We join in the fifth day of our novena.
FIFTH DAY (Tuesday, 7th Week of Easter)
Light immortal! Light Divine! Visit Thou these hearts of Thine, And our inmost being fill!
The Gift of Knowledge
The gift of Knowledge enables the soul to evaluate created things at their true worth--in their relation to God. Knowledge unmasks the pretense of creatures, reveals their emptiness, and points out their only true purpose as instruments in the service of God. It shows us the loving care of God even in adversity, and directs us to glorify Him in every circumstance of life. Guided by its light, we put first things first, and prize the friendship of God beyond all else. "Knowledge is a fountain of life to him that possesseth it."
Prayer
Come, O Blessed Spirit of Knowledge, and grant that I may perceive the will of the Father; show me the nothingness of earthly things, that I may realize their vanity and use them only for Thy glory and my own salvation, looking ever beyond them to Thee, and Thy eternal rewards. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
Monday, May 25, 2020
7th Easter Monday 2020 - Memorial
Though it is not a Catholic Holy Day, Memorial Day has a deeply Catholic understanding at its roots. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3gcW4rY Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Novena to the Holy Spirit - Day 4
We join in the fourth day of our novena.
FOURTH DAY (Monday, 7th Week of Easter)
Thou in toil art comfort sweet, Pleasant coolness in the heat, solace in the midst of woe.
The Gift of Fortitude
The Gift of Fortitude By the gift of Fortitude the soul is strengthened against natural fear, and supported to the end in the performance of duty. Fortitude imparts to the will an impulse and energy which move it to under take without hesitancy the most arduous tasks, to face dangers, to trample under foot human respect, and to endure without complaint the slow martyrdom of even lifelong tribulation. "He that shall persevere unto the end, he shall be saved."
Prayer
Come, O Blessed Spirit of Fortitude, uphold my soul in time of trouble and adversity, sustain my efforts after holiness, strengthen my weakness, give me courage against all the assaults of my enemies, that I may never be overcome and separated from Thee, my God and greatest Good. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
FOURTH DAY (Monday, 7th Week of Easter)
Thou in toil art comfort sweet, Pleasant coolness in the heat, solace in the midst of woe.
The Gift of Fortitude
The Gift of Fortitude By the gift of Fortitude the soul is strengthened against natural fear, and supported to the end in the performance of duty. Fortitude imparts to the will an impulse and energy which move it to under take without hesitancy the most arduous tasks, to face dangers, to trample under foot human respect, and to endure without complaint the slow martyrdom of even lifelong tribulation. "He that shall persevere unto the end, he shall be saved."
Prayer
Come, O Blessed Spirit of Fortitude, uphold my soul in time of trouble and adversity, sustain my efforts after holiness, strengthen my weakness, give me courage against all the assaults of my enemies, that I may never be overcome and separated from Thee, my God and greatest Good. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
Sunday, May 24, 2020
Ascension 2020 - Work
Jesus ascends and takes His seat at the Father's side, not to rest but to work and guide us in our work. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2zqynvF Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Novena to the Holy Spirit - Day 3
We join in the third day of our novena.
THIRD DAY (7th Sunday of Easter)
Thou, of all consolers best, Visiting the troubled breast, Dost refreshing peace bestow.
The Gift of Piety
The gift of Piety begets in our hearts a filial affection for God as our most loving Father. It inspires us to love and respect for His sake persons and things consecrated to Him, as well as those who are vested with His authority, His Blessed Mother and the Saints, the Church and its visible Head, our parents and superiors, our country and its rulers. He who is filled with the gift of Piety finds the practice of his religion, not a burdensome duty, but a delightful service. Where there is love, there is no labor.
Prayer
Come, O Blessed Spirit of Piety, possess my heart. Enkindle therein such a love for God, that I may find satisfaction only in His service, and for His sake lovingly submit to all legitimate authority. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
THIRD DAY (7th Sunday of Easter)
Thou, of all consolers best, Visiting the troubled breast, Dost refreshing peace bestow.
The Gift of Piety
The gift of Piety begets in our hearts a filial affection for God as our most loving Father. It inspires us to love and respect for His sake persons and things consecrated to Him, as well as those who are vested with His authority, His Blessed Mother and the Saints, the Church and its visible Head, our parents and superiors, our country and its rulers. He who is filled with the gift of Piety finds the practice of his religion, not a burdensome duty, but a delightful service. Where there is love, there is no labor.
Prayer
Come, O Blessed Spirit of Piety, possess my heart. Enkindle therein such a love for God, that I may find satisfaction only in His service, and for His sake lovingly submit to all legitimate authority. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
Saturday, May 23, 2020
6th Easter Saturday 2020 - Revealed
Apollos needed to have the Scriptures revealed to him, despite his training, because Christ reveals God, and we, too, need the Spirit to reveal truth to us. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2TybZHH Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Novena to the Holy Spirit - Day 2
We join in the second day of our novena.
SECOND DAY (Saturday, 6th Week of Easter)
Come. Father of the poor. Come, treasures which endure; Come, Light of all that live!
The Gift of Fear
The gift of Fear fills us with a sovereign respect for God, and makes us dread nothing so much as to offend Him by sin. It is a fear that arises, not from the thought of hell, but from sentiments of reverence and filial submission to our heavenly Father. It is the fear that is the beginning of wisdom, detaching us from worldly pleasures that could in any way separate us from God. "They that fear the Lord will prepare their hearts, and in His sight will sanctify their souls."
Prayer
Come, O blessed Spirit of Holy Fear, penetrate my inmost heart, that I may set you, my Lord and God, before my face forever, help me to shun all things that can offend You, and make me worthy to appear before the pure eyes of Your Divine Majesty in heaven, where You live and reign in the unity of the ever Blessed Trinity, God world without end. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
SECOND DAY (Saturday, 6th Week of Easter)
Come. Father of the poor. Come, treasures which endure; Come, Light of all that live!
The Gift of Fear
The gift of Fear fills us with a sovereign respect for God, and makes us dread nothing so much as to offend Him by sin. It is a fear that arises, not from the thought of hell, but from sentiments of reverence and filial submission to our heavenly Father. It is the fear that is the beginning of wisdom, detaching us from worldly pleasures that could in any way separate us from God. "They that fear the Lord will prepare their hearts, and in His sight will sanctify their souls."
