FEAST OF SS. PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES JUNE 29

Feast of SS. Peter and Paul, JUNE 29.

PETER, formerly called Simon, was a son of Jonas, of Bethsaida, in Galilee, and a brother of Andrew, by whom he was brought to Christ, Who at once changed his name and called him Peter. When, soon after, Jesus said to both of them on the Sea of Tiberias, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men”, they both left their nets and followed Him. From this time forward Jesus was constantly giving him particular proofs of His love. From the ship of Peter He taught the thronging multitude, and to him He promised that on him, as upon a rock, He would build His Church, against which the gates of hell should not prevail. Our Lord took Peter with Him at the raising of Jairus’ daughter from the dead ; at His own transfiguration on Mount Thabor; at the beginning of His passion in the Garden of Gethsemani. To him He promised the keys of the kingdom of heaven ; for him He specially prayed that his faith might not fail ; and him He commanded to strengthen his brethren. After His resurrection He appeared particularly to Peter, and three times commanded him to feed His flock. But Peter had, above all the other apostles, made himself worthy of this pre-eminence by his living faith, his humility, his love, and his zeal for the honor of Jesus ; for he it was who, before the other apostles, made the confession, “ Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God..” He showed his humility when, at the miraculous draught of fishes, he said, “ Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” Out of love he de sired to remain always with Christ on Mount Thabor to prevent Him from suffering ; and out of love he declared himself ready with Christ to live or die ; nay, he even declared most confidently that, though all should be scandalized in Christ, yet he would not be. When Jesus was taken prisoner, Peter showed himself to be most courageous by cutting off the ear of one of his Master s enemies, and by following Him to the house of Caiphas. Three times, indeed, did he, as no one else did, deny his Lord out of fear ; but the look of forgiving love which Jesus cast upon him forced from him tears of the deepest contrition, and three times afterwards, accordingly, he made that confession, “Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee.”

After he had received the Holy Ghost, full of courage, he confessed Christ crucified, and preached Him in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Ionia, and Bithynia. At Jerusalem he was once already condemned to death, but was set free by an angel. In the year 54 he went to Koine, whence, after a nine years’ residence, he was banished, with many other Christians. Upon returning thither again he was confined in the Mamertine prison, and finally, on June 29, in the year A.D. 67, under the Emperor Nero, he was crucified ; his head, by his own desire, hung downwards, because he thought himself unworthy to die like Christ.

Paul, before his conversion called Saul, was of the tribe of Benjamin, a native of Tarsus, in Cilicia, and a pupil of Gamaliel. Full of zeal for the law, he bitterly opposed the Christians. As he was travelling to Damascus to persecute them he was, on the way, converted by Christ. How indefatigably he thenceforward worked in the vineyard of the Lord, and what dangers and persecutions he underwent, no pen can describe. It is almost incredible with what zeal and perseverance he preached Christ, in chains and fetters, under blows and scourges, in hunger and thirst, and untold times at the peril of his life. And yet he was so humble that he counted himself the least of the apostles, and always praised God that He had thought him worthy to suffer for His name. After he had at last fought a good fight, and finished his course having everywhere zealously preached the Gospel, and still more zealously practised it he received the crown of justice (ii. Tim. iv. 6). The Emperor Nero caused him to be beheaded on the same day that Peter was crucified.

The Introit of the Mass is in the words spoken by St. Peter after his delivery from the prison at Jerusalem : “Now I know in very deed that the Lord hath sent His angel and hath delivered me out of the hands of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews .”(Acts xii. 11). “Lord, Thou hast proved me and known me ; Thou hast known my sitting down and my rising up.”(Ps. cxxxviii. 1, 2). Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

O God, Who hast consecrated this day by the martyrdom of Thy apostles SS. Peter and Paul, grant to Thy Church, in all things, to follow their doctrines, through whom the true faith was first proclaimed. Through Christ our Lord, etc.

EPISTLE. Acts xii. 1-11.

In those days : Herod the king stretched forth his hands, to afflict some of the Church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to take up Peter also. Now it was in the days of the Azymes. And when he had apprehended him, he cast him into prison, delivering him to four files of soldiers to be kept, intending after the Pasch to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept in prison. But prayer was made with out ceasing by the Church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains : and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him : and a light shined in the room : and he striking Peter on the side raised him up, saying : Arise quickly. And the chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said to him : Gird thyself, and put on thy sandals. And he did so. And he said to him : Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. And going out he followed him, and he knew not that it was true which was done by the angel : but thought he saw a vision. And passing through the first and the second ward, they came to the iron gate that leadeth to the city, which of itself opened to them. And going out, they passed on through one street : and immediately the angel departed from him. And Peter coming to himself, said : Now I know in very deed that the Lord hath sent His angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

GOSPEL. Matt. xvi. 13-19.

At that time Jesus came into the quarters of Cesarea Philippi: and He asked His disciples, saying: Who do men say that the Son of man is ? But they said : Some John the Baptist, and other some Elias, and others Jeremias, or one of the prophets. Jesus saith to them: But who do you say that I am ? Simon Peter answered and said : Thou art Christ the Son of the living God. And Jesus answering, said to him : Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: because flesh and blood hath not revealed it to thee, but My Father Who is in heaven. And I say to thee : That thou art Peter ; and upon this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth it shall be bound also in heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven.

Why did Christ ask His disciples,” Who do men say that the Son of man is?”

To give them an opportunity to confess their belief in Him as the true Son of God, and upon that open confession to ground a promise of the highest importance.

Why does Christ call Himself the Son of man?

In order that, His Godhead being veiled under the form of man, He might thus test the faith of His disciples, and teach us that He was both true God and true man.

What did Peter mean to say by those words, “Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God”?

He thereby confesses that Christ is the Son of God, begotten from all eternitv, and therefore of the same substance with the Father ; that by Him all things were made, and that from Him comes our life in soul and body.

What reward did Peter receive for his confession?

Christ pronounced him blessed that God had given him such grace, conveyed to him the highest authority in His Church, and gave him the pre-eminence above all the apostles.

What is the meaning of the expression “ to bind and to loose”?

According to Isaias, it signifies to open and to shut heaven, and here consequently denotes the power, as representative of Jesus Christ, to receive persons into the Church, and to excommunicate them from it; to forgive sins, or to retain them ; to impose or to remit punishments for them ; to establish laws and prohibitions, to abolish them, to change them, and, in general, to govern and direct in everything, as shall be necessary for the preservation of unity and order in the Church, and for the good of the faithful.

Was the power to bind and to loose given to Peter only?

No, but to the rest of the apostles also ; the power of the keys, however, Jesus gave only to Peter. Peter, therefore, and his successors, possess this supreme power, while the other apostles and their successors, the bishops, possess the authority intrusted to them by Christ, to be exercised by them in unity with the rock, that is, with Peter and his successors.

OF THE POPE.

What is the Pope to the Catholic ?

The representative of Jesus Christ, and the visible head, appointed by Him, for the government of His Church.

Did Christ actually appoint such a supreme head?

