describes His Second Coming, at the end of time, as announced by the prophet Daniel (7:13). He discloses the deeper meaning of the words of the ancient prophet: the "one like a Son of Man", whom Daniel saw and to whom "was given dominion and glory and kingdom, that all peoples, nations and languages should serve Him," is Jesus Christ Himself, who will gather the saints around Him.
28-30. As already pointed out in the note on Mark 13:4, Jesus' disciples, following the ideas current among Jews at the time, could not conceive the destruction of Jerusalem as separate from the end of the world; and, also, there is a connection between the two events, in that the former is a prefigurement of the latter. Our Lord answers His disciples in Mark 13:20 by saying that the destruction of Jerusalem will happen in the lifetime of their generation (as in fact occurred in the year 70, at the hands of the Roman legions). For further explanation of the ruin of Jerusalem as a figure of the end of the world, cf. note on Matthew 24:32-35.
31. With this sentence our Lord adds a special solemnity to what He is saying: all this will definitely come to pass.
God has only to speak and His words come true, only He who is Lord of the Universe has all existence in His power, and Jesus has received from the Father all power over heaven and earth (cf. Matthew 11:27 and 28:18).
32. Referring to this verse, St. Augustine explains ("On the Psalms", 36:1): "Our Lord Jesus Christ was sent to be our Master, yet He declared that even the Son of Man was ignorant of that day, because it was not part of His office as Master to acquaint us with it."
Regarding the knowledge Christ had during His life on earth, see the note on Luke 2:52.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Principles and Practices - November 15
The Presence Of God In Our Souls
What a surprise it must be, to see within us that Infinite Beauty, the sight of whom causes eternal joy in heaven, and to reflect on His condescension in dwelling in this house of ours, to illuminate it by His light, and to adorn it by His splendour! And once we behold within us a beauty so noble and so perfect, will we ever again permit our looks to wander after the wretched things of this world, which are falsely styled beautiful, and are admired as such by so many to the great peril of their souls? Wherefore shall we say with David: 'Turn away my eyes that they may not behold vanity' (Ps. cxiii, 37).
-J. Frassinetti.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
What a surprise it must be, to see within us that Infinite Beauty, the sight of whom causes eternal joy in heaven, and to reflect on His condescension in dwelling in this house of ours, to illuminate it by His light, and to adorn it by His splendour! And once we behold within us a beauty so noble and so perfect, will we ever again permit our looks to wander after the wretched things of this world, which are falsely styled beautiful, and are admired as such by so many to the great peril of their souls? Wherefore shall we say with David: 'Turn away my eyes that they may not behold vanity' (Ps. cxiii, 37).
-J. Frassinetti.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 14
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
NECESSITY OF PATIENCE
Consider the absolute necessity of patience in serving God anq saving our souls.
"Patience is necessary for you," saith the apostle, (Heb. x. 36,) "that doing the will of God, you may receive the promise."
For our life is a warfare upon earth; and in every part of life we must expect to meet with trials, conflicts, and sufferings. Now patience turns all these to our good; but where patience is wanting, all goes wrong; we sin at every step; we cowardly give up the cause of God and our souls, upon every slight occasion; we withdraw ourselves from the service, which we were happily engaged in; we run from our colours, we fall a prey to the enemy. O 'tis true that as there is no going to heaven but "through many tribulations," (Acts xiv. 21), so there is no securing to ourselves that blessed kingdom, but by much patience.
Conclude to give ear to the admonitions of the Spirit of God, (Ecclus. ii.), "Son, when thou comest to the service of God, stand in justice and in fear, and prepare thy soul for temptation. Humble thy heart, and endure - wait on God with patience; join thyself to God, and endure - take all that shall be brought upon thee, and in thy sorrow endure, and in thy humiliation keep patience: for gold and silver are tried in the fire but acceptable men in the furnace of humiliation." Happy they that practise these lessons!
Pray for the virtue of patience; strive to acquire it; for it will make all thy sufferings light and easy and entitle them to an eternal reward. Whenever thou art visited with any cross, of what kind soever, always consider it as coming from the hand of God; presently accept and offer it up to Jesus Christ crucified; to be united to His sufferings, to be sanctified through Him, and accepted of by His Father for His own greater glory, and the remission of thy sins. O how happy shalt thou be if, under all thy sufferings, thou make this thy practice!
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
NECESSITY OF PATIENCE
Consider the absolute necessity of patience in serving God anq saving our souls.
"Patience is necessary for you," saith the apostle, (Heb. x. 36,) "that doing the will of God, you may receive the promise."
For our life is a warfare upon earth; and in every part of life we must expect to meet with trials, conflicts, and sufferings. Now patience turns all these to our good; but where patience is wanting, all goes wrong; we sin at every step; we cowardly give up the cause of God and our souls, upon every slight occasion; we withdraw ourselves from the service, which we were happily engaged in; we run from our colours, we fall a prey to the enemy. O 'tis true that as there is no going to heaven but "through many tribulations," (Acts xiv. 21), so there is no securing to ourselves that blessed kingdom, but by much patience.
Conclude to give ear to the admonitions of the Spirit of God, (Ecclus. ii.), "Son, when thou comest to the service of God, stand in justice and in fear, and prepare thy soul for temptation. Humble thy heart, and endure - wait on God with patience; join thyself to God, and endure - take all that shall be brought upon thee, and in thy sorrow endure, and in thy humiliation keep patience: for gold and silver are tried in the fire but acceptable men in the furnace of humiliation." Happy they that practise these lessons!
Pray for the virtue of patience; strive to acquire it; for it will make all thy sufferings light and easy and entitle them to an eternal reward. Whenever thou art visited with any cross, of what kind soever, always consider it as coming from the hand of God; presently accept and offer it up to Jesus Christ crucified; to be united to His sufferings, to be sanctified through Him, and accepted of by His Father for His own greater glory, and the remission of thy sins. O how happy shalt thou be if, under all thy sufferings, thou make this thy practice!
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Friday, November 13, 2009
Gospel for Saturday, 32nd Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 18:1-8
Persevering Prayer. Parable of the Unjust Judge
[1] And He (Jesus) told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. [2] He said, "In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor regarded man; [3] and there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him saying, `Vindicate me against my adversary.' [4] For a while he refused; but afterward he said to himself, `Though I neither fear God nor regard man, [5] yet because this widow bothers me, I will vindicate her, or she will wear me out by her continual coming.' [6] And the Lord said, "hear what the unrighteous judge says. [7] And will not God vindicate His elect, who cry to Him day and night? Will He delay long over them? [8] I tell you, He will vindicate them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
________________________
Commentary:
1-8. The parable of the unjust judge is a very eloquent lesson about the effectiveness of persevering, confident prayer. It also forms a conclusion to Jesus' teaching about watchfulness, contained in the previous verses (17:23-26). Comparing God with a person like this makes the point even clearer: if even an unjust judge ends up giving justice to the man who keeps on pleading his case, how much more will God, who is infinitely just, and who is our Father, listen to the persevering prayer of His children. God, in other words, gives justice to His elect if they persist in seeking His help.
1. "They ought always to pray and not lose heart." Why must we pray?
Our Lord has promised His Church that it will remain true to its mission until the end of time (cf. Matthew 28:20); the Church, therefore, cannot go off the path of the true faith. But not everyone will remain faithful: some will turn their backs on the faith of their own accord. This is the mystery which St. Paul describes as "the rebellion" (2 Thessalonians 2:3) and which Jesus Christ announces on other occasions (cf. Matthew 24:12-13). In this way our Lord warns us, to help us stay watchful and persevere in the faith and in prayer even though people around us fall away.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Persevering Prayer. Parable of the Unjust Judge
[1] And He (Jesus) told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. [2] He said, "In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor regarded man; [3] and there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him saying, `Vindicate me against my adversary.' [4] For a while he refused; but afterward he said to himself, `Though I neither fear God nor regard man, [5] yet because this widow bothers me, I will vindicate her, or she will wear me out by her continual coming.' [6] And the Lord said, "hear what the unrighteous judge says. [7] And will not God vindicate His elect, who cry to Him day and night? Will He delay long over them? [8] I tell you, He will vindicate them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
________________________
Commentary:
1-8. The parable of the unjust judge is a very eloquent lesson about the effectiveness of persevering, confident prayer. It also forms a conclusion to Jesus' teaching about watchfulness, contained in the previous verses (17:23-26). Comparing God with a person like this makes the point even clearer: if even an unjust judge ends up giving justice to the man who keeps on pleading his case, how much more will God, who is infinitely just, and who is our Father, listen to the persevering prayer of His children. God, in other words, gives justice to His elect if they persist in seeking His help.
1. "They ought always to pray and not lose heart." Why must we pray?
"1. WE MUST PRAY FIRST AND FOREMOST BECAUSE WE ARE BELIEVERS.8. Jesus combines His teaching about perseverance in prayer with a serious warning about the need to remain firm in the faith: faith and prayer go hand in hand. St. Augustine comments, "In order to pray, let us believe; and for our faith not to weaken, let us pray. Faith causes prayer to grow, and when prayer grows our faith is strengthened" ("Sermon", 115).
