Gender-Equal Readings and Femilies featuring the Gospel of Matthew (Yr A)
from The First Sunday of Advent (2010) through The Solemnity of Christ the King (2011)
Readings and Femilies for The First Sunday of Advent - Year A starts Nov.28,2010
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 2:1-5
This is what Isaiah, son of Amos, saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In the days to come, the mountain of the house of God shall be established as the highest mountain and raised above the hills. All nations shall stream toward it; many people shall come and say: “Come, let us climb the mountain of God, to the house of the God of Jacob, that God may instruct us in good ways, and that we may walk in holy paths.” For from Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of God from Jerusalem. God shall judge between the nations and impose terms on many peoples. They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; one nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war any more. O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in God’s light!
Responsorial Psalm is #122:1-9 (to be sung or recited poetically)
Response: I rejoiced when I heard them say, let us go to God’s house.
I rejoiced when they said to me, “We will go to God’s house,”
And now we have set foot within your gates, O Jerusalem.
Response: I rejoiced when I heard them say, let us go to God’s house.
Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity,
To it the tribes go up, the tribes of God Everlasting.
Response: I rejoiced when I heard them say, let us go to God’s house.
According to the decree for Israel, to give thanks to God’s name.
In it are set up judgment seats, seats for the house of David.
Response: I rejoiced when I heard them say, let us go to God’s house.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! May those who love you prosper!
May peace be within your walls, prosperity within your buildings.
Response: I rejoiced when I heard them say, “Let us go to God’s house.”
Reading 2 is from the Letter of Paul to the Romans 13:11-14
You know about the times in which we are living. It is now the hour for you to wake from sleep, for our salvation is closer than when we first accepted the faith. The night is far spent; the day draws near. Let us cast off the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us live honorably, as in daylight; not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual excess and lust, not in quarreling and jealousy. Rather, let us put on the Spirit of Jesus Christ and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.
Gospel is from Matthew 24:37-44
Jesus said to the disciples: “The coming of the God-Filled One will repeat what happened in Noah’s time. In the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and being married, right up to the day that Noah entered into the ark. They were totally unconcerned until the flood came and destroyed them. So will it be at the coming of the God-Filled One. Two people will be working in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two people will be grinding meal; one will be taken and one will be left. Stay awake, therefore! You cannot know the day when your Mentor will decide to arrive. Be sure of this, if the owner of the house knew at what hour the thief was coming, they would have kept a watchful eye and not allowed the house to be broken into. You must be prepared in the same way. The God-Filled One is coming at the time you least expect.
Femily: Reading from Encyclical, II. Peace and War #330.
“Peace is not merely the absence of war; nor can it be reduced solely to the maintenance of a balance of power between enemies; nor is it brought about by dictatorship. Instead, it is rightly and appropriately called an enterprise of justice. Peace results from that order structured into human society by its divine Founder, and actualized by persons as they thirst after ever greater justice. The common good of humanity finds its ultimate meaning in the eternal law. But since the concrete demands of this common good are constantly changing as time goes on, peace is never attained once and for all, but must be built up ceaselessly. Moreover, since the human will is unsteady and wounded by sin, the achievement of peace requires a constant mastering of passions and the vigilance of lawful authority. But this is not enough. This peace on earth cannot be obtained unless personal well being is safeguarded and persons freely and trustingly share with one another the riches of their inner spirits and their talents. A firm determination to respect other people and tribes and their dignity, as well as the studied practice of love of neighbor, are absolutely necessary for the establishment of peace. Hence, peace is likewise the fruit of love, which goes beyond what justice can provide. That earthly peace which arises from love of neighbor symbolizes and results from the peace of Christ which radiates from the Everlasting God. For by the cross the incarnate prince of peace reconciled all persons with God. By thus restoring all to the unity of one people and one body, Jesus Christ slew hatred in his own flesh; and, after being lifted on high by resurrection, this God-Filled One poured forth the spirit of love into the hearts of people. For this reason, all Christians are urgently summoned to do in love what the truth requires, and to join with all true peacemakers in pleading for peace and bringing it about. Motivated by this same spirit, we cannot fail to praise those who renounce the use of violence in the vindication of their rights and who resort to methods of defense which are otherwise available to weaker parties, too, provided this can be done without injury to the rights and duties of others or of the community itself. (Gaudium et Spes, n. 78)#331. Respect for and development of human life require peace. Peace is not merely the absence of war, and it is not limited to maintaining a balance of powers between adversaries. Peace cannot be attained on earth without safeguarding the goods of persons, free communication among men, respect for the dignity of persons and peoples, and the assiduous practice of fraternity. Peace is the tranquillity of order (St. Augustine, De civ. Dei, IX.13.1). Peace is the work of justice and the effect of charity. (CCC, n. 2304)#332. Injustice, excessive economic or social inequalities, envy, distrust, and pride raging among people and nations constantly threaten peace and cause wars. Everything done to overcome these disorders contributes to building up peace and avoiding war. Insofar as humanbeings are sinners, the threat of war hangs over them and will so continue until Christ comes again; but insofar as they can vanquish sin by coming together in charity, violence itself will be vanquished and these words will be fulfilled: ‘they shall beat their swords into plow shares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore’ (Gaudium et Spes, n.78; see Isaiah 2:4). (Catechism of the Catholic Church, n. 2317). Non combatants, wounded soldiers, and prisoners must be respected and treated humanely. Actions deliberately contrary to the law of nations and to its universal principles are crimes, as are the orders that command such actions. Blind obedience does not suffice to excuse those who carry them out. Thus the extermination of a people, nation, or ethnic minority must be condemned as a mortal sin. One is morally bound to resist orders that command genocide.”
Catechism of the Catholic Church, n. 2313 states that non-combatants, wounded soldiers, and prisoners must be respected and treated humanely. The ruler of Iraq, Sadam Hussein, was accused by the U.S. leaders of many atrocities. Those who had him undergo the death penalty must search their consciences. A repeat of the Catechism of the Catholic Church is in order at this point. “Prisoners must be respected and treated humanely. … Actions deliberately contrary to the law of nations and to its universal principles are crimes, as are the orders that command such actions.”
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. God bless you on your journeying.
Readings and Femily for the Second Sunday of Advent - YearA-2010;2014,2018,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 11:1-10
On that day a shoot shall sprout from the root of Jesse, and from this sprout a bud shall blossom. God’s Good Spirit shall rest upon that person, a Spirit of wisdom and understanding, a Spirit of counsel and of strength, a Spirit of knowledge and of reverence for God. Not by appearance shall that person judge, nor by hearsay, decide; but that one shall judge the poor with justice, and decide aright for the land’s afflicted. The ruthless shall be turned aside by words of wisdom, and by calmness and concern, the wicked will be transformed. Justice and faithfulness shall be the ruler’s robes. Then the wolf shall be the guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them. The cow and the bear shall be neighbors; together their young shall rest. The lion shall eat hay like the ox. The baby shall play by the cobra’s den, and the child lay her hand on the adder’s lair. There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of God, as waters cover the sea. On that day, the Gentiles shall seek out the glorious dwelling of the root of Jesse, set up as a signal for the nations.
Responsorial Psalm is #72: 1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17
Response: Justice shall flourish in that good time, and fullness of peace forever.
O God, with your judgment endow the ruler, and with your justice the ruler’s descendants.
Let them govern your people with justice, and your afflicted ones with judgment.
Response: Justice shall flourish in that good time, and fullness of peace forever.
Justice shall flower in those days, and profound peace, until the moon be no more.
May justice rule from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.
Response: Justice shall flourish in that good time, and fullness of peace forever.
The poor shall be rescued when they cry out, and the afflicted, when they have no one to help them.
There will be pity for the lowly and the poor; the lives of the poor will be saved.
Response: Justice shall flourish in that good time, and fullness of peace forever.
May God’s name be blessed forever; as long as the sun, God’s name shall remain.
Under God shall all tribes of the earth be blessed; all the nations of the earth shall proclaim thankfulness to God.
Response: Justice shall flourish in that good time, and fullness of peace forever.
Reading 2 is from Romans 15:4-9
Everything written before our time was written for our instruction, that we might derive hope from the lessons of patience and the words of encouragement in the Scriptures. May God, the source of all patience and encouragement, enable you to live in perfect harmony with one another according to the spirit of our Rabbi Jesus, so that with one heart and voice you may glorify God, the Creator of our Messiah. Accept one another, then, as Christ accepted you, for the glory of God. Yes, I affirm that Christ became the servant of the Jews because of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling the promises to the patriarchs, whereas the Gentiles glorify God because of his mercy. As scripture has it, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and I will sing to your name.”
Gospel is from Matthew 3:1-12
When John the Baptizer made his appearance as a preacher in the desert of Judea, this was his theme: “Reform your lives! The reign of God is at hand.” It was of him that the prophet Isaiah had spoken when he said, “A herald’s voice in the desert: ‘Prepare the highway of God, make straight God’s paths.’” John was clothed in a garment of camel’s hair and wore a leather belt around his waist. Grasshoppers and wild honey were his food. At that time, Jerusalem, all Judea, and the whole region around the Jordan were going out to him. They were being baptized by him in the Jordan River as they confessed their sins. When he saw that many of the Pharisees and Sadducees were stepping forward for this cleansing, John said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who has shown you how to flee from the wrath to come? Give some evidence that you mean to reform. Do not pride yourselves on the claim, ‘Abraham is our father.’ I tell you, God can raise up children to Abraham from these very stones. Even now the ax is laid to the root of the tree. Every tree that is not fruitful will be cut down and cast into the fire. I baptize you with water for repentance, but the one who will follow me is more powerful than I. I am not even fit to carry his sandals. He it is who will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fan is in his hand. He will clear his threshing floor, and gather his grain into the barn, but the chaff he will burn in unquenchable fire.”
Femily: Isaiah’s Time and Our Time
The first reading (Isaiah 11:1-10) speaks about the descendant of Jesse. Jesse had many descendants, and we know that the one referred to here has been understood by many to be Jesus Christ. But Jesse must have had as many female descendants as male descendants, and it should not surprise us to think that the Holy Spirit might return to earth as a woman. A nice combination for a holy woman might include Isis, Mary, Joan Chittister, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. I have known many women who were filled with a Spirit of counsel and understanding. Women could judge the people compassionately, with justice for their royal garments, and steadfast faithfulness for their belts.
But all people are required to promote the common good, not just women, and not just avatars. Perhaps we are all called to be avatars? The Catholic teaching, Justice in the World #38 tells us, “The members of the Church, as members of society, have the same right and duty to promote the common good as do other citizens. Christians ought to fulfil their temporal obligations with fidelity and competence. They should act as a leaven in the world, in their family, professional, social, cultural and political life.”
The Catholic teachings, V. The Universal Common Good #338, Pacem in Terris, n.139, inform us as to our duties and responsibilities as human beings. Human interdependence is increasing and gradually spreading throughout the world. The unity of the human family, embracing people who enjoy equal natural dignity, implies a universal common good. This good calls for an organization of the community of nations, able to provide for the different needs of people; this will involve the sphere of social life to which belong questions of food, hygiene, education … and certain situations arising here and there, as for example … alleviating the miseries of refugees dispersed throughout the world, and assisting migrants and their families (Gaudium et Spes,n.84). (Catechism of the Catholic Church,n. 1911) #339. Like the common good of individual states, so too the universal common good cannot be determined except by having regard for the human person. Therefore, the public and universal authority, too, must have as its fundamental objective the recognition, respect, safeguarding and promotion of the rights of the human person; this can be done by direct action when required, or by creating on a world scale, an environment in which leaders of individual countries can suitably maintain their own functions. (Pacem in Terris, n.139)
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. God bless you on your journeying.
Readings and Femily for the Third Sunday of Advent - YearA-2010;2014,2018,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 35:1-6,10
The desert and the parched land will exult; the steppe will rejoice and bloom. They will bloom with abundant flowers, and rejoice with joyful song. The glory of Lebanon will be given to them, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Creator, the splendor of our God. Strengthen the hands that are feeble; make firm the knees that are weak; say to those whose hearts are frightened: “Be strong! Fear not! Here is your God who comes with vindication, with divine recompense, coming to save you.” Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; then will the lame leap like a stag; then the tongue of the dumb will sing. Those whom our God has ransomed will return and enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy; they will meet with joy and gladness; sorrow and mourning will flee.
Responsorial Psalm is #146:6-10
Response: Everlasting God, come and save us.
Our God keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed;
Gives food to the hungry. Our God sets captives free.
Response: Everlasting God, come and save us.
Our God gives sight to the blind; our God raises up those who are bowed down.
Our God loves the just; our God protects strangers.
Response: Everlasting God, come and save us.
The fatherless and the widow, our God sustains, but the way of the wicked, God thwarts.
Our God shall reign forever; our God, O Zion, for all generations.
Response: Everlasting God, come and save us.
Reading 2 is from James 5:7-10
Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Christ. See how farmers await the precious yield of the soil. They looks forward to it patiently while the soil receives the winter and the spring rains. You, too, must be patient. Steady your hearts, because the coming of the Christ is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, lest you be condemned. See! The judge stands at the gate. As your models in suffering and hardships, and in patience, brothers and sisters, take the prophets who spoke in God’s name.
Gospel is from Matthew 11: 2-11
John in prison heard about the works Jesus performed, and sent a message through his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are you He who is to come, or do we look for another?” In reply, Jesus said to them, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: the blind recover their sight, cripples walk, lepers are cured, the deaf hear, dead persons are raised to life, and the poor have the good news preached to them. Blest is the person who finds no stumbling block in me.” As the messengers set off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the wasteland to see:- a reed shaken in the wind? Tell me, what did you go out to see:- someone luxuriously dressed? Remember, those who dress luxuriously are to be found in royal palaces. Why then did you go out:- to see a prophet? A prophet indeed, and something more! It is about this person that scripture says, ‘I send my messenger ahead of you to prepare your way before you.’ I solemnly assure you, history has not known a person born of woman greater than John the Baptizer. Yet the least born into the Kingdom of God is greater than he.”
Femily on Healing of Cripples and Lepers, or Destruction by Armaments
IV. Arms 334. “We note the enormous stocks of armaments that have been and still are being made in more economically developed countries, with a vast outlay of intellectual and economic resources. And so it happens that, while the people of these countries are loaded with heavy burdens, other countries, as a result, are deprived of the collaboration they need in order to make economic and social progress. (Pacem in Terris, n. 109)335. “I was hungry and you gave me no food, naked and you did not clothe me, in prison and you did not visit me” (Matthew 25:42). These words become charged with even stronger warning, when we think that, instead of bread and cultural aid, the new States and nations awakening to independent life are being offered, sometimes in abundance, modern weapons and means of destruction placed at the service of armed conflicts and wars that are not so much a requirement for defending their just rights and their sovereignty, but rather a form of chauvinism, imperialism, and neocolonialism of one kind or another. (Redemptor Hominis, n.16)336. The teaching of the Catholic Church in this area has been clear and consistent. It has deplored the arms race, called nonetheless for mutual progressive and verifiable reduction of armaments as well as greater safeguards against possible misuse of these weapons. It has done so while urging that the independence, freedom, and legitimate security of each and every nation be respected. (Message to the Second Special Session of the United Nations for Disarmament, n. 5)337. An insane arms race swallowed up the resources needed for the development of national economies and for assistance to the less developed nations. Scientific and technological progress, which should have contributed to man’s well being, was transformed into an instrument of war: science and technology were directed to the production of ever more efficient and destructive weapons.”
Some earlier tribes believed that the goods of the earth belonged to God who had created them. They believed their leadership was inspired by God to collect and use these resources. This theory might have been acceptable if their leadership were ethically perfect and superior intellectually. However, it is easy to see that government officials, church leaders, and dictators get sidetracked into believing they are deserving of gold, glamour, and adulation. They get the notion that they must protect this overflow of wealth from other tribal leaders. Then we get arms races, nuclear weapons, and deprivation of the poor.
Governments justify wars against other governments that have valuable resources such as gold, oil, or rare earth metals. Innocent civilians and young idealistic soldiers are destroyed in the military process. The Gospel tells us there will come a time when lepers will be healed and cripples will walk. Of course our country is supplying prosthetic devices to those individuals whose limbs have been destroyed by land mines, but wouldn’t it be better to do preventive medicine, and not build and sell landmines? And what is the end purpose of nuclear weapons? Nuclear plants are targets for attack and produce waste that is dangerous to store.
Leadership can be led astray by the excitement of the moment. They may even get to believe they are infallible. It is the duty of the laity to speak common sense to those under such pressures. Internet facilities have become an important way for the masses to tell those in power just how they feel.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. God bless you on your journeying.
Readings and Femily for the 4th Sunday of Advent - Year A-2010;2014,2018,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 6:8 to 7:3, 10-14
Isaiah heard the voice of God saying, “Whom shall I send? Who will go for us? Isaiah answered, “Here I am. Send me.” God sent Isaiah and his son Jasub to meet and reassure King Achaz. The message to Achaz: Ask for a sign from your God: let it be deep as the nether world or high as the sky! But Achaz answered, “I will not ask! I will not tempt God!” Then Isaiah said, “Listen, O House of David! Is it not enough for you to weary the people; must you also weary God? Therefore God himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel.”
Responsorial Psalm is #24:1-6
Response: Let the Great God enter within, for the Great God is all glorious.
The earth and its fullness belong to God; the world and they who dwell therein.
For God founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the rivers.
Response: Let the Great God enter within, for the Great God is all glorious.
Who can ascend the mountain of God, or who may stand in God’s holy place?
The person whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain.
Response: Let the Great God enter within, for the Great God is all glorious.
That person shall receive a blessing from the great God, a reward from the saving God.
Such is the race that seeks for God, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob.
Response: Let the Great God enter within, for the Great God is all glorious
Reading 2 is from Romans 1:1-7
Greetings from Paul, a servant of the Messiah Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart to proclaim the gospel of God which God promised long ago through the prophets, as the holy scriptures record— the gospel concerning the Messiah who was descended from David according to the flesh but was made a Son of God in power, according to the spirit, through the resurrection from the dead. Through this Messiah Jesus we have been favored with apostleship, that we may spread the gospel of Jesus and bring to obedient faith, all the Gentiles, among whom are you who have been called to belong to the Messiah Jesus. To all God’s beloved who are in Rome, called to be saints: grace be to you and peace that is to be found in God and in the Messiah Jesus.
Gospel is from Matthew 1:18-24
The origin of Jesus Christ came about in this manner. When his mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her husband, being an upright man and unwilling to expose her to the law of stoning, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when suddenly an angel from God appeared in a dream and said to him, “Joseph, son of David, have no fear about taking unto yourself Mary as your wife. It is by the Holy Spirit that she has conceived this child. She is to have a son and you are to name him Jesus because he will save the people from their sins. All this is to happen to fulfill what God spoke through the prophet: The virgin shall be with child and give birth to a son, and they shall call him Immanuel,” (a name which means ‘God is with us’.” When Joseph woke up, he did as God’s angel had commanded, and received Mary into his home as his wife.
Femily: Early Tales of Jesus
Even today if a woman is caught in adultery in the Near East, she can be stoned to death. Usually nothing is done about the man who attacked her. Our science today tells us that it takes two to make a baby. The scriptures are telling us in a polite way, that someone besides Joseph got Mary pregnant. Mary served in the temple, and may have been subjected to the whim of a male server in the temple. We are thankful to Joseph for preserving the lives of both Mary and Jesus. Even today the same situation has occasionally taken place in church communities brought on by a very small percent of priests, and a child may be raised by a generous and forgiving foster father.
There are mythical stories about the birth and childhood of Jesus, such as the apocryphal Gospel of Thomas. The author set down these stories about 200 years after Jesus’ birth. Jesus is reported to have been a wonderworker from birth. He spoke God’s praises early. He raised a neighborhood child from the dead. He knew more than his teachers. There is the song, where Jesus makes “sparrows out of clay, and blessed them till they flew away.” According to the apocryphal stories, Jesus was a handful to raise, and gave his foster father many problems. Joseph and Mary were both wonderful parents to bring up the energy-filled child Jesus to become the Savior of the world.
The names given to Jesus before his birth reflect his destiny. Jesus does mean Savior (from the Hindu), and Immanuel may mean God is with Us. However, some interpret the word Immanuel to mean that Jesus is God, which is one of many possible interpretations. Other related words such as the word immaculate, as applied to Mary, implies purity and grace. The word imam (meaning Muslim priest) ending with the syllable el which refers to god, does not automatically make the priest into God, but may imply that the person is pure like God, or godly.
Even today in the abortion situation, the woman is subjected to the blame for what happened. Presentday civilizations must find someway to make the man who fathered the unwanted child, more responsible. TV advertisements that encourage illicit sex should include publicity about results of what might happen from ungoverned sexual acts. The world has the problems of AIDS, unwanted babies, and overpopulation due to overemphasis on sex and its glorification.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. God bless you on your journeying.
Gender-Equal Readings and Femily for Christmas Vigil - Dec.24, 2010; 2014, 2018, etc.
You also have a choice of Mass at Midnight, Mass at Dawn, Mass During the Day!! See Mark, Luke, & John years.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 62:1-5
For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch. The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of God will bestow. You will be a crown of splendor in the God’s hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God. No longer will they call you Deserted, or name your land Desolate. But you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for God will take delight in you, and your land will be married. As a young man marries a maiden, so will your sons marry you; as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.
Responsorial Psalm is #89:4-5, 16-17, 27, 29
Response: For ever I will sing the goodness of God.
I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant:
“I will establish your line forever and make your throne firm through all generations.”
Response: For ever I will sing the goodness of God.
Happy the people who know the joyful shout; in the light of your countenance, O God, they walk.
They rejoice in your name all the day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Response: For ever I will sing the goodness of God.
With my sacred oil I have anointed the special one. I will also appoint that one my firstborn;
My covenant with them stands firm; I will maintain my kindness toward them forever.
Response: Forever I will sing the goodness of God.
Reading 2 is from Acts 13:16-17, 22-25
Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: “People of Israel and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me! The God of the people of Israel chose our ancestors, and made the people prosper during their stay in Egypt; with mighty power they were led out of that country. After removing Saul, David was made their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse a person after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ From this person’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as was promised. Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel. As John was completing his work, he said: ‘Who do you think I am? I am not that one. No, but he is coming after me, whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’”
Gospel is from Matthew 1:1-25
A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of King David. David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife, Solomon the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa, Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram, Jehoram the father of Uzziah, Uzziah the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon. After the exile to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, Abiud the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Akim, Akim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Christ.
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of God appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what God had said through the prophet: “The virgin will be with child and will give birth, and they will call the child Immanuel—which means, God with us. When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of God had commanded and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth. And Joseph gave the child the name Jesus.