Prayer
Come, O blessed Spirit of Holy Fear, penetrate my inmost heart, that I may set you, my Lord and God, before my face forever, help me to shun all things that can offend You, and make me worthy to appear before the pure eyes of Your Divine Majesty in heaven, where You live and reign in the unity of the ever Blessed Trinity, God world without end. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
Friday, May 22, 2020
6th Easter Friday 2020 - Promise
The Lord promise St. Paul he would not be harmed by proclaiming the Gospel, and promised us as followers joy that will follow after hardship. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2ZsFgaI Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Novena to the Holy Spirit - Day 1
Today, we begin the nine day prayer - a novena - asking for the Holy Spirit and His Seven Gifts.
FIRST DAY (Friday, 6th Week of Easter)
Holy Spirit! Lord of Light! From Your clear celestial height, Your pure beaming radiance give!
The Holy Spirit
Only one thing is important -- eternal salvation. Only one thing, therefore, is to be feared--sin· Sin is the result of ignorance, weakness, and indifference The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Light, of Strength, and of Love. With His sevenfold gifts He enlightens the mind, strengthens the will, and inflames the heart with love of God. To ensure our salvation we ought to invoke the Divine Spirit daily, for "The Spirit helpeth our infirmity. We know not what we should pray for as we ought. But the Spirit Himself asketh for us."
Prayer
Almighty and eternal God, Who hast vouchsafed to regenerate us by water and the Holy Spirit, and hast given us forgiveness all sins, vouchsafe to send forth from heaven upon us your sevenfold Spirit, the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding, the Spirit of Counsel and fortitude, the Spirit of Knowledge and Piety, and fill us with the Spirit of Holy Fear. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
FIRST DAY (Friday, 6th Week of Easter)
Holy Spirit! Lord of Light! From Your clear celestial height, Your pure beaming radiance give!
The Holy Spirit
Only one thing is important -- eternal salvation. Only one thing, therefore, is to be feared--sin· Sin is the result of ignorance, weakness, and indifference The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Light, of Strength, and of Love. With His sevenfold gifts He enlightens the mind, strengthens the will, and inflames the heart with love of God. To ensure our salvation we ought to invoke the Divine Spirit daily, for "The Spirit helpeth our infirmity. We know not what we should pray for as we ought. But the Spirit Himself asketh for us."
Prayer
Almighty and eternal God, Who hast vouchsafed to regenerate us by water and the Holy Spirit, and hast given us forgiveness all sins, vouchsafe to send forth from heaven upon us your sevenfold Spirit, the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding, the Spirit of Counsel and fortitude, the Spirit of Knowledge and Piety, and fill us with the Spirit of Holy Fear. Amen.
Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.
ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.
To be recited daily during the Novena
PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.
(To be recited daily during the Novena)
Thursday, May 21, 2020
6th Easter Thursday 2020 - Witness
St. Christopher and companions in the Cristeros movement of Mexico witnessed to Christ with their lives, and we, too, are called to give witness. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3cOwLdG Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
6th Easter Wednesday- Named
St. Paul names God for the Athenians, and the name of Jesus still needs to be proclaimed. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2TmaxrE Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
6th Easter Tuesday 2020 - Something
Ss. Paul and Silas had Something that allowed them to sing through their suffering, and stay though they could have fled. The guard had nothing, but recognized his lack. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2Zia2D4 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, May 17, 2020
6th Easter Sunday 2020 - Reason
What is our reason for hope? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3aeSWrA Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Thursday, May 14, 2020
St. Mathias 2020 - Chosen
St. Mathias was chosen to take Judas' place as an apostle. We too are chosen. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3cwiWQX Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Tuesday, May 12, 2020
5th Easter Tuesday 2020 - Gift
Jesus gives His peace, but not as the world gives. Do we accept that gift? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2WmAPfq Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, May 10, 2020
5th Easter Sunday 2020 - Essential
The Apostles knew their essential duties were proclamation of the Gospel and prayer, and remind us that our essential duties are the same - perhaps in different ways. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3e3Lbro Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Saturday, May 9, 2020
4th Easter Saturday 2020 - Prayer
Do we pray in the right way, or do we expect the Lord to give us exactly what we want? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2xQTuqq Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Friday, May 8, 2020
4th Easter Wednesday 2020 - Light
Jesus is light, destroying darkness and challenging all who would chose it. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3fokC0P Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
4th Easter Friday 2020 - Fear
Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2AavMGn Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
4th Tuesday Easter 2020 - Suspense
The Jews are in self-inflicted suspense, wondering if Jesus is the Christ. But Barnabas recognizes the Lord at work in the Gentiles. Why? He listened to the Shepherd. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/35umPmX Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, May 3, 2020
4th Sunday Easter 2020 - Voice
Jesus Christ is both Shepherd and sheep gate. We need to learn His voice. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2z0obK2 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Friday, May 1, 2020
Joseph The Worker 2020 - Work
We ask St. Joseph’s intercession this day. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2z0h1oO Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Thursday, April 30, 2020
3rd Thursday Easter 2020 - Speak
The Ethiopian eunuch struggles to understand the Scriptures, and needs the deacon Philip to help him, showing that the faith is not just a matter of reading, but of encountering the Lord, who reveals the Father to us. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2W8WhU1 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Wednesday, April 29, 2020
3rd Wednesday Easter 2020 - God's will
What is the Father's will for us? Is it to come to His Son, the Bread of Life, or to do our own will? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2yORcIz Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
3rd Tuesday Easter 2020 - LIfe
Jesus gives the Bread of Life - not extending our natural lives, but giving us eternity. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2SaHUNx Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, April 26, 2020
3rd Sunday Easter 2020 - Stay
Jesus Christ appears to Cleopas and his companion, and opens them up to understand that Hos passion and death were necessary. They needed more - they needed Him in the breaking of bread. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2S6qmT1 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Saturday, April 25, 2020
St. Mark 2020 - Marked
St. Mark, a follower of St. Peter, who followed Christ, wrote a text to help us know the Lord. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2Y4XSww Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Friday, April 24, 2020
2nd Friday Easter 2020
Jesus Christ provides, and He is everlasting. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2VXCuXm Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Thursday, April 23, 2020
2nd Thursday Easter 2020 - Obey
What is the balance of obedience between God and government? The apostles and the Gospel tell us - Follow God. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3bxeSzw Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Wednesday, April 22, 2020
2nd Wednesday Easter 2020 - Darkness
Jesus Christ proclaims that God the Father loves us, but that those who do evil hide in darkness. Let us go to the light. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2Vvc4xn Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, April 19, 2020
Divine Mercy Sunday 2020 - Mercy
Jesus Christ is mercy - and He gives us what we need to thrive. Are we able to receive Him? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/34NiqLg Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Divine Mercy Chaplet
On Divine Mercy Sunday, we are encouraged to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet.