Yes, and that in the person of St. Peter. He gave him the significant name Peter the rock, distinguished him always above the other apostles, and laid upon him the charge to feed His lambs, that is, the faithful, and His sheep, that is, the bishops themselves ; and this power Peter uniformly exercised. Why did Christ appoint a visible head for the Church? Because the Church is an outward, visible society, united together not only by inward faith in Christ, but also by outward, visible signs. Such a visible head is as necessary for the Church as for a body, a family, a society, a state, to prevent disunion, confusion, and the consequent destruction of the whole ; this supreme head is the centre of the whole, the final judge, the authoritative teacher.

Who is now this supreme head ?

The Bishop of Rome, or the Pope. It is undeniable that Peter occupied the bishop’s see at Rome, and that he died there. Equally indisputable is it that the successor of St. Peter entered upon possession of his rights, and, together with the episcopal see of Rome, inherited also the office possessed by him. From the first centuries this has ever been acknowledged by the faithful, who have accordingly called the Bishop of Rome Pope that is, the father of the faithful. And how clearly does history show that Peter and his successors are the rock upon which the Lord has immovably founded His Church ! What storms have not broken upon the Church ! Persecutions from without and within, heresies and schisms without number, and infidelity in its most hideous form, have raged against the Church, and what has been the consequence ? Nations have often fallen away from the Church, single bishops have proved betrayers of their flocks, the sees of the apostles themselves have been subject to the vicissitudes of time. And amid all these storms Rome alone has, for over eighteen hundred years, stood firm. She has come out of every contest victorious, has remained the centre of faith and discipline, and has preserved the unbroken succession of bishops from Peter. Who does not see herein the assistance of Him Who forever fulfils that promise of His, “ Upon this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” ? The Pope is, therefore, the visible supreme head of the Church, appointed by Christ for dl time ; the invisible, all-governing head is Christ Himself.

Prayer.

O Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, Who hast built Thy Church on St. Peter, as on a rock, Who hast confided to him the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and constituted him and his successors Thy representatives upon earth, grant us Thy grace, that in all the laws we may obey them as Thyself, that, resting upon the rock of truth, we may be immovable in all storms, and steadfastly persevere in the way of good works.
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Next: Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

Second Sunday after Pentecost


ON this Sunday also, the Church, in consideration of God’s love towards us, animates us to love Him and our neighbor, and sings at the Introit of the Mass: “The Lord became my protector, and He brought me forth into a large place; He saved me because He was well pleased with me. I will love Thee, O Lord, my strength ; the Lord is my rock, my refuge, and my deliverer.” Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

Grant, O Lord, that we may have a perpetual fear and love of Thy holy name, for Thou never ceasest to direct and govern, by Thy grace, those whom Thou instructest in the solidity of Thy love. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, etc.

EPISTLE. I. John iii. 13-18.

Dearly Beloved : Wonder not if the world hate you. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not abideth in death; whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer : and you know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in himself. In this we have known the charity of God, because He hath laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. He that hath the substance of this world, and shall see his brother in need, and shall shut up his bowels from him, how doth the charity of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word, nor in tongue, but in deed and in truth.

Explanation.

A true Christian may be known by the love he has for his neighbor. For as it belongs to a child of this world, to the wicked, the godless, to hate and persecute the man whose life contradicts their own, so, on the other hand, love of one s neighbor, of one s enemy, is the mark by which to know whether a man is truly regenerated and translated from the death of sin to spiritual life. For he that loveth not, abideth in death can not become a child of God, Who is love ; has not in him the life of God ; rather he is a murderer, because his lack of love, and his hatred, have first deprived him of spiritual life, and next become the source of all other offences against his neighbor, of scandal, of seduction like Satan, of murder like Cain.

GOSPEL. Luke xiv. 16-24.

At that time Jesus spoke to the Pharisees this parable : A certain man made a great supper, and invited many. And he sent his servant at the hour of supper to say to them that were invited, that they should come, for now all things are ready. And they began all at once to make excuse. The first said to him : I have bought a farm, and I must needs go out and see it : I pray thee, hold me excused. And another said: I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to try them : I pray thee, hold me excused. And another said : I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come. And the servant returning told these things to his lord. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant : Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city : and bring in hither the poor and the feeble, and the blind and the lame. And the servant said : Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room. And the Lord said to the servant : Go out into the highways and hedges ; and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. But I say unto you that none of those men that were invited shall taste of my supper.

How is the parable of the great supper to be understood? By the supper is meant the kingdom of God upon earth, the Church of Christ, in which are deposited all the treasures of grace, for the nourishment, strengthening, and sanctification of our souls. It is a great supper, because the Church is to take in all men of all times.

Jesus, the God-Man, Himself prepares this supper by establishing His Church. The servant represents the apostles and the successors whom He sends into all the world, to call both Jews and gentiles. The first invited were the Jews, to whom the coming of the Messias had been announced beforehand, and who were the first called to the Church.

What is denoted by the excuses of those invited?

He who bought a farm signifies those proud and avaricious men who seek only for temporal goods ; he who wished to try his five yoke of oxen represents those too-busy persons who find no time to do anything for God and heaven; finally, he who could not come on account of his wife stands for those sensual persons who, through the lusts and pleasures of sense, render themselves insensible to heavenly joys.

Now as the Jews, by such worthless excuses, had shown themselves unworthy to be received into the kingdom of God, they were accordingly shut out, and others called in their stead.

Who are these others?

First, the humble and docile Jews, who were the opposite of the proud, avaricious, and sensual Pharisees; and in the next place those gentiles prepared for Christianity, who, through the apostles and their successors, were brought into the Church from the four quarters of the world.

In what other sense may this parable be understood? St. Gregory interprets it as referring to the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar. That is, indeed, a feast to which all are invited, which offers the fulness of graces and spiritual gifts, and is, therefore, fitly called a great feast ; it is despised by the sensual, proud, and earthly; but to the penitent, the humble, the loving, it conveys innumerable blessings and inestimable benefits.

LESSONS AGAINST IMPURITY.

“ I have married a wife, and therefore cannot come.”---Luke xiv. 20.

By introducing in this parable a wedding as an excuse, Our Saviour points out impurity as a hinderance to entering into the kingdom of heaven; that is, the violation of modesty, either in thought, imagination, or desire, in gesture, words, dress, or actions; thus He would show us how detestable, shameful, and pernicious is this vice, which makes men so miserable, and incite us to purity and chastity, in whatever state of life we may live. On account of this sin of impurity, God repented of having created mankind, and brought the flood upon the earth, destroyed Sodom and Gomorrha with fire and brimstone, cut off the brothers Her and Onan by sudden death, and gave nearly the whole tribe of Benjamin to be slain.

What are the best means to preserve us from impurity?

1. Avoid the following: (a) idleness, which breeds evil thoughts and desires ; (b) reading bad books ; (c) excess in eating and drinking ; (d) bad company.

2. (a) Preserve modesty, which is a safeguard against impurity ; (b) reverence God ; (c) remember the bitter passion and death of Our Saviour ; (d) think frequently of death, judgment, and hell.

3. Flee the first sin; dread the first thought, the first motion; avoid, also, what appears a trifling thing, if it offend modesty.

4. Be zealous in prayer to God, and to His blessed Mother.

5. Restrain your senses, particularly your eyes. Learn to be abstemious, and deny yourself even lawful enjoyments and pleasures, that you may the more easily give up those that are unlawful.