Femily: Before the Birth of Christ
We are celebrating the Feast of Christmas. What went on in the world before the time of Jesus’ birth? The first twenty verses of Matthew give us the genealogy of Jesus. Matthew’s genealogy differs from the one given in Luke. In Matthew female ancestry is represented by Tamar, Ruth, Mary, and the wife of Uriah. This is an acknowledgment on the part of scribes that women do contribute their genes to the person of Jesus.
What religions were being followed in the world before the time of Jesus? Jesus was not born into a Christian world. Mary and Joseph were practicing members of a Jewish sect. Astronomers (or were they astrologers) who may have been Buddhists or Hindus, came on camels to give reverence to the baby Jesus. Songs were sung by the angels, but they were not Silent Night or Away in a Manger. They may have been pagan songs to celebrate a solar festival of lights. Some of the carols we sing today such as The Twelve Days of Christmas and Jingle Bells may have been sung to welcome the return of the sun from its standstill in the southern sky. Is there any mention of Jesus in the Jingle Bells carol? Why are there twelve days of Christmas? Is there any mention of Jesus in the Twelve Days of Christmas? Why do we cheerily sing about ‘five golden rings’?
The Baby Jesus was not born into a world that was anxious to receive him. The populations did not hear about this eventful coming until hundreds of years later. The shepherds went back to their sheep, and the wise men returned to their kingdoms. Today we sing about this Baby that came with a message of love, and we send soldiers off to war to kill each other. We send drones laden with bombs to destroy civilians— men, women, and children. We teach young people how to kill each other and how to commit terrorist acts. Before the wonderful birth there were religious groups and people who dreamed of peaceful times. After the birth there is still the need for people to talk about ways to bring peace to earth.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who need to forgive others.
Readings and Femily for Sunday within the Octave, Feast of the Holy Family - YearA, 2010,2014,2018,etc.
Reading 1 is from Sirach 3:2-6,12-14
God sets mothers and fathers in honor over their children; the authority of a mother or father is confirmed by their daughters and sons. They who honor their father atone for sins; they store up riches who revere their mother. Those who honor their father are gladdened by children, and when they pray, they are heard. Those who revere their father will live a long life; those who obey the laws of God give comfort to their mother. My children, take care of your father when he is old; grieve him not as long as he lives. Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him; revile him not in the fullness of your strength. For kindness to a father will not be forgotten; it will serve as a sin offering—it will take lasting root.
Responsorial Psalm is #128:1-5
Response: Happy are those who fear God and walk in God’s ways.
Happy are you who fear God and walk in God’s ways.
For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; happy shall you be, and favored.
Response: Happy are those who fear God and walk in God’s ways.
Your spouse shall be like a fruitful vine in the recesses of your home;
Your children like olive plants around your table.
Response: Happy are those who fear God and walk in God’s ways.
Behold, thus is the person blessed who fears our God.
God will bless you from Zion: may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life.
Response: Happy are those who fear God and walk in God’s ways.
Reading 2 from Colossians 3:12-21
Because you are God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with heartfelt mercy, with kindness, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another; forgive whatever grievances you have against one another. Forgive as God has forgiven you. Over all these virtues, put on love, which binds the rest together and makes them perfect. Christ’s peace must reign in your hearts, since as members of the one body you have been called to that peace. Dedicate yourselves to thankfulness. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly. In wisdom made perfect, instruct and admonish one another. Sing gratefully to God in your hearts in psalms, hymns, and inspired songs. Whatever you do, whether in speech or in action, do it in the name of Jesus Christ. Give thanks to the Creator God through him. Wives and husbands, be submissive to each other. Love each other, and avoid bitterness. Children, obey your parents in everything as the acceptable way Jesus taught. Parents, do not nag your children lest they lose heart.
Gospel is from Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23
After the astrologers had left, an angel suddenly appeared to Joseph in a dream with the command: “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee into Egypt. Stay there until I tell you otherwise. Herod is searching for the child to destroy him.” Joseph got up and took the child and his mother and left that night for Egypt. He stayed there until the death of Herod, to fulfill what was prophesied: “Out of Egypt I have called my son.” But after Herod’s death, God’s angel appeared to Joseph in a dream with the command, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and set out for the land of Israel. Those who had designs on the life of the child are dead.” Joseph got up, took the child and his mother, and returned to the land of Israel. He heard, however, that Archelaus had succeeded his father Herod as king of Judea, and he was afraid to go back there. Instead, because of a warning received in a dream, Joseph went to the region of Galilee. There he settled in a town called Nazareth. In this way what was said through the prophets was fulfilled: “He shall be called a Nazorean.”
Femily on Happiness: Are You Happy?
The readings tell us that those who follow God’s way are happy people. In order to be happy, we are to be thankful. We are to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly. We are to forgive as God has forgiven us. How can we make the whole world happy? If we listen to the leading of the Pope, will we be making a happy world? Are our actions making a highway for the Good Spirit to travel, as she sweeps into human hearts?
Here are some papal thoughts on International Organizations.
I. Transnational and International Organizations (340). It is therefore our ardent desire that the United Nations Organization in its structure and in its means may become ever more equal to the magnitude and nobility of its tasks, and may the time come as quickly as possible when every human being will find therein an effective safeguard for the rights which derive directly from their dignity as people, and which are therefore universal, inviolable, and inalienable rights. This is all the more to be hoped for since all human beings, as they take an ever more active part in the public life of their own country, are showing an increasing interest in the affairs of all peoples, and are becoming more consciously aware that they are living members of the whole human family. (from Pacem in Terris, n. 145)(#341). International collaboration on a worldwide scale requires institutions that will prepare, coordinate and direct it, until finally there is established an order of justice which is universally recognized. With all our heart, We encourage these organizations which have undertaken this collaboration for the development of the peoples of the world, and our wish is that they grow in prestige and authority. Your vocation, as we said to the representatives of the United Nations in New York, is to bring not some people but all peoples to treat each other as sisters and brothers…. (Populorum Progressio, n. 78)#342. Since the relationships between countries today are closer in every region of the world, by reason of science and technology, it is proper that peoples become more and more interdependent. Accordingly, contemporary problems of the moment whether in the fields of science and technology, or of economic and social affairs, or of public administration, or of cultural advancement, these, because they may exceed the capacities of individual states, very often affect a number of nations and, at times, all the nations of the earth. As a result, individual countries, although advanced in culture and civilization, in number and industry of citizens, in wealth, in geographical extent, are not able by themselves to resolve satisfactorily their basic problems. Accordingly, because states must on occasion complement or perfect one another, they really consult their own interests only when they take into account at the same time the interests of others. Hence, dire necessity warns commonwealths to cooperate among themselves and provide mutual assistance. (Mater et Magistra, nn. 200 202)#343. But it is necessary to go still further. At Bombay, we called for the establishment of a great World Fund, to be made up of part of the money spent on arms, to relieve the most destitute of this world (Paul VI, Message to the World, Entrusted to Journalists). What is true of the immediate struggle against want, holds good also when there is a question of development. Only worldwide collaboration, of which a common fund would be both means and symbol, will succeed in overcoming vain rivalries and in establishing a fruitful and peaceful exchange between peoples. (Populorum Progressio, n.51)
Re-emphasizing a part of the above reading that says that ‘states must on occasion complement or perfect one another, they really consult their own interests only when they take into account at the same time the interests of others. Hence, dire necessity warns commonwealths to cooperate among themselves and provide mutual assistance.’ The same warning applies to individual people; we are to share our resources with one another, or the poor will rise up and rob the rich to acquire the goods necessary for life. Individual people are also to share when confronted by other people in need. In our presentday world with its Internet capabilities, we are given a view of all the needy around the world. We can suffer with the oppressed and homeless. We can rejoice when the miners in Chile are released.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who need to forgive others.
Femily and Readings for Solemnity of Mary – New Year’s Day, One Week after Christmas, Year A – Jan.1,2011;2015
Reading 1 is from Numbers 6:22-27
God said to Moses: “Speak to Aaron and his sons and tell them: ‘This is how you shall bless the Israelites. Say to them: God bless you and keep you. God let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May God look upon you kindly and give you peace.’ So shall you invoke my name upon the Israelites, and I will bless them.”
Responsorial Psalm is #67:2-3, 5-6, 8
Response: May God bless us with mercy.
May God have pity on us and bless us; may God’s face shine on us.
So may your way be known upon earth; upon all nations, your salvation.
Response: May God bless us with mercy.
May the nations be glad and exult because you rule the peoples in equity;
The nations on earth, you guide.
Response: May God bless us with mercy.
May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you!
May God bless us, and may all the ends of the earth fear God!
Response: May God bless us with mercy.
Reading 2 from Galatians 4:4-7
When the designated time had come, God sent forth a special person born of a woman, born under the law, to deliver from the law those who were subjected to it, so that we might receive our status as adopted daughters and sons. The proof that you are daughters and sons is the fact that God has sent forth into our hearts the Spirit which cries out Abba (Beloved Creator). You are no longer a slave but an honored person! And the fact that you are so honored makes you an heir, by God’s design.
Gospel of Luke 2:16-21
The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger; once they saw, they understood what had been told them concerning this child. All who heard it were astonished at the report given them by the shepherds. Mary treasured all these things and reflected on them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, in accord with what had been told them.
Femily on Supporting the Vulnerable and the Documents of the United Nations
A little baby such as Jesus, is a very vulnerable humanbeing. Babies need a loving mother and father to care for them. All of us earthlings are quite vulnerable. We need the help of heaven to exist. But God loves us and supports us. God supported the missions of John and of Jesus. God will support our mission work, especially if we are determined to help others.
If you help to ratify the United Nations’ documents, you will help vulnerable people all over the earth. There are many U.N. documents supporting the vulnerable. The U.N. sets ideals for all of us, both rights and responsibilities, the right to basic needs; food, water, clean air, education, housing; the duty for those in power to supply those necessities to others; and to hold one’s baser instincts in check. The U.N. urges development for all, fulfillment for all people, such as advancement for women and rehabilitation for the incarcerated. How can this be achieved for the vulnerable! We must study about the documents and communicate the ideals therein to those who govern us.
Articles of the U.N. Declaration of Human Rights: (1) Act in a spirit of loving community. (2) No distinctions such as race, property, or politics. (3) Right to life and liberty. (4) No slavery. (5) No torture. (6,7) Justice. (8) Remedies. (9) No arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile. (10) Fair and public hearing. (11) Innocent until proved guilty. (12) Privacy, honor, family. (13) Freedom of movement between countries. (14) Right to asylum. (15) Right to nationality. (16) Marriage. (17) Property. (18) Freedom of thought, religion. (19) Freedom of opinion. (20) Peaceful assembly. (21 )Voting. (22) Social security. (23) Right to work and a just wage. (24) Rest and leisure. (25) A just standard of living. (26) Education. (27) Culture. (28-30) Rights and duties for everyone.
But there are sore spots for the vulnerable. U.N. ideals are ignored when (DU) Depleted Uranium-filled drones are driven in Afghanistan by controllers in Las Vegas NM. How socially and culturally defunct!! These U.N. ideals are ignored when Jewish settlers do not allow Muslims to have their call to prayer. The U.S.-Jewish lobby does not understand that burning Muslim harvests is senseless and that bulldozing homes and olive trees deprives people of their basic needs. Four billion each year goes recklessly from the United States to Israel to buy war supplies to bomb Palestinians. Congress pays little heed as if it did not know what horrors lurk in budgets that fuel war. We want a Congress that values people over corporations. Surely, it is clear that giving corporations their wishes can sway results disastrously. Lobbying by the rich is bad for the living. People are too busy with their consumerist merry-go-rounds. They do not notice that we’re going backwards in our evolution. We have not given prisoners the vote. We have not given healing to the poor. We have not given marginals and immigrants, due respect. We forgot about social development and education for prisoners, for those deprived, and for the mentally ill. We did not promote solidarity and interaction between rich and poor or use a trickle-up philosophy. We used peacekeepers with guns, not peacemakers with consensus and kindness.
How could we believe that the best way to fight terrorism was to incite ethnic hatreds and imprison others!
How could we follow a charismatic leader into a war when his only reason was to topple another leader whose power he resented and whose deeds he did not approve!
How could we terrorize the innocent with our weaponry destroying their property and driving them to looting!
How could we be blinded into believing our leaders could save the world from destruction when they were calling for volunteers from our young people to bomb and destroy another part of God’s world!
How could we believe that we were a chosen people when, in reality, all people are God’s chosen people!
How could we believe that we justly deserved our land and that we had more rights to the goods of the earth!
How could we believe that it was more noble and just to throttle and punish than to compassionately forgive!
How could we give the legacy of a broken, battered world to our beloved children and to the children of the nations when we could have been building the earth!
How could we let our greed for material power deprive others of their rightful share of an abundant earth!
How could we order more bombs from munitions companies when we have already destroyed too much!
How could we believe that the end justifies the means and use war and violence and retaliation when we could have used mediation and understanding!
How could we not recognize the difference between good and evil!
Forgive us, for we were blinded by our fears! We did not recognize what we were doing!
There are actions we could take to help the vulnerable. What can the people of the United States do to save the earth and inspire other nations onward on their Human Rights agendas? We could give women political office so as to insure gender equality in the Supreme Court, lower courts, and Congress. We could recognize the rights of every individual to fair justice; and exclude all forms of rape, torture, and abuse. (Article 5) We could give a fair and public hearing for detainees at Guantanamo (Article 10); transform Guantanamo into a place of religious and ethical understanding; give rights to immigrants (Article 14,15); use alternatives to prison that restore harmony in the community, rather than foster brutal punishment. (Article 25); limit the spread of communicable diseases due to overcrowding, lack of sanitation, or medical neglect; recognize that the majority of persons in the world’s places of detention are redeemable as productive citizens; keep guns away from children everywhere; expose and eliminate the slave trade; clean up the media; program the Internet with wisdom; let cell phones build up friendships; form just communities.
Who will help the vulnerable in such a top-down and bottom-up action? Each one of us can.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Think about the documents published by the United Nations, and their relationship to our duties and responsibilities on this earth. Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who need to forgive others.
Readings and Femily for the Second Sunday after Christmas - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 from Sirach 24:1-4,8-12
Wisdom sings her own praises; before her own people, she proclaims her glory. In the assembly of the Most High she opens her mouth. In the presence of the angels, she declares her worth: “From the mouth of the Most High I came forth and mistlike covered the earth. In the highest heavens did I dwell, my throne a pillar of cloud. Then the Creator of all gave me the command, and God who formed me chose the spot for my tent, saying: ‘In Jacob make your dwelling; in Israel, your inheritance.’ Before all ages, in the beginning, God created me, and through all ages I shall not cease to be. In the holy tent I ministered before God, and in Zion I fixed my abode. Thus in the chosen city God has given me a place of rest; in Jerusalem is my domain. I have struck root among the glorious people, in that portion of God’s heritage.”
Responsorial Psalm is #147:12-15, 19-20
Response: The Wisdom of God became human and lived among us.
Glorify God, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion!
For God has strengthened the bars of your gates; God has blessed your children within you.
Response: The Wisdom of God became human and lived among us.
God has granted peace in your borders; God fills you with the best of wheat.
God sends forth commands to all the earth; swiftly runs God’s word.
Response: The Wisdom of God became human and lived among us.
God has proclaimed the living word to Jacob, statutes and ordinances to the children of Israel.
God’s word spreads beyond to other nations; swiftly runs God’s word.
Response: The Wisdom of God became human and lived among us.
Reading 2 from Ephesians 1:3-6, 15-18
Praise be to the God and Abba of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has bestowed on us (through the message of Christ) every spiritual blessing in the heavens! We were chosen before the world began to be holy and blameless in God’s sight, to be full of love; God likewise predestined us to be adopted children— such was God’s will and pleasure— that all might praise the divine favor which has been bestowed on us through Jesus, God’s Beloved. For my part, from the time I first heard of your faith in Jesus and your love for all the members of the church, I have never stopped thanking God for you and recommending your projects in my prayers. May the God of Jesus Christ, the God of Glory, grant you a spirit of wisdom and insight to know wisdom clearly. May God enlighten your innermost vision that you may know the great hope to which you have been called, and the wonders of the glorious heritage to be distributed among the members of the church.
Gospel is from Matthew 25:1-13
Jesus told this parable to his disciples: “The reign of God can be likened to ten bridesmaids who took their torches and went out to welcome the groom. Five of them were wise and five were foolish. The foolish ones, in taking their torches, brought no oil along, but the sensible ones took flasks of oil as well as their torches. The groom delayed his coming, so they all began to nod, then to fall asleep. At midnight someone shouted, ‘The groom is here! Come out and greet him!’ At the outcry all the virgins woke up and got their torches ready. The foolish ones said to the sensible, ‘Give us some of your oil. Our torches are going out.’ But the sensible ones replied, ‘No, there may not be enough for you and us. You had better go to the dealers and buy yourselves some.’ While they went off to buy it, the groom arrived, and the ones who were ready went off to the wedding with him. Then the door was barred. Later the other bridesmaids came. They called, ‘Master! Master! Open the door for us,’ But he answered, ‘I tell you, I do not know you.’ The moral is: keep your eyes open, for you do not know the day or the hour of your celebration.”
Gospel of John 2:1-12
Three days later Mary the Mother of Jesus was at a wedding feast in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus and his disciples had also been invited and were there. When the wine was all gone, Mary said to Jesus, “They don’t have any more wine.” Jesus replied, “Mother, my time has not yet come! You must not tell me what to do.” Mary then said to the servants, “Do whatever Jesus tells you to do.” At the feast there were six stone water jars that were used by the people for washing themselves in the way that their religion prescribed. Each jar held about thirty gallons. Jesus told the servants to fill them to the top with water. Then after the jars had been filled, he said, “Now take some water and give it to the person in charge of the feast.” The servants did as Jesus told them, and the man in charge drank some of the water that was made wine. He did not know where it had come from, but the servants did. He called the bridegroom over and said to him, “The best wine is always served first. Then after the guests have had plenty, the other wine is served. But you have kept the best until last.” This was Jesus first miracle, and he did it in the village of Cana in Galilee. There Jesus showed his glory and his disciples put their faith in him. After this, he went with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples to the town of Capernaum, where they stayed awhile.
Femily: Two Wedding Stories and Thoughts on War
Weddings back then as portrayed in the two gospel readings showed customs similar to the weddings of today. There were bridesmaids and the wine flowed freely. People who run out of gas, and don’t make it to the wedding on time, are very upset with themselves when they arrive late. People who have too much wine, also miss out on the spiritual side of the wedding ceremony. Some people miss out on the spiritual side of their whole existence. This can be through lack of education, or being brought up in a decadent environment. How can we help those people?
Some people consider weightier matters of war and peace as too far above them to concern them, but every Christian should become acquainted with the Encyclicals of the Church, perhaps in small doses. Here are readings from the 1981 War and Peace Encyclical. Most political leaders haven’t given serious thought to these documents: War and Peace from the Handbook of Catholic Social Teaching.
Question 1. What is the Catholic attitude toward war? Several quotes from Catholic documents give the answer:
“The Church’s teaching on war and peace establishes a strong presumption against war which is binding on all.” from U.S. Bishops, The Challenge of Peace (1983)70.
“War is the most barbarous and least effective way of resolving conflicts.” from Pope John Paul II, 1982 World Day of Peace Message.
“The Church cannot accept violence, especially the force of arms—which is uncontrollable once it is let loose—and indiscriminate death as the path to liberation, because she knows that violence always provokes violence and irresistibly engenders new forms of oppression and enslavement which are often harder to bear than those from which they claimed to bring freedom.” from Pope Paul VI, On Evangelization in the Modern World (1975)37.
“No more war; war never again! Peace, it is peace which must guide the destinies of people and of all mankind.” from Pope Paul VI, Address to the United Nations General Assembly (1965)5.
“We call in season and out of season for the international community to turn from war and to do the works of peace. The primary obligation of the nuclear age is to banish resort-to-force from the daily affairs of nations and peoples. From Pius XII to John Paul II the cry of the Church and the prayer of all believers is a reiteration of the words of Paul VI: ‘No more war; war never again!’ This must remain our primary response to war today.” from U.S. Bishops. Statement on Registration and Conscription for Military Service (1980)3.
Question 5. Is nuclear deterrence an acceptable policy? The nations seem to feel that threatening each other with the use of nuclear weapons is the ideal way to deal with violence in the world. Any sane person knows that nuclear weapons can burn and destroy our present day civilizations. We have a quote from John Paul II:
“In current conditions ‘deterrence’ based on balance, certainly not as an end in itself but as a step on the way toward a progressive disarmament, may still be judged morally acceptable. Nonetheless in order to ensure peace, it is indispensable not to be satisfied with this minimum which is always susceptible to the real danger of explosion.” Pope John Paul II, Message to the U.N. Special Session (1982)3.
Another quote from the U.S. Bishops, The Challenge of Peace (1983)188. “(1)If nuclear deterrence exists only to prevent the use of nuclear weapons by others, then proposals to go beyond this to planning for prolonged periods of repeated nuclear strikes and counter-strikes, or ‘prevailing’ in nuclear war, are not acceptable. (2)If nuclear deterrence is our goal, ‘sufficiency’ to deter is an adequate strategy; the quest for nuclear superiority must be rejected. (3)Nuclear deterrence should be used as a step on the way toward progressive disarmament. Each proposed addition to our strategic system or change in strategic doctrine must be assessed precisely in light of whether it will render steps toward ‘progressive disarmament’ more or less likely.”
Nations threatening other nations with their nuclear superiority do not encourage peaceful collaboration. Even using nuclear power for electrical energy threatens the environments of those nations who put up cooling towers on their rivers. Solar energy is more environmentally acceptable. Thinking back to the wedding ceremonies, solar power makes for happier families than nuclear power.
To get back to the reading about Wisdom residing in Jerusalem, it is true that Jerusalem has become known as a holy city, and the birthplace of the Christian beliefs. May Wisdom continue to reside in Jerusalem and in those who govern in that part of our world.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who need to forgive others.
Sunday between January 2 and January 8, or January 6, Epiphany - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 from Isaiah 60:1-6
Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem; your light has come! The glory of our God shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the light shines, and over you appears God’s glory. Nations will walk by your light, and rulers by your shining radiance. Raise your eyes and look about you; they all gather and come to you. Your sons come from afar, and your daughters in the company of their nurses. Then you shall be radiant in what you see; your heart shall throb and overflow, for the riches of the sea shall be emptied out before you. The wealth of the nations shall be brought to you. Caravans of camels shall fill you, dromedaries from Midian and Ephah; all from Sheba shall come bearing gold and frankincense, and proclaiming the praises of our God.