"Prayer is in fact the recognition of our limitation and our dependence: we come from God, we belong to God and we return to God! We cannot, therefore, but abandon ourselves to Him, our Creator and Lord, with full and complete confidence [...].
"Prayer, therefore, is first of all an act of intelligence, a feeling of humility and gratitude, an attitude of trust and abandonment to Him who gave us life out of love.
"Prayer is a mysterious but real dialogue with God, a dialogue of confidence and love
"2. WE, HOWEVER, ARE CHRISTIANS, AND THEREFORE WE MUST PRAY AS CHRISTIANS.
"For the Christian, in fact, prayer acquires a particular characteristic, which completely changes its innermost nature and innermost value. The Christian is a disciple of Jesus; he is one who really believes that Jesus is the Word Incarnate, the Son of God who came among us on this earth.
"As a man, the life of Jesus was a continual prayer, a continual act of worship and love of the Father and since the maximum ___expression of prayer is sacrifice, the summit of Jesus' prayer is the Sacrifice of the Cross, anticipated by the Eucharist at the Last Supper and handed down by means of the Holy Mass throughout the centuries.
"Therefore, the Christian knows that his prayer is that of Jesus; every prayer of his starts from Jesus; it is He who prays in us, with us, for us. All those who believe in God, pray; but the Christian prays in Jesus Christ: Christ is our prayer!
"3. FINALLY, WE MUST ALSO PRAY BECAUSE WE ARE FRAIL AND GUILTY.
"It must be humbly and realistically recognized that we are poor creatures, confused in ideas, tempted by evil, frail and weak, in continual need of inner strength and consolation. Prayer gives the strength for great ideas, to maintain faith, charity, purity and generosity. Prayer gives the courage to emerge from indifference and guilt, if unfortunately one has yielded to temptation and weakness. Prayer gives light to see and consider the events of one's own life and of history in the salvific perspective of God and eternity. Therefore, do not stop praying!
Let not a day pass without your having prayed a little! Prayer is a duty, but it is also a great joy, because it is a dialogue with God through Jesus Christ! Every Sunday, Holy Mass: if it is possible for you, sometimes during the week. Every day, morning and evening prayers, and at the most suitable moments!" (John Paul II, "Audience with Young People", 14 March 1979).
Our Lord has promised His Church that it will remain true to its mission until the end of time (cf. Matthew 28:20); the Church, therefore, cannot go off the path of the true faith. But not everyone will remain faithful: some will turn their backs on the faith of their own accord. This is the mystery which St. Paul describes as "the rebellion" (2 Thessalonians 2:3) and which Jesus Christ announces on other occasions (cf. Matthew 24:12-13). In this way our Lord warns us, to help us stay watchful and persevere in the faith and in prayer even though people around us fall away.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 14
Deep Calleth to Deep
We ought not to cease from prayer until we are found worthy to drink of the waters of this fountain. For if we can taste but one little drop of it, we shall no longer thirst for vain things and failing creatures, but for God alone, for the love of God alone. The more we grow in this love, the more shall we increase in divine union; and the more perfectly we become united to God and the deeper we are immersed in Him, the more clearly shall we know Him in Himself and through Himself; while again, the more clearly we know Him, the more ardently shall we love Him.
-Blosius-Wilberforce.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
We ought not to cease from prayer until we are found worthy to drink of the waters of this fountain. For if we can taste but one little drop of it, we shall no longer thirst for vain things and failing creatures, but for God alone, for the love of God alone. The more we grow in this love, the more shall we increase in divine union; and the more perfectly we become united to God and the deeper we are immersed in Him, the more clearly shall we know Him in Himself and through Himself; while again, the more clearly we know Him, the more ardently shall we love Him.
-Blosius-Wilberforce.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 13
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
MODELS OF PATIENCE
Consider how much this virtue of patience is recommended to us by the great example of the Son of God; Who, as He was never free from sufferings in any part of His life, so He both lived and died in the exercise of patience; and by His patience redeemed the world. Then all the saints and martyrs, as they had their share in drinking of His cup of sufferings, so they have all "run with patience to the fight set before them; looking on Jesus, the author and finisher of faith, Who having joy set before Him endured the cross," (Heb. xii. 1, 2,) "They all in life possessed their souls in their patience," (Luke xxi. 19.)
They all in death saved their souls by patience. "Patience hath a perfect work," said St. James, "that you may be perfect and entire, failing in nothing." "He that is patient," saith the wise man, (Prov. xiv. 29,) "is governed with much wisdom." And again, (Prov. xvi. 32,) "the patient man is better than the valiant, and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh cities."
Patience then is the virtue of the martyrs and of all the saints; patience made them martyrs and saints; patience made them truly wise; patience gave them the victory over all their enemies; in their patience they brought forth much fruit; patience made them perfect; patience brought them to that incorruptible crown, which is given to none but those who by patience have lawfully striven for it, and won it. Oh blessed patience! Let me be so happy as to find thee, and embrace thee; let me live and die in thy company.
__________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
MODELS OF PATIENCE
Consider how much this virtue of patience is recommended to us by the great example of the Son of God; Who, as He was never free from sufferings in any part of His life, so He both lived and died in the exercise of patience; and by His patience redeemed the world. Then all the saints and martyrs, as they had their share in drinking of His cup of sufferings, so they have all "run with patience to the fight set before them; looking on Jesus, the author and finisher of faith, Who having joy set before Him endured the cross," (Heb. xii. 1, 2,) "They all in life possessed their souls in their patience," (Luke xxi. 19.)
They all in death saved their souls by patience. "Patience hath a perfect work," said St. James, "that you may be perfect and entire, failing in nothing." "He that is patient," saith the wise man, (Prov. xiv. 29,) "is governed with much wisdom." And again, (Prov. xvi. 32,) "the patient man is better than the valiant, and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh cities."
Patience then is the virtue of the martyrs and of all the saints; patience made them martyrs and saints; patience made them truly wise; patience gave them the victory over all their enemies; in their patience they brought forth much fruit; patience made them perfect; patience brought them to that incorruptible crown, which is given to none but those who by patience have lawfully striven for it, and won it. Oh blessed patience! Let me be so happy as to find thee, and embrace thee; let me live and die in thy company.
__________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/13
Goldman Sachs bans celebrating the birth of Christ
In an attempt to keep a low profile, The Goldman Sachs Group Inc. has told its employees that it won't be hosting a corporate Christmas party this year. The investment bank is also prohibiting employees from funding their own parties, an insider at the firm told InvestmentNews. The Christmas party ban comes as Goldman has been under sharp public criticism for paying bigger bonuses this year while national unemployment hovers at 10.2% and many workers have taken pay cuts...
[Time to learn this NEW pledge? I pledge Allegiance to the FED of the United States of America and to the corruption for which it stands, one nation under Goldman, easily divisible, with criminal acts against all.]
Vatican Shows Priests How to Celebrate the Latin Mass on YouTube
The official Vatican guide to the celebration of the traditional Latin Mass has arrived on YouTube, where you can find long sections of Ecclesia Dei’s DVD about the Extraordinary Form. The clip below shows a priest saying the canon of the Mass. Coming soon to a church near you? Not if certain bishops can help it...
Homosexual priest getting married -- to a man
Views himself as a 'pioneer' for a basic human right
[...instead of a morally bankrupt degenerate]
Kidnappers free Irish priest in Philippines
Moro Islamic Liberation Front assisted with release
Catholic priest abducted, murdered in Guatemala
Forty-five year old Franciscan was working in Honduras
Forbes magazine ranks Obama most powerful man
Pope Benedict comes in 11th, after Rupert Murdoch
Jesuit sexual abuse claims may reach 500
Oregon Province numbers stun even victims' attorney
[Making Jesus and St Ignatius very unhappy!!! - What perverts, not only sexually but theologically!]
Britain dubbed abortion capital of Europe
'Terminations' for teenagers leap by a third
PP loses bid to silence former clinic director
Judge says no to gag order request by abortion group
Op/Ed: New '2012' movie is clearly anti-Catholic
Director has made no bones about his anti-religious bias
Facebook, Wikipedia execs brief Vatican on Web
Confab explores what Internet means for Church's mission
Other
=======
NEA Website Promotes Communist Guide Books for the Violent Overthrow of the U.S. Government
The NEA’s (National Education Association) recommended reading list includes two books by Brother O mentor and communist community organizer Saul Alinsky that advocate the violent overthrow of the U.S. government. The Democrat-controlled teachers’ union praises Alinsky’s Reveille for Radicals and Rules for Radicals as “an inspiration to anyone contemplating action in their community! And to every organizer!”...
In an attempt to keep a low profile, The Goldman Sachs Group Inc. has told its employees that it won't be hosting a corporate Christmas party this year. The investment bank is also prohibiting employees from funding their own parties, an insider at the firm told InvestmentNews. The Christmas party ban comes as Goldman has been under sharp public criticism for paying bigger bonuses this year while national unemployment hovers at 10.2% and many workers have taken pay cuts...