6. Watch always, and especially on occasions that cannot be avoided.

7. Finally, go often to holy communion, and choose a zealous confessor, in whom you ought to place entire confidence and follow as your father. Think on God ; combat on every occasion promptly, without making terms; call confidently on God for help, and you will carry off the victory, and become worthy, one day, to be a follower of the Lamb.
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Next: Feast of SS. Peter and Paul, Apostles. June 29

CORPUS CHRISTI

Corpus Christi


(This feast is no longer a holyday of obligation in the United States.)

WHY is this day called Corpus Christi?

Because on this day the Catholic Church solemnly celebrates the institution of the Holy Sacrament of the Altar. The name, which is Latin, signifies the body of Christ.

Why is this feast not celebrated on Maundy Thursday?

Because on Maundy Thursday, the day of the institution of this sacrament, the Church is occupied with the passion and death of Christ, and has no thought of joy, but gives herself up to grief.

By whom was this feast established?

It was instituted by Pope Urban IV. Persuaded by a devout nun of Liege, who believed herself to be divinely encouraged to introduce this feast, Robert, Bishop of Liege, determined, in the year 1247 to celebrate this feast in his diocese. This intention was prevented from carrying out by death. In the yea1264 Pope Urban IV commanded this feast to be solemnly celebrated throughout the whole Church. Clement V confirmed this order, at the Council of Vienne, 1311, and fixed the feast on the first Thursday after Trinity Sunday

For what purpose was this feast instituted, and why are processions so solemnly held on this day?

1. To declare, openly, to the faithful the real and substantial presence of Jesus in the Holy Sacrament of the Altar. 2. In order to manifest, in the sight of heaven and earth, honor and adoration for Him before Whom every knee shall bow. 3. To give public thanks for the institution of this holy sacrament, and for all the graces thereby conferred upon the faithful. 4. To repair, in some measure, by solemn adoration, the wrongs done to Christ, in this sacrament. 5. To bring down God s blessing upon the land and upon the people. 6. To show that Jesus, as true God, dwells not only in temples built by hands, but that He has heaven for His throne, the earth for His foot stool, and the whole world for His temple.

The Church sings at the Introit of the Mass : “He fed them with the fat of wheat, alleluia ; and filled them with honey out of the rock, alleluia, alleluia. Eejoice to God our helper, sing aloud to the God of Jacob”(Ps. Ixxx.). Glory be to the Father,etc.

Prayer.

O God, Who in this wonderful sacrament hast left us a memorial of Thy passion, grant us, we beseech Thee, so to reverence the sacred mysteries of Thy body and blood, that we may ever perceive within us the fruit of Thy redemption. Through Christ, etc.

EPISTLE, i. Cor. xi. 23-29.

Brethren : For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread, and giving thanks, broke and said : Take ye and eat : This is My body, which shall be delivered for you : this do for the commemoration of Me. In like manner also the chalice, after He had supped, saying : This chalice is the New Testament in My blood, this do ye as often as you shall drink, for the commemoration of Me. For as often as you shall eat this bread, and drink the chalice, you shall show the death of the Lord until He come : therefore whosoever shall eat this bread, or drink the chalice of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and of the blood of the Lord. But let a man prove himself : and so let him eat of that bread and drink of the chalice. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgment to himself: not discerning the body of the Lord.

GOSPEL. John vi. 56-59.

At that time Jesus said to the multitudes of the Jews : My flesh is meat indeed : and My blood is drink indeed ; he that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, abideth in Me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father : so he that eateth Me, the same also shall live by Me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Not as your fathers did eat manna and are dead. He that eateth this bread shall live forever.

Why did Jesus say “this is the bread that came down from heaven” ?

He wished thereby to teach the Jews that the bread which He would give them, like the manna, came down from heaven, and was, indeed, the only true bread from heaven. The manna was but a type, and could only prolong the life of the body. The type was now to be fulfilled ; the bread that He was about to give them would impart to them eternal life, and this bread would be His flesh, Himself, Who truly came from heaven, to redeem mankind, and to bring them to life everlasting. Jesus calls His flesh bread, partly on account of its likeness to the manna, partly on account of its effect ; for as bread nourishes the body, and sustains the earthly life, so the body of Christ, in the Holy Sacrament, nourishes the soul, and imparts to it, continually, a new, divine, and everlasting life.

What is the Holy Sacrament of the Altar?

It is that sacrament in which, after the words of its institution have been spoken by the priest, Jesus Christ is present, whole and entire, in His Godhead and in His manhood, under the appearance of bread and wine.

When and how did Jesus institute this sacrament?

At the Last Supper. In the night, before He was betrayed, He took bread, and, giving thanks, broke it, and gave it to His disciples saying, “ Take and eat, for this is My body which be given for you.” In the same manner, He took the chalice and said, “Take and drink, for this chalice is the new covenant in My blood. Do this as often as you drink from it in commemoration of Me.”

What did Jesus effect by these words?

He changed bread and wine into His most precious body and blood.

Has He given to others the power to do the same?

Yes ; He gave this power to His apostles and their successors, the bishops and priests, in these words: “Do this in commemoration of Me.”

What takes place at the words of consecration?

Bread and wine are changed into the body and blood of Jesus Christ, and only the outward appearances of bread and wine remain.

How is Jesus present in the Most Holy Sacrament?

He is present, truly, really, and substantially, in His divinity and humanity, in flesh and blood, in body and soul, under the appearances of bread and wine.

Why do we believe this?

1. Because the words of Jesus do not reasonably admit of any other meaning: since by them we see (a) that Jesus gave His disciples a certain nourishment which they were to eat ; (b) that this nourishment was bread and wine to all appearances, but Jesus called the bread His body, which was afterwards to be sacrificed for us, and the wine His blood, which was to be shed for us: this food consequently was not bread and wine, but, under the appearance of bread and wine, was indeed His body and blood; since what He gave for our redemption was not bread and wine, but His true body and His true blood ; (c) that as the body and blood of Jesus were inseparable from His soul and divinity, He gave Himself up for our nourishment, whole and undivided, as He hung, bled, and died upon the cross; (d) that He commanded what He had done to be continued until He should come again (1 Cor. xi. 26), that is, until the end of the world ; and that He, (e) on account of this being His testament, and the New Law, was not at liberty to speak figuratively, but plainly and distinctly.

2. Because the apostles preached this very doctrine. 3. Because the Catholic Church, the pillar and foundation of truth, has thus constantly taught, from the apostles times down to the present day, as the oldest Councils and the Holy Fathers unanimously testify.

Why is communion given only in one kind ?

1. The Church gives holy communion only under one kind, to guard against abuses; as, for example, the spilling of the wine ; 2. In opposition to those who hold that communion can only be received under both kinds, to hold fast the true doctrine, which is that Christ, whole and undivided, the entire sacrament, is received under one kind. The truth of this doctrine is plain from this, that where the living body of Christ is, there is the whole Christ ; that Christ promises eternal life to him who eats this bread alone (John vi. 59) ; and finally, that there is no divine law which commands the receiving of this sacrament under both kinds.
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Next: Second Sunday after Pentacost

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

First Sunday after Pentecost

Introit of the Mass is an encouragement to confidence in the divine mercy. “Lord, I have trusted in Thy mercy, my heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation, I will sing to the Lord, Who giveth me good things. How long, O Lord, wilt Thou forget me unto the end? How long dost Thou turn away Thy face from me?”(Ps. xii. 1,6.) Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

O God, the strength of those who hope in Thee, favorably give ear to our supplications, and since, without Thee, mortal infirmity can do nothing, grant the help of Thy grace, that in fulfilling Thy commandments, we may please Thee both in will and action. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, etc.