Here's How:
Make the Sign of the Cross
Pray the Opening Prayers The second prayer is repeated three times:"You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us."
"O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You!" (three times)
Pray the Our Father
Pray the Hail Mary
Say the Apostles' Creed
Pray the Prayer "Eternal Father" On the Our Father bead before each decade, pray the following prayer: "Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world. Amen."
Pray the Prayer "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion" Ten Times On each of the Hail Mary beads in each decade, pray the following prayer: "For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world."
Repeat Steps 6 and 7 On each of the next four decades of the Chaplet, repeat steps 6 and 7 (pray the Eternal Father, followed by ten "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion").
Pray the Concluding Doxology Three Times After you have prayed all five decades of the Chaplet, pray the following prayer, which is repeated three times: "Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world." (three times)
Pray the Closing Prayer After the doxology, pray the following final prayer: "Eternal God, in Whom mercy is endless, and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us, and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments, we might not despair, nor become despondent, but with great confidence, submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy Itself. Amen."
End With the Sign of the Cross
Here's How:
Make the Sign of the Cross
Pray the Opening Prayers The second prayer is repeated three times:"You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us."
"O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You!" (three times)
Pray the Our Father
Pray the Hail Mary
Say the Apostles' Creed
Pray the Prayer "Eternal Father" On the Our Father bead before each decade, pray the following prayer: "Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world. Amen."
Pray the Prayer "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion" Ten Times On each of the Hail Mary beads in each decade, pray the following prayer: "For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world."
Repeat Steps 6 and 7 On each of the next four decades of the Chaplet, repeat steps 6 and 7 (pray the Eternal Father, followed by ten "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion").
Pray the Concluding Doxology Three Times After you have prayed all five decades of the Chaplet, pray the following prayer, which is repeated three times: "Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world." (three times)
Pray the Closing Prayer After the doxology, pray the following final prayer: "Eternal God, in Whom mercy is endless, and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us, and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments, we might not despair, nor become despondent, but with great confidence, submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy Itself. Amen."
End With the Sign of the Cross
Saturday, April 18, 2020
Easter Saturday 2020 - Incredible
The disciples cannot believe Mary Magdalene not Cleopas and his companion, but can only believe the incredible news after their own encounters with the Risen Lord. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3afCjMd Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 9
Prayer for Ninth Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love, let these tepid souls who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love, and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your mercy. Amen.
Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love, let these tepid souls who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love, and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your mercy. Amen.
Friday, April 17, 2020
Easter Friday 2020 - Normal
St. Peter returns to the normal and familiar - fishing - after the Resurrection, but there is no return. Everything has been transformed. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3aeSWrA Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 8
Prayer for Eighth Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet, who must make retribution to Your justice. May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of Purgatory, that there, too, the power of Your mercy may be celebrated.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most sacred Soul was flooded: Manifest Your mercy to the souls who are under Your just scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way but only through the Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly beloved Son; for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your goodness and compassion. Amen.
Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet, who must make retribution to Your justice. May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of Purgatory, that there, too, the power of Your mercy may be celebrated.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most sacred Soul was flooded: Manifest Your mercy to the souls who are under Your just scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way but only through the Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly beloved Son; for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your goodness and compassion. Amen.
Thursday, April 16, 2020
Easter Thursday 2020 - Proof
Jesus appears to the disciples and gives them what they need, most of all proof of His resurrection. He is willing to price Himself to us, if we are willing to receive Him. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3cgrLhg Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 7
Prayer for Seventh Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most Merciful Jesus, whose Heart is Love Itself, receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who particularly extol and venerate the greatness of Your mercy. These souls are mighty with the very power of God Himself. In the midst of all afflictions and adversities they go forward, confident of Your mercy; and united to You, O Jesus, they carry all mankind on their shoulders. These souls will not be judged severely, but Your mercy will embrace them as they depart from this life.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who glorify and venerate Your greatest attribute, that of Your fathomless mercy, and who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls are a living Gospel; their hands are full of deeds of mercy, and their hearts, overflowing with joy, sing a canticle of mercy to You, O Most High! I beg You O God: Show them Your mercy according to the hope and trust they have placed in You. Let there be accomplished in them the promise of Jesus, who said to them that during their life, but especially at the hour of death, the souls who will venerate this fathomless mercy of His, He, Himself, will defend as His glory. Amen.