[Time to learn this NEW pledge? I pledge Allegiance to the FED of the United States of America and to the corruption for which it stands, one nation under Goldman, easily divisible, with criminal acts against all.]
Vatican Shows Priests How to Celebrate the Latin Mass on YouTube
The official Vatican guide to the celebration of the traditional Latin Mass has arrived on YouTube, where you can find long sections of Ecclesia Dei’s DVD about the Extraordinary Form. The clip below shows a priest saying the canon of the Mass. Coming soon to a church near you? Not if certain bishops can help it...
Homosexual priest getting married -- to a man
Views himself as a 'pioneer' for a basic human right
[...instead of a morally bankrupt degenerate]
Kidnappers free Irish priest in Philippines
Moro Islamic Liberation Front assisted with release
Catholic priest abducted, murdered in Guatemala
Forty-five year old Franciscan was working in Honduras
Forbes magazine ranks Obama most powerful man
Pope Benedict comes in 11th, after Rupert Murdoch
Jesuit sexual abuse claims may reach 500
Oregon Province numbers stun even victims' attorney
[Making Jesus and St Ignatius very unhappy!!! - What perverts, not only sexually but theologically!]
Britain dubbed abortion capital of Europe
'Terminations' for teenagers leap by a third
PP loses bid to silence former clinic director
Judge says no to gag order request by abortion group
Op/Ed: New '2012' movie is clearly anti-Catholic
Director has made no bones about his anti-religious bias
Facebook, Wikipedia execs brief Vatican on Web
Confab explores what Internet means for Church's mission
Other
=======
NEA Website Promotes Communist Guide Books for the Violent Overthrow of the U.S. Government
The NEA’s (National Education Association) recommended reading list includes two books by Brother O mentor and communist community organizer Saul Alinsky that advocate the violent overthrow of the U.S. government. The Democrat-controlled teachers’ union praises Alinsky’s Reveille for Radicals and Rules for Radicals as “an inspiration to anyone contemplating action in their community! And to every organizer!”...
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Gospel for Nov 13, Memorial: St Frances Xavier Cabrini, Virgin (USA)
Friday, 32nd Week In Ordinary Time
Gospel: Luke 17:26-37
The Day of the Son of Man (Continuation)
(Jesus said to His disciples,) [26] "As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of Man. [27] They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. [28] Likewise as it was in the days of Lot--they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built, [29] but on the day when Lot went out from Sodom fire and brimstone rained from Heaven and destroyed them all--[30] so will it be on the day when the Son of Man is revealed. [31] On that day, let him who is on the housetop, with his goods in the house, not come down to take them away; and likewise let him who is in the field not turn back. [32] Remember Lot's wife. [33] Whoever seeks to gain his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will preserve it. [34] I tell you, in that night there will be two men in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. [35] There will be two women grinding together; one will be taken and the other left." [37] And they said to Him, "Where Lord?" He said to them, "Where the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together."
_________________
Commentary:
23-36. These words of our Lord are a prophecy about the last coming of the Son of Man. We should remember that prophecy often involves events on different levels, many symbols, a terminology of its own; the "chiaroscuro" which they create gives us insight into future events, but the concrete details only become clear when the events actually occur. Our Lord's last coming will be something sudden and unexpected; it will catch many people unprepared. Jesus illustrates this by giving examples from sacred history: as in the time of Noah (cf. Genesis 6:9-19:7) and that of Lot (cf. Genesis 18:16-19:27) divine judgment will be visited on men without warning.
However, it is useful to recall here that everyone will find himself before the divine Judge immediately when he dies, at the Particular Judgment. Thus Jesus' teaching has also a present urgency about it: HERE AND NOW a disciple should scrutinize his own conduct, for the Lord can call him when he least expects.
33. "Will preserve it": what the Greek word literally means is "will engender (his life)", that is to say, "will give true life to the soul". Thus our Lord seems to mean the following: he who wants to save his life at all costs, making it his basic value, will lose eternal life; whereas he who is ready to lose his earthly life--that is, to resist even to death the enemies of God and of his soul--will obtain eternal happiness through this struggle. In content this passage is almost identical with Luke 9:24.
36. In the Vulgate this verse reads: "Una assumetur, et altera relinquetur. Duo in agro; unus assumetur, et alter relinquetur" ("One will be taken and the other left. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left"). These words seem to be an addition to Luke, taken from Matthew 24:40; they do not appear in the better Greek manuscripts, which is why the New Vulgate omits them.
37. "Where the body is, there the eagles will gather": the Greek text uses a word which could mean either eagle or vulture. In any event the proverb indicates the speed with which birds of prey swoop down on their victims--apparently referring to the sudden, unexpected way the Second Coming or Last Judgment will happen. Sacred Scripture also deals with this subject in other passages: "But as to the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-2). Once more Jesus is exhorting us to be watchful: we should never neglect the most important thing in life--eternal salvation. "All that, which worries you for the moment, is of relative importance. What is of absolute importance is that you be happy, that you be saved" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 297). So curious are the Pharisees and the disciples about the time and place of the Last Coming that they are distracted from Jesus' main point; the same thing happens to us: for example, we can spend a lot of time pondering the circumstances of the deaths of people we know, and fail to grasp the warning these deaths contain--that this life is going to end one way or another and that after it we too will meet God.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Gospel: Luke 17:26-37
The Day of the Son of Man (Continuation)
(Jesus said to His disciples,) [26] "As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of Man. [27] They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. [28] Likewise as it was in the days of Lot--they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built, [29] but on the day when Lot went out from Sodom fire and brimstone rained from Heaven and destroyed them all--[30] so will it be on the day when the Son of Man is revealed. [31] On that day, let him who is on the housetop, with his goods in the house, not come down to take them away; and likewise let him who is in the field not turn back. [32] Remember Lot's wife. [33] Whoever seeks to gain his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will preserve it. [34] I tell you, in that night there will be two men in one bed; one will be taken and the other left. [35] There will be two women grinding together; one will be taken and the other left." [37] And they said to Him, "Where Lord?" He said to them, "Where the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together."
_________________
Commentary:
23-36. These words of our Lord are a prophecy about the last coming of the Son of Man. We should remember that prophecy often involves events on different levels, many symbols, a terminology of its own; the "chiaroscuro" which they create gives us insight into future events, but the concrete details only become clear when the events actually occur. Our Lord's last coming will be something sudden and unexpected; it will catch many people unprepared. Jesus illustrates this by giving examples from sacred history: as in the time of Noah (cf. Genesis 6:9-19:7) and that of Lot (cf. Genesis 18:16-19:27) divine judgment will be visited on men without warning.
However, it is useful to recall here that everyone will find himself before the divine Judge immediately when he dies, at the Particular Judgment. Thus Jesus' teaching has also a present urgency about it: HERE AND NOW a disciple should scrutinize his own conduct, for the Lord can call him when he least expects.
33. "Will preserve it": what the Greek word literally means is "will engender (his life)", that is to say, "will give true life to the soul". Thus our Lord seems to mean the following: he who wants to save his life at all costs, making it his basic value, will lose eternal life; whereas he who is ready to lose his earthly life--that is, to resist even to death the enemies of God and of his soul--will obtain eternal happiness through this struggle. In content this passage is almost identical with Luke 9:24.
36. In the Vulgate this verse reads: "Una assumetur, et altera relinquetur. Duo in agro; unus assumetur, et alter relinquetur" ("One will be taken and the other left. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left"). These words seem to be an addition to Luke, taken from Matthew 24:40; they do not appear in the better Greek manuscripts, which is why the New Vulgate omits them.
37. "Where the body is, there the eagles will gather": the Greek text uses a word which could mean either eagle or vulture. In any event the proverb indicates the speed with which birds of prey swoop down on their victims--apparently referring to the sudden, unexpected way the Second Coming or Last Judgment will happen. Sacred Scripture also deals with this subject in other passages: "But as to the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-2). Once more Jesus is exhorting us to be watchful: we should never neglect the most important thing in life--eternal salvation. "All that, which worries you for the moment, is of relative importance. What is of absolute importance is that you be happy, that you be saved" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 297). So curious are the Pharisees and the disciples about the time and place of the Last Coming that they are distracted from Jesus' main point; the same thing happens to us: for example, we can spend a lot of time pondering the circumstances of the deaths of people we know, and fail to grasp the warning these deaths contain--that this life is going to end one way or another and that after it we too will meet God.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 13
Progression Means Joy
As we advance in holiness, the pain which accompanied the progress gradually diminishes; and a certain secret joy, which, by Divine operation, is mingled with that pain, increases hourly more and more. And thus, proceeding with increasing ease and delight from virtue to virtue, we reach at last the mountaintop; where the perfected spirit henceforth labours without weariness - nay, rather, with joy and ecstasy - because, having now tamed and conquered its unruly passions, and overcome itself and all created things, it dwells for ever blessed in the bosom of the Most High, and there, while sweetly labouring, takes its rest.