EPISTLE. I. John iv. 8-21.

Dearly Beloved: God is charity. By this hath the charity of God appeared toward us, because God hath sent His only- begotten Son into the world, that we may live by Him. In this is charity : not as though we had loved God, but because He hath first loved us, and sent His Son to be a propitiation for our sins. My dearest, if God hath so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another God abideth in us, and His charity is perfected in us. In this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He hath given us of His spirit. And we have seen, and do testify, that the Father hath sent His Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God abideth in Him, and he in God. And we have known and have believed the charity which God hath to us. God is charity ; and he that abideth in charity abideth in God, and God in him. In this is the charity of God per fected with us, that we may have confidence in the day of judgment, because as He is, we also are in this world. Fear is not in charity ; but perfect charity casteth out fear because fear hath pain ; and he that feareth is not perfected in charity. Let us therefore love God because God first hath loved us. If any man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar. For he that loveth not his brother whom he seeth, how can he love God Whom he seeth not? And this commandment we have from God, that he who loveth God love also his brother.


GOSPEL. Luke vi. 36-42.

At that time Jesus said to His disciples: Be ye merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and you shall not be judged : condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. For give, and you shall be forgiven. Give, and it shall be given to you : good measure and pressed down and shaken together and running over shall they give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you shall mete withal, it shall be measured to you again. And He spoke also to them a similitude : Can the blind lead the blind? do they not both fall into the ditch? The disciple is not above his master: but every one shall be perfect, if he be as his master. And why seest thou the mote in thy brother s eye: but the beam that is in thy own eye thou considerest not? Or how canst thou say to thy brother: Brother, let me pull the mote out of thy eye : when thou thy self seest not the beam in thy own eye? Hypocrite, cast first the beam out of thy own eye ; and then shalt thou see clearly to take out the mote from thy brother s eye.

Aspiration.

Oh, that I always had been merciful towards my neighbor and never judged any one rashly and falsely ! For how can I now expect a merciful and gracious judgment from God? O my God, I detest these sins from my heart ; I forgive all those who have offended me, and I hope to obtain forgiveness of my own sins. Enlighten, O Lord, my blindness, that for the future I may avoid those sins, and by showing myself full of mercy and charity, may obtain mercy in the day of judgment. Amen.
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Next: Corpus Christi

NATIVITY OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST, JUNE 24

Nativity of St. John the Baptist, June 24


ST. JOHN could not have had any greater panegyrist than Jesus Christ Himself, Who said : “ There hath not risen, among them that are born of women [in the natural manner], a greater than John the Baptist” (Matt. xi. 11). The Lord made him great, even from his mother s womb, by causing his birth to be foretold by an angel, by giving him his name, and by sanctifying him while yet in his mother s womb through the presence of Christ. To escape from the world and its allurements he withdrew to the desert, and there occupied himself only with God and with what concerned his vocation. His food was locusts and wild honey; his clothing a garment of camel s hair, fastened by a leathern girdle ; his bed the hard ground. Thus he lived till his thirtieth year, in which, by the command of God, he was to proclaim the coming of the Messias, Whom he himself afterwards baptized and pointed out to men as the Lamb of God. With extraordinary zeal and earnestness he preached the necessity of true penance.

For having reproved Herod for living in adultery he was thrown into prison, and finally, at the instigation of Herodias, was beheaded.

We celebrate the day of his birth rather than that of his death, as is the case 011 most saints days, because, while other saints arrive at sanctity only through long and difficult contests, John was already sanctified in his mother s womb.

The Introit of the Mass is as follows “ The Lord hath called me by my name, from the womb of my mother, and hath made my mouth like a sharp sword ; in the shadow of His hand He hath protected me, and hath made me as a chosen arrow. It is good to give praise to the Lord, and to sing to Thy name, O Most High.” Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

O God, Who, by the birth of John, hast made this day worthy to be honored by us, grant to Thy people the grace of spiritual joys, and guide the minds of all the faithful in the way of eternal salvation. Through our Lord, etc.

EPISTLE. Isaias xlix. 1-3, 5-7.

Give ear, ye islands, and hearken, ye peoples from afar. The Lord hath called me from the womb, from the bowels of my mother He hath been mindful of my name. And He hath made my mouth like a sharp sword : in the shadow of His hand He hath protected me, and hath made me as a chosen arrow : in his quiver He hath hidden me. And He said to me : Thou art my servant Israel, for in thee will I glory. And now saith the Lord, that formed me from the womb to be His servant, that I may bring back Jacob unto Him, and Israel will not be gathered together : and I am glorified in the eyes of the Lord, and my God is made my strength. And He said : It is as mall thing that thou shouldst be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to convert the dregs of Israel. Behold I have given thee to be the light of the gentiles, that thou mayest be My salvation even to the farthest part of the earth. Thus saith the Lord, the Re deemer of Israel, His holy One, to the soul that is despised, to the nation that is abhorred, to the servant of rulers: Kings shall see, and princes shall rise up and adore for the Lord s sake, because He is faithful, and for the holy One of Israel, Who hath chosen thee.

Explanation.

This prophecy refers, it is true, to Christ, Whom God has made the head, teacher, ruler, and salvation of all nations. The greater part of it, however, may be applied to St. John, as is evident from his life.

GOSPEL. Luke i. 57-68.

Elizabeth’s full time of being delivered was come, and she brought forth a son. And her neighbors and kinsfolk heard that the Lord had showed His great mercy towards her, and they congratulated with her. And it came to pass that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they called him by his father’s name, Zachary. And his mother answering, said : Not so, but he shall be called John. And they said to her : There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. And demanding a writing-table, he wrote, saying: John is his name. And they all wondered. And immediately his mouth was opened, and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God. And fear came upon all their neighbors; and all these things were noised abroad over all the hill-country of Judea. And all they that had heard them laid them up in their heart, saying: What an one, think ye, shall this child be? For the hand of the Lord was with him. And Zachary, his father, was filled with the Holy Ghost: and he prophesied, saying: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel : because He hath visited and wrought the redemption of His people.

Explanation.

The neighbors and kinsfolk of Elizabeth rejoiced with her at her happiness, and gave her joy. We too, in like manner, should be glad when anything good happens to our neighbor, and thank and praise God therefor.

Prayer.

St. John, blessed forerunner of Jesus Christ, mirror of true penance, burning and shining light, who by thy teaching and ex ample didst show to men the way to Christ, I beseech thee, by thy penitential life, that thou wouldst obtain for me, from Him Whom thou didst point out as the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world, grace that, fearing God s wrath against the impenitent, I may at last do true penance for my sins, mortify my sinful flesh according to thy example, serve God in purity and sanctity, and finally, in the land of eternal happi ness, follow forever the Lamb Who on the altar of the cross was slain for me. Amen.
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Next: First Sunday after Pentecost

FEAST OF ST. ALOYSIS, JUNE 21

Feast of St. Aloysius, JUNE 21.