Responsorial Psalm is #72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13
Response: Loving Energy, every nation on earth will adore you!
O God, with your judgment endow the ruler, and with your justice, those who attend the ruler.
Let the ruler govern the people with justice; and treat with kindness the afflicted ones.
Response: Loving Energy, every nation on earth will adore you!
Justice shall flower in those days, and profound peace till the moon be no more.
May the ruler reign from sea to sea and from the *River to the ends of the earth.
Response: Loving Energy, every nation on earth will adore you!
The rulers of Tarshish and the Isles shall offer gifts; the rulers of Arabia and Seba shall bring tribute.
All rulers shall pay homage, all nations shall serve peace and justice.
Response: Loving Energy, every nation on earth will adore you!
(*The River = E-gypt; E = the important one; gypt = river; perhaps this Psalm came out of Egypt.)
Reading II from the letter of Paul to the Ephesians 3:2-3,5-6
I am sure you have heard of the ministry which God out of goodness gave me in your regard. God’s secret plan as I have briefly described it, was revealed to me, unknown to the people of former ages but now revealed by the Spirit to the holy apostles and prophets. It is no less than this: in Christ Jesus the Gentiles are now co-heirs with the Jews, members of the same body and sharers of the promise through the preaching of the Gospel.
Gospel from Matthew 2:1-12
After Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem of Judea during the reign of King Herod, astrologers from the East arrived one day in Jerusalem inquiring, “Where is the newborn ruler of the Jews? We observed the rising of a significant star, and we have come to give homage.” At this news King Herod became greatly disturbed, and with him all Jerusalem. Summoning all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem of Judea,” they informed him, “Here is what the prophet has written: “And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the princes of Judah, since from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.” Herod called the astrologers aside and found from them the exact time of the star’s appearance. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, after having instructed them: “Go and get detailed information about the child. When you have discovered something, report your findings to me, so that I may go and offer him homage too.” After their audience with Herod, they set out. The star which they had observed at its rising went ahead of them until it came to a standstill over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house, found the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their coffers and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Femily on Jews, Palestinians, Gentiles, and the Rest of Us
When Jesus was offended by the sellers of merchandise in the Jerusalem temple, he made a scourge of small cords, and chased the animals and their owners off of the sacred precincts. His command to “get those animals out of the sanctuary,” reminds me of John Paul II and his assistants, saying (privately to those Catholic organizations that had women in their seminaries), “Get those women out of the seminary!” I don’t hold it against John Paul II, as he had the difficult job of keeping male authority in the church. However, John Paul didn’t have enough faith to see that if the temple were destroyed (the temple being the worship place of the truth), it would rise again, as love is the foundation of the universe. Even though the church suffers corruption due to male authority, the earth and all that dwell in it, will still belong to God. But a Pope has to call the shots as he sees the situation; not as I see the situation.
Does God dwell in the temple built by the hands of humanbeings? Does God dwell in the hearts of humanbeings, or does God dwell only in select humanbeings such as the Pope, other world leaders, and those in authority? I shudder when I think of the tremendous responsibility put on the shoulders of prelates and presidents.
However, doesn’t some responsibility lie on the shoulders of all of us? Women, too, must call the shots as they see the situation. If Epiphany, or God revealing Godself in us, belongs to everyone, something is required of us. We are not to submit to the rule of untruth.
If God reveals Godself in Jesus Christ and in us, how can we explain the hatred and immorality that covers the earth? Why do we have war? Why do we kill other people? We may get some answers if we consult a papal encyclical such as War and Peace from the Handbook of Catholic Social Teaching.
Question 7. Why is the arms race immoral?
“The arms race is a threat to the human’s highest good, which is life; it makes poor peoples and individuals yet more miserable, while making richer those already powerful; it creates a continuous danger of conflagration, and in the case of nuclear arms, it threatens to destroy all life from the face of the earth.” Synod of Bishops, Justice in the World (1971)9. “The arms race is an utterly treacherous trap for humanity, and one which ensnares the poor to an intolerable degree.” Vatican II, Church in the Modern World (1965)81. “The arms race is to be condemned as a danger, an act of aggression against the poor, and a folly which does not provide the security it promises.” U.S. Bishops, The Challenge of Peace (1983)128.
Question 15. What is the relationship between peace and justice?
“Justice is always the foundation of peace.” U.S. Bishops, The Challenge of Peace (1983)60. “If you want peace, work for justice.” Pope Paul VI, World Day of Peace Message(1972). “Commitment to justice must be closely linked with commitment to peace in the modem world.” Pope John Paul II, On Human Work (1981)2. “It does no good to work for peace as long as feelings of hostility, contempt and distrust, as well as racial hatred and unbending ideologies, continue to divide people and place them in opposing camps.” Vatican II, Church in the Modern World (1965)82.
Racial hatred and unbending ideologies continue to divide people and place them in opposing camps. Many there are who refuse to see or hear the words of Jesus. Many there are who do not believe in the goodness that is in themselves.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Ordinary Time starts after Epiphany. The first part includes January 6 (Epiphany) and the Baptism of Jesus and goes through Ash Wednesday. Thus the Baptism of Jesus may be considered as the First Sunday in Ordinary Time.
The second part of Ordinary Time begins the day after Pentecost and ends just before the First Sunday of Advent. The use of these ordinary Sundays depends on the placement of Easter.
Sunday after January 6, the Baptism of Jesus, First Sunday Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 from Isaiah 42:1-7
Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one with whom I am pleased, upon whom I have put my spirit. *She shall bring forth justice to the nations, not crying out, not shouting, not making her voice heard in the street. A bruised reed she shall not break, and a smoldering wick she shall not quench, until she establishes justice upon the earth; the coastlands shall wait for her teaching. I, the Just and Loving God, have called you for the victory of justice; I have grasped you by the hand; I formed you and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeons, those who live in darkness.
*Please understand that the use of the gender pronouns she and her also may contain the possible meaning of the masculine pronouns, he, him, and his.
Responsorial Psalm is #29:1-4; 3:9-10
Response: The Just God will bless all peoples with peace.
Give to the Just God, you sons and daughters of God, give to the Just God, glory and praise.
Give to the Just God the glory due God’s name. Adore your God dressed in holy attire.
Response: The Just God will bless all peoples with peace.
The voice of God is over the waters, the voice of the Just God, over vast waters.
The voice of the Just God is mighty. The voice of the Just God is majestic.
Response: The Just God will bless all peoples with peace.
The God of Glory thunders, and in God’s temple all shout, “Glory.”
Our God is enthroned above the flood; the Just God is enthroned as ruler forever.
Response: The Just God will bless all peoples with peace.
Reading 2 from Acts 10:34-38
Peter addressed Cornelius and the people assembled at his house in these words: “I begin to see how true it is that God shows no partiality. Rather, the person of any nation who fears God and acts uprightly is acceptable to God. This is the message that has been sent to the children of Israel, ‘the Good News of peace’ proclaimed by Jesus Christ who is above all. I take it you know what has been reported all over Judea concerning Jesus of Nazareth, beginning in Galilee with the baptism John preached, of the way God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and with power. Jesus went about doing good works and healing all who were in misery, and God was with him.
Gospel from Matthew 3:13-17
Jesus, coming from Galilee, appeared before John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John tried to refuse him with the protest, “I should be baptized by you, yet you come to me!” Jesus answered, “Give in for now. We must do this if we would fulfill all of God’s demands.” So John gave in. After Jesus was baptized, he came directly out of the water. Suddenly the sky opened and he saw the Spirit of God descend like a dove and hover over him. With that, a voice from the heavens said, “This is my beloved Son. My favor rests on him.”
Gospel from John 3:1-12
There was a woman named Nicodemia who was the wife of a Jewish leader. One day she went to Jesus and said, “Rabbi, we know that God has sent you to teach us. You could not work these miracles unless God were with you.” Jesus replied, “I tell you for certain that you must be born from above before you can see God’s realm!” Nicodemia asked, “How can a grown person ever be born a second time?” Jesus answered: “I tell you for certain, that before you can get into God’s realm, you must be born not only by water, but by God’s Spirit. Humans give life to their children, yet only God’s Spirit can change you into a child of God. Don’t be surprised when I say to you that you must be born from above. Only God’s Spirit gives new life. The Spirit is like the wind that blows wherever it wants to blow. You can hear the wind, but you don’t know where it is coming from or where it is going.” “How can this be?” Nicodemia asked. Jesus replied, “How can you have been taught by the teachers in Israel and not have knowledge of these things? I tell you for certain that we have knowledge of these things because we have seen it ourselves. But none of the teachers or leaders in Israel accept what we say. If you don’t believe when I talk to you about things on earth, how can you possibly believe if I talked to you about things in heaven!”
Femily on the Good News of Peace
How does the ordinary human get baptized with both the Water of Salvation and the Holy Spirit? Baptism with water seems simple enough. It is an outward sign of an inward grace, given symbolically in many churches. Some churches advertise that all your sins will be washed away, and then lower your whole body into a depth of water. This evidently was the kind of ceremonial that John did for Jesus. A white dove appeared at the baptism of Jesus, and Jesus heard a voice from heaven. White doves are not seen too often, so they are considered a positive omen. I believe I once saw an albino crow. I also had a white dove come near, but there was no voice from heaven. According to the Native Americans, albino buffalo are a good sign. These are all signs of the unusual.
Why do we need a sign? We need signs to bring our mind into contemplation of the unusual, to make us think about messages from heaven. Catholics have the Eucharist which allows us to contemplate on the message as well as the messenger. What is the message of Jesus? Isaiah gives us the message; it’s human rights for all— men, women, children, prisoners, slaves, child soldiers, sick, elderly, farmers, uneducated, etc. Who is denying these people their rights?— Rights-deniers can be politicians, dictators, gun dealers, dealers in weapons of mass destruction, makers of weapons of mass destruction. All these rights-deniers are people who should be responsibly supplying rights to people.
The OAS document Granting Political Rights to Women was signed and ratified by the United States. If there were an equal number of men and women in the U.S. Senate, perhaps they would ratify the CEDAW convention and give Civil and Political Rights to U.S. women. Women in prison have certain rights to be the caretakers of their own children. On the negative side, however, if U.S. mothers are in for a long term in prison, their children are taken from them and formally adopted by someone else. Also if there were Social Security money due U.S. prisoners, when they are incarcerated, they do not receive their social security. When they take away the male prisoners’ social security, his wife and children suffer. It may be illegal to take away a Social Security right that a prisoner has earned, and consequently charge him for child support when he has had no means to garner funds. The gathering of funds and having meaningful and productive work are important rights that should not be denied. Many immigrants come to the U.S. because of trade policies that deny them the ability to provide for their families. Human Rights are violated when slave trade on the Mexican border and in ports such as New York City place ‘slaves’ under incarceration and ship them back to dangerous home territories. A further violation of human rights occurs when women are imported into the U.S. as sexual slaves. Even though some states have laws, the practice continues. Many of these imported slaves find their way into U.S. prisons because of prostitution laws. The U.S. has not followed documents that forbid countries that do not comply with sex-slave regulations and do not properly care for those in internment camps (such as in Israel), to receive aid money for the purchase of weapons of war. Being a sex-slave is considered a form of torture. Torture is prohibited by international conventions and treaties, including the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) both of which have been ratified by the United States.
The Fire Inside is the newsletter of the California Coalition for Women Prisoners. The CCWP Mission statement begins as follows: CCWP is a grassroots social justice organization, with members inside and outside prison, that challenges the institutional violence imposed on women, transgender people, and communities of color by the prison industrial complex.
“CCWP gave rise to possible human rights violations created by California propositions 6 and 9, spurring much needed public education efforts about these repressive initiatives. Most recently, it was also the voices of CCWP which moved a Federal 3-judge panel to rule on August 4, 2009 that overcrowding in California’s prisons is unconstitutional and prevents adequate medical care for incarcerated persons.”(Quotes from CCWP, 9/9/09.)
“Many women prisoners have been abused, mistreated, or fallen prey to many of society’s oppressions (economic, racial, gender, etc.) before entering prison walls. Some have been given life terms, even as juveniles, and have been sacrificed as ‘lost causes’ without any chance for rehabilitation. All are separated from their families, leaving behind children and their communities that are less likely to live full, happy, and fulfilled lives.”(Quote from The Fire Inside, #41, Fall 2009, <www.womenprisoners.org>
The Declaration of Human Rights, Article 21 pronounces on voting: Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives. Everyone has the right to equal access to public service. This means that everyone should have the right to vote and the right to run for public office. The United States has a lot of work to do in this area. State laws prohibit prisoners from voting in most states. There is also the problem of representation in Congressional Districts; a Census-counting year should take care of this problem. Are people in prison going to be counted in their home counties with poor city schools, or are they going to be used as political pawns and counted in rural counties so that rural counties can have inflated school funds? Are they not going to be allowed to vote in either district? The U.N. advises governments to get 50 % representation of wisdom of women in courts and congressional assemblies (in the Supreme Court especially). Most laws are made by men, and chewed over by men. There is a need to get the wisdom of women into our legal decisions. Health care debate is done mostly by men; tons of paper are produced, but no one has the time to read it all, or to see what reservations and plums for the drug and insurance companies have been included. Justice and care for the disadvantaged fall by the wayside. ‘Universal design’ means a justice system designed to encourage fulfillment for all people as opposed to a legal system that emphasizes property rights violations. When we think of the word justice, we should not think of prisons as our only available option; we should be reminded that justice asks us to respect every person’s human rights. We need respect, inclusion, acceptance of differences and disabilities, and gender equality in Supreme Court and Congress.
In both California and New York and the states in between, there are many positive programs and many dedicated prison professionals, yet we continue to find courts of law where both men and women suffer from lack of restorative justice programs and a dearth of defendant lawyers. Drug abuse is a disease, and drug wars are not an effective treatment for this malady. HIV/AIDS and TB are prevalent in prisons, and are spread into the greater population when sickly, untreated prisoners are released. U.S. prisons are much better on HIV/AIDS than some of the prisons in Africa, but close quarters and overcrowding in any prison encourage communicable diseases. Health care in the U.S. is a national problem, and prisoners are on the low end of those being properly treated. To comply with The Declaration of Human Rights #25 on the standard of living, the U.S. should write a new amendment to its constitution making the health care advantages which are available to congresspersons, readily available to all Americans, including those in prisons. If we weren’t so busy promoting wars that harm and kill, we could do more for health care and healing.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who need to forgive others.
Second Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 from Isaiah 49:3,5-6
God said to me, “You are my servant Israel through whom I show my glory. Now that God has spoken, who formed me as the servant from the womb, that Jacob may be brought back and Israel gathered to God; now I am made glorious in the sight of God and God is now my strength! It is too little, God says, for you to be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and restore the survivors of Israel; I will make you a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”
Responsorial Psalm is #40:2-4, 7-10.
Response: Here am I, Great God; I come to do your will.
I have waited, waited for my God, and God stooped towards me and heard my cry;
God put a new song into my mouth, a hymn to the Great God.
Response: Here am I, Great God; I come to do your will.
Sacrifice or oblation you wished not, but ears open to obedience you gave me.
Holocausts or sin offerings you sought not; then said I, “Behold, I come!”
Response: Here am I, Great God; I come to do your will.
In the written scroll it is prescribed for me; to do your will, Great God, is my delight.
Your law is written within my heart.
Response: Here am I, Great God; I come to do your will.
I announced your justice in the great assembly;
I did not restrain my lips, as you, Great God, surely know.
Response: Here am I, Great God; I come to do your will.
Reading 2 from I Corinthians 1:1-3
Paul, called by God’s will to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and Sosthenes our brother, send greetings to the church of God which is in Corinth; to you who have been consecrated in Christ Jesus and called to be a holy people, as to all those who, wherever they may be, call on the name of Jesus, who is their Messiah and ours also. Grace and peace from God our Creator and from the Beloved Jesus.
Gospel of Matthew 4:18-22
While Jesus was walking along the shore of Lake Galilee, he saw two brothers. One was Simon, also known as Peter, and the other was Andrew. They were fishermen, and they were casting their net into the lake. Jesus said to them, “Come with me! I will teach you how to bring in people instead of fish.” Right then, the two brothers dropped their nets and went with him. Jesus walked on until he saw James and John, the sons of Zebedee. They were in a boat with their father, mending their nets. Jesus asked them to come with him too. Right away they left the boat and their father and went with Jesus.
Femily on God Loving the World
God loves us all. We are a truly marvelous creation. We can love each other and lead each other to fulfillment. Perhaps in making violations of God’s loving agenda, we learn how to behave more perfectly. The United States might learn from its poor behavior, how to fulfill the dream of God for all us people. For an example of poor behavior that can be changed, let’s look at how the U.S. complies with the United Nations’ documents in regards to women and sexual abuse.
In 2009, the State of Michigan paid $100 million to settle a class-action by more than 500 female prisoners who said they were sexually assaulted by prison guards.
In a 2007 survey of prisoners across the country, the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) found that 4.5 percent (or 60,500) of the more than 1.3 million inmates held in federal and state prisons had been sexually abused in the previous year alone. (Allen J. Beck & Paige M. Harrison, Bureau of Justice Statistics, Sexual Victimization in State and Federal Prisons Reported by Inmates, 2007). A BJS survey in county jails was just as troubling; nearly 25,000 jail detainees reported having been sexually abused in the past six months. (Allen J. Beck & Paige M. Harrison, Bureau of Justice Statistics, Sexual Victimization in Local Jails Reported by Inmates, 2007 (2008).
When a government takes away a person’s freedom, it must take on the responsibility of insuring that person’s safety. Having spent 25 years as a volunteer in the Alternatives to Violence Program in the prisons of New York State, I have seen that there is a wide range in officer behavior. Some officers are fine examples of rehabilitative justice and see the need to help women recover from bad experiences, while others rape and degrade their victims. I recommend that officers be given training in Alternatives to Violence.
The first problem is that the U.S. appears two faced; it does not ratify documents and then it complains that countries that have ratified are behaving illegally. For instance, the U.S. did not sign the document on nuclear armaments, and then accused Iraq (unjustly) of breaking its agreement to not produce nuclear armaments. This is unjust. U.S. citizens must urge their Senators to read and ratify these important documents.
The United States has not ratified a large number of the Covenants and Declarations promulgated by the U.N.. One it has ratified is the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Article 3 of this CCPR Covenant:- The States Parties to the present Covenant shall undertake to ensure the equal rights of men and women to the enjoyment of all civil and political rights set forth in the present Covenant.
Article 7 of the CCPR:- No one shall be subjected to torture, or to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
Problems to be overcome in the sphere of women imprisonment are:- raped women prisoners with the consequent spread of disease, ‘caged’ mental-health women prisoners, women who did not receive justice when they were abused in domestic violence cases, immigration problems, discrimination, male guards used in prohibited situations such as pat-downs and body searches, the use of degrading language, and general disrespect. Rape is akin to torture in both its immediate effect and in the after effect of trauma. The U.S. Prisoner Rape Elimination Act of 2003 recognizes this fact.
Another serious problem is the tendency for prison personnel to allow torture.
The Constitution of the United States uphold the ideals of The U.N. Declaration of Human Rights. It contains the hope for justice, “We the people … of the U.S. in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility …” What is wrong with our justice system when abused women are sent to prison and further mistreated? Those who construct and interpret our laws often do so for their own material advantage, and do not hear of the consequences of their actions. Legislators can have considerable difficulty making just laws that support and conform to The Declaration of Human Rights. We must help our legislators to be more understanding of the problems of women, the poor, and the prisoners.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 from Isaiah 8:23 to 9:3
First he degraded the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali; but in the end God has glorified the seaward road, the land west of the Jordan, the District of the Gentiles. Anguish has taken wing; dispelled is darkness; for there is no gloom where but recently there was distress.The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom, a light has shone. You have brought them abundant joy and great rejoicing. They rejoice before you as at harvest time, or as men make merry by dividing spoils. For the yoke that burdened them, the pole on their shoulder, and the rod of their taskmaster you have smashed, as on the day of Midian.
Responsorial Psalm is #27:1, 4, 13-14
My God is my light and my salvation.
My God is my light and my salvation. Whom should I fear?
God is my life’s refuge. Of whom shall I be afraid?
My God is my light and my salvation.
One thing I ask of my God; this will I seek,
That I might dwell in the house of God all the days of my life,
That I might gaze on the lovliness of God and contemplate God’s temple.
My God is my light and my salvation.
I believe that I shall see the bounty of God in the land of the living.
Wait for God with courage; be stouthearted and wait for God.
My God is my light and my salvation.
Reading 2 from I Corinthians 1:10-13,17
I beg you, sisters and brothers, in the name of Jesus Christ, to agree in what you say. let there be no factions: rather, be united in mind and judgment. I have been informed, sisters and brothers, by certain members of Chloe’s household that you are quarreling among yourselves. This is what I mean: One of you will say, “I belong to Paul,” another, “I belong to Apollos,” still another, “Cephas has my allegiance,” and the fourth, “I belong to Christ.” Has Christ, then, been divided into parts? Was it Paul who was crucified for you? Was it in Paul’s name that you were baptized? Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the Gospel— not with wordy ‘wisdom’, however, lest the cross of Christ be rendered void of its meaning!
Gospel from Matthew 4:12-17
When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he went to Galilee. But instead of staying in Nazareth, Jesus moved to Capernaum. This town was beside Lake Galilee in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so God’s promise came true just as the Prophet Isaiah had said: “Listen, lands of Zebulun and Naphtali, lands along the road to the sea and east of the Jordan! Listen, Galilee, land of the Gentiles! Although your people live in darkness, they will see a bright light. Although they live in the shadow of death, a light will shine on them.” From that time on, Jesus began to proclaim this theme: “Reform your lives! The realm of God is at hand!”
Femily on Diminishment
John was imprisoned. He spoke about Jesus becoming more important, as John himself became less important. John was eventually beheaded for his religious enthusiasm. Did John deserve such a punishment?
Teilhard de Chardin also spoke about diminishments. He said, “We must not be afraid of our diminishments, for they are the things that make us open to our God.”
Have you considered your diminishments lately? Do your diminishments make you more dependent on the Good Spirit? As an older person, I can confirm that I have diminishments, and it does make me pray to God for the safety of every step I take.
The people who are sentenced to prison also feel their diminishments. They are handicapped, not just from being behind bars, but in all their actions. They must consider the officers who are in charge over them. They must worry about when they will be allowed to leave. What about the prisoners who are innocent of the crime of which they are accused? It seems that it is very easy to get someone else convicted of a crime that you have committed;- just say you saw someone else do it!