-Father Scupoli.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
As we advance in holiness, the pain which accompanied the progress gradually diminishes; and a certain secret joy, which, by Divine operation, is mingled with that pain, increases hourly more and more. And thus, proceeding with increasing ease and delight from virtue to virtue, we reach at last the mountaintop; where the perfected spirit henceforth labours without weariness - nay, rather, with joy and ecstasy - because, having now tamed and conquered its unruly passions, and overcome itself and all created things, it dwells for ever blessed in the bosom of the Most High, and there, while sweetly labouring, takes its rest.
-Father Scupoli.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 12
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
THE VIRTUE OF PATIENCE
Patience is a virtue by which we bear up with courage and constancy under a variety of evils to which we are continually exposed in this mortal life, namely, afflictions, exterior or interior, sickness, pain of mind or body, losses, disappointments, want, misunderstanding, persecution, affronts, injuries, and other crosses, which more or less are incident to men in every station of life, from youth to old age. Now, under all these evils, the good Christian is supported by the virtue of patience in such a manner as not to be overmuch dejected or cast down, but, trusting in the loving-kindness of God, to go on with courage and fortitude in the way of perfection and salvation, carrying his cross after his Redeemer, without murmuring or repining.
O my soul, how beautifuul, how profitable is this Christian patience! It has, indeed, the admirable property of making all the evils of life serviceable unto eternity, while at the same time it makes them light and easy. Sweetening all that is bitter in them by seasoning them with consideration of the holy will of God whose aim is our true and everlasting happiness.
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
THE VIRTUE OF PATIENCE
Patience is a virtue by which we bear up with courage and constancy under a variety of evils to which we are continually exposed in this mortal life, namely, afflictions, exterior or interior, sickness, pain of mind or body, losses, disappointments, want, misunderstanding, persecution, affronts, injuries, and other crosses, which more or less are incident to men in every station of life, from youth to old age. Now, under all these evils, the good Christian is supported by the virtue of patience in such a manner as not to be overmuch dejected or cast down, but, trusting in the loving-kindness of God, to go on with courage and fortitude in the way of perfection and salvation, carrying his cross after his Redeemer, without murmuring or repining.
O my soul, how beautifuul, how profitable is this Christian patience! It has, indeed, the admirable property of making all the evils of life serviceable unto eternity, while at the same time it makes them light and easy. Sweetening all that is bitter in them by seasoning them with consideration of the holy will of God whose aim is our true and everlasting happiness.
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/12
Patrick Kennedy troubled by bishop's comments
Congressman 'disconcerted' to have his faith questioned
[Faith??? Get real!]
Catholic documents in oldest US city preserved
415 year-old marriage record still legible
Diocese wants changes in same-sex marriage bill
Warns Catholic Charities may not be able to serve
Ireland seeks extradition of priest from Indiana
81-year-old faces charges that he raped a boy in 1968
Court orders diocese to turn over documents
Bridgetown has sought to keep abuse files secret
Irish shrine becomes focal point for divisions
Ten thousand faithful ignore bishop's plea to steer clear
UK to study use of human DNA in animals
'It sounds yucky, but it may be well worth doing'
[Frankensteins!]
Gay blog forecasts violence against Christians
FBI investigating terrorism threats posted by homosexuals
Priest released on bail day after sentencing
Convicted of sexual assault in decade of abuse
Congressman 'disconcerted' to have his faith questioned
[Faith??? Get real!]
Catholic documents in oldest US city preserved
415 year-old marriage record still legible
Diocese wants changes in same-sex marriage bill
Warns Catholic Charities may not be able to serve
Ireland seeks extradition of priest from Indiana
81-year-old faces charges that he raped a boy in 1968
Court orders diocese to turn over documents
Bridgetown has sought to keep abuse files secret
Irish shrine becomes focal point for divisions
Ten thousand faithful ignore bishop's plea to steer clear
UK to study use of human DNA in animals
'It sounds yucky, but it may be well worth doing'
[Frankensteins!]
Gay blog forecasts violence against Christians
FBI investigating terrorism threats posted by homosexuals
Priest released on bail day after sentencing
Convicted of sexual assault in decade of abuse
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Gospel for Nov 12, Memorial: St Josaphat, Bishop and Martyr
Thursday, 32nd Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 17:20-25
The Coming of the Kingdom of God
[20] Being asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God was coming, He (Jesus) answered them, "The Kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; [21] nor will they say, `Lo, here it is!' or `There!' for behold, the Kingdom of God is in the midst of you."
The Day of the Son of Man
[22] And He said to His disciples, "The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. [23] And they will say to you, `Lo, there!' or `Lo, here!' Do not go, do not follow them. [24] For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in His day. [25] But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation."
___________________
Commentary:
20-21. Like many Jews of their time, the Pharisees imagined the establishment of the Kingdom of God in terms of external, political authority; whereas Jesus teaches that it is something eminently spiritual, supernatural, which has been happening since Jesus' coming, although its climax will be after His Second Coming or Parousia at the end of the world; its effect is to be seen, above all, in men's hearts, although it is also something visible and external, just as the Church has a visible dimension.
The presence of the Kingdom of God in each soul is something one perceives through the affections and inspirations communicated by the Holy Spirit. St. Therese of Lisieux says this about her own experience: "The Doctor of doctors teaches us without the sound of words. I have never heard Him speak, and yet I know He is within my soul. Every moment He is guiding and inspiring me, and, just at the moment I need them, `lights' till then unseen are granted me. Most often it is not at prayer that they come but while I go about my daily duties" ("The Story of a Soul", Chapter 8).
22. After the Apostles receive the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost they will devote their whole lives to preaching boldly the message of Jesus Christ, and winning all people over to the Lord. This will lead them to experience many severe contradictions; they will suffer so much that they will yearn to see even "one of the days of the Son of Man", that is, one of the days of the victory of Jesus Christ. But this day will not arrive until the Lord's Second Coming.
23-36. These words of our Lord are a prophecy about the last coming of the Son of Man. We should remember that prophecy often involves events on different levels, many symbols, a terminology of its own; the "chiaroscuro" which they create gives us insight into future events, but the concrete details only become clear when the events actually occur. Our Lord's last coming will be something sudden and unexpected; it will catch many people unprepared. Jesus illustrates this by giving examples from sacred history: as in the time of Noah (cf. Genesis 6:9-19:7) and that of Lot (cf. Genesis 18:16-19:27) divine judgment will be visited on men without warning.
However, it is useful to recall here that everyone will find himself before the divine Judge immediately when he dies, at the Particular Judgment. Thus Jesus' teaching has also a present urgency about it: HERE AND NOW a disciple should scrutinize his own conduct, for the Lord can call him when he least expects.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
From: Luke 17:20-25
The Coming of the Kingdom of God
[20] Being asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God was coming, He (Jesus) answered them, "The Kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; [21] nor will they say, `Lo, here it is!' or `There!' for behold, the Kingdom of God is in the midst of you."
The Day of the Son of Man
[22] And He said to His disciples, "The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. [23] And they will say to you, `Lo, there!' or `Lo, here!' Do not go, do not follow them. [24] For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in His day. [25] But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation."
___________________
Commentary:
20-21. Like many Jews of their time, the Pharisees imagined the establishment of the Kingdom of God in terms of external, political authority; whereas Jesus teaches that it is something eminently spiritual, supernatural, which has been happening since Jesus' coming, although its climax will be after His Second Coming or Parousia at the end of the world; its effect is to be seen, above all, in men's hearts, although it is also something visible and external, just as the Church has a visible dimension.
The presence of the Kingdom of God in each soul is something one perceives through the affections and inspirations communicated by the Holy Spirit. St. Therese of Lisieux says this about her own experience: "The Doctor of doctors teaches us without the sound of words. I have never heard Him speak, and yet I know He is within my soul. Every moment He is guiding and inspiring me, and, just at the moment I need them, `lights' till then unseen are granted me. Most often it is not at prayer that they come but while I go about my daily duties" ("The Story of a Soul", Chapter 8).
22. After the Apostles receive the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost they will devote their whole lives to preaching boldly the message of Jesus Christ, and winning all people over to the Lord. This will lead them to experience many severe contradictions; they will suffer so much that they will yearn to see even "one of the days of the Son of Man", that is, one of the days of the victory of Jesus Christ. But this day will not arrive until the Lord's Second Coming.
23-36. These words of our Lord are a prophecy about the last coming of the Son of Man. We should remember that prophecy often involves events on different levels, many symbols, a terminology of its own; the "chiaroscuro" which they create gives us insight into future events, but the concrete details only become clear when the events actually occur. Our Lord's last coming will be something sudden and unexpected; it will catch many people unprepared. Jesus illustrates this by giving examples from sacred history: as in the time of Noah (cf. Genesis 6:9-19:7) and that of Lot (cf. Genesis 18:16-19:27) divine judgment will be visited on men without warning.
However, it is useful to recall here that everyone will find himself before the divine Judge immediately when he dies, at the Particular Judgment. Thus Jesus' teaching has also a present urgency about it: HERE AND NOW a disciple should scrutinize his own conduct, for the Lord can call him when he least expects.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 12
The Length and Difficulty of the Way
How long and tedious must be the way to perfection, even to souls well disposed by nature and education - for to others it is almost impassable - may be understood by any intelligent soul who recalls her own experience. How obstinate, inflexible, and tenacious is self-love! How long it takes to subdue even one habitual evil inclination and affection!