ST. ALOYSIUS was born March 9, 1568, at Castiglione, Italy. His pious mother took care to lay early in the heart of her little son that foundation of the holy fear of God which is the beginning of all wisdom and of all virtue. His father, a brave soldier, wished to make his son a soldier also, and furnished him with all kinds of small weapons as toys, and even when the child was no more than seven years old took him to camp. Aloysius had a great veneration for the Blessed Virgin, and made a vow of perpetual chastity in honor of the most pure and immaculate Virgin. To this vow he was faithful till death. In the year 1581 he received at the hands of the holy Archbishop of Milan, Charles Borromeo, his first communion. From day to day he made more and more progress in the way of perfection. His longing to consecrate himself entirely to God grew with his life, and as he was asking enlightenment from his mother Mary, and with that intention receiving holy communion on the day of her assumption into heaven, he distinctly heard a voice which commanded him to enter the Society of Jesus, and to make this command at once known to his confessor. The latter examined the matter and encouraged Aloysius in his resolution ; his mother also bade him God-speed; but his father would not listen to it. However, after three years opposition his father gave his consent. Aloysius began his novitiate in his eighteenth year, and by his punctual obedience, and by the practice of all virtues, soon surpassed all his fellow-novices. In the year 1587 he made his vows and received the four minor orders, the grace of which incited him to press forward more zealously in the way of perfection. In the year 1591, the plague appearing at Eome, Aloysius devoted himself chiefly to the poor sick, until, being himself seized with the epidemic, on June 21, 1591, in the twenty-first year of his age, he died the death of the just.

ON THE FOLLOWING OF ST. ALOYSIUS.

For three hundred years St. Aloysius has received, in the holy Catholic Church, the greatest veneration as an example of innocence and purity, and innumerable are the graces obtained by those who have endeavored, with perseverance, to follow him. But particularly does holy Church desire that the young should take this saint for their pattern ; for experience has shown that many who have done this have been preserved from the corruption of the world, and kept their crown of virginal purity before the face of God. Therefore young people of both sexes ought, every day, to recommend themselves to this holy youth ; like him, should cherish a childlike veneration for the most pure Virgin Mary, blessed above all; like him, should press deep into their hearts a holy fear of God ; like him, should distrust themselves, fly all occasions of sin, control their senses, especially their eyes, receive often the holy sacraments, and be persevering in prayer.

Prayer.

O God, the distributer of heavenly gifts, Who in the angelic youth Aloysius didst unite a wonderful innocence of life with an equally wonderful penance, grant, through his merits and prayers, that we, who have not followed him in innocence, may imitate him in penance. Through Christ our Lord, etc.
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Next: Nativity of St. John the Baptist

FEAST OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY

Feast of the Most Holy Trinity

EVERY Sunday is dedicated to the worship of the Triune God, and is called accordingly the Lord s day; but the first Sunday after Pentecost is appointed by the Church a special feast of the Most Holy Trinity, because this mystery, as the fundamental doctrine of the Christian religion, began at once to be preached by the apostles, as soon as they had been enlightened and strengthened by the descent of the Holy Ghost.

What thoughts and affections should occupy our minds on this feast?

Although the mystery of the Trinity is incomprehensible to us, we must consider: 1. That God would cease to be God, if our limited understanding were capable of penetrating the substance of His nature.

2. The mystery of the Blessed Trinity, though incomprehensible to our intellect, is yet not without fruit in our hearts. The records of revelation show us God the Father as our Creator, God the Son as our Redeemer, God the Holy Ghost as our Sanctifier ; and should not this move us to a child-like gratitude towards the blessed Trinity?

In praise of the Most Holy Trinity, the Church sings at the Introit of the Mass, “Blessed be the Holy Trinity and undivided Unity ; we will give glory to Him, because He hath shown His mercy to us. O Lord, our Lord, how wonderful is Thy name in all the earth.” Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

O almighty and eternal God, Who hast created Thy servant to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity, in the confession of the true faith, and to adore the unity in the power of Thy majesty, we beseech Thee, that by firmness in the same faith, we may be ever protected from all adversities. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, etc.

EPISTLE. Rom. xi. 33-36.

Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God ! How incomprehensible are His judgments, and how unsearchable His ways ! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been His counsellor? Or who hath first given to Him, and recompense shall be made Him? For of Him, and by Him, and in Him, are all things : to Him be glory forever. Amen.

Explanation.

The ground of St. Paul s admiration in this epistle is the unfathomable wisdom and love of God, by which He permitted the Jews and heathen to fall into unbelief, that He might have mercy on all, and make all perceive that they were justified, not through their merits, but only through His grace. But the Church makes use of these words to express her reverent admiration for the greatness of the mystery of the all Holy Trinity. Though we can neither measure nor comprehend this mystery, yet no man of sound reason will hesitate to believe it, if he considers that it is most plainly revealed by God ; that as God, the Infinite, cannot be comprehended by the spirit of man, so also He can reveal more than we can understand ; and that, finally, there are many things in man himself, and in nature, which we acknowledge as true, but cannot comprehend. Besides, does not our holy religion assure us, that one day we shall behold face to face the Infinite Whose image is now reflected dimly in the mirror of nature? Let us add hope, therefore, to our faith, and if true and sincere love be based upon these two, our understanding and heart will have abundant consolation in regard to this great mystery.

GOSPEL. Matt, xxviii. 18-20.

At that time Jesus said to His disciples : All power is given to Me in heaven and in earth; going therefore teach ye all nations : baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost : teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you : and behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world.

What command does Our Saviour give in this gospel?

He commands His apostles to teach all nations, and to baptize them.

Is Baptism a sacrament?

Yes, for by it we receive the grace of God, through an out ward sign instituted by Christ.

What is the outward sign?

Pouring water on the head of the person to be baptized and pronouncing at the same time the words : “I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”

What is the effect of the grace of Baptism?

Through water and the Holy Ghost, the baptized person is cleansed from original sin, and from all actual sins, if he has committed such; is spiritually new-born, and made a child of God and a joint-heir with Christ (John iii. 6 ; Rom. viii. 17). What is the use of sponsors?

1. In the name of the child, they express the desire to be baptized, and make the profession of faith, together with the promise to live according to the doctrine of Christ. 2. In case the parents should die, or neglect their duty, the god-parents may provide for the instruction of the children. 3. They are witnesses that such a person has been baptized.

THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY

Who is God?

God is an infinite being, of all possible perfections, the most sublime and excellent of all goods, existing from all eternity, and containing within Himself the principle of His own being and substance ; from Whom all other things have received their existence and life, “for of Him, and by Him, and in Him are all things” (Rom. xi. 36).

What is the blessed Trinity?

It is this one God, Who is one in nature and threefold in person, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Is each of these persons God?

Yes, for each possesses the divine nature and substance. Is any of these three persons older, more powerful, or greater than another?

No ; they are all three, from eternity, equal in power, sublimity, and majesty, and must therefore be equally adored.

From Whom is the Father?
From Himself, before all eternity.

From Whom is God the Son?
The Son is begotten of the Father before all ages.