Then there are the parole board members who feel that they have the right to resentence the criminal who comes before them asking for release. Treatment of NY incarcerated by the parole board can either kill all hope in their hearts or can inspire them to good behavior and a return to positive citizenship. The parole board members controlled by the governor’s office, give out unofficial sentences of 2 more years, and 2 more years, ad infinitum.
Recently, there has been a lot of fear drummed up on the subject of sex offenders. Bureau of Justice statistics tell us that 95% of released sex offenders are not rearrested! In 35% of sex offender cases, the child molested was the offenders own son or daughter or a near relative. When a sex offender returns to his family, the family is on the alert to prevent any further problems. The 5% of sex offenders who are released and sin again might not have reoffended if they had been given a proper rehabilitation program, or a mentor to help them stay on the straight and narrow. It is more important to give sex offenders rehabilitation programs, mentors, and support than to put them on NY-ALERT lists.
What can we do to transform the New York State justice system from being simply a punishment system to turning it into a place of rehabilitation and education?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1: Zephaniah 2:3, 3:12-13
Seek God, all you humble of the earth, who have observed God’s law; seek justice, seek humility; perhaps you may be sheltered on the day of God’s anger. But I will leave as a remnant in your midst, a people humble and lowly, who shall take refuge in the name of God: the remnant of Israel. They shall do no wrong, and speak no lies; nor shall be found in their mouth a deceitful tongue. They shall pasture and couch their flocks with none to disturb them.
Responsorial Psalm is #146:6-10
Response: How happy in spirit are the poor; the realm of heaven is theirs.
God keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed;
Gives food to the hungry. God sets captives free.
Response: How happy in spirit are the poor; the realm of heaven is theirs.
God gives sight to the blind; God raises up those who were bowed down.
God loves the just; God protects strangers.
Response: How happy in spirit are the poor; the realm of heaven is theirs.
The fatherless and the widow, God sustains, but the way of the wicked, God thwarts.
God shall reign forever; your God, O Zion, for all generations. Alleluia!
Response: How happy in spirit are the poor; the realm of heaven is theirs.
Reading 2 from I Corinthians 1:26-31
Sisters and Brothers, you are among those called. Consider your own situation. Not many of you are wise, as persons account wisdom; not many are influential; and surely, not many are well-born. God chose those whom the world might consider absurd to shame the wise; God singled out the weak of this world to shame the strong. God chose the world’s low-born and despised, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who were something; so that humankind can do no boasting before God. God it is who has given you life in Christ Jesus. God has made Jesus our wisdom and also our justice, our sanctification, and our redemption. This is just as you find it written, “Let the person who would boast, boast about God.”
Gospel of Matthew 5:1-12
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on the mountainside. After he had sat down, his disciples gathered around him, and he began to teach them:
How blest with spirit are the poor: the reign of God is theirs!
Blest too are the sorrowing; they shall be consoled.
Blest are the lowly; they shall inherit the land.
Blest are they who hunger and thirst for holiness; they shall have their fill.
Blest are they who show mercy; mercy shall be theirs.
Blest are the single-hearted, for they shall see God.
Blest too are the peacemakers; they shall be called the children of God.
Blest are those persecuted for holiness’ sake; the reign of God is theirs.
Blest are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of slander against you, because of me.
Be glad and rejoice, for your reward in heaven is great.”
Femily on Immigration
Samaritans and Jews didn’t like each other, and didn’t like each others’ religious beliefs. You might say that the people of the land, the Samaritans, weren’t happy when the Jews came back from their Babylonian Captivity. The Jews seemed to feel that they had a ‘right of return’ to the land. They no longer recognized the Samaritans as relatives with the common ancestor Jacob, That continues today with the Jewish people not recognizing that they and the Palestinians have a common ancestor in Abraham, and laws that return land to previous owners.
We in the United States have our own special immigrant problem. How can we, the people, stop the horrors of the Mexican-U.S. border? Some members of the Border Patrol have resorted to inhuman tactics in their efforts to control the immigrant population. Our laws have become much too violent, trapping and returning many foreigners who have spent most of their lives peacefully in this country.
The great warrior king Ashoka (who reigned in India 273-232BCE) turned from the bloodthirsty terrorism of the Kalinga War to spreading the ethical values of Buddhism across the world. Just as surely the Good Spirit that accompanies our earth can transform the hearts of the political leaders here and abroad, so that they reject the use of weapons against innocent populations.
Walls that confine do not serve a good purpose, whether they be information walls as in China, or cement and barbed wire as in Palestine and Gaza. Walls will not solve the humanitarian crisis that has arisen because of the NAFTA legislation. Patience and acceptance of our fellow human beings and supplying their needs may help us through such a time of distress.
After Vietnam and World War II, many churches welcomed displaced refugee families. Would the churches today be willing to host some of those people who are so desperately trying to cross the border? Many church groups are working near the border to supply water and food, and wash the wounds of immigrants, before they are sent back.
Who could lead an expedition to the area to gather information that might be helpful? Could the Border Patrol be better trained to assist in solutions, rather than exacerbate problems? What can we do to keep families together?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 from Isaiah 58:7-10
Thus says the Good God, “Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own. Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed; your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of God shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call and God will answer. You shall cry for help, and God will say, “Here I am!.” If you remove from your midst oppression, false accusation, and malicious speech; if you bestow your bread on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted; then light shall rise for you in the darkness, and the gloom shall become for you like midday.
Responsorial Psalm is #112:4-9
Response: The just person is a light shining in the darkness to the upright.
God dawns through the darkness, a light for the upright; God is gracious, merciful, and just.
It goes well for the people who are gracious and lend, those who conduct their affairs with justice.
Response: The just person is a light shining in the darkness to the upright.
The just shall never be moved, and will be kept in everlasting remembrance.
The just person shall not fear an evil report; her heart is firm, trusting in her God.
Response: The just person is a light shining in the darkness to the upright.
Her heart is stedfast; she shall not fear. Lavishly, she gives to the poor;
Her generosity shall endure forever; her horn shall be exalted in glory.
Response: The just person is a light shining in the darkness to the upright.
Reading 2 is I Corinthians 2:1-5
As for myself, sisters and brothers, when I came to you I did not come proclaiming God’s testimony with any particular eloquence or wisdom. No, I determined that while I was with you I would speak of nothing but Jesus Christ and him crucified. When I came among you, it was in weakness and fear, and with much trepidation. My message and my preaching had none of the persuasive force of wise argumentation, but the convincing power of the Spirit. As a consequence, your faith rests not on the wisdom of persons but on the power of God.
Gospel of Matthew 5:13-16
You are like salt for everyone on earth. But if salt no longer tastes like salt, how can it make food salty? All it is good for, is to be thrown out and walked on. You are like light for the whole world. A city built on the top of a hill cannot be hidden, and no one would light a lamp and put it under a clay pot. A lamp is placed on a lampstand, where it can give light to everyone in the house. Make your light shine, so that others will see the good that you do and will praise our Abba in heaven.
Femily on A Little More Light!
The New York State Prison System could be more economical and more in keeping with the Human Rights values of the United Nations. In New York State we have a reliable prison system, but it is based on a belief in punishment rather than on reclamation. The world and its prison systems could use a little more light.
As we look around the world we see many political systems that are assaulting Human Rights obligations. Soldiers and police officers are trained to control and punish populations, yet our ethical values tell us that we are to support one another, and supply the needs of the poor. Walls are put up to keep one group from accessing another group’s territory, yet our ethical values tell us that we should welcome the stranger, especially if they are fleeing from persecution, unfair domination, or an oppressive economic system. In other prisons around the world, people are being tortured, and having food and water denied. These horrors are presented to us on our TV screens every day.
There are some programs that help in the rehabilitation of prisoners. You may have heard of the Alternatives to Violence Program, the Kairos Program, and the Ministry Education Program at SingSing, all programs available to some of the incarcerated in New York State. In Canada there is a program called Lifers for Lifers where prisoners who have been released on parole help to prepare those still behind bars for a successful re-entry. I would like to suggest that instead of being given extended sentences of two years plus two years plus two years, etc. by the New York parole board, that ex-prisoners and parole officers form a mentoring group that provides those coming out of prison with a supportive community. This community could be overseen by members of religious organizations, Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Buddhist, etc. thus making it a place where interfaith values could be propagated.
This two year extension of sentence which is done by Parole Board hearings may be an illegal extension, as it conflicts with the sentencing judge’s decision. It is against the ethical values upheld by the majority of the population as it destroys HOPE in both the incarcerated person and in his family members. Some might consider it a form of torture.
Excessive punishment is not good for children; why should we assume that it works to make better adults? We could acquaint police, soldiers, and the incarcerated with the methods of Restorative Justice. The world needs more light shining in its prison establishments!
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is Sirach 15:15-20
If you choose, you can keep the commandments; it is loyalty to do God’s will. There are set before you fire and water; to whichever you choose, stretch forth your hand. Set before the people are life and death; whichever they choose shall be given them. Immense is the wisdom of God, who is mighty in power and all-seeing. The eyes of God see all that is made; God understands the human’s every deed. No person does God command to sin; to none does God give strength to lie.
Responsorial Psalm is #119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34
Response: Happy are they who follow God’s law.
Happy are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of God.
Happy are those who observe God’s decrees, who seek God with all their heart.
Response: Happy are they who follow God’s law.
You have commanded that your precepts be diligently kept.
O that I might be firm in the ways of keeping your statutes!
Response: Happy are they who follow God’s law.
Be good to your servant that I may live and keep your words.
Open my eyes that I may consider the wonders of your law.
Response: Happy are they who follow God’s law.
Instruct me, O God, in the way of your statutes, that I may exactly observe them.
Give me discernment, that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart.
Response: Happy are they who follow God’s law.
Reading 2 is I Corinthians 2:6-10
There is to be sure, a certain wisdom which we express among the spiritually mature. It is not a wisdom of this age, however, nor of the rulers of this age, who are persons headed for destruction. No, what we utter is God’s wisdom: a mysterious, a hidden wisdom. God planned it before all ages for our glory. None of the rulers of this age knew the mystery; if they had known it, they would never have crucified Jesus the Messiah. Of this wisdom, it is written: “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on the human spirit what God has prepared for those who love God.” Yet God has revealed this wisdom to us through the Spirit. The Spirit scrutinizes all matters, even the deep things of God.
Gospel from Matthew 5:20-22, 27-28, 33-34, 37
Jesus said to his disciples: “I tell you, unless your holiness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees you shall not enter the realm of God. You have heard the commandment imposed on your forefathers, ‘You shall not commit murder; every murderer will be liable to judgment.’ What I say to you is: everyone who grows angry with a sister or brother will be liable to judgment. You have heard the commandment, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ What I say to you is: anyone who looks lustfully at a woman has already committed adultery with her in his thoughts. You have heard the commandment imposed on your forefathers, ‘Do not take a false oath; rather make good to God all your pledges.’ What I tell you is: do not swear at all. Say ‘yes’ when you mean ‘yes’, and ‘no’ when you mean ‘no’. Anything beyond that is from the evil one.”
Femily on Lawbreakers
Jesus is trying to explain to the Jewish leaders what their priorities and their behaviors should be. The Jews had a well-knit society, and believed that their laws came directly from heaven. When we look at our democracy, we find it difficult to understand why half our people are Democrats and half are Republicans. It seems that different people find varying interpretations for God’s laws and for what is good for one’s country. We object to the killing of children in the womb, but we are willing to kill murderers. Aren’t those who kill the murderers, murderers themselves?
How can we build a society that runs on truth and justice? There are many barriers to an inclusive and cooperative society. Some of them are:
1-Lack of education (for the disabled and the excluded, and also for the general population).
2-Poverty (the rich are given stimulus which do not trickle down to the poor).
3-Family breakdown (due to addiction and lack of social services).
4-Gender inequality (trafficking in women, kidnapping of children, U.S.-Mexico border disturbances).
5-News reporting that encourages prejudice (acceptance by the general public of labelling).
6-Unemployment (leading to low self esteem).
7-Forced migration (unfair trade practices, poor government structures, political dishonesty, greed).
8-Homelessness (which leads to drug abuse. These barriers are circular; one problem leads to another).
How can we overcome these barriers? Here are some recommendations for all people (which includes prisoners):
(1)Enforce equal rights. (2)Basic health care. (3)Guaranteed income. (4)Meaningful Employment. (5)A place to live. (6)Education for all. (7)Gender equality. (8)Micro-economics. (9)Political integrity. (10)Supportive Communities.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18
God said to Moses, “Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them: ‘Be holy, for I, your God, am holy. You shall not bear hatred for your sister or brother in your heart. Though you may have to reprove your fellow humanbeing, do not incur sin because of him. Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against your fellow citizens. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am God.’”
Responsorial Psalm is #103:1-4, 8, 10, 12-13
Response: Our God is kind and merciful.
Bless our God, O my soul; may all my being bless God’s holy name.
Bless our God, O my soul, and forget not all God’s benefits.
Response: Our God is kind and merciful.
God pardons all your iniquities and heals all your ills.
God redeems your life from destruction, and crowns you with kindness and compassion.
Response: Our God is kind and merciful.
Merciful and gracious is God, slow to anger and abounding in kindness.
Not according to our sins does God deal with us, nor does God requite us according to our crimes.
Response: Our God is kind and merciful.
As far as the east is from the west, so far has God put our transgressions from us.
As a mother has compassion on her children, so God has compassion on us.
Response: Our God is kind and merciful.
Reading 2 is I Corinthians 3:16-23
Are you not aware that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? Together you are God’s holy temple, and God will destroy anyone who destroys that temple. Don’t fool yourselves! If any of you think you are wise in the things of this world, you will have to become foolish before you are truly wise. This is because God considers the wisdom of this world to be foolish.” Scripture says, “He catches the wise in their craftiness;” and again, “God knows how empty are the thoughts of the wise.” So let there be no boasting. All things are yours, whether it be Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or the present, or the future; all these are yours, and you are Christ’s and Christ is God’s.
Gospel is Matthew 5:38-48
Jesus said to the disciples: “You have heard the commandment, ‘An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.’ But what I say to you is: offer no resistance to injury. When a person strikes you on the right cheek, turn and offer the other cheek as well. If anyone wants to go to law over your shirt, hand over your coat as well. Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the person who begs from you. Do not turn your back on the borrower. You have heard the commandment, ‘You shall love your country’s people, but hate your enemy.’ My command to you is: love your enemies; pray for your persecutors. This will prove that you are children of the heavenly Abba, for the sun rises on both the bad and the good; it rains on both the just and the unjust. If you love those who love you, what merit is there in that? Do not tax collectors do as much? And if you greet your sisters and brothers only, what is so praiseworthy about that? Do not pagans do as much? In a word, you must be perfected as your heavenly Abba is perfect.”
Femily on Giving Respect
Recently I received an email from a friend telling me that her husband and nine other prisoners had been given another two year extension to their sentence by the N.Y. State Parole Board. These two-year extensions added to their jail time are enough to kill hope and sanity in both the incarcerated and their family members.
Yes, they may have done terrible things, but haven’t we heard about the quality of forgiveness? We all have done actions of which we are not proud, but our Christian faith (and other faiths as well) tell us to follow the Golden Rule of kindness and compassion.
What can you and I do about the possibly-illegal extra-sentences passed out by the parole board members? Can’t we devise a program for these oppressed human beings that will help them to overcome their traumas and disabilities?
Couldn’t we have an experimental program at some New York State prison that would help to rebuild personalities which have been damaged by factors present in today’s society? With internet education they could be exposed to all sorts of knowledge. With the assistance of willing volunteers they could become culturally enhanced in painting, singing, dancing, cooking, and health therapy. Overseeing officers could also reap benefits from such a program.
Does New York State have to be cruel, heartless, and tough? Could it display to the rest of the world a merciful way to heal those who radically offend others? Why couldn’t we initiate such a program for those ten men who have just been given such a discouraging sentencing?
It would be cheaper in the long run to turn violent offenders into employable tax-paying citizens.
There must be some way to implement and inject forgiveness and respect into our disturbed world.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 from Isaiah 49:14-15
Zion said, “The Great God has forsaken me; my God has forgotten me.” Can a mother forget her baby or be without tenderness for the infant of her womb? Even though she should forget, I will never forget you.
Responsorial Psalm is #62:2-3, 6-9
Response: Rest in God alone, my soul.
Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from God cometh my salvation.
God alone is my rock and my salvation; with God as my defense; I shall not be disturbed at all.
Response: Rest in God alone, my soul.
My soul, wait thou only upon God; from whence cometh thy expectation.
God alone is my rock and my salvation: with God as my defense; I shall not be moved.
Response: Rest in God alone, my soul.
In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
Trust in God at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before God, our refuge.
Response: Rest in God alone, my soul.
Reading 2 is from I Corinthians 4:1-5
People should regard us as servants of Christ and administrators of the mysteries of God. The first requirement of an administrator is that they should be proved trustworthy. It matters little to me whether you or any human court pass judgment on me. I do not even pass judgment on myself. Mind you, I have nothing on my conscience. But that does not mean that I am declaring myself innocent. God is the one who judges, so stop passing judgment before the time. God will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and manifest the intentions of hearts. At the proper time everyone will receive their praise from God.
The Gospel is from Matthew 6:24-34
Jesus said to his disciples: “No person can serve two masters; for either they will hate the one, and love the other; or else they will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, ‘Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit to their stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin. Yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall God not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or, ‘What shall we drink?’ or, ‘Wherewithal shall we be clothed?’ (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for our heavenly Creator knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the realm of God, and do righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”
Femily: The Realm of God and Rehabilitation of Offenders
God knows our needs! So why are those in prison allowed to be mistreated? Every so often, NGOs and Nations of the U.N. get the opportunity to judge each other. This opportunity is called the Universal Periodic Review. This is a Non-Governmental Organization’s report on how the U.S. complied with the U.N. Documents in Regards to Women.
The United States has opportunity to speak out about how Amnesty International and Prison Reform associations comply with the U.N. regulations.
For instance, there is Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: All are equal before the law and are entitled to equal protection before the law.
But there are many violations against women:
Example 1— Maria was abused by her husband. Her brother came to her aid, and wrestled the husband’s gun away from the husband. In the confusion the husband was shot, and Maria and the brother were sent to prison for over twenty years. Maria’s son grew up, became a lawyer, and eventually obtained her release many years later. It seemed the judge and attorney working for the state had to put someone in prison for this horrible event. There was no equal protection for the accused.
Example 2— Carmen was put in prison for her husband’s crime, because he escaped from the scene. Carmen was not at the scene. She was pregnant and had a small child who she had sent to school the morning she was charged with her husband’s crime. She had no idea that she would be accused as an accomplice and spend the next 20+ years in prison.
Example 3— Kelli was sent to prison as a result of mistaken identity by a witness who later recanted. The District Attorney refused to accept the recantation, and Kelli went back to prison for another long stretch, even though a prisoner in a southern prison claimed he was the murderer.
These three examples are stated to demonstrate that there are instances when judges and district attorneys administer justice so that they will keep their jobs by appearing to “get their man” and put the “criminal” behind bars. In many court systems, there seems to be an urgency to get someone, anyone, convicted for a crime. Evidence is conjured up and sometimes there is a payoff involved. If court systems in the U.S. were more attuned to restorative and empathetic justice, if judges listened to the defendant’s attorney, if domestic violence were given more attention, if people were educated to the violence due to drugs and alcohol, if pro bono attorneys and court appointed lawyers were more reliable, then we might come closer to the Human Rights idea of justice.
Supposedly, the U.S. justice system is a model for the world. This justice system includes Guantanamo Bay. Some lawyers twist laws, so that torture is permitted. If the U.S. uses torture at Guantanamo Bay, other countries can follow suit and believe they are doing no harm. Yet what is done in U.S. prisons can also be a good example for how justice could be done in other prisons across the world. If the U.S. reformed its justice system, then the people in Africa might attempt a similar reform of their prisons.
Other recommendations:
1.Recognize the rights of every individual to fair justice; and include everyone in the equal provision of the mechanics of justice.
2.Use alternatives to prison that restore harmony in the community, rather than foster brutal punishment.
3. Protect the incarcerated from torture and unnecessary, malicious abuse.
4. Limit the spread of communicable diseases due to over-incarceration, overcrowding, lack of sanitation, or medical neglect.
5.Recognize that the majority of persons in the world’s places of detention are redeemable as productive citizens, if given a measure of social development.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies. Pray for those confined in prisons and refugee camps.
Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Deuteronomy 11:18-28
Moses said: Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt write them upon the door posts of thine house, and upon thy gates:- that your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which the Holy God sware unto your ancestors to give them, as the days of heaven upon the earth. For if ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you, to do them, to love your God, to walk in God’s ways, and to cleave unto God; then will the Holy God drive out all these nations from before you, and ye shall possess greater nations and mightier than yourselves. Every place whereon the soles of your feet shall tread shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the river Euphrates, even unto the uttermost sea shall your coast be. There shall no man be able to stand before you: for your God shall lay the fear of you and the dread of you upon all the land that ye shall tread upon, as God hath said unto you. Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse: A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of your God, which I command you this day. And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known.
Responsorial Psalm is #31:2-3, 9-10, 15-16
Response: Holy God, be my rock of safety.
Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, an house of defense to save me.
For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me.
Response: Holy God, be my rock of safety.
Have mercy upon me, Holy God, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, yea, my soul and my belly.
For my life is spent with grief, and my years with sighing: my strength faileth because of mine iniquity.
Response: Holy God, be my rock of safety.
My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me.
Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me because you are merciful.
Response: Holy God, be my rock of safety.
Reading 2 is from Romans 3:20-31
Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh shall be justified in God’s sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of God which is by faith in Jesus Christ, given unto all, and upon all them that believe. For there is no difference;- all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God, being justified freely by God’s grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare Jesus’ righteousness as valid for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. I declare at this time Jesus’ righteousness, as God is just, and the justifier of them who believeth in Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? Nay, but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a person is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. Is God the God of the Jews only? Is God not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also. Seeing it is One God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid. Yea, we establish the law.
Gospel: Matthew 7:21-29
Jesus said, ”Not every one that saith unto me, ‘Master, Master’ shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but the one that doeth the will of my Abba which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, ‘Master, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works?’ Then will I profess unto them, ‘I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.’ Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. The rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. The rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell! And great was the fall of it.’” And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Femily: Who will help the vulnerable?
If Israelites or others who heed God’s promises, help the vulnerable, every place on earth will welcome them. Everywhere they tread, the welcome mat will be spread out. Will the Israelites accept the blessing or the curse? One becomes a curse if one turns aside to worship other gods, such as greed, power, hatred, sex, material goods, or armaments.