Thus, what fallings and risings in her passions and corrupt desires! When she thinks them subdued and almost forgotten, they rise again and renew the combat with as great or even greater violence than before. Not till the root, self-love, is withered, so that we do not deliberately suffer it to spring forth and bear fruit - for utterly killed it cannot be in this life; not till we have lost at least all affection to every sinful desire, will perfect charity reign in our souls.
-Father Baker.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
How long and tedious must be the way to perfection, even to souls well disposed by nature and education - for to others it is almost impassable - may be understood by any intelligent soul who recalls her own experience. How obstinate, inflexible, and tenacious is self-love! How long it takes to subdue even one habitual evil inclination and affection!
Thus, what fallings and risings in her passions and corrupt desires! When she thinks them subdued and almost forgotten, they rise again and renew the combat with as great or even greater violence than before. Not till the root, self-love, is withered, so that we do not deliberately suffer it to spring forth and bear fruit - for utterly killed it cannot be in this life; not till we have lost at least all affection to every sinful desire, will perfect charity reign in our souls.
-Father Baker.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 11
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
TRULY A PATIENT MAN [continued]
...We are quick enough at perceiving and weighing what we suffer from others, but we mind not what others suffer from us.
He that would well and duly weigh his own deeds would have no room to judge hardly of others.
He hath great tranquility and peace of heart, that neither regardeth praises nor dispraises; and he shall soon be pacified and content that hath a good conscience.
Thou art not the better because thou art praised, nor worse if thou be dispraised, for as thou art, thou art; and whatsover is said of thee, thou art no better than almighty God, Who is the searcher of man's heart, will witness thee to be. If thou behold what thou art inwardly, thou shalt not care much what the world speaketh of thee outwardly. Man seeth the face, but God beholdeth the heart. Man beholdeth the deed, but God beholdeth the intent of the deed. It is a great token of a meek heart for a man ever to do well, and yet to think himself to have done but little. And it is a great sign of cleanness of life and of inward trust in God, when a man taketh not his comfort of any creature.
Very quickly must thou be gone from hence, see, then, how matters stand with thee; a man is here today, and tomorrow he is vanished.
(I Mach. ii. 63).
And when he is taken away from the sight, he is quickly also out of mind.
Oh, the dullness and hardness of man's heart, which only thinks of what is present, and looks not forward to things to come.
Thou oughtest in every action and thought so to order thyself as if thou wert immediately to die.
Blessed is he that has always the hour of death before his eyes and every day disposes himself to die (Ecclus. vii. 40).
If thou hast at any time seen a man die, think that thou must also pass the same away.
-The Imitation.
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
TRULY A PATIENT MAN [continued]
...We are quick enough at perceiving and weighing what we suffer from others, but we mind not what others suffer from us.
He that would well and duly weigh his own deeds would have no room to judge hardly of others.
He hath great tranquility and peace of heart, that neither regardeth praises nor dispraises; and he shall soon be pacified and content that hath a good conscience.
Thou art not the better because thou art praised, nor worse if thou be dispraised, for as thou art, thou art; and whatsover is said of thee, thou art no better than almighty God, Who is the searcher of man's heart, will witness thee to be. If thou behold what thou art inwardly, thou shalt not care much what the world speaketh of thee outwardly. Man seeth the face, but God beholdeth the heart. Man beholdeth the deed, but God beholdeth the intent of the deed. It is a great token of a meek heart for a man ever to do well, and yet to think himself to have done but little. And it is a great sign of cleanness of life and of inward trust in God, when a man taketh not his comfort of any creature.
Very quickly must thou be gone from hence, see, then, how matters stand with thee; a man is here today, and tomorrow he is vanished.
(I Mach. ii. 63).
And when he is taken away from the sight, he is quickly also out of mind.
Oh, the dullness and hardness of man's heart, which only thinks of what is present, and looks not forward to things to come.
Thou oughtest in every action and thought so to order thyself as if thou wert immediately to die.
Blessed is he that has always the hour of death before his eyes and every day disposes himself to die (Ecclus. vii. 40).
If thou hast at any time seen a man die, think that thou must also pass the same away.
-The Imitation.
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/11
Maryland - Montgomery County Council targets pro-life pregnancy centers
Seven of the nine members of Montgomery County Council have co-sponsored a resolution which will require pregnancy centers to provide government-approved information. The proposal is characterized as a consumer protection measure to remedy, in the words of Council member Duchy Trachtenberg, the "misleading and medically inaccurate information that's being provided to young women at these centers"...
SF Archdiocesan Partner Funds “Emergency Contraception”
Local Organizing Project Hopes to Honor Nancy Pelosi
RI bishop calls on Kennedy to convert, repent
Thomas Tobin: What makes him think he's Catholic?
Calif. Dem: IRS should scrutinize bishops
Pro-abortion Rep asks 'Who elected them to Congress?'
Vatican: Pope is not trying to 'lure' Anglicans
Benedict XVI is accommodating legitimate aspirations
Mexican clergy seek global help as violence grows
Priests caught in the middle of nation's drug war
Vatican looks to heavens for signs of alien life
Experts to study possibility of extraterrestrial life
Deacon claims miracle cure by Cardinal Newman
Boston man overcomes crippling spinal condition
Transsexual Jesus play mocks Christianity
Archbishop denounces publicly funded 'Queen of Heaven'
Another priest found murdered in Brazil
Fourth in less than five months
Anti-Holocaust bishop appeals German ruling
Objecting to $23,000 fine means he'll go on trial
Villagers confine rare turtle, say it is God
Hundreds of poor Hindu villagers in eastern India have refused to hand over a rare turtle to authorities, saying it is an incarnation of God, officials said on Tuesday. Villagers chanting hymns and carrying garlands, bowls of rice and fruits are pouring in from remote villages to a temple in Kendrapara...
Seven of the nine members of Montgomery County Council have co-sponsored a resolution which will require pregnancy centers to provide government-approved information. The proposal is characterized as a consumer protection measure to remedy, in the words of Council member Duchy Trachtenberg, the "misleading and medically inaccurate information that's being provided to young women at these centers"...
SF Archdiocesan Partner Funds “Emergency Contraception”
Local Organizing Project Hopes to Honor Nancy Pelosi
RI bishop calls on Kennedy to convert, repent
Thomas Tobin: What makes him think he's Catholic?
Calif. Dem: IRS should scrutinize bishops
Pro-abortion Rep asks 'Who elected them to Congress?'
Vatican: Pope is not trying to 'lure' Anglicans
Benedict XVI is accommodating legitimate aspirations
Mexican clergy seek global help as violence grows
Priests caught in the middle of nation's drug war
Vatican looks to heavens for signs of alien life
Experts to study possibility of extraterrestrial life
Deacon claims miracle cure by Cardinal Newman
Boston man overcomes crippling spinal condition
Transsexual Jesus play mocks Christianity
Archbishop denounces publicly funded 'Queen of Heaven'
Another priest found murdered in Brazil
Fourth in less than five months
Anti-Holocaust bishop appeals German ruling
Objecting to $23,000 fine means he'll go on trial
Villagers confine rare turtle, say it is God
Hundreds of poor Hindu villagers in eastern India have refused to hand over a rare turtle to authorities, saying it is an incarnation of God, officials said on Tuesday. Villagers chanting hymns and carrying garlands, bowls of rice and fruits are pouring in from remote villages to a temple in Kendrapara...
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Gospel for Nov 11, Memorial: St Martin of Tours, Bishop
Wednesday, 32nd Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 17:11-19
The Ten Lepers
[11] On the way to Jerusalem He (Jesus) was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. [12] And as He entered the village, He was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance [13] and lifted up their voices and said, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." [14] When He saw them He said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed. [15] Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; [16] and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving Him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. [17] Then said Jesus, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? [18] Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" [19] And He said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
___________________
Commentary:
11-19. The setting of this episode explains how a Samaritan could be in the company of Jews. There was no love lost between Jews and Samaritans (cf. John 4:9), but shared pain, in the case of these lepers, overcame racial antipathy.
The Law of Moses laid down, to prevent the spread of the disease, that lepers should live away from other people and should let it be known that they were suffering from this disease (cf. Leviticus 13:45-46). This explains why they did not come right up to Jesus and His group, but instead begged His help by shouting from a distance. Before curing them our Lord orders them to go to the priests to have their cure certified (cf. Leviticus 14:2ff), and to perform the rites laid down. The lepers' obedience is a sign of faith in Jesus' words. And, in fact, soon after setting out they are cleansed.
However, only one of them, the Samaritan, who returns praising God and showing his gratitude for the miracle, is given a much greater gift than the cure of leprosy. Jesus says as much: "Your faith has made you well" (verse 19) and praises the man's gratefulness. The Gospel records this event to teach us the value of gratefulness: "Get used to lifting your heart to God, in acts of thanksgiving, many times a day. Because He gives you this and that. Because you have been despised.
Because you haven't what you need or because you have.