From Whom is God the Holy Ghost?
He proceeds from the Father and the Son.
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Next: Feast of St. Aloysius, June 21

SATURDAY AFTER PENTECOST--EMBER DAY

Saturday after Pentecost Ember Day


EPISTLE, Romans v. 1-5.

BRETHREN: Being justified therefore by faith, let us have peace with God, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, by Whom also we have access through faith into this grace, wherein we stand, and glory in the hope of the glory of the sons of God. And not only so; but we glory also in tribulations, knowing that tribulation worketh patience, and patience trial; and trial hope, and hope confoundeth not: because the charity of God is poured forth in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost Who is given to us.


GOSPEL. Luke iv. 38-44.

At that time: Jesus rising up out of the synagogue, went into Simon s house. And Simon s wife’s mother was taken with a great fever, and they besought Him for her. And standing over her, He commanded the fever, and it left her. And immediately rising, she ministered to them. And when the sun was down, all they that had any sick with divers diseases, brought them to Him. But He laying His hands on every one of them, healed them. And devils went out from many, crying out and saying : Thou art the Son of God. And rebuking them, He suffered them not to speak, for they knew that He was Christ. And when it was day, going out He went into a desert place, and the multitudes sought Him, and came unto Him : and they detained Him that He should not depart from them. To whom He said : To other cities also I must preach the kingdom of God :for therefor am I sent. And He was preaching in the synagogues of Galilee.
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Next: Feast of the Most Holy Trinity

FRIDAY AFTER PENTECOST--EMBER DAY

Friday after Pentecost Ember Day.

EPISTLE. Joel ii. 23-27.

THUS saith the Lord God: O children of Sion, rejoice, and be joyful, in the Lord your God : because He hath given you a teacher of justice, and He will make the early and the latter rain to come down for you as in the beginning. And the floors shall be filled with wheat, and the presses shall overflow with wine and oil. And I will restore to you the years which the locust, and the bruchus, and the mildew, and the palmer-worm have eaten: My great host which I sent upon you. And you shall eat in plenty, and shall be filled : and you shall praise the name of the Lord your God, Who hath done wonders with you, and My people shall not be confounded forever. And you shall know that I am in the midst of Israel : and I am the Lord your God, and there is none besides : and My people shall not be confounded forever, saith the Lord Almighty.

GOSPEL. Luke v. 17-26.

At that time : It came to pass on a certain day, as Jesus sat teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sit ting by, that were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judea, and Jerusalem : and the power of the Lord was to heal them. And behold men brought in a bed a man who had the palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before Him. And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in, because of the multitude, they went up upon the roof, and let him down through the tiles with his bed, into the midst before Jesus. Whose faith when He saw, He said: Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. And the scribes and Pharisees began to think, saying: Who is this Who speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone? And when Jesus knew their thoughts, answering He said to them : What is it you think in your hearts? Which is easier to say, Thy sins are forgiven thee ; or to say, Arise and walk? But that you may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins (He saith to the sick of the palsy) : I say to thee, Arise, take up thy bed and go into thy house. And immediately rising up before them, he took up the bed on which he lay ; and he went away to his own house, glorifying God. And all were astonished; and they glorified God. And they were filled with fear, saying : We have seen wonderful things to-day.
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Next:Saturday after Pentacost--Ember Day



WEDNESDAY AFTER PENTECOST-EMBER DAY

Wednesday after Pentecost -- Ember Day


EPISTLE. Acts v. 12-16.

IN those days : By the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch. But of the rest no man durst join himself unto them; but the people magnified them. And the multitude of men and women who believed in the Lord was more increased : insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that when Peter came, his shadow at the least might overshadow any of them, and they might be delivered from their infirmities. And there came also together to Jerusalem a multitude out of the neighboring cities, bringing sick persons, and such as were troubled with unclean spirits, who were all healed.

GOSPEL. John vi. 44-52.

At that time Jesus said to the multitudes of the Jews : No man can come to Me, except the Father, Who hath sent Me, draw him, and I will raise him up in the last day. It is written in the prophets : And they shall all be taught of God.. Every one that hath heard of the Father, and hath learned, cometh to Me. Not that any man hath seen the Father, but He Who is of God, He hath seen the Father. Amen, amen, I say unto you : He that believeth in Me hath everlasting life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the desert, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven ; that if any man eat of it he may not die. I am the living bread, which came down from heaven. If any man eat of this bread he shall live for ever : and the bread that I will give is My flesh for the life of the world.
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Next: Friday after Pentacost-Ember Day

WHIT-TUESDAY

Whit-Tuesday


THE Introit of the Mass is again a song of joy: “Receive the joy of your glory, alleluia; giving thanks to God, alleluia; Who hath called you to a heavenly kingdom. Attend, O My people, to My law, incline your ears to the words of My mouth.” Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

May the power of the Holy Ghost be with us, O Lord, we beseech Thee, which may mercifully purify our hearts and de fend them from all adversities. Through Our Lord Jesus Christ, Who liveth and reigneth in the unity of the same.

EPISTLE. Acts viii. 14-17.

In those days : When the apostles who were in Jerusalem, had heard that Samaria had received the word of God; they sent unto them Peter and John. Who, when they were come, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost. For He was not as yet come upon any of them : but they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands upon them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

Explanation.

The Samaritans had been converted and baptized by Philip the Deacon. Peter and John administered to them, by the imposition of hands and prayer, the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Is Confirmation a sacrament?

Yes, for Jesus Christ has promised the Holy Ghost not only to the apostles, but also to all the faithful, to confirm them fully in faith and charity.

What is the outward sign of this sacrament?

The imposition of the bishop s hands, the anointing with the chrism, and the words of the bishop.

What grace is conveyed through this sacrament?

Through holy Confirmation, God confirms and completes in the Christian the grace of Baptism, and strengthens him for the combat with his spiritual enemies. Confirmation, like Baptism, cannot be received more than once, because the grace received in these sacraments is always efficacious if we only cooperate with it ; and because in these sacraments we receive also an indelible character, which forever distinguishes the souls of those who have been baptized and confirmed from those who have not.

GOSPEL. John x. 1-10.

At that time Jesus said to the Pharisees: Amen, amen, I say to you : he that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up another way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth ; and the sheep hear his voice : and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he hath let out his own sheep, he goeth before them : and the sheep follow him, because they know his voice. But a stranger they follow not, but fly from him, because they know not the voice of strangers. This proverb Jesus spoke to them. But they understood not what He spoke to them. Jesus there fore said to them again : Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All others, as many as have come, are thieves and robbers : and the sheep heard them not. I am the door. By Me, if any man enter in, he shall be saved : and he shall go in, and go out, and shall find pastures. The thief cometh not, but for to steal and to kill and to destroy. I am come that they may have life, and may have it more abundantly.

How is this parable to be understood?

