June 11, 2013

Memorial of St. Barnabas, Apostle

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Today we celebrate the feast of St. Barnabas, a devout missionary of the early Church. He was renowned as a great preacher and, at times, journeyed with St. Paul whom he introduced to St. Peter. Barnabas also traveled and taught along with his own cousin St. Mark, the Gospel writer. It is believed that he became a martyr for Christ in Cyprus, his native land.

In the first reading we hear that Barnabas was highly regarded by early Christians. “They sent Barnabas to go to Antioch. When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart, for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith” (Acts 11:22-24). This Christian teacher urged new believers to remain strong and steadfast. Let us imitate Barnabas’ loyalty to Jesus by sharing the gift of faith with people everywhere, as he did.

Suggested missionary action:  Let us ask St. Barnabas and all the Apostles to strengthen and bless today’s missionaries. And we can offer our material support for their work even as we ask God to guide their efforts.

June 13, 2013

Memorial of St. Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church

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This is the feast day of one of the most popular saints in the Church – St. Anthony of Padua. A follower of St. Francis, Anthony had a unique gift for preaching that led many believers to a greater appreciation of Christ’s mercy. This gentle friar selflessly ministered to others until his death at 36. We invoke St. Anthony today to help us find lost things and to look after travelers and the poor.

St. Anthony certainly exemplified St. Paul’s description of those who share the holy faith. “We do not preach ourselves but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your slaves for the sake of Jesus. For God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts” (2 Corinthians 4:5-6). Each of us also has the power to reveal the light of Christ to His beloved people.

Suggested missionary action:  Let us ask St. Anthony, patron of the poor, to look after those most in need around the world.  Let us also contribute to the work of the Missions so that Christ’s message can spread and His Church grow, day by day.

June 16, 2013

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

Link to Readings

Today’s Gospel tells us about Jesus’ encounter with a repentant sinner. The woman followed Him into a Pharisee’s home where Christ had been invited for dinner. Clearly, she was not welcome, yet she did not care. She went there for only one reason: to seek Jesus’ mercy. At some point, she must have heard Christ and been overwhelmed by His compassionate message.  She did not let her own sins or the taunts of others keep her from our Redeemer. “He said to her, ‘Your sins are forgiven.’ The others at table said to themselves, ‘Who is this who even forgives sins?’ But He said to the woman, ‘Your faith has saved you; go in peace’” (Luke 7:48-50).

Because Jesus loves us, we can love Him. We can find the forgiveness we need for our peace of mind and eternal salvation. And now we can share our faith with others so they, too, will know the joy of God’s mercy. 

Suggested missionary action: Let us express our gratitude to God for His mercy by drawing other closer to Him. Our prayers, actions, and sacrifice for the Missions can bring the faith to people everywhere.