"Because He made His Mother so beautiful, His Mother who is also your Mother. Because He created the sun and the moon and this animal and that plant. Because He made that man eloquent and you He left tongue-tied....
"Thank Him for everything, because everything is good" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 268).
_________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
From: Luke 17:11-19
The Ten Lepers
[11] On the way to Jerusalem He (Jesus) was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. [12] And as He entered the village, He was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance [13] and lifted up their voices and said, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." [14] When He saw them He said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed. [15] Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; [16] and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving Him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. [17] Then said Jesus, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? [18] Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" [19] And He said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
___________________
Commentary:
11-19. The setting of this episode explains how a Samaritan could be in the company of Jews. There was no love lost between Jews and Samaritans (cf. John 4:9), but shared pain, in the case of these lepers, overcame racial antipathy.
The Law of Moses laid down, to prevent the spread of the disease, that lepers should live away from other people and should let it be known that they were suffering from this disease (cf. Leviticus 13:45-46). This explains why they did not come right up to Jesus and His group, but instead begged His help by shouting from a distance. Before curing them our Lord orders them to go to the priests to have their cure certified (cf. Leviticus 14:2ff), and to perform the rites laid down. The lepers' obedience is a sign of faith in Jesus' words. And, in fact, soon after setting out they are cleansed.
However, only one of them, the Samaritan, who returns praising God and showing his gratitude for the miracle, is given a much greater gift than the cure of leprosy. Jesus says as much: "Your faith has made you well" (verse 19) and praises the man's gratefulness. The Gospel records this event to teach us the value of gratefulness: "Get used to lifting your heart to God, in acts of thanksgiving, many times a day. Because He gives you this and that. Because you have been despised.
Because you haven't what you need or because you have.
"Because He made His Mother so beautiful, His Mother who is also your Mother. Because He created the sun and the moon and this animal and that plant. Because He made that man eloquent and you He left tongue-tied....
"Thank Him for everything, because everything is good" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 268).
_________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 11
The Benefits of Self Denial
When the forces of the flesh diminish and fail, those of the spirit grow and increase, that which impeded their growth having been taken away; the soul receives in this self-denial an admirable benefit, a disposition meet to receive the graces of God.
-St. John of the Cross.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
When the forces of the flesh diminish and fail, those of the spirit grow and increase, that which impeded their growth having been taken away; the soul receives in this self-denial an admirable benefit, a disposition meet to receive the graces of God.
-St. John of the Cross.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 10
Patience -
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
TRULY A PATIENT MAN [continued]
In your patience you shall possess your souls.
-Luke xxi, 19.
...God has so disposed things that we may learn to bear one another's burdens; for there is no man without defect, no man without his burden, no man sufficient for himself, no man wise enough for himself; but we must support one another, comfort one another, assist, instruct, and admonish one another.
But how great each one's virtue is, best appears by occasion of adversity; for, occasions do not make a man frail, but show what he is.
Thou knowest well enough how to excuse and color thy own doings, and thou wilt not take the excuses of others.
It were more just that thou shouldst accuse thyself and excuse thy brother.
If thou wilt be borne with, bear also with another.
See how far thou art yet from true charity and humility, which knows not how to be angry with anyone, or to have indignation against anyone but one's self.
It is no great thing to be able to converse with them that are good and meek, for this is naturally pleasing to all. And everyone would willingly have peace and love those best that agree with them.
But to live peaceably with those that are harsh and perverse, or disorderly, or such as oppose us, is a great grace, and highly commendable and manly.
He who knows how to suffer, will enjoy much peace.
Such a one is conqueror of himself and lord of the world, a friend of Christ, and an heir of heaven.....[continued tomorrow]
__________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
TRULY A PATIENT MAN [continued]
In your patience you shall possess your souls.
-Luke xxi, 19.
...God has so disposed things that we may learn to bear one another's burdens; for there is no man without defect, no man without his burden, no man sufficient for himself, no man wise enough for himself; but we must support one another, comfort one another, assist, instruct, and admonish one another.
But how great each one's virtue is, best appears by occasion of adversity; for, occasions do not make a man frail, but show what he is.
Thou knowest well enough how to excuse and color thy own doings, and thou wilt not take the excuses of others.
It were more just that thou shouldst accuse thyself and excuse thy brother.
If thou wilt be borne with, bear also with another.
See how far thou art yet from true charity and humility, which knows not how to be angry with anyone, or to have indignation against anyone but one's self.
It is no great thing to be able to converse with them that are good and meek, for this is naturally pleasing to all. And everyone would willingly have peace and love those best that agree with them.
But to live peaceably with those that are harsh and perverse, or disorderly, or such as oppose us, is a great grace, and highly commendable and manly.
He who knows how to suffer, will enjoy much peace.
Such a one is conqueror of himself and lord of the world, a friend of Christ, and an heir of heaven.....[continued tomorrow]
__________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/10
House Democrat: Investigate Catholic exemption
Rep. Lynn Woolsey, a California Democrat dismayed by the House vote over the weekend to prohibit taxpayer subsidies for insurance policies that cover abortion in the healthcare overhaul, is saying maybe the IRS should investigate the tax-exempt status of the Catholic Church following its lobbying effort for the restriction....
[More proof that the whacked out fringe libtards have sold their souls to Satan!]
Bishop Tobin Publicly Calls Rep. Kennedy to ‘Conversion and Repentance’
By a mutual decision, Bishop Thomas Tobin of Providence and Representative Patrick Kennedy-- the son of the late Senator Edward Kennedy-- have postponed their meeting to discuss the Catholic congressman’s support of abortion. Over the weekend, the Rhode Island congressman sided with abortion advocates in voting against the Stupak amendment, which barred the use of federal funds from paying for most abortions in the House’s health care reform legislation....
[Apostates and heretics posing as Catholic - excommunicate them all!!!]
Pro-abortion groups now oppose health care bill
Passage in House bittersweet for many liberal supporters
Abortion fight turns to the Senate
Planned Parenthood hoping to recover from loss in House
New Vatican constitution on converts released
Document provides full details on Anglican ordinariates
Italians want crucifixes to stay in classrooms
Some 84 percent oppose ruling by the European Court
Chaplain: 'total chaos' after Fort Hood shootings
Priest anointed 11 of the 13 who died in deadly spree
[REMEMBER - 14 people died, a pregnant mother and her baby!!!! Don't let the media get by with this deliberate LIE!!!]
Teen charged in New Mexico nun killing
FBI: No evidence to suggest a religiously motivated murder
NY's Archbishop Dolan has 'taken the gloves off'
Was 'blistering attack' on Times, Dowd too heavy-handed?
New mosque in Nicaragua fires up rumor mill
In poor country, 'everyone asks' if Iran helped out
Diocese's sex abuse documents could be revealed
Bridgeport's Lori has tried to keep them sealed
----------
"Neither the wisest Constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt." -Samuel Adams
Rep. Lynn Woolsey, a California Democrat dismayed by the House vote over the weekend to prohibit taxpayer subsidies for insurance policies that cover abortion in the healthcare overhaul, is saying maybe the IRS should investigate the tax-exempt status of the Catholic Church following its lobbying effort for the restriction....
[More proof that the whacked out fringe libtards have sold their souls to Satan!]
Bishop Tobin Publicly Calls Rep. Kennedy to ‘Conversion and Repentance’
By a mutual decision, Bishop Thomas Tobin of Providence and Representative Patrick Kennedy-- the son of the late Senator Edward Kennedy-- have postponed their meeting to discuss the Catholic congressman’s support of abortion. Over the weekend, the Rhode Island congressman sided with abortion advocates in voting against the Stupak amendment, which barred the use of federal funds from paying for most abortions in the House’s health care reform legislation....
[Apostates and heretics posing as Catholic - excommunicate them all!!!]
Pro-abortion groups now oppose health care bill
Passage in House bittersweet for many liberal supporters
Abortion fight turns to the Senate
Planned Parenthood hoping to recover from loss in House
New Vatican constitution on converts released
Document provides full details on Anglican ordinariates
Italians want crucifixes to stay in classrooms
Some 84 percent oppose ruling by the European Court
Chaplain: 'total chaos' after Fort Hood shootings
Priest anointed 11 of the 13 who died in deadly spree
[REMEMBER - 14 people died, a pregnant mother and her baby!!!! Don't let the media get by with this deliberate LIE!!!]
Teen charged in New Mexico nun killing
FBI: No evidence to suggest a religiously motivated murder
NY's Archbishop Dolan has 'taken the gloves off'
Was 'blistering attack' on Times, Dowd too heavy-handed?