The sheepfold is the Church, or congregation of the faithful ; the door for the flock is Baptism ; for the pastors, lawful vocation and mission from God, through their spiritual superiors ; the chief pastor is Christ ; the sheep are the faithful ; the invisible door-keeper is the Holy Ghost, inasmuch as He prepares hearts for Jesus; the visible door-keeper is the bishop or his representatives. The thieves and robbers are the Pharisees and heretics of all ages, who lead astray the sheep of Christ, and destroy their spiritual life by false doctrines. If we would not become the prey of thieves and murderers, we must follow the doctrines of the teachers and pastors whom Christ has appointed for His Church.
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Next: Wednesday after Pentacost--Ember Day

WHIT-MONDAY

Whit Monday

FILLED with joy over the gracious descent of the Holy Ghost, the Church sings, at the Introit of the Mass, " He fed them with the fat of wheat, alleluia, and filled them with honey out of the rock, alleluia, alleluia. Rejoice to God, our helper, sing aloud to the God of Jacob" (Ps. Ixxx.). Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

O God, Who didst give the Holy Spirit to Thy apostles, grant to Thy people the effect of their pious prayers, that on those to whom Thou hast given grace, Thou mayest also bestow peace. Through Christ our Lord, etc.

EPISTLE. Acts x. 34, 43-48.

In those days Peter, opening his mouth, said : Men, brethren, the Lord commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He Who was appointed by God to be judge of the living and of the dead. To Him all the prophets give testimony, that by His name all receive remission of sins, who believe in Him. While Peter was yet speaking these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them that heard the word. And the faithful of the circumcision, who came with Peter, were astonished, for that the grace of the Holy Ghost was poured out upon the gentiles also. For they heard them speaking with tongues, and magnifying God. Then Peter answered : Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, who have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

GOSPEL. John iii. 16-21.

At that time Jesus said unto Nicodemus: God so loved the world, as to give His only-begotten Son; that whosoever believeth in Him may not perish, but may have life everlasting. For God sent not His Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world may be saved by Him. He that believeth in Him is not judged. But He that doth not believe, is already judged : because he believeth not in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the judgment : because the light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than the light, for their works were evil. For every one that doth evil hateth the light, and cometh not to the light, that his works may not be reproved. But he that doth truth, cometh to the light, that his works may be made manifest, because they are done in God.

By what has God most shown the greatness of His love?
By giving up His only-begotten Son to the most painful and ignominious death, that we, the guilty, might be delivered from eternal death, and have life everlasting.

If, then, so many are lost, is it the fault of God?
No: as the physician gives up only the incurable, so God condemns only those who believe not in Christ as their Saviour and God ; who love darkness, that is, the principles and works which correspond to their corrupt inclinations; who despise Jesus, the light of the world, and His doctrines; who neglect the divine service, the public instructions, and the reception of the holy sacraments; who take this licentious life for wisdom and enlightenment; who refuse to be taught, and have pronounced their own condemnation, even before the final judgment.

Why should we love God?
Because He has loved us from eternity : He loved us when as yet we were not. If we love him who does us some good, who helps us in need, or exposes himself to danger for our sake, how much more should we love Him Who has given us all that we have: the angels to be our guards, the sun, moon, and stars to be our light ; the earth to be our dwelling-place ; the elements, plants, and animals to supply our necessary wants, and to serve for our advantage and enjoyment ; Who continually preserves us and protects us from countless dangers ; Who has subjected Himself for our sake, not merely to the danger of His life, but to the most painful and humiliating death ; Who for gives all our sins, heals all our infirmities, redeems our life from destruction, and crowns us with compassion and mercy.
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Next: Whit-Tuesday

PENTECOST

Pentecost


What is Pentecost?

The solemn anniversary of the day on which the Holy Ghost came down, under the appearance of fiery tongues, upon Mary the Mother of Jesus, and His apostles and disciples, who were assembled in prayer at Jerusalem.

To express her joy at the descent of the Holy Ghost, the Church sings, at the Introit of the Mass, The Spirit of the Lord hath filled the whole earth, alleluia, and that which containeth all things, hath knowledge of the voice, alleluia, alleluia (Wis. i. 7). “Let God arise, and His enemies be scattered; and let them that hate Him fly before His face.”; Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

O God, Who on this day didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that we may be truly wise in the same Spirit, and ever rejoice in His consolation. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, etc.

EPISTLE. Acts ii. 1-11.

When the days of the Pentecost were accomplished, they were all together in one place : and suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a mighty wind coming, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them parted tongues as it were of fire, and it sat upon every one of them : and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they began to speak with divers tongues, according as the Holy Ghost gave them to speak. Now there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men out of every nation under heaven. And when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded in mind, because that every man heard them speak in his own tongue. And they were all amazed and wondered, saying : Behold, are not all these that speak Galileans? And how have we heard every man our own tongue wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and in habitants of Mesopotamia, Judea, and Cappadocia, Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphilia, Egypt, and the parts of Lybia about Gyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews also, and proselytes, Cretes, and Arabians: we have heard them speak in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.

Why does the Church celebrate this day so solemnly? To praise and thank God for sending the Holy Ghost, Who gave so many spiritual graces and fruits to men.

Why did the Holy Ghost appear under visible signs?

It was done to attract attention, and to indicate outwardly what took place inwardly. The roar of the mighty wind, ac cording to the language of the prophets, pointed to the approaching Godhead, and was intended to announce something extraordinary. The appearance of tongues signified the gift of languages, and the division of them the difference of gifts imparted by the Holy Ghost. The fire which lightens, warms, and quickly spreads, denoted the love of God, the power and joy with which the apostles, and mankind through them, should be filled, and indicated the rapid extension of Christianity. What were the effects of the descent of the Holy Ghost upon the apostles?

Being enlightened and made acquainted with all truth, freed from all fear and faint-heartedness, and undaunted, the apostles preached everywhere Christ crucified, and for love of Him endured with joy all sufferings. Their discourses were understood by all present, as if they had carefully learned each particular language. From that time Christianity spread with wonderful rapidity throughout the whole world. Pray the Holy Ghost to-day to enlighten you also, to inflame you with holy love, and to give you strength daily to increase in all goodness.

GOSPEL. John xiv. 23-31.

At that time Jesus said to His disciples : If any one love Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, arid We will come to him, and will make Our abode with him. He that loveth Me not, keepeth not My words. And the word which you have heard is not Mine: but the Father s Who sent Me. These things have I spoken to you, abiding with you. But the Paraclete, the Holy Ghost, Whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring all things to your mind, whatsoever I shall have said to you. Peace I leave with you ; My peace I give unto you : not as the world giveth, do I give unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. You have heard that I said to you : I go away and I come to you. If you loved Me, you would indeed be glad, because I go to the Father: for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it came to pass : that when it shall come to pass, you may believe. I will not now speak many things with you : for the prince of this world cometh, and in Me he hath not anything. But that the world may know that I love the Father : and as the Father hath given Me commandment, so do I.

Why is the Holy Ghost called a spirit, and the Holy Spirit?

Because He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and is v as it were, the Spirit of the Father and the Son.

What does the Holy Ghost effect in men?

He renews their hearts, by cleansing them from sin, by imparting to them the sanctification and likeness to God gained through Christ, together with all these supernatural gifts and graces by which they can become holy and happy, and brings forth in them wonderful fruits of sanctity.

Which are these gifts of the Holy Ghost?

The seven following :

1. The gift of wisdom, which teaches us to value the heavenly more than the earthly, infuses into us a longing for the same, and points out to us the right means to salvation.

2. The gift of understanding, which enlightens us to rightly understand the mysteries and doctrines of our holy religion.