One becomes a blessing if they build up ethical values in individuals and nations. If you help to ratify U.N. documents, you will be supporting vulnerable people in nations all over the world. You can help to save the earth and inspire other nations onward on their Human Rights agendas.
We should give serious thought to the problems of the world, such as endless war and weapons, world warming, and overpopulation. Some justify war and say that self-defense is OK, that the end often justifies the means. Some say abortion is self-defense. Take a look at crime; criminals often justify their actions in terms of what they believe is the greater good. Thus we have laws, so that the judgment of the community will help the individual arrive at an optimum path. But the future of our earth is at stake. The earth cannot support an endless rise in population. We eventually will run out of resources. We also need to foster ethical values. The theory of atonement for sins should be pursued; can we make up for the misdeeds of others? In a sense we are one with humanity. My salvation is linked to yours. As I help you and myself, I contribute to the salvation of the world. There is a birth of God in humanity in the process. We each contribute to the saving of the world. This may seem impossible, but we can look at the tremendous contributions of people that we know who are compassionate. We are partially saved by all of these, but in particular, by Jesus, as the true message of God’s love.
Does discipline help in controlling negative emotions such as anger and jealousy which have a tendency to drive out truly deep empathy and caring love? Wise laws can point us in the right direction, but education might be the necessary factor that really makes a difference.
Take for instance, the campaign against smoking. Laws were made to make marijuana illegal. Parents hovered over their children with love and concern about cancer from cigarettes and jail time for breaking laws concerning marijuana use. But not much was accomplished until a concentrated anti-smoking program was put on television. We may need education as well as laws and love.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Lenten Season starts 6 Sundays before Easter. The first Sunday after the full moon after the spring Equinox is Easter. Readings for the Sundays in Ordinary Time continue after the Feast of Pentecost.
First Sunday of Lent - Year A, Mar.13,2011;2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7
God formed the human beings out of the dust of the ground, and breathed into their nostrils the breath of life; and the humans became living souls. God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there God put the humans who had been formed. And out of the ground God made to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which God had made. And the serpent said unto the woman, “Yea, hath God said, ‘Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?’” And the woman said unto the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, ‘Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.’” And the serpent said unto the woman, “Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.
Responsorial Psalm is #51:3-10
Response: Be merciful, O Loving God, for we have sinned.
I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned;
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean. Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Response: Be merciful, O Loving God, for we have sinned.
Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
Response: Be merciful, O Loving God, for we have sinned.
Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Response: Be merciful, O Loving God, for we have sinned.
Reading 2 is from Romans 5:12, 17-19
Wherefore, as by one person sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all humanbeings, for that all have sinned. For if by one man’s offense death reigned because of one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ. Therefore as by the offense of one, judgment came upon all people to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one, the free gift came upon all people unto justification of life. For as by one human’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
Gospel is from Matthew 4:1-11
Then was Jesus led of the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward hungry. And when the tempter came to him, he said, “If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.” But Jesus answered and said, “It is written, ‘The human shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.’” Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto him, “If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, ‘God shall give the angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.’” Jesus said unto him, “It is written again, ‘Thou shalt not tempt the Holy God.’” Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them, and saith unto him, “All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.” Then saith Jesus unto him, “Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, ‘Thou shalt worship the Holy God, and that God only shalt thou serve.’” Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
Femily: Gifts, Devilish and Otherwise
Some gifts are things that we can touch, taste, or smell. Others are symbols representing a greater reality. For instance, a check is a symbol that represents money that may be ours to spend. Baptism is an outward sign of an inward grace. A dove can equate the Holy Spirit. What is that? Why do we need a sign? We need signs for some of the unseen realities that are hard to express. Who has seen the wind? But we have words for gentle breezes and hurricanes and tornados. We know when a wind blows in our faces. So it is with the Holy Spirit:- we know when spirit makes a leap from one heart to another. Eucharist can be more than a sign if the Holy Spirit inspires us to view both the message and the messenger.
Other gifts are actions, like helping a blind person cross the street. Jesus showed the quality of obedience to God’s will, and to high ethical values. He helped other people to see that they could follow high ethical values and thereby inspire others. The reading from Romans 5 tells us, “By the obedience of one, many were made righteous.” We need political leaders who will inspire us onward to greater deeds. Those who act to feed the poor and comfort the downhearted are giving gifts to the wider community.
On the other hand, inaction in any part of our global community has an impact on the whole. It is necessary to look at society from the bottom up. When considering slums, refugee camps, and prisons, are the well-to-do giving good gifts to those living in poverty? What would good gifts be? Education? Pure water? Spiritual counseling?
And what would devilish gifts be? The temptation to sell drugs? The desire to rule and control another person or a whole nation? Anything that makes us lose our concern for the other?
We must take the opportunities that are given to us to share good gifts with others.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Second Sunday of Lent - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Genesis 12:1-4
Now God had said unto Abram, “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse those that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.” So Abram departed, following God’s directions; and his nephew Lot went with him. Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran.
Responsorial Psalm is #33:4-5, 18-22
Response: Upright is God’s word; and all God’s works are trustworthy.
Praise God with the harp: sing unto God with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
Sing unto God a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.
Response: Upright is God’s word; and all God’s works are trustworthy.
God loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of God.
By the word of God were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of God’s mouth.
Response: Upright is God’s word; and all God’s works are trustworthy.
Behold, the eye of God is upon them that fear God, upon them that hope in God’s mercy;
To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.
Response: Upright is God’s word; and all God’s works are trustworthy.
Our soul waiteth for the loving God: God is our help and our shield.
For our heart shall rejoice in God, because we have trusted in God’s holy name.
Response: Upright is God’s word; and all God’s works are trustworthy.
Reading 2 is from II Timothy 1:8-10
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Savior, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel according to the power of God, who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to God’s own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
The Gospel is from Matthew 25:14-30
For the realm of heaven is as a person travelling into a far country, who called the servants, and delivered unto them some expenses. And unto one was given five talents, to another two, and to another only one talent; to every person according to their several ability; and straightway the person took off on the journey. Then the servant that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made with them another five talents. And likewise the servant that had received two, also gained another two. But the servant that had received one, went and digged in the earth, and hid the money they had been given. After a long time the boss of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. The one that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, “Boss, thou deliveredst unto me five talents. Behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.” The boss said unto him, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Be joyful.” Also, the one that had received two talents came and said, “Boss, thou deliveredst unto me two talents. Behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.” The boss said unto that one, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Be joyful.” Then the one which had received the one talent came and said, “Boss, I knew thee to be an hard person, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed. I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth. Lo, there thou hast what is thine.” The boss answered and said unto that one, “Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed. Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from that one, and give it unto the one which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and that person shall have abundance. But from the one that hath not, shall be taken away even that which is possessed. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness where there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
Femily: A Hard Saying
I do not understand the message about the talents passed out to the servants. How could the boss speak so unkindly to the disadvantaged servant? The boss knew that that particular servant couldn’t keep up to the other two. We can’t excuse the boss’ cruel behavior as due to lack of information. And then to cast the poor individual into outer darkness! How is this boss traveling to a far country anything like the realm of heaven?
Perhaps this story is telling us what the everyday world is like. People mistreat the disadvantaged as a matter of course. Wealthy nations make war on poorer nations. But why bring the kingdom of heaven into the story and say it is like a person traveling into a far country?
The majority in Congress feel that we need more armaments. They seem to believe that the rich deserve to keep the wealth, and the poor deserve to be poor. The rich boss says to the poor servant, “You could at least have put my money in the bank, and collected a little interest! Cast that usless person into the debtors’ prison!” The majority of United States Congress people feel little sympathy for those displaced by storms, or those who have no health care.
Do we withhold wages from the disadvantaged? Do we expect the people in prison to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps? Do we expect the dyslexic teenager to perform as well as the expert reader? Do we expect those in prison to reform themselves with no help from the outside community?
If there were enough room in the world, we could invite the unprofitable servants to migrate to some unoccupied territory. God advised Abraham to leave his home territory where he did not get along, and go to a far away place. The story goes that Abraham smashed all the idols in the idol shop, and left town. Presumably Abraham made out a lot better in his new location.
Conclusions we might make from these readings are that God gives us talents and God expects us to use them, not bury them. God sends us to faraway places and God will go with us on the journey.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies.
Third Sunday of Lent - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Exodus 17:1-7
The congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin and pitched in Rephidim, and there was no water for the people to drink. Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, “Give us water that we may drink.” And Moses said unto them, “Why chide ye with me? Wherefore do ye tempt God?” And the people thirsted there for water and murmured against Moses, and said, “Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?” And Moses cried unto God, saying, “What shall I do unto this people? They be almost ready to stone me.” And God said unto Moses, “Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go. Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink.” And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. And he called the name of the place Massah, and Meribah, because of the chiding of the children of Israel, and because they tempted God, saying, “Is the Holy God among us, or not?”
Portions of Responsorial Psalm #95:1-9
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
O come, let us sing unto our Holy God. Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before God’s presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto God with psalms.
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
In God’s hands are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is also God’s.
The sea is God’s. God made it, and God’s hands formed the dry land.
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before our Creator.
For the Creator is our God; and we are the people of God’s pasture, and the sheep of God’s hand.
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness:
When your ancestors tempted me, proved me, and saw my work.
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
Reading 2 is from Romans 5:1-2, 5-8
Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through Jesus Christ, by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also, knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope; and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth God’s love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
The Gospel is from Matthew 17:1-9
And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, and was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. and, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.” While Peter yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, “Arise, and be not afraid.” And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, “Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.”
Femily: The Rods of Prophets
In today’s readings we have stories about two miracles: Water gushes from the rock. There was a transformation on the mountain. Moses is in both stories. Do you own a staff that makes water come out of a rock? Have you ever seen earlier day prophets on a hilltop? Do people carry staffs around today with which to ward off unruly animals?
In Exodus 7:12 Moses and Aaron go before Pharaoh to urge him to let the Israelites leave town. Moses tells Aaron to let the staff turn into a serpent. Magicians do likewise. Aaron’s serpent swallows the others. In Numbers 17:3-10 Moses collected twelve branches. Aaron the Levite’s branch sprouted flowers and almonds. Then Moses knew that Aaron had been selected to be High Priest. In Numbers 20:1-13 Aaron and Moses took a staff and went to the rock in the desert of Zin. They struck the rock with the staff, and the waters of Meribah flowed. In Numbers 21:4-9 when fiery serpents attack, Moses makes a bronze serpent and puts it on a standard. Psalm 23:4 proclaims, “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Many Ethiopian churches have an altar box made out of hardwood where they keep a replica of Aaron’s staff and other ceremonial items. Some place in Ethiopia one of the churches contains the original staff that made the water flow at Meribah and Massah. Do any of the people in Ethiopia today believe that these staffs have healing power? Does anyone today believe that the world can be turned around by prophets appearing on a mountain?
Well, we should believe. When we lose faith in miracles, the world becomes a mundane place.
If we see every plant as a miracle, every day as a new opportunity, if we see every person as a part of God-Spirit, then we are suffused with miracles. We might have enough faith to coax water out of a rock.
As an example of coaxing water out of a rock:- making our prisons restorative, rather than punishing and confrontational.
What to do about supermax prisons!
Torture is going out of fashion. It is becoming obvious to people that hurting and killing one’s fellow human beings is not good for one’s personal psychology. War veterans find that they are haunted by the terrible things that they have done. There is a need for ethical renewal of our value system. Human kind flourishes when people respect each other. There are both economic and ethical aspects to such respect. If a nation is greedy for resources and does not give food and health care to its poor, that nation will not prosper. If a nation is unkind and slaughters the poor in its own boundaries and inside other nation’s boundaries, the soldiers and police that do such things undergo trauma because of what they have done.
More recently, due to global terrorism and a rise in crime due to economic pressure, police officers have been called upon to be more punishing and restrictive. A better path would be to have more restorative justice programs that would supply needs for jobs, housing, food, and health care.
This excessive punishment is driven by fear. Those who have, are afraid that what they have, will be taken away from them. The regular prison and confinement scenario is supplemented by a rise in the number of supermax prisons and special housing units. The United States is the biggest offender; perhaps because the general population is fairly well off, they worry about how they might lose their marvelous civilization. The European Union has sworn off supermax prisons, but they are catching the disease from the United States; the Netherlands has what might be called a “supermax” and England is putting into place ‘control handling’ units. It is well known that long term solitary confinement destroys the individual. It also has deleterious effects on those who administer such punishment. Long term solitary confinement merits the connotation of TORTURE. There are many forms of torture which can be defined as any treatment that harms the body, soul, or mind, when administered by one party against another party. Several examples of torture:
(1) Giving two extra years of confinement to those in New York State prisons by the parole boards.
(2) Waterboarding, as at Guantanamo.
(3) Officers inciting violence among the inmates they supervise.
What to do about this situation: Do you have a staff like Aaron or Moses with which to encourage radical change? Can you encourage others to radical change?
The Internet supplies many valuable tools for teaching restorative justice methods. There is a need for education of prison management, legislators, and those who construct the prison buildings and punishment situations. There is a need for education programs for prison-union leadership. We cannot afford to have such leadership misinformed about psychology of prison administration. There is a need for general education of prison officers, in all countries of the world. We should educate and seek the fulfillment of all the imprisoned. It is much less expensive to educate than to eradicate. Could the Internet be used as a tool or as a prophet’s staff to change prison systems?
The United States leads the world in imprisonment and in weapons production; both these ventures do nothing to build, but only degrade humanity. Teaching booklets that describe solutions to torture and trauma are put out by the Association for the Prevention of Torture, Amnesty International. Training manuals such as one produced by CURE, can help to overcome the widespread globalization of fear and frenzy that has overtaken our governments and our prison systems. Unfortunately, there are oppositional manuals such as those produced by the School of the Americas (SOA) or Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHISC) that encourage torture and other ways to degrade humanity.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations and religious bodies. Ask that the nations would “beat their swords into plough-shares and their spears into pruning hooks.”
Fourth Sunday of Lent - Year A, April 3,2011;2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from I Samuel 16:1, 6-7, 10-13
God said to Samuel, “I am sending you to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.” And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, “Surely God’s anointed is before me.” But God said unto Samuel, “Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for God seeth not as humans seeth; for a human looketh on the outward appearance, but God looketh on the heart.” Again, Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said unto Jesse, “God hath not chosen these.” And Samuel said unto Jesse, “Are all thy children here? And Jesse said, “There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep.” And Samuel said unto Jesse, “Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither.” And Jesse sent, and brought David in. Now David was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look on. And God said, “Arise, anoint him: for this is the one.” Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his community: and the Holy Spirit of God came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.
Responsorial Psalm is #23:1-6
Response: Loving Spirit is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
I am made to lie down in green pastures: I am led beside the still waters.
My soul is restored: I am led in the paths of righteousness for God’s Spirit’s sake.
Response: Loving Spirit is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;
For thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Response: Loving Spirit is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Response: Loving Spirit is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
And I will dwell in God’s house for ever.
Response: Loving Spirit is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Reading 2 is from Ephesians 5:8-14
There was a time when you were darkness, but now ye are light in God’s Spirit: walk as children of light; for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth; proving what is acceptable unto God. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest, is light. Wherefore the prophet saith, “Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.” See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Gospel is from Matthew 7:1-21
Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, ‘Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?’ Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and those that seeketh findeth; and to those who knock it shall be opened. Or what person among you who has a child. and that child asks for bread, will that person give that child a stone? Or if the child asks for a fish, will the parent give the child a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Abba which is in heaven give good things to them that ask? Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that people should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. Enter ye in at the straight gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be who go in thereat. Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, few there be that find it. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do people gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, ‘Master, Master’, shall enter into the realm of heaven; but the one that doeth the will of my Abba which is in heaven, that one shall enter the place of peace.
Femily: David’s Ancestors
Who were David’s ancestors? At some time in the Mid-east, there was a mixture of people. David sprang from the tribe of Judah, from which we get the name for the Jews. Before we used the name ‘Judean’, early people called them Gudeans. These Gudeans lived back in the hills, where they had fled when other warlike people took over the farmable lowlands. David was described as ruddy, handsome, and musical. About 30 thousand years back, there was a red-haired group of people called Neanderthals, who may have inter-married with the black haired people who had moved into the Near East territory. Another red-head described in the Bible was Esau who was the twin brother of Jacob. They were the sons of Isaac and Rebecca. The red-haired genes also are still present in the hills of Spain and the island of Ireland. Geneticists have yet to discover if red-haired people and Neanderthals have other genes in common, besides the red hair.
King David was a remarkable leader. He was credited with the Psalms and with killing the Giant Goliath. The Psalms may have been sung in Egypt or composed by people who crossed a turbulent sea and marched across the Negeb wilderness. The story about Goliath may have been told about some other hero previous to David, but some past events became associated with David as the great leader of the Israelites. As such a leader, David and his son Solomon were encouraged to keep large harems, and be the progenitors of a vast number of descendants. Brigham Young led the Mormons in Utah following the multi-wives pattern, and also used music written by other God-serving people to inspire his followers. Many Jewish people today can trace their heritage back to King David. Greeks can claim to be in the line of Pericles. Native Americans are proud to proclaim Mayan ancestry.
David and his ancestors were also the ancestors of Jesus Christ. We do not often think of Jesus as being a descendant of Noah, and thus perhaps having Native Americans as his ancestors. We do not think of our Catholic beliefs as springing from many roots such as the Goddess Maya, mother of the seven sisters in the Pleiades Constellation; or from the Hindu Shiva whose name became the Hebrew Yeshua, or Jesus, or Savior in English.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks of good trees and corrupt trees. Trees may be likened to the various world religions. Some religions deteriorate and miss Jesus’ message of love. Their adherents may all go to Guiana or some far off place and drink poison and die. Some of the misinformed may come to believe that if they do terrorist bombing, they will go straight to heaven. Some others may feel that if they deal wisely in the stock market, they will be blessed with abundance on earth. The tree in the center of the Garden of Eden may represent our evolutionary destiny.
Jesus, as descended from David was in line for the kingship of Israel. His mother, Mary, could rightly be considered as Royal Queen Mother. Jesus calls us to do the will of the Creator God, who is like an Abba or loving ancestor to Jesus and to us. What are we in this evolutionary line of royalty?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Fifth Sunday of Lent - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1: Ezekiel 37:12-14
Therefore prophesy and say unto them, “Thus saith your God:— Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. Then ye shall know that I am the Creator, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves. I shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land. Then shall ye know that I your God have spoken it, and performed it, saith your God.”
Responsorial Psalm is #130:1-8
Response: With God there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.
Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O my God.
Loving God, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.
Response: With God there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.
If thou, Great God, shouldest mark iniquities, O God, who shall stand?
But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.
Response: With God there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.
I wait for you, my God; my soul doth wait, and in God’s word do I hope.
My soul waiteth for God more than they that watch for the morning, more than they that watch for the new day.
Response: With God there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.
Let Israel hope in our God, for with God there is mercy, and with God there is plenteous redemption.
And God shall redeem Israel from all their iniquities. Out of the depths I cry to you, my God.
Response: With God there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.
Reading 2 is from Romans 8:8-11
To be spiritually minded is life and peace, and the carnal mind has enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if any person have not that Spirit, they are none of Christ’s. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Holy Spirit that raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the One that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by the Spirit that dwelleth in you.
Gospel is from Matthew 8:5-13
And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, and saying, “Master, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.” And Jesus saith unto him, “I will come and heal him.” The centurion answered and said, “Master, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this person, ‘Go.’ and they go; and to another, ‘Come,’ and they come; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and they doeth it.” When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, “Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And I say unto you, “That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the realm of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” And Jesus said unto the centurion, “Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee.” And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.
Femily: Where Does God’s Spirit Dwell
Does it dwell in the justice and prison systems of the world? Does it dwell in the persons willing to invite the Spirit into their hearts? Ordinary people, perhaps the whole of humanity has the opportunity at this moment in time to act in the name of the Holy Spirit and to direct the evolution of justice and prison systems.
Some people believe they are acting in the name of the Holy Spirit when they use their authority to order others into conformity or obedience to unjust laws. Think of all those held in prison for the political convenience of dictators. We see many examples of misguided ethics, such as soldiers and sailors claiming land in the name of their king. These soldiers and sailors believed their king was the representative of God on earth. The Native Americans have a different belief that the land belongs to all. Who owns the land? Perhaps the deer own the land. The soldiers and sailors came to believe that planting a cross on a faraway island justified killing people. If you felt threatened by indigenous residents, you could use whatever power necessary to subdue them. If we have guns or nuclear weapons, are we allowed to use them on the people who disagree with us?
Does carrying a gun make you a leader? Or an oppressor?
Then there are the ethical values represented by the sex traders. Our governments have made laws against sex trading in our countries and between our country and other countries, but there is failure in enforcement. We have evolved with sexual urges; we must learn to control our urges and to respect other people.
CURE objectives include the transformation of both justice and prison systems. How are these objectives to be accomplished? The means would be different in different countries and in various situations. One method would be useful in refugee camps or invaded countries such as the Gaza Strip.
There should be a workshop in every U.S. diocese on justice and forgiveness. What are the CURE objectives? The U.N. could be more involved in legalities of the sex trade and immigration legislation.
Sixth Sunday of Lent (Palm Sunday) - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 50:4-7
The Great God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to them who are weary. God wakeneth me morning by morning; he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. Our Good God hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious; neither did I turn away. I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair. I hid not my face from shame and spitting. For the Good God will help me; therefore I shall not be confounded. Therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.
Responsorial Psalm is #22:8-9, 17-24
Response: My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? O my God, I cry in the day time, but thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent. But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. Our ancestors trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded.
Response: My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people. All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, ‘He trusted in God that he would be delivered; let God deliver him, seeing God delighted in him.’
Response: My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
But thou art the God that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother’s breasts. I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother’s belly. Be not far from me; for trouble is near and there is none to help. Many bulls have compassed me; strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round. They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion. I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd; my tongue cleaveth to my jaws, and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.
Response: My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
For dogs have compassed me; the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. All my bones are numbered. They look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture. But be not thou far from me, O God, my strength; haste thee to help me. Deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog. Save me from the lion’s mouth, for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorns.
Response: My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
I will declare thy name unto my brethren. In the midst of the congregation will I praise thee. Ye that fear God, praise God; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify God; and worship God, all ye the seed of Israel. For God hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted. Neither hath God hid God’s face from the afflicted; but when they cried unto God, God listened. My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation. I will pay my vows before them that fear God. The meek shall eat and be satisfied. They shall praise God that seek righteousness. Your heart shall live for ever. All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto God, and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee. For the realm is God’s: and God is governor among the nations.
Response: My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
The poor shall eat and be full and live in hope; all they that go down to the dust shall worship. Many shall come and declare what has taken place and proclaim righteousness unto a people that shall be born.