New mosque in Nicaragua fires up rumor mill
In poor country, 'everyone asks' if Iran helped out
Diocese's sex abuse documents could be revealed
Bridgeport's Lori has tried to keep them sealed
----------
"Neither the wisest Constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt." -Samuel Adams
Monday, November 09, 2009
Gospel for Nov 10, Memorial: St Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor
Tuesday, 32nd Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 17:7-10
Humble Service
[7] "Will any of you, who has a servant ploughing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table'? [8] Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink'? [9] Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? [10] So you also, when you have done all that is commanded you, say, `We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'"
__________________________
Commentary:
7-10. Jesus is not approving this master's abusive and arbitrary behavior: He is using an example very familiar to His audience to show the attitude a person should have towards his Creator: everything, from our very existence to the eternal happiness promised us, is one huge gift from God. Man is always in debt to God; no matter what service he renders Him he can never adequately repay the gifts God has given him. There is no sense in a creature adopting a proud attitude towards God. What Jesus teaches us here we see being put into practice by our Lady, who replied to God's messenger (the Archangel Gabriel), "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord" (Luke 1:38).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
From: Luke 17:7-10
Humble Service
[7] "Will any of you, who has a servant ploughing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table'? [8] Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink'? [9] Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? [10] So you also, when you have done all that is commanded you, say, `We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'"
__________________________
Commentary:
7-10. Jesus is not approving this master's abusive and arbitrary behavior: He is using an example very familiar to His audience to show the attitude a person should have towards his Creator: everything, from our very existence to the eternal happiness promised us, is one huge gift from God. Man is always in debt to God; no matter what service he renders Him he can never adequately repay the gifts God has given him. There is no sense in a creature adopting a proud attitude towards God. What Jesus teaches us here we see being put into practice by our Lady, who replied to God's messenger (the Archangel Gabriel), "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord" (Luke 1:38).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 10
Have A Supernatural Intention
Let everyone have a pure intention, not only for the state of life they have chosen, but also in their private work, resolving always sincerely to please God from the motive of love of His Divine goodness, considered in itself and its benefits, rather than from the fear of pain or the hope of a reward, although they may be assisted by these latter motives.
-A. Prevot, D.D., S.C.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Let everyone have a pure intention, not only for the state of life they have chosen, but also in their private work, resolving always sincerely to please God from the motive of love of His Divine goodness, considered in itself and its benefits, rather than from the fear of pain or the hope of a reward, although they may be assisted by these latter motives.
-A. Prevot, D.D., S.C.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 9
Patience -
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
TRULY A PATIENT MAN
In your patience you shall possess your souls.
-Luke xxi, 19.
Say not: I cannot take these things from such a man, and things of this kind are not to be suffered by me for he has done me a great injury, and he upbraids me with things I never thought of; but I will suffer willingly from another, and so far as I shall judge fitting for me to suffer.
Such a thought is foolish which considers not the virtue of patience nor by whom it shall be crowned, but rather weighs the persons and the offense committed.
He is not truly a patient man who will suffer no more than he thinks good and from whom it pleases him.
The truly patient man minds not by whom it is he is exercised, whether by his superior, or by one of his equals, or by an inferior: whether by a good and holy man, or by one that is perverse and unworthy.
But how much soever and how often soever any adversity happens to him from anything created, he takes it all with equality of mind, as from the hand of God, with thanksgiving, and esteems it a great gain.
For nothing, how little soever, that is suffered for God's sake, can pass without merit in the sight of God.
Endeavor to be patient in supporting the defects and infirmities of others, of what kind soever; because thou also hast many things which others must bear withal.
If thou canst not make thyself such a one as thou wouldst, how canst thou expect to have another according to thy liking?
We would willingly have others perfect, and yet we mend not our own defects....[continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
TRULY A PATIENT MAN
In your patience you shall possess your souls.
-Luke xxi, 19.
Say not: I cannot take these things from such a man, and things of this kind are not to be suffered by me for he has done me a great injury, and he upbraids me with things I never thought of; but I will suffer willingly from another, and so far as I shall judge fitting for me to suffer.
Such a thought is foolish which considers not the virtue of patience nor by whom it shall be crowned, but rather weighs the persons and the offense committed.
He is not truly a patient man who will suffer no more than he thinks good and from whom it pleases him.
The truly patient man minds not by whom it is he is exercised, whether by his superior, or by one of his equals, or by an inferior: whether by a good and holy man, or by one that is perverse and unworthy.
But how much soever and how often soever any adversity happens to him from anything created, he takes it all with equality of mind, as from the hand of God, with thanksgiving, and esteems it a great gain.
For nothing, how little soever, that is suffered for God's sake, can pass without merit in the sight of God.
Endeavor to be patient in supporting the defects and infirmities of others, of what kind soever; because thou also hast many things which others must bear withal.
If thou canst not make thyself such a one as thou wouldst, how canst thou expect to have another according to thy liking?
We would willingly have others perfect, and yet we mend not our own defects....[continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/9
House votes for ban on abortion subsidies
...in a new government-run health insurance plan
Editorial: Catholics fear a good idea gone bad
Access to basic health care should be a right for all
Doubt thrown on Weakland 'secret' files testimony
'I've heard about it, but I've never seen those files'
Pope Benedict honors Paul VI in Italian birthplace
Hails predecessor's achievements as a 'reforming Pope'
Abortion business announces its own 'termination'
'Not just a coincidence. God works in mysterious ways'
European Union reform treaty passes last test
President of the Czech Republic signs Lisbon Treaty
Thousands mourn modern day mystic in Italy
Founder of Cenacles of Prayer, mother of five dies
Settlement reached in diocese bankruptcy dispute
Agreement puts abuse cases on hold in Delaware
Paraguayan president hit with 3rd paternity suit
Woman files petition asking judge to order DNA test
...in a new government-run health insurance plan
Editorial: Catholics fear a good idea gone bad
Access to basic health care should be a right for all
Doubt thrown on Weakland 'secret' files testimony
'I've heard about it, but I've never seen those files'
Pope Benedict honors Paul VI in Italian birthplace
Hails predecessor's achievements as a 'reforming Pope'
Abortion business announces its own 'termination'
'Not just a coincidence. God works in mysterious ways'
European Union reform treaty passes last test
President of the Czech Republic signs Lisbon Treaty
Thousands mourn modern day mystic in Italy
Founder of Cenacles of Prayer, mother of five dies
Settlement reached in diocese bankruptcy dispute
Agreement puts abuse cases on hold in Delaware
Paraguayan president hit with 3rd paternity suit
Woman files petition asking judge to order DNA test
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Gospel for Nov 9, Feast: Dedication of the St John Lateran Basilica
Monday, 32nd Week in Ordinary Time
From: John 2:13-22
The Cleansing of the Temple
[13] The Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [14] In the temple he found those who were selling oxen and sheep and pigeons, and the money-changers at their business. [15] And making a whip of cords, he drove them all, with the sheep and oxen, out of the temple; and he poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. [16] And he told those who sold the pigeons, "Take these things away; you shall not make my Father's house a house of trade." [17] His disciples remembered that it was written, "Zeal for thy house will consume me." [18] The Jews then said to him, "What signs have you to show us for doing this?" [19] Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." [20] The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?" [21] But he spoke of the temple of his body. [22] When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this; and they believed the scripture and the word which Jesus had spoken.
_________________
Commentary:
13. "The Passover of the Jews": this is the most important religious feast for the people of the Old Testament, the prefiguring of the Christian Easter (cf. note on Mt 26:2). The Jewish Passover was celebrated on the fourteenth day of the month of Nisan and was followed by the festival week of the Azymes (unleavened bread). According to the Law of Moses, on those days every male Israelite had to "appear before the Lord God" (Ex 34:23; Deut 16:16)--hence the pious custom of making a pilgrimage to the temple of Jerusalem for these days, hence the crowd and all the vendors to supply the needs of the pilgrims; this trading gave rise to abuses.
"Jesus went up to Jerusalem": by doing this Jesus publicly shows that he observes the Law of God. But, as we shall soon see, he goes to the temple as the only-begotten Son who must ensure that all due decorum is observed in the House of the Father: "And from thenceforth Jesus, the Anointed of God, always begins by reforming abuses and purifying from sin; both when he visits his Church, and when he visits the Christian soul" (Origen, "Hom. on St John", 1).
14-15. Every Israelite had to offer as a passover sacrifice an ox or a sheep, if he was wealthy; or two turtle-doves or two pigeons if he was not (Lev 5:7). In addition he had to pay a half shekel every year, if he was twenty or over. The half shekel, which was the equivalent of a day's pay of a worker, was a special coin also called temple money (cf. Ex 30:13); other coins in circulation (denarii, drachmas, etc.) were considered impure because they bore the image of pagan rulers. During the Passover, because of the extra crowd, the outer courtyard of the temple, the court of the Gentiles, was full of traders, money-changers etc., and inevitably this meant noise, shouting, bellowing, manure etc. Prophets had already fulminated against these abuses, which grew up with the tacit permission of the temple authorities, who made money by permitting trading. Cf. notes on Mt 21:12-13 and Mk 11:15-18.
16-17. "Zeal for thy house will consume me"--a quotation from Psalm 69:10. Jesus has just made a most significant assertion: "You shall not make my Father's house a house of trade." By calling God his Father and acting so energetically, he is proclaiming he is the Messiah, the Son of God. Jesus' zeal for his Father's glory did not escape the attention of his disciples who realized that what he did fulfilled the words of Psalm 69.