Most Merciful Jesus, whose Heart is Love Itself, receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who particularly extol and venerate the greatness of Your mercy. These souls are mighty with the very power of God Himself. In the midst of all afflictions and adversities they go forward, confident of Your mercy; and united to You, O Jesus, they carry all mankind on their shoulders. These souls will not be judged severely, but Your mercy will embrace them as they depart from this life.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who glorify and venerate Your greatest attribute, that of Your fathomless mercy, and who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls are a living Gospel; their hands are full of deeds of mercy, and their hearts, overflowing with joy, sing a canticle of mercy to You, O Most High! I beg You O God: Show them Your mercy according to the hope and trust they have placed in You. Let there be accomplished in them the promise of Jesus, who said to them that during their life, but especially at the hour of death, the souls who will venerate this fathomless mercy of His, He, Himself, will defend as His glory. Amen.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Easter Wednesday 2020 - Recognized
Christ appears to two disciples, going home after the events of the first Easter Sunday, and they only recognize Him in the breaking of the bread. Do we recognize His presence with us? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3er9jVk Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 6
Prayer for Sixth Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart." Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father's favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God Himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen
Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart." Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father's favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God Himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen
Tuesday, April 14, 2020
Easter Tuesday 2020 - Holding On
Mary Magdalene encounters the Risen Lord, but doesn’t recognize Him until He speaks her name, and us holding on to Him so that He can’t complete His mission. Do we hold on to the Lord too right? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2XERY5j Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 5
Prayer for Fifth Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Church. Draw them by Your light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to glorify the generosity of Your mercy.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Son's Church, who have squandered Your blessings and misused Your graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your own Son and upon His bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in His Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it about that they also may glorify Your great mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Church. Draw them by Your light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to glorify the generosity of Your mercy.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Son's Church, who have squandered Your blessings and misused Your graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your own Son and upon His bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in His Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it about that they also may glorify Your great mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Monday, April 13, 2020
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 4
Prayer for Fourth Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most compassionate Jesus, You are the Light of the whole world. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who do not believe in God and of those who as yet do not know You. Let the rays of Your grace enlighten them that they, too, together with us, may extol Your wonderful mercy; and do not let them escape from the abode which is Your Most Compassionate Heart.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who do not believe in You, and of those who as yet do not know You, but who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to the light of the Gospel. These souls do not know what great happiness it is to love You. Grant that they, too, may extol the generosity of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Sunday, April 12, 2020
Easter 2020 - Dare To Hope
Christ is Risen. Do we dare to hope? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3a6gOgF Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 3
Prayer for Third Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy, You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy, You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.
Saturday, April 11, 2020
Exult!!!
Exult, let them exult, the hosts of heaven, exult, let Angel ministers of God exult, let the trumpet of salvation sound aloud our mighty King's triumph! Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her, ablaze with light from her eternal King, let all corners of the earth be glad, knowing an end to gloom and darkness. Rejoice, let Mother Church also rejoice, arrayed with the lightning of his glory, let this holy building shake with joy, filled with the mighty voices of the peoples. (Therefore, dearest friends, standing in the awesome glory of this holy light, invoke with me, I ask you, the mercy of God almighty, that he, who has been pleased to number me, though unworthy, among the Levites, may pour into me his light unshadowed, that I may sing this candle's perfect praises). (Deacon: The Lord be with you. People: And with your spirit.) Deacon: Lift up your hearts. People: We lift them up to the Lord. Deacon: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. People: It is right and just. It is truly right and just, with ardent love of mind and heart and with devoted service of our voice, to acclaim our God invisible, the almighty Father, and Jesus Christ, our Lord, his Son, his Only Begotten. Who for our sake paid Adam's debt to the eternal Father, and, pouring out his own dear Blood, wiped clean the record of our ancient sinfulness. These, then, are the feasts of Passover, in which is slain the Lamb, the one true Lamb, whose Blood anoints the doorposts of believers. This is the night, when once you led our forebears, Israel's children, from slavery in Egypt and made them pass dry-shod through the Red Sea. This is the night that with a pillar of fire banished the darkness of sin. This is the night that even now throughout the world, sets Christian believers apart from worldly vices and from the gloom of sin, leading them to grace and joining them to his holy ones. This is the night when Christ broke the prison-bars of death and rose victorious from the underworld. Our birth would have been no gain, had we not been redeemed. O wonder of your humble care for us! O love, O charity beyond all telling, to ransom a slave you gave away your Son! O truly necessary sin of Adam, destroyed completely by the Death of Christ! O happy fault that earned for us so great, so glorious a Redeemer! O truly blessed night, worthy alone to know the time and hour when Christ rose from the underworld! This is the night of which it is written: The night shall be as bright as day, dazzling is the night for me, and full of gladness. The sanctifying power of this night dispels wickedness, washes faults away, restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners, drives out hatred, fosters concord, and brings down the mighty. On this, your night of grace, O holy Father, accept this candle, a solemn offering, the work of bees and of your servants' hands, an evening sacrifice of praise, this gift from your most holy Church. But now we know the praises of this pillar, a flame divided but undimmed, which glowing fire ignites for God's honour, a fire into many flames divided, yet never dimmed by sharing of its light, for it is fed by melting wax, drawn out by mother bees to build a torch so precious. O truly blessed night, when things of heaven are wed to those of earth, and divine to the human. Therefore, O Lord, we pray you that this candle, hallowed to the honour of your name, may persevere undimmed, to overcome the darkness of this night. Receive it as a pleasing fragrance, and let it mingle with the lights of heaven. May this flame be found still burning by the Morning Star: the one Morning Star who never sets, Christ your Son, who, coming back from death's domain, has shed his peaceful light on humanity, and lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
Divine Mercy Novena - Day 2
Prayer for Second Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service, that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard—upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.
Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service, that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard—upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.
Great Silence
From the Office of Readings for Holy Saturday: Something strange is happening—there is a great silence on earth today, a great silence and stillness. The whole earth keeps silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. God has died in the flesh and hell trembles with fear. He has gone to search for our first parent, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow the captives Adam and Eve, he who is both God and the son of Eve. The Lord approached them bearing the cross, the weapon that had won him the victory. At the sight of him Adam, the first man he had created, struck his breast in terror and cried out to everyone: ‘My Lord be with you all.’ Christ answered him: ‘And with your spirit.’ He took him by the hand and raised him up, saying: ‘Awake, O sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.’ I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. Out of love for you and for your descendants I now by my own authority command all who are held in bondage to come forth, all who are in darkness to be enlightened, all who are sleeping to arise. I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be held a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead. Rise up, work of my hands, you who were created in my image. Rise, let us leave this place, for you are in me and I am in you; together we form only one person and we cannot be separated. For your sake I, your God, became your son; I, the Lord, took the form of a slave; I, whose home is above the heavens, descended to the earth and beneath the earth. For your sake, for the sake of man, I became like a man without help, free among the dead. For the sake of you, who left a garden, I was betrayed to the Jews in a garden, and I was crucified in a garden. See on my face the spittle I received in order to restore to you the life I once breathed into you. See there the marks of the blows I received in order to refashion your warped nature in my image. On my back see the marks of the scourging I endured to remove the burden of sin that weighs upon your back. See my hands, nailed firmly to a tree, for you who once wickedly stretched out your hand to a tree. I slept on the cross and a sword pierced my side for you who slept in paradise and brought forth Eve from your side. My side has healed the pain in yours. My sleep will rouse you from your sleep in hell. The sword that pierced me has sheathed the sword that was turned against you. Rise, let us leave this place. The enemy led you out of the earthly paradise. I will not restore you to that paradise, but I will enthrone you in heaven. I forbade you the tree that was only a symbol of life, but see, I who am life itself am now one with you. I appointed cherubim to guard you as slaves are guarded, but now I make them worship you as God. The throne formed by cherubim awaits you, its bearers swift and eager. The bridal chamber is adorned, the banquet is ready, the eternal dwelling places are prepared, the treasure houses of all good things lie open. The kingdom of heaven has been prepared for you from all eternity.