Reading 2 is from Philippians 2:6-11
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let all esteem others better than themselves. Christ came from God, but did not try to remain equal with God, but gave up everything and became a servant, becoming like one of us. Being found in the fashion of a human, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus is Messiah and Redeemer, to the glory of God, for it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do what is good.
Gospel is from Matthew 26:14-27, 66 and 27:11-55
(26:14) Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, and said unto them, “What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you?” And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver, and from that time Judas sought opportunity to betray Jesus. Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread, the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover?” And Jesus said, “Go into the city to such a person, and say, ‘The Master saith:— My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples.’” And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them; and they made ready the passover. Now when the evening was come, Jesus sat down with the twelve. And as they did eat, Jesus said, “Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.” Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; but found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, and said, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.’” (26: 65) Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, “He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? Behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. What think ye?” They answered and said, “He is guilty of death.” Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands, saying, “Prophesy unto us, thou Christ; who is the person that smote thee?” (27:11) And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, “Art thou the King of the Jews?” And Jesus said unto him, “Thou sayest.” And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, Jesus answered nothing. Then said Pilate unto him, “Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?” And Jesus answered Pilate never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly. Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would, and they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, “Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?” For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, “Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.” But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask for Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. The governor answered and said unto them, “Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you?” They said, “Barabbas.” Pilate saith unto them, “What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ?” They all say unto him, “Let him be crucified.” And the governor said, “Why, what evil hath he done?” But they cried out the more, saying, “Let him be crucified.” When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, “I am innocent of the blood of this just person; see ye to it.” Then answered all the people, and said, “His blood be on us, and on our children.” Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers, and they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. When they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand; and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head. And after they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to be crucified. As they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name, whom they compelled to bear Jesus’ cross. When they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, they gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall; and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots; that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, “They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.” And sitting down they watched him there. They set up over his head his accusation written, “THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” There were two thieves crucified with Jesus, one on the right hand, and another on the left. They that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, saying, “Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.” Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, “He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God; let God deliver him now, if God will have him: for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” The thieves also, which were crucified with Jesus, cast the same in his teeth. Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. About the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is to say, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, “This man calleth for Elias.” And straightway one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink. The rest said, “Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.” Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom, and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent, and the graves were opened, and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, “Truly this was the Son of God.” Many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him, among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children. When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus’ disciple. He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock; and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed. And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, saying, “Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, ‘He is risen from the dead,’ so the last error shall be worse than the first.” Pilate said unto them, “Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.” So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.
Femily: Obedient Servants
The apostles in Palestine were confronted with a tragic situation. Catholic Church leadership today is being confronted with calamities. Perhaps this is the time to reintroduce and apply the forgiveness philosophy of Jesus to the problems of the world. Some of God’s people are in positions of authority, and some of those people believe in the ability of followers of Jesus to order healings and blessings and perhaps even punishments on the spur of the moment. What can lay people do about excommunications announced by the Pope? Is each person responsible for their own excommunication or removal from the community? Do lay people remove themselves? Are lay people expected to generate their own individual consciences?
The readings for Palm Sunday confirm the punishment philosophy of our justice systems. Luke has Pilate saying, “This person has done nothing that deserves death, so I shall have him flogged, and then let him go.” Justice systems were defective in Jesus’ time and are still quite defective today. In Jesus’ time even those who were innocent got flogged. Today the innocent may spend twenty years in prison and may even get the death penalty, as Jesus received the death penalty.
The crisis in our church might be solved by a leadership team that can transform our present system of punishment into a system based on forgiveness and fulfillment, an evolutionary thrust as spoken of by Teilhard and Kung. This would be a secondary justice system that could be under or act beside national or state laws. We have examples of such effective systems in our county mediation groups, in the Truth and Reconciliation Tribunals in Rwanda, in Native American and Native African tribal justice, in small church fellowships that welcome back the sinner, and in the Bible (I Corinthians 6:1-8) where accusers are advised to take their disputes to be settled by reliable members of their community. Reliable church members who could be facilitators should consist of a team of two.
We must not forget or ignore the victims, and today many are diligently working on the perfection of the treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and various other traumas. There seems to be value in the victim being listened to, by a sympathetic audience. What can the Catholic Community do to ease the pain of the victims? Where is the place of healing, such as Lourdes, where the damaged soul can be repaired? It is not fair for the Catholic laity to pay large sums of money for settlements and lawyers because of the misdeeds of some priests and the cover-up by some bishops. Besides, money payments do not always result in forgiveness of the perpetrator by the victim. Seeing the electrocution of the person who killed someone you love, does not lift the weight from your heart. Can the Catholic Church develop a Fulfillment Program or a Forgiveness Workshop that will restore the trust of the victims?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Easter Sunday, Vigil Mass - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
See Matthew for Vigil Mass, Morning Mass for Mark, Evening Mass Luke, John for Mass Early in the Day
Reading 1: Romans 6:3-11
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of God, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ the Messiah. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
Responsorial Psalm: 118: 1-2, 16-17, 22-23
Response: This is the day that God has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
O give thanks unto God; for God is good: God’s mercy endureth for ever.
Let Israel now say, that God’s mercy endureth for ever.
Response: This is the day that God has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
The right hand of God is exalted: the right hand of God doeth valiantly.
I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of God.
Response: This is the day that God has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
The stone which the builders rejected has become the corner stone.
This is God’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.
Response: This is the day that God has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Reading 2: Colossians 3: 1-4
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
The Gospel Is From Matthew 28:1-10
In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of God descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it, with countenance like lightning, and raiment white as snow: For fear of the angel the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. And the angel said unto the women, “Fear ye not; for I know that ye seek Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here, for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where Jesus lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him. Lo, I have told you.” And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, “All hail.” And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them, “Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.”
Femily: An Easter Message from Buddha
The Gospel tells us about the heavy stone being rolled away from the tomb, a notable and necessary event to have happen for a resurrection. How thrilled the women must have been to see this miracle! Reading 1 (from Romans Chapter 6) talks about the body of sin being destroyed. This sounds like the Buddhist teaching about purity of mind, body, and soul. Reading 2 (from Colossians 3) advises us to set our minds on things above.
We often see a picture of Jesus carrying a lamb on his shoulder. This lamb story was spoken about 500 years before Jesus, with an explanation about sacrifice and non-violence. Here is a story about Buddha from the discourses of Sathya Sai Baba at: <http://www.cosmicharmony.com/Av/Buddha/Buddha.htm>
“One day Gautama Buddha saw sheep being driven to be slaughtered at a Yajna (sacrifice). He tenderly lifted a sweet little lamb on his shoulder and followed the sheep to the special enclosure where the ruler of the State was performing the Yajna. On being told that the ceremonial killing of the lamb will bring great good to the ruler and the state, Buddha said, “Of course you must admit that a man, a prince, a monk is much more valuable than a tiny trivial lamb. Kill me and win merit, a hundredfold”, and advised him about the inner weaknesses and vices that are symbolized by the victims of the Yajna. Buddha argued him out of his false attachment to the paltry benefits promised for ritual correctitude. He told him that the prayer that rose from every Indian at sunrise and sunset was “Let all beings attain happiness”. To kill so that you may live longer and with fuller joy is a reprehensible act, Buddha declared. You have to sacrifice, not a bleating sheep, but your own animality, the bestial lust and greed, hate and malice. Sacrifice these and you earn the heaven of unflinching peace.
Buddha, before he attained Nirvana, summoned his step-brother Ananda to his side to impart his last message. Ananda was the son of Gautami (Buddha’s step mother). Placing his palm on the head of his younger brother, Buddha said: “My dear child! I came to the world to teach Truth. If anyone asks “Where is God?” the answer is “He is everywhere” Truth is God. Speak the Truth. Do not harm anyone. Recognize that the highest Dharma is non-violence (Ahimsa). This truth is proclaimed in the scriptures in the exhortation: “Speak the truth. Speak what is pleasing”. Buddha told Ananda that this truth was learnt by him from his own experience. He said: “When I left the palace, my father (the King) was told that I was doing a great wrong in renouncing the family. My parents, kinsmen, and others tried to put pressure on me to return to the ties of family life. These wrong efforts on their side made me more determined to pursue the spiritual path. Today I have found the truth about life. What is it? The sanctification of the five senses is the way of Truth. If the senses are polluted, of what avail are spiritual exercises? When the water in a tank is polluted, all taps will only give polluted water. Your heart is the tank. Keep it pure through purity of vision, thought, speech, and action.
Among the teachings of the Buddha to the world, the foremost was “Ahimsa” (not causing harm to anyone). Non-violence is not merely refraining from inflicting injuries on others with one’s limbs or weapons. Non-violence has to be practised with purity of mind, tongue, and body. There should be no ill feelings which is a form of violence. To cause harm to others through the body is also violence (Himsa). No one should be harmed even by speech. The speech should be sweet, pleasing and wholesome. All actions should be helpful to others.
The Buddhist prayer must be properly understood. The real meaning of the prayer is: You must divert your mind (Buddhi) towards Dharma (right conduct). And the right conduct should aim at serving society. When this is done, society gets purified. It is not enough to read the lives of Avatars and Messiahs. Their teachings should be put into practice as much as possible. People must outgrow their material attachments and develop divine love.”
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies. Ask that the nations would “beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks.”
Second Sunday of Easter - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1: Acts 2:42-47
The people continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in the breaking of the bread, and in prayers. Fear came upon every soul as many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things in common; they sold their possessions and goods, and passed them out to the others, as every person had need. They, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favour with all the people, and God added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
Response: The stone which the builders rejected has become the corner stone.
Let Israel now say, that God’s mercy endureth for ever.
Let them now that fear God say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
Response: The stone which the builders rejected has become the corner stone.
They thrust sore at me that I might fall: but God helped me.
God is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.
Response: The stone which the builders rejected has become the corner stone.
The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous.
The right hand of God doeth valiantly. This is God’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.
Response: The stone which the builders rejected has become the corner stone.
Reading 2: 1 Peter 1:3-9
Blessed be the God and Abba of Jesus Christ, which according to abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations; that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
Gospel is from Matthew 8:23-27
Jesus entered into a ship, and his disciples followed him. Behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves. But Jesus was asleep. His disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, “Rabbi, save us; we are perishing.” Jesus saith unto them, “Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?” Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the shipmates marvelled, saying, “What manner of human is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!”
Femily: There Was A Storm
In the stormy environment of first century Israel, the personality of Jesus stood out as a healer and a promoter of non-violence. His voice against the storm caused his followers to cry out, “What manner of human is this?” One thing different about Jesus was that he was in the royal line of the stand-out King David. Another piece of information is that Jesus was a Nazarean.
Nazareth may have referred to a town, and the title on the cross (Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews) may have been merely to distinguish Jesus from some other Jesus from another city. However, if it is only a geographical location, it is strange that Jesus’ disciples are called Nazareans in Acts 24:5 when it is more likely that they were from Capernaum or other towns. The words Nazarean sect in this quote from Acts are used rather derogatorily.
On the other hand the title Nazarean appears to be a title of honor in other Biblical quotes. We have the splendid angel of Mark 16:6 pronouncing, “You seek Jesus the Nazarean!” (It is improper to translate this as Jesus of Nazareth. The Greek gives the adjectivial noun and uses “the”.) When the patrol from the chief priests comes upon Jesus in the garden (John 18:5), they are respectfully seeking Jesus the Nazarean. They fall on the ground. The gospel author would not have them use a debasing term at this serious moment.
We can make a brief analysis of Nazarean words used in the New Testament. In going through the Greek New Testament and examining the Nazarean words, we find them to be of three main types. First is the name of the town, usually given as Nazareth. Second, there is the word which is best written as Naz-a-rean. Third, there is a word which is very similar to the second, but is more like Naz-o-rean.
Taking the Gospel of Mark first, as it is probably the oldest, we find one mention of the town (Mark 1:9) and four of the Naz-a-rean type (1:24, 10:47, 14:67, 16:6). Matthew has two mentions of the town (2:23 and 21:11) and a Naz-o-rean word at 26:71. Luke has three mentions of the town of Nazareth (1:26, 2:39, 2:51) and one of the town of Nazara (4:16). Luke has one mention of Naz-a-rean (4:34), but this is copied from Mark’s story of the demoniac (Mark 1:24) and uses the Greek vocative that Mark employs. Luke 18:37 uses Naz-o-rean, and Luke 24:9 is found in different Greek manuscripts as both Naz-o-rean and Naz-a-rean. John uses the name of the town (1:45, 1:46) and his other mentions are all of the Naz-o-rean type (18:5, 18:7, 19:19). Acts uses only the Naz-o-rean word (2:22, 3:6, 4:10, 6:14, 22:8, 24:5 plural, 26:9) and names the town in 10:38. Fairly consistently we find that early mentions lean towards the Naz-a-rean word, and later on in Jesus’ ministry, or in the life of the church, the Naz-o-rean word is preferred.
Besides being a Canaanite offering, wine was on the questionable list, as it could affect the mind, and thus make a person less capable of serving and praising God. Also related to the mind, was the shaving of the hair of the head. The hair is very close to the thinking apparatus, and earlier peoples saw a relationship between a full head of hair and an active brain willing to serve God. Hair had a similar symbolism to blood. Blood was the life of the body; hair proved the strength of the mind. We are told of Absalom’s long flowing hair and the weight of it (II Samuel 14:26).
This Greek naz(a/o)rean variance may be explained as due to two different meanings coming from two similar Aramaic words such as carpenter and teacher. It may also be explained as due to two very similar root words, nasar and nasora. The Aramaic word nasar or nasrana may have an ending related to the Aramaic word gamrana (derived from gemar) having to do with teaching the traditional law. The second word nasora may be related to the Aramaic amora meaning a teacher who explains. In his early ministry, Jesus may have been thought of as a traditional Hebrew teacher; in his later ministry his reputation may have been upgraded to that of a psychic or seer who taught the hidden things of God. Jesus “taught the people with authority,” and not like their usual scribes and teachers (Matt 7:29).
Further associated meanings of the word nazarean which followed the Christians northeast towards Syria, may stem from the Hebrew noseri, having to do with knowledge. In Jeremiah 31:6 the word noserim is translated as watchmen on the mountains of Ephraim. Another possible translation is heralds. Watchmen have knowledge of what is going on; heralds transmit this knowledge. The Hebrew word noserim can also be associated with the Greek word gnostic, also having connotations of knowledge. Thus, the followers of Jesus in the early centuries besides being termed Christians, were sometimes called Nazareans or Gnostics depending on the language of the area.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Third Sunday of Easter - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Readimg 1: Acts 2:14, 22-28
Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, “Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:— Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain. God hath raised up this Jesus, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be holden of death. For David speaketh concerning him, “I foresaw God always before my face, for God is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad. Moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope, because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life. Thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
Responsorial Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-11
Response: Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.
O my soul, thou hast said to God, “Thou art my God.
God is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.”
Response: Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.
The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage.
I will bless God, who hath given me counsel; my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.
Response: Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.
I have set God always before me. Because God is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
Therefore I am glad, and my heart rejoiceth. My flesh also shall rest in hope.
Response: Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.
For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Thou shew me the paths of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures forever.
Response: Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.
Reading 2 is from I Peter 1:16-21
It is written, “Be ye holy; for I am holy.” If ye call on the Creator, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every person’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot; who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by Christ do believe in God, that raised Jesus up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
Gospel is from Matthew 8:14-22
When Jesus was come into Peter’s house, he saw Peter’s wife’s mother laid, and sick of a fever. And he touched her hand, and the fever left her. She arose, and ministered unto them. When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils, and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, “Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses. Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side of the lake. And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, “Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.” And Jesus saith unto him, “The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” And another of his disciples said unto him, “Rabbi, suffer me first to go and bury my father.” But Jesus said unto him, “Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.”
Femily: What Is Important when Serving on the Altar
Peter commands us in the name of God, “Be ye holy, for I am holy.” Jesus tells us:—”Follow me and let the dead bury their dead.” These two quotes seem to command us to get off our duffs and go out and preach Jesus to the world. But does the world want women preachers? It seems that many persons feel that women do not have the proper genes to be preaching. What kind of chromosomes you have are very important when the church makes decisions about who will be allowed to preach homilies or raise the host above the altar.
One of the products of God’s creation is humanity, and one possible purpose for our existence might be to increase the amount of love in the world. God’s community, the church, was established to guide us to greater love, but the authoritarian church, with its rules and regulations, runs the risk of stifling love in some areas. When its rules forbid women to officiate on the altar, women become second class citizens, and this situation makes for a decrease of love in the world.
How the church prays, shows what the church believes. Lex orandi, lex credendi, the Latin phrase left over from the teenage years of the church, means literally that the law of praying is the law of believing. In our worship forms, we express our beliefs. When we worship only under the guidance of male priests, the belief that shows is that women are a lesser species, not equal with men in the sight of God. Actions speak louder than words, and liturgical actions speak loudly of male supremacy.
Those who lead our worship forms must be celibate males. To guide the community in remembering Jesus Christ properly, celebacy and maleness seem to be the most important items. The quality of love does not appear to be a necessary requirement. Observing this, women inwardly wonder why it is necessary to be a celibate male in order to lift high the cup of blessing. With each married episcopal priest that becomes a catholic, the question of ‘why celibacy` must ring loudly in the ears of the whole catholic community.
The majority of priests living today have been ordained believing that to be celibate is the single most important requirement of a viable priesthood. If you tell yourself day after day that celibacy is necessary, and that familiarity with women is dangerous for you, you are liable to develop lifelong attitudes that set you apart from the ordinary human being. This emphasis on celibacy might through the normal channels of repression make sex into something unclean, when it is one of God’s greatest gifts to humankind, and when it is an outstanding way for God’s love to flow from human to human. We probably owe much to the desert friars of the early Christian centuries for the debasement of women. Those of them who repressed all their human and ordinary feelings, naturally came up with a sub-conscious full of seductive women, that made them all the more sure that the devil was in league with the female.
Celibacy can be a very positive action. There is much good in celibacy, and for some people it is the state of life to which God calls them, and in which they will find their fulfillment. However, celibacy is a very personal affair and should not be forced on anyone. Each human should be able to make up his/her own mind as to which state God calls him/her. Some find it is easier to serve God in the celibate state; others find that reinforcement from a loving spouse helps them to live a more christian life.
Celibacy is looked at by some practicioners as a trade-off. They believe that if you divert your loving impulses from your everyday human needs, then it is easier to love and to serve the whole human race. The average priest often homilizes the opposite opinion to his Sunday morning audience when he tells them to make peace within themselves before they rush out to reform the world. Paul sounds the same advice when he tells Timothy that a deacon should be able to keep their own family in line before they tackle church problems. It would be edifying if all priests were required to show evidence of being a good spouse or parent before they were allowed to advise others on family problems. Experience in caring and sharing seems like a more necessary requirement for the priesthood than celibacy.
There is sometimes the objection to non-celibate clergy on the grounds that catholic parishes can’t support a priest and his family. These objectors overlook the fact that all these parishes are supporting housekeepers, and that with a married priest, the parish would get the housekeeper free of charge. If priests were allowed to have children, the parish would also reap the benefits of the priest’s understanding of parenting, gained through his first hand struggles with being a parent. Yet being a parent doesn’t automatically make a person insightful; the celibate may have a loving understanding of children. There doesn’t seem to be a direct relationship between the quality of celibacy and a person functioning as a loving caring human being.
Women not only have to put up with the put down of being told that only celibate males can function on the altar. They automatically go along with sexist language in prayers and in readings. Our Bible was compiled by men, who carefully left out the Gospel according to Mary Magdalene and the book of Faith-Wisdom in which Jesus is quoted as saying that whoever the Spirit inspires, is divinely ordained to speak, whether man or woman.
Our Judaic-Christian heritage is replete with sexist put downs. The cult of circumcision was designed to keep power in the hands of the ‘good old boys’. The prophets who saw the unlovingness of this situation urged the circumcision of the heart. It is elevating to think of a circumcised heart, with its ego nipped in the bud, so that infection from selfish desires won’t set in and cause spiritual death. Even women can have circumcised hearts.
The Holy Spirit working in the early church managed to change the requirement of entry into the community from circumcision of the flesh to baptism, a visible sign applicable to both men and women. Women shared in the early governance and service of the community. As time passed and liturgies took shape, the dominant male took over the ceremonies, and women were advised to keep silence and to do the housekeeping chores.
Women’s hands are good enough to dust the altar, polish the paten, and fill the ciborium with wine. Her feet are good enough to walk all over the altar doing menial tasks. Her voice is good enough to be heard on the altar discussing the rituals of cleaning, but when it comes to telling the people that Jesus loves them as he told his friends to do, her vocal chords are considered to have the wrong number of chromosomes. Women are advised that Jesus was not female, and so they cannot expect to facilitate his worship.
If it is a case of having a body like Jesus, perhaps we ought to consider other characteristics, such as fatness or thinness, color of hair and eyes, whether one is extrovert or introvert. One might even consider if the candidate for the priesthood is a gentle person with healing in their hands and love in their heart. If we are forced to consider chromosomes, we wonder how many priests of today have chromosomes like those of Jesus, who was totally human, but chemically (as the church would have it) derived from a human mother.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Fourth Sunday of Easter - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1: Acts 2:14, 36-41
Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, “Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words. Let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, “Good people, what shall we do?” Then Peter said unto them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as our God shall call.” And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, “Save yourselves from this untoward generation.” Then they that gladly received his word were baptized. The same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Responsorial Psalm: 139:7-13
Response: Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
Response: Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
Response: Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.
The darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day. Darkness and light are both alike to thee.
Response: Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
Reading 2 is from I Peter 2:20-25
For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? But if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called; because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps; who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth. When he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously. His own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness. By his stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
Gospel is from Matthew 8:28-33
When Jesus was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way. And, behold, they cried out, saying, “What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? Art thou come hither to torment us before the time?” And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding. So the devils besought him, saying, “If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine.” And he said unto them, “Go.” And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters. And they that kept them fled, and went their ways into the city, and told everything, and what was befallen to the possessed of the devils. And, behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus. When they saw him, they besought him that he would depart out of their coasts.
Femily: Poetry
Many parts of the Bible are like poetry. The Psalms are songs that early community members sang to praise God, and we still sing them today. Other parts of the Bible had portions that rhymed. When I was a child, I thought I could improve on the Bible by making some of the stories rhyme in English. I didn’t know that the biblical original was written, or spoken, in many different languages. Many versions of the Bible have been written. Many interpretations have been constructed, but still God’s word of compassion shines through, in spite of war stories, or religionists that thought the way they understood God was the way all members of the community should worship.