18-22. The temple of Jerusalem, which had replaced the previous sanctuary which the Israelites carried around in the wilderness, was the place selected by God during the Old Covenant to express his presence to the people in a special way. But this was only an imperfect anticipation or prefiguring of the full __expression of his presence among men--the Word of God became man. Jesus, in whom "the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily" (Col 2:9), is the full presence of God here on earth and, therefore, the true temple of God. Jesus identifies the temple of Jerusalem with his own body, and by so doing refers to one of the most profound truths about himself--the Incarnation. After the ascension of the Lord into heaven this real and very special presence of God among men is continued in the sacrament of the Blessed Eucharist.
Christ's words and actions as he expels the traders from the temple clearly show that he is the Messiah foretold by the prophets. That is why some Jews approach him and ask him to give a sign of his power (cf. Mt 16:1; Mk 8:11; Lk 11:29). Jesus' reply (v. 20), whose meaning remains obscure until his resurrection, the Jewish authorities try to turn into an attack on the temple--which merits the death penalty (Mt 26:61; Mk 14:58; cf. Jer 26:4ff); later they will taunt him with it when he is suffering on the cross (Mt 27:40; A 15:29) and later still in their case against St Stephen before the Sanhedrin they will claim to have heard him repeat it (Acts 6:14).
There was nothing derogatory in what Jesus said, contrary to what false witnesses made out. The miracle he offers them, which he calls "the Sign of Jonah" (cf. Mt 16:4), will be his own resurrection on the third day. Jesus is using a metaphor, as if to say: Do you see this temple? Well, imagine if it were destroyed, would it not be a great miracle to rebuild it in three days? That is what I will do for you as a sign. For you will destroy my body, which is the true temple, and I will rise again on the third day.
No one understood what he was saying. Jews and disciples alike thought he was speaking about rebuilding the temple which Herod the Great had begun to construct in 19-20 B.C. Later on the disciples grasped what he really meant.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
From: John 2:13-22
The Cleansing of the Temple
[13] The Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [14] In the temple he found those who were selling oxen and sheep and pigeons, and the money-changers at their business. [15] And making a whip of cords, he drove them all, with the sheep and oxen, out of the temple; and he poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. [16] And he told those who sold the pigeons, "Take these things away; you shall not make my Father's house a house of trade." [17] His disciples remembered that it was written, "Zeal for thy house will consume me." [18] The Jews then said to him, "What signs have you to show us for doing this?" [19] Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." [20] The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?" [21] But he spoke of the temple of his body. [22] When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this; and they believed the scripture and the word which Jesus had spoken.
_________________
Commentary:
13. "The Passover of the Jews": this is the most important religious feast for the people of the Old Testament, the prefiguring of the Christian Easter (cf. note on Mt 26:2). The Jewish Passover was celebrated on the fourteenth day of the month of Nisan and was followed by the festival week of the Azymes (unleavened bread). According to the Law of Moses, on those days every male Israelite had to "appear before the Lord God" (Ex 34:23; Deut 16:16)--hence the pious custom of making a pilgrimage to the temple of Jerusalem for these days, hence the crowd and all the vendors to supply the needs of the pilgrims; this trading gave rise to abuses.
"Jesus went up to Jerusalem": by doing this Jesus publicly shows that he observes the Law of God. But, as we shall soon see, he goes to the temple as the only-begotten Son who must ensure that all due decorum is observed in the House of the Father: "And from thenceforth Jesus, the Anointed of God, always begins by reforming abuses and purifying from sin; both when he visits his Church, and when he visits the Christian soul" (Origen, "Hom. on St John", 1).
14-15. Every Israelite had to offer as a passover sacrifice an ox or a sheep, if he was wealthy; or two turtle-doves or two pigeons if he was not (Lev 5:7). In addition he had to pay a half shekel every year, if he was twenty or over. The half shekel, which was the equivalent of a day's pay of a worker, was a special coin also called temple money (cf. Ex 30:13); other coins in circulation (denarii, drachmas, etc.) were considered impure because they bore the image of pagan rulers. During the Passover, because of the extra crowd, the outer courtyard of the temple, the court of the Gentiles, was full of traders, money-changers etc., and inevitably this meant noise, shouting, bellowing, manure etc. Prophets had already fulminated against these abuses, which grew up with the tacit permission of the temple authorities, who made money by permitting trading. Cf. notes on Mt 21:12-13 and Mk 11:15-18.
16-17. "Zeal for thy house will consume me"--a quotation from Psalm 69:10. Jesus has just made a most significant assertion: "You shall not make my Father's house a house of trade." By calling God his Father and acting so energetically, he is proclaiming he is the Messiah, the Son of God. Jesus' zeal for his Father's glory did not escape the attention of his disciples who realized that what he did fulfilled the words of Psalm 69.
18-22. The temple of Jerusalem, which had replaced the previous sanctuary which the Israelites carried around in the wilderness, was the place selected by God during the Old Covenant to express his presence to the people in a special way. But this was only an imperfect anticipation or prefiguring of the full __expression of his presence among men--the Word of God became man. Jesus, in whom "the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily" (Col 2:9), is the full presence of God here on earth and, therefore, the true temple of God. Jesus identifies the temple of Jerusalem with his own body, and by so doing refers to one of the most profound truths about himself--the Incarnation. After the ascension of the Lord into heaven this real and very special presence of God among men is continued in the sacrament of the Blessed Eucharist.
Christ's words and actions as he expels the traders from the temple clearly show that he is the Messiah foretold by the prophets. That is why some Jews approach him and ask him to give a sign of his power (cf. Mt 16:1; Mk 8:11; Lk 11:29). Jesus' reply (v. 20), whose meaning remains obscure until his resurrection, the Jewish authorities try to turn into an attack on the temple--which merits the death penalty (Mt 26:61; Mk 14:58; cf. Jer 26:4ff); later they will taunt him with it when he is suffering on the cross (Mt 27:40; A 15:29) and later still in their case against St Stephen before the Sanhedrin they will claim to have heard him repeat it (Acts 6:14).
There was nothing derogatory in what Jesus said, contrary to what false witnesses made out. The miracle he offers them, which he calls "the Sign of Jonah" (cf. Mt 16:4), will be his own resurrection on the third day. Jesus is using a metaphor, as if to say: Do you see this temple? Well, imagine if it were destroyed, would it not be a great miracle to rebuild it in three days? That is what I will do for you as a sign. For you will destroy my body, which is the true temple, and I will rise again on the third day.
No one understood what he was saying. Jews and disciples alike thought he was speaking about rebuilding the temple which Herod the Great had begun to construct in 19-20 B.C. Later on the disciples grasped what he really meant.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 9
What Contemplation Is
The contemplative life, in the widest sense of the word, is that wherein man - after having quelled his passions and separated himself from the cares and turmoils of exterior affairs - passes his time, inspired by the love of God, in devoting himself to works of religion and piety: pious studies, meditation, petition, and prayer. In the various degrees of prayer, he raises himself step by step from the contemplation of God's work to the contemplation of God Himself, and it is through the more and more perfect knowledge of God, whom he loves and who loves him, it is through the possession and fruition of this sovereign Good - as far as possible here on earth - that he finds, in the loftiness and perfection of his life, a foretaste of eternal beatitude.
-Msgr. Albert Farges.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
The contemplative life, in the widest sense of the word, is that wherein man - after having quelled his passions and separated himself from the cares and turmoils of exterior affairs - passes his time, inspired by the love of God, in devoting himself to works of religion and piety: pious studies, meditation, petition, and prayer. In the various degrees of prayer, he raises himself step by step from the contemplation of God's work to the contemplation of God Himself, and it is through the more and more perfect knowledge of God, whom he loves and who loves him, it is through the possession and fruition of this sovereign Good - as far as possible here on earth - that he finds, in the loftiness and perfection of his life, a foretaste of eternal beatitude.
-Msgr. Albert Farges.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 8
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
WITH OUR KING
"In what place soever Thou shalt be, Lord my King, either in death or in life, there will Thy servant be."
Which of us will have the courage to say this as we kneel before our King crowned with thorns? Let me look into the heart of my King as He sits there, the sport of wildest rabble. What makes Him suffer willingly in spite of the repugnance of nature? The same recognition of the Father's hand in all that befalls Him, to which His word in the Garden testified:
-Mother Mary Loyola.
The hearts of the saints, life sea-shells, murmur of the passion evermore.
-Father Faber.
___________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
1937
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
WITH OUR KING
"In what place soever Thou shalt be, Lord my King, either in death or in life, there will Thy servant be."
Which of us will have the courage to say this as we kneel before our King crowned with thorns? Let me look into the heart of my King as He sits there, the sport of wildest rabble. What makes Him suffer willingly in spite of the repugnance of nature? The same recognition of the Father's hand in all that befalls Him, to which His word in the Garden testified:
"The chalice that My Father hath given Me, shall I not drink it?"The faith that sees the Father's hand in every trial, this it is that holds the secret of meekness. To it alone belongs the strength of endurance, the peacefulness of lrust, the crown of thorns today, the crown of glory hereafter.
-Mother Mary Loyola.
The hearts of the saints, life sea-shells, murmur of the passion evermore.
-Father Faber.
___________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
1937
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