Friday, April 10, 2020
Good Friday 2020 - The Cross
Jesus's death on the cross is proof of His love for us and the answer to the evil in this world. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3e3Lbro Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
A beautiful Hymn from the Roman Missal for Good Friday
Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Sing, my tongue, in exultationOf our banner and device!Make a solemn proclamationOf a triumph and its price:How the Savior of creationConquered by his sacrifice!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:For, when Adam first offended,Eating that forbidden fruit,Not all hopes of glory endedWith the serpent at the root:Broken nature would be mendedBy a second tree and shoot.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Thus the tempter was outwittedBy a wisdom deeper still:Remedy and ailment fitted,Means to cure and means to kill;That the world might be acquitted,Christ would do his Father’s will.
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:So the Father, out of pityFor our self-inflicted doom,Sent him from the heavenly cityWhen the holy time had come:He, the Son and the Almighty,Took our flesh in Mary’s womb.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Hear a tiny baby crying,Founder of the seas and strands;See his virgin Mother tyingCloth around his feet and hands;Find him in a manger lyingTightly wrapped in swaddling-bands!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:So he came, the long-expected,Not in glory, not to reign;Only born to be rejected,Choosing hunger, toil and pain,Till the scaffold was erectedAnd the Paschal Lamb was slain.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:No disgrace was too abhorrent:Nailed and mocked and parched he died;Blood and water, double warrant,Issue from his wounded side,Washing in a mighty torrentEarth and stars and oceantide.
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:Lofty timber, smooth your roughness,Flex your boughs for blossoming;Let your fibers lose their toughness,Gently let your tendrils cling;Lay aside your native gruffness,Clasp the body of your King!
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Noblest tree of all created,Richly jeweled and embossed:Post by Lamb’s blood consecrated;Spar that saves the tempest-tossed;Scaffold-beam which, elevated,Carries what the world has cost!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
All:Wisdom, power, and adorationTo the blessed TrinityFor redemption and salvationThrough the Paschal Mystery,Now, in every generation,And for all eternity. Amen.
Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Sing, my tongue, in exultationOf our banner and device!Make a solemn proclamationOf a triumph and its price:How the Savior of creationConquered by his sacrifice!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:For, when Adam first offended,Eating that forbidden fruit,Not all hopes of glory endedWith the serpent at the root:Broken nature would be mendedBy a second tree and shoot.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Thus the tempter was outwittedBy a wisdom deeper still:Remedy and ailment fitted,Means to cure and means to kill;That the world might be acquitted,Christ would do his Father’s will.
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:So the Father, out of pityFor our self-inflicted doom,Sent him from the heavenly cityWhen the holy time had come:He, the Son and the Almighty,Took our flesh in Mary’s womb.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Hear a tiny baby crying,Founder of the seas and strands;See his virgin Mother tyingCloth around his feet and hands;Find him in a manger lyingTightly wrapped in swaddling-bands!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:So he came, the long-expected,Not in glory, not to reign;Only born to be rejected,Choosing hunger, toil and pain,Till the scaffold was erectedAnd the Paschal Lamb was slain.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:No disgrace was too abhorrent:Nailed and mocked and parched he died;Blood and water, double warrant,Issue from his wounded side,Washing in a mighty torrentEarth and stars and oceantide.
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
Cantors:Lofty timber, smooth your roughness,Flex your boughs for blossoming;Let your fibers lose their toughness,Gently let your tendrils cling;Lay aside your native gruffness,Clasp the body of your King!
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!
Cantors:Noblest tree of all created,Richly jeweled and embossed:Post by Lamb’s blood consecrated;Spar that saves the tempest-tossed;Scaffold-beam which, elevated,Carries what the world has cost!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.
All:Wisdom, power, and adorationTo the blessed TrinityFor redemption and salvationThrough the Paschal Mystery,Now, in every generation,And for all eternity. Amen.
The Reproaches
As we are commemorating our Lord's Passion while under 'stay at home' orders, one thing we might do as a family is pray the Reproaches. These are the liturgical text the Church asks to be prayed during the veneration of the Cross, and perhaps even more powerful this year as we experience a pandemic that the Lord might be using to bring deeper conversion.
The Reproaches (Improperia)
Antiphon 1 and 2:
We worship you, Lord,
we venerate your cross,
we praise your resurrection.
1: Through the cross
you brought joy to the world.
We worship you, Lord,
we venerate your cross,
we praise your resurrection.
1: Through the cross
you brought joy to the world.
1: (Psalm 66:2)
May God be gracious and bless us;
and let his face shed its light upon us.
May God be gracious and bless us;
and let his face shed its light upon us.
Repeat Antiphon by 1 and 2:
The Reproaches:
I.
1 and 2: My people, what have I done to you
How have I offended you? Answer me!
How have I offended you? Answer me!
1: I led you out of Egypt,
from slavery to freedom,
but you led your Savior to the cross.
from slavery to freedom,
but you led your Savior to the cross.
2: My people, what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
How have I offended you? Answer me!
1: Holy is God!
2: Holy and strong!
1: Holy immortal One, have mercy on us!
2: Holy and strong!
1: Holy immortal One, have mercy on us!
1 and 2: For forty years I led you
safely through the desert.
I fed you with manna from heaven,
and brought you to a land of plenty; but you led your Savior to the cross.
safely through the desert.