Here is a poem called Legion that I wrote on my interpretation of the pigs that committed suicide.
I dwell in the tombs beside the shore, and I roam in the mountains beside the sea.
And no one bothers me any more. They know they should not bother me.
They used to bind me up in chains, but like some dog upon the ground
I’d roll and break with little pain, the chains with which they had me bound.
But what is this? A man advances. It is a step, a face I know.
Yes, look! He’s giving friendly glances. I knew him once, quite long ago.
I’ll grab my chains and wave them wild. I’ll send an echo through the graves;
Then they will know I am no mild and friendly one who gently raves.
“Be wary! I am full of devils. They call me Legion for their horde.
They catch me with their terrible revels. I am not worth thy mercy, Lord.”
But if thou wilt; I see thou wilt; see yonder that vast herd of swine
Grazing on that grassy knoll; cast us there by power of thine.
Then sudden like a crash of thunder, I feel a new life full on me.
See there— the herd of swine assunder, dash violently into the sea.
The keepers rush into the town to tell those there what here befell,
And calm and clothed in a new gown, I sit at his feet, whole and well
For he had noticed me.
This might not be only the story of a miracle on a demented person. It also might refer to the Jewish custom of not eating pork. Those who keep pigs and eat pork are considered unclean by those of the opposite persuasion. Jesus came to help us accept each other’s diversity.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Fifth Sunday of Easter - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1:Acts 6:1-7
In those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, “It is not reasonable that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven persons of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. This saying pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch. They set these seven before the apostles, and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
Responsorial Psalm: 33:1-5, 18-19
Response: Great God, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
Rejoice in God, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.
Praise God with harp; sing unto God with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
Response: Great God, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
Sing unto God a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.
For the word of God is right; and all God’s works are done in truth.
Response: Great God, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
God loveth righteousness and judgment; the earth is full of the goodness of our God.
Behold, the eye of God is upon them that fear God, upon them that hope in God’s mercy;
Response: Great God, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
God will deliver their soul from death, and keep them alive in famine.
Our soul waiteth for God who is our help and our shield.
Response: Great God, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
Reading 2 is from I Peter 2:1-9
Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. If so be ye that have tasted that God is gracious, to whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious; ye also, as lively stones, are built up as a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, “Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious; and those who believeth on him shall not be confounded.” Unto you therefore which believe, Jesus is precious; but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient; whereunto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
Gospel is from Matthew 12:1-8
At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck the ears of corn and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, “Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.” But he said unto them, “Have ye not read what David did, when he was hungry, and they that were with him; how he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you, that in this place is one greater than the temple. But ye do not know the meaning of, ‘I will have mercy, and not sacrifice,’ so ye have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of Man is greater than rules about the sabbath day.
Femily: Breaking Laws Made by Religious Specialists
Conscientious humanbeings are more wise than those who make pronouncements about the Sabbath or other churchly regulations. Pope Benedict wisely condemns abortion, but he does not consider that a man is always the root cause of an abortion, but men are not excommunicated for their initiation of a woman’s plight. Then we have the example of many Catholics who choose to follow their conscience about women’s ordination to the priesthood. But Catholic Church leaders feel that they are wiser about women and female leadership, even though women across the world are denied their human rights by patriarchal governmental laws that correspond to prejudicial church laws. Given due respect and polite hearing about their problems, the Sons and Daughters of Men and Women will be able to come up with wise solutions to earth’s problems. For instance, what do lay people think about celibacy?
One of the products of God’s creation is humanity, and one possible purpose for our existence might be to increase the amount of love in the world. God’s community, the church, was established to guide us to greater love, but the authoritarian church, with its rules and regulations, runs the risk of stifling love in some areas. When its rules forbid women to officiate on the altar, women become second class citizens, and this situation makes for a decrease of love in the world.
When the Pope sees no way to ordain women, he makes all women of the world seem a little less. It makes it OK for African women not to own property. It lets Iranian men not cupable when they have honor killings of their sisters.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Sixth Sunday of Easter - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1: Acts 8:5-8,14-17
Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them; and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John, who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit. (For as yet the Holy Spirit had fallen upon none of them as they were baptized only in the name of Jesus Christ.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Responsorial Psalm 66:1-7, 16, 20
Response: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy!
Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands; sing forth the honour of God’s name.
Say unto God, “Awesome art thou in thy works! Through the greatness of thy power thy enemies submit to thee.
Response: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy!
All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name.
Come and see the awesome works God is doing toward the children of human beings.
Response: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy!
God turned the sea into dry land; they went through the flood on foot. There did we rejoice in God.
God ruleth in power for ever; God’s eyes behold the nations. Let not the rebellious exalt themselves.
Response: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy!
Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what God hath done for my soul.
Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor taken mercy from me.
Response: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy!
Reading 2 is from I Peter 3:15-22
Sanctify God in your hearts, and be ready always to give an answer to every person that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God; being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit. By the Spirit also, Christ went and preached unto those in prison, which sometime were disobedient. There was longsuffering also in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water, when the land gave way. The like figure of the water of baptism does even now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
Gospel: Matthew 12:14-21 (servant of nations)
Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him. But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; and charged them that they should not make him known, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, “Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any person hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. All nations will place their hope in him.”
Femily: The Job of the Christian Servant
Jesus became the dutiful son and the obedient servant who gave his all, in order to save the nations through the practice of loving kindness.
What is the message that we can carry from Jesus to the nations? We can sing songs that advocate peace-building. We can carry the message of Jesus to those in prison, thus taking the Holy Spirit to those in prison. We can attempt to christianize both sentencing and the prison system. We can help to ease the pain of both victims of crime and victims of the prison system. We can transform the world as we come up against those systems that promote violence in our daily routine.
As responsible church members and members of the body of Christ, we can (taken from the 1978 Statement on Community and Crime of the United States Catholic Conference):
1. Foster Christian values through education, liturgy, and media. An example of action in this case would be to campaign against TV immorality by writing advertising sponsors of non-support.
2. Providing forums for the discussion of origin of types of crime and criminal justice issues. There could be a debate on capital punishment with a local politician.
3. Sponsoring discussions and developing materials on Christian approaches to reduce and prevent all types of crime. Child battering and wife battering, as well as non-violence programs could be aired in this category.
4. Organize exchanges between criminal justice professionals and citizens and ex-offenders about the problems, services and needs of the community. Have an ex-offender come to explain his needs.
5. Take a stand in regard to “white collar crime,” political bribery, and services for those living in poverty.
Then we might understand the joy of Philip when he was successful in preaching to the citizens of Samaria. We might sing with the Psalmist:— “Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands; sing forth the honour of God’s name. Say unto God, ‘Awesome art thou in thy works! Through the greatness of thy power thy enemies submit to thee.’ Let all the earth cry out to God with joy!”
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Ascension Thursday - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Acts 1:1-11
In my first account, Theophilus, I dealt with all that Jesus did and taught until the day he was taken up to heaven, having first instructed the apostles he had chosen through the Holy Spirit. In the time after his suffering he showed them in many convincing ways that he was alive, appearing to them over the course of forty days speaking to them about the reign of God. On one occasion when he met with them, he told them not to leave Jerusalem: “Wait, rather, for the fulfillment of my Abba’s promise, of which you have heard me speak. John baptized with water, but within a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” While they were with him, they asked, “Rabbi, are you going to restore the rule to Israel now?” His answer was: “The exact time it is not yours to know. The Father has reserved that to himself. You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes down on you; then you are to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, yes, even to the ends of the earth.” No sooner had he said this than he was lifted up before their eyes in a cloud which took him from their sight. They were still gazing up into the heavens when two men dressed in white stood beside them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking up at the skies? This Jesus who has been taken from you will return, just as you saw him go up into the heavens.”
Responsorial Psalm is #47:2-3, 6-9
Response: God mounts the throne to shouts of joy; a blare of trumpets for our God.
All you people, clap your hands, shout to God with cries of gladness.
For God, the Most High, the Awesome, is the great ruler over all the earth.
Response: God mounts the throne to shouts of joy; a blare of trumpets for our God.
God mounts the throne amid shouts of joy; our God, amid trumpet blasts.
Sing praise to God, sing praise; sing praise to our ruler, sing praise.
Response: God mounts the throne to shouts of joy; a blare of trumpets for our God.
The Ruler of all the earth, is God; sing hymns of praise.
God reigns over the nations; God sits on the holy throne.
Response: God mounts the throne to shouts of joy; a blare of trumpets for our God.
Reading 2 is from Ephesians 1:17-23
May the Great God, the Creator of All, grant you a spirit of wisdom and insight to know divinity clearly. May God enlighten your innermost vision that you may know the great hope to which God has called you, the wealth of God’s glorious heritage to be distributed among the members of the church, and the immeasurable scope of God’s power in us who believe. It is like the strength God showed in raising Christ from the dead and seating him at God’s right hand in heaven, high above every principality, power, virtue and domination, and every name that can be given in this age or the age to come. God has put all things under Christ’s feet and has made him thus exalted, the head of the church, which is Christ’s body. The fullness of God’s Spirit fills the universe in all its parts.
Gospel Matthew 28:16-20
Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. And, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Amen.
Femily: Creedal Reform
With talk about liturgy reform, is there also the possibility of creedal reform? The Nicene Creed of the Roman Catholic Church was pulled together at the Council of Nicaea held in Nicaea (present-day Iznik in Turkey) in 325 A.D. This first ecumenical council was convoked by and under the power and authority of the Roman Emperor Constantine I. The people of the Catholic Church who say this creed are hampered by the archaic language which can imply erroneous beliefs, even though 1700 years ago in the Latin language, something entirely different may have been on the male minds that created this dogma. Two important changes have taken place in our language and beliefs. We no longer must believe that God is a male person, and we no longer assume that the English word man means both men and women.
With such a biased gender-infected creed, it’s no wonder we are condemned to continue our patriarchal insinuations. We need revisions which incorporate the message of Jesus about an Almighty and All-Loving God. If we must have a creed, it would be more unifying to announce about one special human being bringing the message of love and forgiveness to earth.
To alleviate this confusion, first, I would like to replace all the male words with female words in the Nicene Creed. Then, secondly, I would like to replace all the male words with non-gender descriptions that seem to promote the message of Jesus. In either case, I do not believe that I will come up with belief statements that ring true. I am only trying to emphasize how many women may feel when they say, “For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven.” It is no wonder that the Roman Catholic Church remains so patriarchal, and anti-women-priests, when they have their congregates repeatedly affirm a male God.
Here is a creed with female over-emphasis:
We believe in one God, the Mother, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen.We believe in one Lady, Salvatia Christina, the only Daughter of God, eternally begotten of the Mother, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, one in Being with the Mother. Through her all things were made. For us women and for our salvation she came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit she was born of the Virgin Mary, and became woman. For our sake she was crucified under Pontius Pilate; she suffered, died, and was buried. On the third day she rose again in fulfillment of the Scriptures; she ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Mother. She will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and her Queendom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lady, the Giver of life, who proceeds from the Mother and the Daughter. With the Mother and the Daughter she is worshiped and glorified. She has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.
How does the male reader feel about his seeming exclusion? Now for a creed that de-emphasizes gender and uses words that promote the message of Jesus.
We believe in one God, the All-Loving, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, and of all that is seen and unseen. We believe in one human being Jesus Christ, the offspring of God whose mind was most open to the mind of God, and whose message of love and forgiveness most reflected the love and forgiveness of God. This human Jesus Christ was born of a special human Mary, by the power of the Holy Spirit, in order that all humanity might hear the gospel message. This Jesus was crucified; suffered, died, and was buried; and then rose to live in the hearts of those who would hear and act on the message of truth and compassion. Those who hear this gospel and share the goods of the earth with their fellow humans will partake in a holy community of mercy and salvation forever. We believe in an all-encompassing Holy Spirit which proceeds from God, gives life to all creation, and is willing to dwell in all human beings. This Holy Spirit has spoken through the prophets, lives with the communities that practice compassion and forgiveness, acts in us when we raise our hands to bless or help one another, comforts the dying, and gives us hope for the resurrection of the body and eternal life of the spirit.
These two attempts at creedal statements leave much to be desired, but they may help Catholic Christians to formulate just what they are believing when they recite the Nicene Creed. It might also help people to think about what they truly believe about their purposes and God’s purposes. To be a God for all the Earth and for all the Universe, God must be beyond male and female, beyond Rome, beyond Islam, beyond our earthly view of heaven, beyond Black Holes, and yet ‘closer than hands and feet, and nearer than seeing’.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies. Ask that the nations would “beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks.”
Seventh Sunday of Easter - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Acts 1:12-14
Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a Sabbath day’s journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
Responsorial Psalm is #27:1-4, 7-8
Response: I believe that I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living.
God is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? God is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
Response: I believe that I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living.
Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear.
Though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
Response: I believe that I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living.
One thing have I desired of God, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in God’s house all the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of God, and to enquire in God’s temple.
Response: I believe that I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living.
Hear, O God, when I cry with my voice. Have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
When thou saidst, “Seek ye my face,” my heart said unto thee, “Thy face, O God, will I seek.”
Response: I believe that I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living.
Reading 2 is I Peter 4:13-16
Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you. On their part Christ is evil spoken of, but on your part Christ is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. Yet if any one suffer as a Christian, let them not be ashamed; but let them glorify God on this behalf.
Gospel is Matthew 6:5-14
When thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are; for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of others. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Abba which is in secret; and thy Abba which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do; for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them; for your Abba knoweth what things ye have need of before ye ask. After this manner therefore pray ye:— Beloved Abba which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come; thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Abba will also forgive you.
Femily: Prayer and Forgiveness
“Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” I am sure you recognize these words. They are from The Lord’s Prayer as in Matthew 6, verses 12 and 13, according to the Confraternity Edition of the New Testament. This excerpt leads to two very important topics, forgiveness and evil. My objective is to stir you to think about these two topics and to think about how they relate to you and to our political leadership.
The whole prayer is a wonderful creation. It has been analyzed many times by many authorities, prayed by uncountable numbers of people, and given comfort to more uncountable numbers. Where did Jesus pull it from? Some pieces come from pre-Christian theology. One could write a book on just the words Our Father. Contrary to popular opinion, the word Father to describe God was used by many religious groups. Take the Roman God Jupiter. He was the father god of the early Romans. If you analyze the name Jupiter, it is divided into two parts. Ju is like the French word Dieu which means god, and piter is the Latin word pater which means father. So you see, just in the start of The Prayer, Jesus is addressing a rather universal idea of who God was in that culture.
The ending sections of The Lord’s Prayer also carry universal ideas or commentary about controversial topics of Jesus’ day, and of before Jesus’ day, and of our present day. Forgiveness and evil are two quantities that we try not to think about, but they lie pretty heavily in our subconscious and in our cultural environment. We can’t handle them. We don’t like their implications.
The first section I want to discuss is usually quoted thus, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” I remember listening to a friend say the Our Father. When she came to this section, she said, “Forgive us our trespasses,” and completely ignored the “as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Could it be that she subconsciously wanted God’s forgiveness badly, but didn’t want to have anything to do with giving forgiveness to others who she was very annoyed with? Isn’t that the way we all are? Forgiving others is a very difficult thing to do. In fact, all of us have someone that we remember with distaste or even try very hard not to think about at all. On the personal level, I do volunteer work in prison, and I find it very difficult when a prison official denies my entry into the prison or threatens my peacemaking objectives. I can brood over such behavior for days, and can only find some sort of temporary release in praying for his general welfare and fulfillment. I realize that my brooding is not good for my health, and that if I withhold forgiveness (according to this section of the Lord’s Prayer), God is going to withhold forgiveness from me. This is not just a statement in the prayer; it is a psychological truth. If we hold rancor in our souls, it will turn and wound our own soul.
Let’s look at this forgiveness clause on an international level. Suppose our previous president prayed this phrase, beseeching God to forgive him (George W. Bush and his personal misdeeds) as he, the President, forgave Saddam Hussein and Saddam’s personal misdeeds. There suddenly seems to be two levels to this act of forgiving and two types of sinning that is to be forgiven. Perhaps the president has forgiven Saddam’s personal actions, and consequently can expect God to forgive his personal actions. But on the level of international or authoritarian ethics, if one is president or king, one may be expected to execute God’s judgment and God’s justice. If one sees a leader persecuting his people, and one has the power to depose that leader, isn’t one duty bound to stop that persecution, by any means under his control, even to the dropping of 28,000 bombs?
Looking at this forgiveness situation from a personal level, one might believe that a president with such an unforgiving stance, is asking God to come after him and his country with an equal number of bombs. Looking at this from the more elevated level of power and authority, one might conclude that if George W. Bush did not attempt to overthrow such evil, he would be disobeying God. Perhaps there is one set of rules for the common people and another set of rules for political or religious leaders.
There are many sections of the Bible that justify violence. Take, for instance, I Samuel 15:3, “Go and strike down Amalek; … Do not spare him, but kill man and woman, babe and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and donkey.” There are more peaceable quotations such as Matthew 6:14, “If you forgive others their failings, your heavenly Father will forgive you yours; but if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive your failings either.” The Bible gives us images of both an angry God and a forgiving God. We and our leaders have a choice between punishment and restoration. We must give the issue careful consideration, and then make a responsible choice. Keep in mind that the Bible represents different cultures as tribes evolved from wandering nomads to city dwellers. Perhaps in their enthusiasm to be righteous, some of our political leaders are using the wrong method to fight the evil in the world.
Evil. What is evil? The next phrase of The Lord’s Prayer according to Confraternity version of Matthew, may give us an inkling as to what evil is. It reads, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” The Jerusalem Bible translates this same phrase as, “And do not put us to the test, but save us from the evil one.” We have a choice as to which translation we are to accept. Evil one sounds like a person. The single word evil sounds like general societal misbehavior, like the definition of an original sin because of our evolutionary heritage, like a problem we are not personally responsible for. For instance, some of my friends tell me that no one want to make war or drop bombs, but that’s the way our society is, and if you are going to get along in a particular society or church or community, you go with its culture and abide by its laws. As the saying goes, “Love America or leave it!” Sometimes I protest and say, “Don’t we have a responsibility to change the culture if we find it evil or full of temptations?”
From our quotes of The Lord’s Prayer, it sounds like temptation and evil have a connection. We ask not to be led into one, and we ask to be delivered from the other. I have heard people claim that they do not believe in evil. They say that God is a Process and in this process we continually make choices. Some of these choices are better than others. They quote Genesis 1:31 that says God made the whole earth and that it was good. They therefore conclude there is no such thing as evil. They believe that there is only good and more good, and we are doing very well if we choose what is more good. On the other hand, these same people do believe in temptation, that there are urgings floating around encouraging us to make less positive choices. “Lead us not into temptation,” and “do not put us to the test,” make it sound like God is responsible for whatever temptations or tests we come up against. There definitely are such things. What tests or temptations would you like to avoid? I would like to avoid being bombed or starved or imprisoned or crucified or from the temptation of using power over others. I pray that God will deliver me from such evils or from these lesser choices that human beings make.
Now that I have given you some thoughts on forgiveness and evil, I want to encourage you to meditate on these phrases from The Lord’s Prayer, to interpret for yourselves the meanings of the words, forgiveness and evil, and to decide what are temptations and tests to avoid. Another issue I raised that you might think about was whether or not world leaders should practice forgiveness, or bomb other people as special emissaries serving God’s justice. My last question to you is:- Are our society and culture OK and should we go along with the powers that be in an orderly fashion; or is our society heading in the wrong direction, and are we obliged to turn it in a direction that is more forgiving?
The decision is up to you.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Femily and Readings for Pentecost - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Acts 2:1-11
When the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every person heard them speak in their own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, “Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.”
Responsorial Psalm is #104:1, 24, 29-31, 34
Response: I will sing unto God as long as I live. I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
Bless the Great God, O my soul. O my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty.
O God, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all. The earth is full of thy riches.
Response: I will sing unto God as long as I live. I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled. Thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to dust.
Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created. And thou renewest the face of the earth.
Response: I will sing unto God as long as I live. I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
The glory of God shall endure for ever; God shall rejoice in all God’s works.
My meditation of God shall be sweet. I will be glad in our God.
Response: I will sing unto God as long as I live. I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
Reading 2 is I Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed. No person can say that Jesus is the Messiah, but by the Holy Spirit. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same God. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
Gospel from Matthew 6:19-21
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal, for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Femily: Building Loving Community
The human is often found being inhuman to other human beings. We need a proven method to build loving community. We repeat that the family ‘that prays together, stays together’, but that adage may not always hold true. There are differences of religion that affect community building in many countries. Iran is 99% Shi’ite; Iraq is 65% Shi’ite and 30% Suni; Syria and Saudi Arabia are Suni dominated. In the USA there are Fundamentalists that are at odds with other fundamentalists. Declaring war on a religious group only makes more terrorists and causes fear. When will Israel and U.S. politicos learn that by acting in a terrorist manner, you only create more terrorists? You don’t bomb other people’s countries. It’s not polite; it’s not Christian; and besides, they might retaliate. People still dream of a peaceful world. Communities have different needs. Older communities need cheaper health care. We should see older prisoners as employable tax-paying citizens and as contributing members of society.
Would all those who cause terror with their weapons be willing to relinquish their weapons? Let the women decide if they want guns in their homes. Let the Iraqi women decide if they want guns in their homes and cities. Suggest that homeowners put up big signs saying, NO GUNS IN MY HOME!
We can take our needs to God in prayer. We can ask for: 1- Moral elections that don’t exclude minorities and prisoners. 2- New political leadership here and abroad (making for feminine equality). 3- New religious leadership (rather, facilitation) that doesn’t promote celibacy. One reason given back in the Middle Ages for celibacy was to ensure that priests had no legal offspring who could inherit church property. Its main purpose was not to prevent priests from having sexual encounters.
Jesus is seated at God’s right hand. Who is seated at God’s left hand? If we are on the side of a peace-loving God, we have the freedom to be kind; the freedom to be generous. We can stop going down the pathway of punishment and oppression. We will our own creation and the creation of those around us. There is a degree of addiction (patterns of behavior) that we are willing to tolerate, but we have the ability to choose positive directions. We can pray for positive outcomes. By positive thinking, we can “lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven.”
What can we do for the stranger who lives within our territory. You can practice immigration law without being an attorney. Immigration Law and Immigrant Customs Enforcement (ICE) is very arbitrary and political. A treaty in the Senate prevails over domestic law. This means that if our country ratified the United Nations Human Rights Law, our immigration policy would have to be updated. Is the U.S. population giving up their freedom in the hopes of getting security? That’s a false hope! Closing down rights to protect the people only cancels more rights. Giving up freedom for security is inviting a police state. Taking care of the down-trodden is one way to have treasures in heaven.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
(The Mass order changes back to Ordinary Time. We are reminded of God’s loving care and reintroduced to the Spirit of Wisdom. Trinity Sunday and Corpus Christi take precedence over the Sundays of Ordinary Time. Second section of Ordinary Time runs from the day after Pentecost to the Saturday before the First Sunday in Advent.)