3. The gift of counsel in doubtful cases, which enables us to know what to do or omit, and what to advise others. This gift is particularly necessary for superiors, for those who are changing their state of life, and for those who are entangled in perplexing and unfortunate marriage relations.

4. The gift of fortitude, which banishes all timidity and human respect, strengthens a man to hate sin, and steadfastly to practise virtue ; preferring contempt, temporal loss, persecution, and even death, to denying Christ by word or deed.

5. The gift of knowledge, by which the Holy Ghost en lightens us with an inner light, that we may know ourselves, the snares of self-love, of our passions, of the devil, and of the world, and may choose the fittest means to overcome them.

6. The gift of piety and devotion, which infuses into us veneration for God and divine things, and joy in conversing with Him.

7. The gift of the fear of God, that childlike fear, which dreads no other misfortune than that of displeasing God, and which accordingly flees sin as the greatest evil.

Which are the fruits of the Holy Ghost?

They are the twelve following: 1. Charity. 2. Joy. 3.Peace. 4. Patience. 5. Benignity. 6. Goodness. 7.Longsuffering.8. Mildness. 9. Faith. 10. Modesty. 11. Continency.12. Chastity.

These fruits should be visible in the Christian, for thereby men shall know that the Holy Ghost dwells in him, as the tree is known by its fruit.
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Next:Whit-Monday



SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER EASTER

Sixth Sunday after Easter

THIS Sunday is a preparation for the feast of Pentecost. At the Introit of the Mass, the Church sings :

“ Hear, O Lord, my voice, with which I have cried to Thee, alleluia. My heart hath said to Thee, I have sought Thy face ; Thy face, O Lord, will I seek ; turn not away Thy face from me, alleluia, alleluia. The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?” Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

O almighty and everlasting God, grant us ever to entertain a devout affection towards Thee, and to serve Thy majesty with a sincere heart. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, etc.


EPISTLE, i. Peter iv. 7-11.

Dearly Beloved : Be prudent, and watch in prayers. But before all things have a constant mutual charity among yourselves ;for charity covereth a multitude of sins. Using hospitality one towards another without murmuring. As every man hath received grace, ministering the same to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the words of God. If any man minister, let him do it as of the power which God administereth : that in all things God may be honored through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Practice.

The virtues here recommended are excellent preparatives for receiving the Holy Ghost, for nothing makes us more worthy of His grace than temperance, prayer, charity, unity, and hospi tality towards our neighbors. Endeavor, therefore, to exercise these virtues, and every day during the following week pray fervently to the Holy Ghost for help in your endeavors.

GOSPEL. John xv. 26, 27 ; xvi. 1-4.

At that time Jesus said to His disciples : When the Paraclete cometh Whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, Who proceedeth from the Father, He shall give testimony of Me: and you shall give testimony, because you are with Me from the beginning. These things have I spoken to you, that you may not be scandalized. They will put you out of the synagogues : yea, the hour cometh that whosoever killeth you will think that he doth a service to God. And these things will they do to you, because they have not known the Father nor Me. But these things I have told you, that when the hour shall come, you may remember that I told you.

What kind of sin is scandal?

It is a frightful sin. By it countless sins are occasioned, thousands of souls are carried to perdition, while the loving de sign of God for the salvation of men is frustrated. How, in general, is scandal given?

By saying, doing, or neglecting to do something which be comes the occasion of sin to another.

When do parents give scandal?

When they set a bad example to their children. When they do not correct them for doing wrong, or neglect to keep them from what is bad and to teach them that which is good.

How do employers give scandal?

In much the same way that parents give scandal to their children : when, by bad example or by command, they keep their servants or other employees from divine service, or neglect to make them attend it. When they themselves use, or give to others, flesh-meat on days of abstinence. When they order the commission of sin.

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Next: Pentecost

FEAST OF THE ASCENSION

The Feast of the Ascension

AT the Introit of the Mass the Church sings the words spoken by the angels to the apostles when Jesus ascended to heaven: “Ye men of Galilee, why wonder ye, looking up to heaven? Alleluia. He shall so come as you have seen Him going up into heaven, alleluia ! alleluia! alleluia! Oh, clap your hands, all ye nations, shout unto God with the voice of joy.” Glory be to the Father, etc.

Prayer.

Grant, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we who believe that Thy only-begotten Son, our Redeemer, ascended this day into heaven, may ourselves also, in mind, dwell in heavenly things. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, etc.

EPISTLE. Acts i. 1-11.

The former treatise I made, O Theophilus, of all things which Jesus began to do and to teach until the day on which, giving commandments by the Holy Ghost to the apostles whom He had chosen, He was taken up: to whom also He showed Himself alive after His passion, by many proofs, for forty days appearing to them, and speaking of the kingdom of God. And eating together with them, He commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but should wait for the promise of the Father, which you have heard, saith He, by my mouth : for John, indeed, baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. They therefore who were come together asked Him, saying: Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? But He said to them : It is not for you to know the times or moments which the Father hath put in His own power. But you shall receive the power of the Holy Ghost coming upon you, and you shall be witnesses unto Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the uttermost part of the earth. And when He had said these things, while they looked on, He was raised up : and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they were beholding Him going up to heaven, behold two men stood by them in white garments, who also said: Ye men of Galilee, why stand you looking up to heaven? This Jesus Who is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come as you have seen Him going into heaven.

Explanation.

For forty days after His resurrection, Jesus remained with His disciples, to convince them of the truth of His resurrection, to teach them in regard to His kingdom, that is, His Church, and their vocation ; and as they were still thinking of an earthly kingdom to be established by Christ, He referred them to the instruction of the Holy Ghost, and then ascended to heaven, whence He shall come to be our judge.

Rejoice over the instructions which are preserved for you through the Church ; but rejoice especially that Jesus has taken possession of the glory gained by His most profound humiliations, for now He is there an intercessor for you ; there He prepares for you a mansion ; there is now your home. To-day look up to heaven where Christ is, hope, suffer, love, and pray.

GOSPEL. Mark xvi. 14-20.

At that time, as the eleven were at table, Jesus appeared to them and He upbraided them with their incredulity and hardness of heart : because they did not believe them who had seen Him after He was risen again. And He said to them : Go ye into the whole world, and preach the Gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved : but he that believeth not shall be condemned. And these signs shall follow them that believe : In My name they shall cast out devils : they shall speak with new tongues : they shall take up serpents : and if they shall drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them : they shall lay their hands upon the sick, and they shall recover. And the Lord Jesus, after He had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God. But they going forth preached everywhere, the Lord working withal, and con firming the word with signs that followed.

“Let us,” says St. Augustine, “in spirit, ascend with Christ, that when the time comes we may follow Him in body also. But we must know, dear brethren, that neither pride, nor avarice, nor impurity can ascend with Christ, our Lord, for pride does not keep company with the teacher of humility, nor wickedness with the source of all good, nor impurity with the Son of the Virgin.”

Aspiration.

O King of glory ! Who didst on this day ascend victoriously above the heavens, leave us not orphans, but send us, from the Father, the Spirit of truth Whom Thou hast promised, and receive us all into Thy glory.

Why, on this day, is the Easter-candle extinguished and carried away after the gospel?

It is done in remembrance of the hour in which Christ, Who is typified by the Easter-candle, left this earth.
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Next:SixthSundayAfter Easter