I fed you with manna from heaven,
and brought you to a land of plenty; but you led your Savior to the cross.
Repeat "Holy is God..."
1 and 2: What more could I have done for you.
I planted you as my fairest vine,
but you yielded only bitterness:
when I was thirsty you gave me vinegar to drink,
and you pierced your Savior with a lance.
I planted you as my fairest vine,
but you yielded only bitterness:
when I was thirsty you gave me vinegar to drink,
and you pierced your Savior with a lance.
Repeat "Holy is God..."
II.
1: For your sake I scourged your captors
and their firstborn sons,
but you brought your scourges down on me.
and their firstborn sons,
but you brought your scourges down on me.
(Repeated throughout by Choir 2)
2: My people, what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
2: My people, what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
1: I led you from slavery to freedom
and drowned your captors in the sea,
but you handed me over to your high priests.
2: "My people...."
and drowned your captors in the sea,
but you handed me over to your high priests.
2: "My people...."
1: I opened the sea before you,
but you opened my side with a spear.
2: "My people...."
but you opened my side with a spear.
2: "My people...."
1: I led you on your way in a pillar of cloud,
but you led me to Pilate's court.
2: "My people...."
but you led me to Pilate's court.
2: "My people...."
1: I bore you up with manna in the desert,
but you struck me down and scourged me.
2: "My people...."
but you struck me down and scourged me.
2: "My people...."
1: I gave you saving water from the rock,
but you gave me gall and vinegar to drink.
2: "My people...."
but you gave me gall and vinegar to drink.
2: "My people...."
1: For you I struck down the kings of Canaan.
but you struck my head with a reed.
2: "My people...."
but you struck my head with a reed.
2: "My people...."
1: I gave you a royal scepter,
but you gave me a crown of thorns.
2: "My people...."
but you gave me a crown of thorns.
2: "My people...."
1: I raised you to the height of majesty,
but you have raised me high on a cross.
2: "My people...."
but you have raised me high on a cross.
2: "My people...."
First Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Good Friday)
Prayer for First Day of Divine Mercy Novena
Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy for ever and ever. Amen.
Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy for ever and ever. Amen.
Thursday, April 9, 2020
Communion by Desire
Minnesota, and many of the states, have extended ‘stay at home’ orders. Gathering with various others of all sizes, especially those over 10, are discouraged.
This puts a spin on life as normal for me as a priest, of course. We are not allowed to have public Masses, and especially as we are about to start the Sacred Triduum and Easter, this is hard. Harder still is the fasting from the Eucharist that the Faithful will need to extend.
I hear of the frustration. I hear, too, of the grasping at straws, the desire for parking lot Masses (which present a number of challenges to the sanctity of the Mass) or the desire for multiplication of Masses beyond the priests’ ability to meet and yet keep everyone safe and compliant. I hear of the request that we distribute the Eucharist in a hygienic way through using disposable items that could still pass on this virus or collect fragments of the Blessed Sacrament (and would need respectful treatment).
We have to remember that this novel corona virus is unique. While many who are exposed to it may have little to mild symptoms, some will have severe symptoms. While underlying health concerns are an aggravating matter, this is not always the case. It seems that this virus is a little fickle. On top of that, as we have heard, someone might be contagious before, if ever, being symptomatic. This means that they might pass on this virus without ever getting sick or even knowing they are contagious. Perhaps even the celebrant might be contagious, and we are touching the Eucharist at distribution, and then passing on the virus to others. We do not know (yet) who is contagious or who already has had it and now immune, or who is vulnerable to the severe symptoms. As a result, the best course of action seems to be the stay at home orders for the general population to give time for our hospitals to prepare. Hopefully, by the end of April, there will be antibody tests that will allow an easing of the restrictions except for perhaps those most vulnerable.
So we are required, at this time, to maintain this stay at home order. We may look back and say that what we did was difficult. At this point, without these restrictions, from what we understand, we are putting vulnerable lives at risk. We may never know how many lives we have saved by doing nothing… by staying home… by maintaining social distances. May we never find out that we were the cause of unnecessary exposure and perhaps even death by not taking the doctors and epidemiologists at their word.
As Catholics, we are required to attend Mass (yes, that is the requirement, not reception of the Blessed Sacrament). But there are conditions in which that obligation is lifted, mainly when we are putting ourselves or others at risk either because of difficult travel conditions or illness. While those that are contagious may not be ill, they could pass this virus on to the more vulnerable, therefore, Bishop LeVoir and many other bishops have dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass.
At the same time, we live in a wonderful time — we have resources that our ancestors would never have imagined. How many priests and bishops have their Masses live-streamed or recorded for playback! Certainly, it is not the same. As one who is in a parish with the capability to live-stream, it is difficult for me as a priest-celebrant to offer Mass with only the minimal people needed to live-stream it. But it is better than nothing. Here, Mass is still being offered in the place best.
Reception of the Eucharist is important. This Holy Thursday evening, we will mark the giving of the Eucharist as the memorial of Christ’s death and resurrection. As we receive His Body and Blood, we receive communion with Him. But this communion is not automatic, nor is it the only means of communion. We have to remember that Judas was at the Last Supper. He received from Christ Himself the first Eucharist. Yet he did not have communion. St. Peter, and nine other apostles for that matter, also received, but St. Peter would deny even knowing Jesus within hours and the others would run and hide. Only St. John remained at the foot of the cross. Only he experienced an immediate communion with the Lord. Certainly, after the Resurrection, when the sign of the Eucharist was fulfilled, though not fully understood, did the apostles experience a deeper communion, one that lead to their bold preaching and eventual martyrdom. Ironically, only St. John was spared death from martyrdom, though they tried. But he had a spiritual martyrdom — he desired union with the Lord in all things, even the Lord’s death.
And that concept of martyrdom by desire might help us understand the other point — the Eucharist is not the only means to communion. St. John experienced a spiritual martyrdom — he deeply desired to give witness to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through his own death — but that was not God’s will. The Church teaches of the importance of Baptism. Baptism is the means in which we enter the Sacramental life of the Church. But it is possible to be saved, in ways known to God alone, without receiving this sacrament. Someone who is not yet baptized but dies in witness to Jesus Christ, therefore a martyr, is said to have experienced a baptism by blood. Their faith in Christ lead them to die for Him, and the Lord will save them. But there is another means: Someone who is preparing for Baptism, say in an RCIA program, who dies before the sacrament, might be saved in what the Church calls baptism by desire. Their desire for the sacrament is so great that, despite circumstances beyond their control, receive the graces that that sacrament imparts. See, God binds Himself to the Sacraments, but is not bound by them. He guarantees that they impart grace on those capable of receiving that grace, but that is not the only way He can give it.
The Lord has bound Himself to the Eucharist. He imparts the grace of communion with Himself (and all the saints, for that matter) in the reception of the Eucharist. But He can, and does give that grace through other means too. Again, that grace is not automatic — we must desire Him, union with Him, communion with Him and all in union with Him. We cannot continue to see the Eucharist as a commodity — a ‘something' I need. Rather, we need to see the Eucharist as He is - Christ who humbles Himself for us and our salvation. A Gift from Christ of Himself that we may have the grace of union with Him. Instead of seeing it as the only means of communion, we perhaps can see it as the primary means, the privileged means of communion. Perhaps, during this Great Fast, now extended into May, we can continue to grow in our desire the Eucharist for who He is — our Lord and Savior, and remember that while the majority of Catholics cannot receive Him Sacramentally, we can receive Him spiritually by deeply desiring Him. He will not allow His people to starve in their desire for communion. He will nourish them in ways mysterious.
I know that this is a difficult time. I know people are afraid, frustrated, and angry. But I also know that it does not have to be so. We can choose to let Christ reign in our hearts. The stone of His tomb could not stop His resurrection, nor can this virus. In fact, there is only one thing that can stop Jesus Christ from having power in our lives — us. Only when we desire He have no authority over us, that we have no communion with Him, is He thwarted from working in our lives and having communion with Him. Yes, - I desire Him in the Eucharist. But more importantly, I NEED Him.
When we are returned to the practice of public Mass (and we will), we may have a renewed joy to not only be in the presence of Christ and the congregation, but to be able to receive Him sacramentally, the most full sign that we have prepared our hearts by our communion by desire.
My Jesus,
I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace You as if You were already there
and unite myself wholly to You.
Never permit me to be separated from You.
Amen.
This puts a spin on life as normal for me as a priest, of course. We are not allowed to have public Masses, and especially as we are about to start the Sacred Triduum and Easter, this is hard. Harder still is the fasting from the Eucharist that the Faithful will need to extend.
I hear of the frustration. I hear, too, of the grasping at straws, the desire for parking lot Masses (which present a number of challenges to the sanctity of the Mass) or the desire for multiplication of Masses beyond the priests’ ability to meet and yet keep everyone safe and compliant. I hear of the request that we distribute the Eucharist in a hygienic way through using disposable items that could still pass on this virus or collect fragments of the Blessed Sacrament (and would need respectful treatment).
We have to remember that this novel corona virus is unique. While many who are exposed to it may have little to mild symptoms, some will have severe symptoms. While underlying health concerns are an aggravating matter, this is not always the case. It seems that this virus is a little fickle. On top of that, as we have heard, someone might be contagious before, if ever, being symptomatic. This means that they might pass on this virus without ever getting sick or even knowing they are contagious. Perhaps even the celebrant might be contagious, and we are touching the Eucharist at distribution, and then passing on the virus to others. We do not know (yet) who is contagious or who already has had it and now immune, or who is vulnerable to the severe symptoms. As a result, the best course of action seems to be the stay at home orders for the general population to give time for our hospitals to prepare. Hopefully, by the end of April, there will be antibody tests that will allow an easing of the restrictions except for perhaps those most vulnerable.
So we are required, at this time, to maintain this stay at home order. We may look back and say that what we did was difficult. At this point, without these restrictions, from what we understand, we are putting vulnerable lives at risk. We may never know how many lives we have saved by doing nothing… by staying home… by maintaining social distances. May we never find out that we were the cause of unnecessary exposure and perhaps even death by not taking the doctors and epidemiologists at their word.
As Catholics, we are required to attend Mass (yes, that is the requirement, not reception of the Blessed Sacrament). But there are conditions in which that obligation is lifted, mainly when we are putting ourselves or others at risk either because of difficult travel conditions or illness. While those that are contagious may not be ill, they could pass this virus on to the more vulnerable, therefore, Bishop LeVoir and many other bishops have dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass.
At the same time, we live in a wonderful time — we have resources that our ancestors would never have imagined. How many priests and bishops have their Masses live-streamed or recorded for playback! Certainly, it is not the same. As one who is in a parish with the capability to live-stream, it is difficult for me as a priest-celebrant to offer Mass with only the minimal people needed to live-stream it. But it is better than nothing. Here, Mass is still being offered in the place best.
Reception of the Eucharist is important. This Holy Thursday evening, we will mark the giving of the Eucharist as the memorial of Christ’s death and resurrection. As we receive His Body and Blood, we receive communion with Him. But this communion is not automatic, nor is it the only means of communion. We have to remember that Judas was at the Last Supper. He received from Christ Himself the first Eucharist. Yet he did not have communion. St. Peter, and nine other apostles for that matter, also received, but St. Peter would deny even knowing Jesus within hours and the others would run and hide. Only St. John remained at the foot of the cross. Only he experienced an immediate communion with the Lord. Certainly, after the Resurrection, when the sign of the Eucharist was fulfilled, though not fully understood, did the apostles experience a deeper communion, one that lead to their bold preaching and eventual martyrdom. Ironically, only St. John was spared death from martyrdom, though they tried. But he had a spiritual martyrdom — he desired union with the Lord in all things, even the Lord’s death.
And that concept of martyrdom by desire might help us understand the other point — the Eucharist is not the only means to communion. St. John experienced a spiritual martyrdom — he deeply desired to give witness to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through his own death — but that was not God’s will. The Church teaches of the importance of Baptism. Baptism is the means in which we enter the Sacramental life of the Church. But it is possible to be saved, in ways known to God alone, without receiving this sacrament. Someone who is not yet baptized but dies in witness to Jesus Christ, therefore a martyr, is said to have experienced a baptism by blood. Their faith in Christ lead them to die for Him, and the Lord will save them. But there is another means: Someone who is preparing for Baptism, say in an RCIA program, who dies before the sacrament, might be saved in what the Church calls baptism by desire. Their desire for the sacrament is so great that, despite circumstances beyond their control, receive the graces that that sacrament imparts. See, God binds Himself to the Sacraments, but is not bound by them. He guarantees that they impart grace on those capable of receiving that grace, but that is not the only way He can give it.
The Lord has bound Himself to the Eucharist. He imparts the grace of communion with Himself (and all the saints, for that matter) in the reception of the Eucharist. But He can, and does give that grace through other means too. Again, that grace is not automatic — we must desire Him, union with Him, communion with Him and all in union with Him. We cannot continue to see the Eucharist as a commodity — a ‘something' I need. Rather, we need to see the Eucharist as He is - Christ who humbles Himself for us and our salvation. A Gift from Christ of Himself that we may have the grace of union with Him. Instead of seeing it as the only means of communion, we perhaps can see it as the primary means, the privileged means of communion. Perhaps, during this Great Fast, now extended into May, we can continue to grow in our desire the Eucharist for who He is — our Lord and Savior, and remember that while the majority of Catholics cannot receive Him Sacramentally, we can receive Him spiritually by deeply desiring Him. He will not allow His people to starve in their desire for communion. He will nourish them in ways mysterious.
I know that this is a difficult time. I know people are afraid, frustrated, and angry. But I also know that it does not have to be so. We can choose to let Christ reign in our hearts. The stone of His tomb could not stop His resurrection, nor can this virus. In fact, there is only one thing that can stop Jesus Christ from having power in our lives — us. Only when we desire He have no authority over us, that we have no communion with Him, is He thwarted from working in our lives and having communion with Him. Yes, - I desire Him in the Eucharist. But more importantly, I NEED Him.
When we are returned to the practice of public Mass (and we will), we may have a renewed joy to not only be in the presence of Christ and the congregation, but to be able to receive Him sacramentally, the most full sign that we have prepared our hearts by our communion by desire.
My Jesus,
I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace You as if You were already there
and unite myself wholly to You.
Never permit me to be separated from You.
Amen.
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
Spy Wednesday 2020 - Who Is He?
Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, not knowing who Jesus truly was. How do we fail to recognized Jesus? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3e3NxGS Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Holy Tuesday 2020 - Night
Judas receives a morsel from our Lord, and Satan enters, and St. John records it was night- why? Because Judas didn’t understand what he received. https://ift.tt/3e2r5Or Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, April 5, 2020
Passion Sunday 2020 (10 am) - Relation
St. Peter and Judas display two different relationships with the Lord, and St. will give a third type. The type of relationship we have with the Lord will factor into how we accept Him. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3bYxcl3 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Passion Sunday 2020 - Grasp
We grasp on to false things, but Jesus did not. During this Holy Week, can we grasp on to Jesus? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3bYxcl3 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
5th Wednesday Lent 2020 - Free
The three men are free in the furnace, and the pharisees were slaves. Where is our freedom? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/344XD5B Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Tuesday, March 31, 2020
5th Tuesday Lent 2020 - Lifted
Christ is lifted on the Cross, and His shame becomes our glory. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/39uP8C3 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, March 29, 2020
5th Sunday Lent 2020 - Stench
The sister of Lazarus share their empty with the Lord, who cries despite knowing that He is going to raise Lazarus. Do we have the courage to admit our own emotions to the Lord at the time? Do we share with Him that this stinks? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3bzKNiw Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Annunciation 2020 - Incarnation
The Blessed Mother consents to cooperate with God's plan, and Jesus Christ became incarnate in her. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3dmNqWB Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Tuesday, March 24, 2020
4th Tuesday Lent 2020 - Solutions
A lame man is convinced his only chance to be healed is to get in the water, but Jesus offers a better solution. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2woxFOl Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, March 22, 2020
4th Sunday Lent 2020 - Great Fast
Jesus Christ heals a man with a natural evil - he's blind - so that the glory of God might be revealed. He is still Lord, so what might He be doing by allowing this Great Fast from Mass Attendance? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2vIviW8 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Friday, March 20, 2020
3rd Friday Lent 2020 - Return
Why would the Lord allow this medical crisis? What it our response? Perhaps today's first reading has the answer - Return to the Lord with love. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2IYqHlC Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, March 15, 2020
3rd SL - A 2020 - Living Water
Jesus encounters a Samaritan women at a well, and draws faith from her, and she begins to glow with living water. In these challenging times, do we have that living water? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/38KcTWk Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, March 8, 2020
2nd SL - A ‘20 - Consolation
The Apostles Peter, James and John see Christ in His glory, and it prepared them for the Cross. Our consolations help us in our difficult times, too. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3aCC0eW Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, March 1, 2020
1st Sunday Lent - A ‘20 - Concupiscences
Eve and Adam’s sin is transmitted to us not as sin but concupiscences. These affect us, and Satan uses these three-fold concupiscences against us, and even attempted to with Jesus. He provides the model. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/387RsON Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Wednesday, February 26, 2020
Ash Wednesday ‘20 - Battle.mp3
As we begin Lent, we are called into battle, and a Jesus gives the weapons. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2wIN3EM Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, February 23, 2020
7th SOTC ‘20 - Perfect
Jesus exhorts is to be perfect as our Heavenly Father is perfect. Are we seeking our purpose and maturity in a Christ? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2VdHLvf Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, February 16, 2020
6th SOTA ‘20 - Law
Jesus comes to not set the Law aside, but to fulfill it, and in doing so, raises the bar and gives us grace to live it. Both are acts of His love. What is our attitude toward His Law? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/31YeRR1 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, February 9, 2020
5th SOTA ‘20 - Salt And Light
Jesus teaches that we are to be salt and light. Are we who we are called to be??? https://ift.tt/2S7LyZ1 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Sunday, February 2, 2020
Presentation Of Our Lord ‘20 - Expectations
Anna and Simeon waited for the Lord’s promises to be fulfilled and recognized their fulfillment in the Christ Child. Are we expecting the Lord to keep His promises to us? https://ift.tt/2tu5fk4 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)