Trinity Sunday - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 10:1-2; 11:1-5
Woe to the legislators of infamous laws, to those who issue tyrannical degrees, who refuse justice to the unfortunate and cheat the poor among my people of their rights, who make widows their prey and rob the orphan. But one day a shoot shall sprout from the root of Jesse, and from this sprout a bud shall blossom. God’s Good Spirit shall rest upon that person, a Spirit of wisdom and understanding, a Spirit of counsel and of strength, a Spirit of knowledge and of reverence for God. Not by appearance shall that person judge, nor by hearsay, decide; but that one shall judge the poor with justice, and decide aright for the land’s afflicted. The ruthless shall be turned aside by words of wisdom; and by calmness and concern, the wicked will be transformed.
Responsorial Psalm is #23:1-6
The Blessed Spirit is my shepherd; I shall not want.
The Blessed Spirit makes me lie down in green pastures, and leads me beside the still waters.
The Blessed Spirit restores my soul, and leads me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of holiness.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;
for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;
thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life;
and I will dwell in the house of the Loving Creator for ever.
Reading 2 is from Hebrews 10:1-7
Gospel is Matthew 7:7-12
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and those that seeketh findeth; and to them that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what person is there of you, whom if their child ask bread, will they give him a stone? Or if they ask a fish, will they give that child a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Abba which is in heaven give good things to them that ask? Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that persons should do to you, do ye even so to them:- for this is the law and the prophets.
Femily: Don’t Be Afraid.
The best way to serve God is to be kind to your neighbor. God has not given us a Spirit of fear!
This femily is about fear-mongers. First, I will give you a definition for a Fear-monger. A monger is a dealer or trader, often a discreditable dealer whose price is not worth his goods. Many of our politicians are fear-mongers. They deal in fear. They will try to make us afraid of the immigrant by blaming immigrants for sexual offenses. However, immigrants are very unlikely to be sexual offenders. Your most usual sexual offender is someone in your own family taking advantage of another family member. Immigrants are usually law-abiding people; they do not want to break the law and be deported.
Fear-mongering politicians will try to make us afraid of the people in prison. They say, “These are evil unsalvable people; let us keep them in prison forever and throw away the key. Let us give them the death penalty.” In reality, prisoners are much like us. They are horrified by their crime, as we are horrified when we find ourselves losing our temper in a controversial incident. The majority of the incarcerated, given restorative programs, are able to reenter society successfully. As taxpaying citizens, we should support positive educational programs for the incarcerated, so that they will be job-ready when they have served their sentence.
Fear-mongering politicians with international issues will try to make us afraid of leaders of neighboring countries. This can lead to war, and to the death of many of our own citizens and those of the other country. The fear-monger assures us that he will take care of us, that we can trust in his judgment. We must resist the desire to believe in such assumptions; if we listen to such leaders, we are giving up our freedom to make our own decisions about ethical and political matters.
When you are confronted with a fear-mongering politician who is working on your gullibility, call his bluff by speaking out for peaceful and world-building alternatives. Remember the words of the angel to Mary in Luke 1:30! The angels at the tomb say it to the women. Jesus says in Matthew 10:26:- “Be not afraid!” Where did Jesus hear it? Jeremiah 1:8? Isaiah 43:5?
Then there is the quote, “Perfect love casts out fear.” and its antithesis, “Perfect fear casts out love!” Don’t let the politicians make you afraid. God has not given us a Spirit of fear; God has given us a Spirit of love.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Corpus Christi - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Exodus 34:4-6, 8-9
Moses hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and rose up early in the morning, and went up unto Mount Sinai, as God had commanded him. And God descended in a cloud, and stood with him there, and God spoke God’s Holy Name, and passed by before Moses, proclaiming, “I am God, the living God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” Moses bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped and said, “If now I have found grace in thy sight, O God, let Thyself, I pray thee, go among us; for we are a stiffnecked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for thine inheritance.”
Responsorial Psalm is #102:16-19
Response: God, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.
When God shall build up Zion, the prayer of the destitute shall be heard.
God will not despise their prayer.
Response: God, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.
God hath looked down from the height of heaven and beheld the earth.
To hear the groaning of the prisoner; to loose those that are appointed to death.
Response: God, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.
To declare the name of God in Zion, and God’s praise in Jerusalem;
When the people are gathered together, and the kingdoms, to serve God.
Response: God, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.
Reading 2 is from I Corinthians 14:1-5
Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto the people, but unto God; for other people do not understand the words. Howbeit in the spirit the person is speaking mysteries. But the person that prophesieth speaketh unto other people to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. Those who speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth themselves; but those that prophesieth edifieth the church. I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that ye prophesied; for greater are those that prophesieth than those that speaketh with tongues, except someone interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
Gospel is from Matthew 14:13-21
When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart. When the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities. And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, “This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals.” But Jesus said unto them, “They need not depart; give ye them to eat.” And they say unto him, “We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.” Jesus said, “Bring them hither to me.” And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled. They took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. They that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.
Femily: Body and Blood
“Jesus was moved to feed the multitude.” Jesus’ compassion also moved the multitude to have compassion on each other. Most women wouldn’t go out into a desert place without carrying some bread for their children. Often, if people gather together in a public place, they don’t trust each other enough to share their food. With Jesus in their midst, they became more sharing with one another, so that everyone had enough.
Jesus often spoke in metaphors. A metaphor is a word that stands for an idea that is hard to express. Jesus talks about bread and drink as his body and blood. He said, “This is my body; this is my blood.” These words are metaphors for Jesus so that Good Spirit can dwell inside you and prompt you to good actions. With Jesus near you and his message within your heart and mind, his good spirit can expanded outward to others. Jesus also saw himself or his spirit as a spring of water flowing into endless life to bring peace and justice to the world.
In the Exodus reading, Moses is also close to God. God tells him what to do. Does God or Abba or the Holy Spirit tell you what to do? Do you need a Good Spirit or Jesus next to you in order to give Good Spirit to others?
Then there is the matter of spiritual gifts and speaking in tongues. There are those people who speak in an accepted foreign language, and we know that they are speaking in French or German or Spanish, and if we do not know their language, we do not expect to understand them. However, there are times that we can understand them by the expressions on their faces. Then there are those who speak in unknown tongues. We may not know what they are saying, but, again, their faces reveal to us something of the glory of their thought. Then there are those who sing in a foreign language. We may not know the meaning of the words, but the music helps us to understand their thought.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. With Jesus near you, there is no need to fear. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 Hosea 6:3-6
Then shall we know, if we follow on to know God. God’s going forth is prepared as the morning; and God shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth. O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? For your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth; and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Responsorial Psalm is #50:1, 8, 12-15
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
The mighty God, even our God, hath spoken,
And called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.
Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
A fire shall devour before God, and it shall be very tempestuous round about God.
God shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that God may judge the people.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.
And the heavens shall declare his righteousness, for God is judge of Godself.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Reading 2 is from Romans 4:18-25
Abraham believed, hoping against hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, “So shall thy seed be.” Being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb. He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; being fully persuaded that, what God had promised, God was able also to perform. Therefore it was imputed to Abraham for righteousness. Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus Christ from the dead, this Jesus who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.
Gospel: Matthew 9:9-13
As Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom, and he saith unto him, “Follow me.” And Matthew arose, and followed Jesus. And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, “Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?” But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, “They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, ‘I will have mercy, and not sacrifice;’ for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
Femily: Mercy or Sacrifice?
Jesus wants us to figure out something. What can the voice of God possibly mean when it thunders, “I prefer mercy to sacrifice”? This is a very important question, particularly when many of us consider Jesus a sacrifice (to God) for the sins of the world. Perhaps the life of Jesus that demonstrated mercy and love were more important than his death?
Again, Jesus said, “They who are whole don’t need a physician, but they who are sick.” Could we respond that most priests don’t need a spiritual healer, because they have the advantage of a spiritual education? However, that answer is proving not to be true for many of those who believe they are preaching Jesus’ message. Who are the spiritually sick among us? We might consider those who have been sent to prison by a judge as spiritually ill. However, we are coming to believe that our laws often do not reflect true justice, and that many innocent persons are entrapped and put in prison.
If we are to follow Jesus’ example of eating with publicans and sinners, and we can’t figure out who are the just and the unjust, we will have to be a message of healing for all the people with whom we come in contact. That might turn out to be a lot of people when we consider the possibilities of Internet.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Exodus 19:2-6
The exiles departed from Rephidim, and were come to the desert of Sinai, and had pitched tents in the wilderness; and there Israel camped before the mount. And Moses went up unto God, and God called to Moses out of the mountain, saying, “Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel, ‘Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people, for all the earth is mine; and ye shall be unto me a community of priests, and an holy nation.’ These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.”
Responsorial Psalm is #100:1, 2, 3, 5
Response: Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands.
Serve God with gladness;
Come before God’s presence with singing.
Response: Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands.
Know ye that God is the Everlasting: it is God that hath created us, and not we ourselves;
We are God’s people, and the sheep of God’s pasture.
Response: Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands.
Enter into God’s gates with thanksgiving, and into God’s courts with praise.
Be thankful unto God, and bless God’s name.
Response: Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands.
For God is good; God’s mercy is everlasting;
And God’s truth endureth to all generations.
Response: Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands.
Reading 2 is from Romans 5:6-11
When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth God’s love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of Jesus, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by Jesus’ life. And not only so, but we also have joy in God through Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Gospel is Matthew 9:36—10:8
When Jesus saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion for them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. Pray ye therefore that the Master of the harvest will send forth labourers into the harvest.” And when Jesus had called unto him the twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these:- The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, “Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As ye go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils. Freely ye have received, freely give.”
Femily: Being Healers
O, wouldn’t we love to be a community of priests and priestesses and be considered a holy nation!? But what is the deal here? How does all the world get to be holy? Can’t you hear God shouting, “Come to me, my beautiful world! Come and be a holy world! Help me to keep my earth a holy place, where the sun shines gracefully, and the rains come in due season, and there are no floods, tsunamis, earthquakes, and disasters!”
God’s pasture is the earth, and God has given it to us. And what have we done with it? We have blown up Nagasaki and Hiroshima. We have thumbed our noses at God. We proclaim our greatness, and say, “See, God, just how powerful we are! You can make great cities, but we can destroy them. You can make a livable earth, but we can throw your gifts of water and air aside, thoughtlessly!”
What shall we do? The answer is in the gospel, “Preach, saying, ‘The Realm of God is near at hand.’ Heal the sick; cleanse the lepers, raise the dead.”
It is a little difficult to preach, but it is even more difficult to raise the dead. Perhaps we could work on those people who have undergone trauma, and are afraid to live. We all know someone who has undergone trauma.
The first disciples were requested to work within their own faith group of Israel. We of a later day might be wise to concentrate within our own faith group, and not rush out to convince terrorists of the error of their ways, when our ways are also so imperfect.
One action we can certainly take is to pray that there will be plenty of harvesters for the healing of those in trauma.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is Jeremiah 20:10-13
For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. Report, say they, and we will report it. All my familiars watched for my halting, saying, “Peradventure he will be enticed, and we shall prevail against him, and we shall take our revenge on him.” But God is with me as a mighty terrible one. Therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail. They shall be greatly ashamed; for they shall not prosper. Their everlasting confusion shall never be forgotten. But, O God of hosts, that triest the righteous, and seest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them, for unto thee have I opened my cause. Sing unto God, praise God; for God hath delivered the soul of the poor from the hand of evildoers.
Responsorial Psalm is #69:8-10, 14, 17, 33-35
Response: We are God’s people; the sheep of God’s flock.
I am become a stranger unto my brethren, and an alien unto my mother’s children.
For the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me.
Response: We are God’s people; the sheep of God’s flock.
When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach.
I made sackcloth also my garment; and I became a proverb to them.
Response: We are God’s people; the sheep of God’s flock.
They that sit in the gate speak against me; and I was the song of the drunkards.
But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O God, in an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy.
Response: We are God’s people; the sheep of God’s flock.
Deliver me out of the mire, and let me not sink: let me be delivered from them that hate me, out of the deep waters.
Let not the flood overflow me, neither let the deep swallow me up, and let not the pit shut her mouth upon me.
Response: We are God’s people; the sheep of God’s flock.
Hear me, O God; for thy lovingkindness is good: turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies.
Hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily.
Response: We are God’s people; the sheep of God’s flock.
Reading 2 is from Romans 5:12-15
Wherefore, as by one person sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all people, for that all have sinned. For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of the person that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one, many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one person Jesus, hath abounded unto many.
Gospel: Matthew 10:26-33
Jesus said to the disciples:- Fear them not therefore, for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light; and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; but rather fear the one which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Abba. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before people, them will I confess also before my Abba which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before people, them will I also deny before my Abba which is in heaven.
Femily: Do We Have Enemies?
Jeremiah had a lot of trouble with those people who saw him as a threat to their authority. Jesus tells us not to fear those who kill the body. Are we afraid of terrorists and their bombing plots? How can we cope with the violent people in our world? Perhaps we are all a little violent; and thus we should be able to figure out how to lessen violence as we find it in ourselves.
Do we like to have kind words spoken to us? Well then, why not speak kind words to others? Do we like good meals served to us? Then why not make sure that all the world has enough to eat?
Do we think the terrorists are crazy because they seem to like bombing others? Perhaps they don’t like being bombed. Perhaps we should stop making nuclear weapons. Perhaps the U.S. should stop sending drones over Afghanistan. Perhaps we could convince the young people in America that guns are used for killing people, and that there are better ways to treat people than destroying them.
Jesus tells us that we are more valuable than many sparrows. God loves the creation and the creatures that God made. Let’s take care of God’s creation and creatures. Then we won’t have to be afraid of what others or the natural world might do to us.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from II Kings 4:8-11, 14-16
It happened on a certain day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where there was an important woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread. And she said unto her husband, “Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually. Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick; and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in thither.” And it happened on a certain day, that Elisha came thither, and he turned into the chamber, and lay there. And he said to Gehazi his servant, “Call this Shunammite.” And when Gehazi had called her, she stood before him. And Elisha said unto Gehazi, “Say now unto her, ‘Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? Wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host?’” And she answered, “I dwell among mine own people and need for nothing.” And Elisha said, “What then is to be done for her?” And Gehazi answered, “Verily she hath no child, and her husband is old.” And Elisha said, “Call her again.” And when Gehazi had called her, she stood in the door. And Elisha said, “About this season, according to the time of life, thou shalt embrace a son.” And she said, “Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid.”
Responsorial Psalm is #89:2-3, 16-19
Response: Forever will I sing the goodness of God.
For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever:
Thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.
Response: Forever will I sing the goodness of God.
I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David my servant,
Thy seed will I establish for ever, and build up thy throne to all generations.
Response: Forever will I sing the goodness of God.
In thy name shall they rejoice all the day; and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted.
For thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn shall be exalted.
Response: Forever will I sing the goodness of God.
For God is our defence; and the Holy One of Israel is our leader.
Then thou spakest in a vision to thy holy one, and saidst, I have exalted one chosen out of the people.
Response: Forever will I sing the goodness of God.
Reading 2 is from Romans 6:3-4, 8-11
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of God, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him, knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once, but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ.
Gospel is from Matthew 10:37-42
That person who loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and the person who loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And the one that taketh not their cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. The person that findeth their life shall lose it; and the person that loseth their life for my sake shall find it. The person that receiveth you receiveth me, and the person that receiveth me receiveth the One that sent me. The person that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and the person that receiveth a righteous person in the name of a righteous person shall receive a righteous person’s reward. And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, that one shall in no wise lose his reward.
Femily: Respecting God
In the reading from the Book of Kings, the notable lady is told that she will have a son, and the rest of the story is that she did have a son, and at some point the son got sick and stopped breathing. Then Elisha came and brought the son back to life.
Sometimes God or prophets or ordinary people make us very happy. But we creatures have our ups and downs. The notable lady was good to the prophet, and he returned her kindness. But then her son died! The woman must have felt that the prophet let her down! The prophet must have felt that God let him down!
The Gospel from Matthew assures us that if we keep the faith, we can come out on the other side of trauma and distress.
This gospel gives us some clues as to how we should relate to God and to prophets. We are not to place our parents or our children above our respect for God. We are to take up whatever burdens we might have and follow God’s directions. If we die while doing true service to God, we shall find true life. If you take care of prophets and give honest respect to righteous people, you will receive a heavenly reward from those you have respected. Those who are kind to children, especially those who care for starving African children, will surely be rewarded. If people keep working on it, the earth and its people will be transformed.
Do we place our children or our parents above our respect for God? When we copy immodest teen age styles, and don’t curtail the budgets of our children who imitate what their teen age heroines do and say, we are letting go of injunctions that might profit our souls.
When we put our parents in nursing homes when we could get nursing help for them and keep them in the home they are accustomed to, we are not thinking as kindly as we could.
When we want to keep our religious and social customs the way they are instead of following a course that might help the whole earth, then we are not respecting God.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Zechariah 9:9-10
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem. Behold, thy ruler cometh unto thee, who is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. And God will cut off the chariot from Ephraim, and the horse from Jerusalem, and the battle bow shall be cut off; and the ruler shall speak peace unto the heathen. The ruler’s dominion shall be from sea even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth.
Responsorial Psalm is #145:1-2, 8-11, 13-14
Response: I will praise your name forever, my Creator and my God.
I will extol thee, my God and Ruler; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.
Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.
Response: I will praise your name forever, my Creator and my God.
God is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
God is good to all, and God’s tender mercies are over all God’s works.
Response: I will praise your name forever, my Creator and my God.
All thy works shall praise thee, O God; and thy saints shall bless thee.
They shall speak of the glory of thy realm, and talk of thy power;
Response: I will praise your name forever, my Creator and my God.
To make known to the people God’s mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of God’s realm.
Thy realm is everlasting, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.
Response: I will praise your name forever, my Creator and my God.
Reading 2 is from Romans 8:9, 11-13
Ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if any person have not the Spirit of Christ, that person is none of Christ’s. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of God that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, God that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by God’s Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, sisters and brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die; but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
Gospel is from Matthew 11:25-30
At that time Jesus answered and said, “I thank thee, O Abba, Maker of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Abba; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered unto me of my Abba; and no person knoweth the child, but the parent; neither knoweth any person the Abba, save the Son, and those to whomsoever the Son will reveal the loving Abba. Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Femily: Help from the Holy Spirit
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew gives us The Great Invitation, and who can refuse such a warm hearted proposition?
Is the just ruler of Jerusalem really on the way today to get the horses, chariots, and battle gear out of Jerusalem?— Not so you would notice it. The reading from Romans again assures us that if we have the Spirit of God or the Spirit of Christ, we will be enlivened to do all sorts of righteous actions.
How can God resist our prayers for peace between Israel and Palestine? In the Psalms the Jewish people sing of God’s mighty acts. We need new songs for today that tell how the God of all the Universe is egging us on to love one another, and to forget our questionable religious differences in easing each other’s burdens.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 55:10-11
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” saith our Creator, “for as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth. It shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
Responsorial Psalm is #65:10-13
Response: The seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest.
Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly; thou settlest the furrows thereof.
Thou makest it soft with showers: thou blessest the springing thereof.
Response: The seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest.
Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; and thy paths drop fatness.
They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness: and the little hills rejoice on every side.
Response: The seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest.
The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn;
They shout for joy; they also sing.
Response: The seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest.
Reading 2 is from Romans 8:18-26
I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For with earnest expectation, the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the children of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of God who hath done it this way in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope; but hope that is seen is not hope, for what a person seeth, why doth they yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Gospel is from Matthew 13:1-9
The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, “Behold, sowers went forth to sow; and when they sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up. Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth, and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth; and when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them. But other seed fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Femily: The Good Seed
The seed that fell into good ground must have had help from somewhere. I think the Good Seed was born into a family that had two loving parents. These parents were energetic and had jobs that enabled them to put food on the table. When their children were old enough, they went to grade school, and to highschool, and then to college.
Then we have the seed that fell among thorns. They lived in a drug infested neighborhood, where guns were traded. They began to sell drugs themselves. They had no job skills and became very discouraged.
Now actually all the seed was good; it was just where the seed fell that was the problem. How can we make all the environments of the earth into places where little seeds can grow into flourishing plants?
What do you think about this Spirit that the Bible readings keep talking about? Do you think that the same Spirit that had to do with Jesus rising from the dead, is willing to dwell somehow inside people? If you don’t believe it, why don’t you believe it?
Perhaps all the seed, no matter what the ground where they fall, need the help of the Holy Spirit in order to succeed. Holy Spirit, fall afresh on us. We all need your help.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Wisdom 12:13, 16-19
For there is no god other than you who cares for everything, to whom you might have to prove that you never judged unjustly. Your justice has its source in strength; your sovereignty over all makes you lenient to all. You show your strength when your sovereign power is questioned, and you expose the insolence of those who question. But though you are master of might, you judge with clemency, and with much lenience do you govern us. You taught your people, by your example, that those who are just, must be kind. You gave your people good ground for hope that after sin you will grant repentance.
Responsorial Psalm is #86:5-6, 9-12, 15-16
Response: God, you are good and forgiving.
For thou, O God, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.
Give ear, O God, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications.
Response: God, you are good and forgiving.
All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O God; and shall glorify thy name.
For thou art great, and doest wondrous things; thou art God alone.
Response: God, you are good and forgiving.
Teach me thy way, O God; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.
I will praise thee, my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore.
Response: God, you are good and forgiving.
But thou, O God, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.
Turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the child of thine handmaid.
Response: God, you are good and forgiving.
Reading 2 is from Romans 8:26-27
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And the One that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, and maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Gospel is from Matthew 11:25, 13:24-29, 13:36-43
At that time Jesus said, “I thank thee, O Abba, Creator of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a farmer which sowed good seed in her field. But while everyone slept, an enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and then went away. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, “Madam, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field; from whence then hath it tares?” She said unto them, “An enemy hath done this.” The servants said unto her, “Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?” But she said, “Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, ‘Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them; but gather the wheat into my barn.’” … Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, “Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.” Jesus answered and said unto them, “The one that soweth the good seed is the Son of humanity; the field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; the enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of humanity shall send forth angels, and they shall gather all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the heavenly realm. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.”
Femily: Wheat, Apples, and Evil
Are we tares? When we look around us, we can see the wheat and the tares growing together.
I feel kind of sorry for the tares, because they have been sown by the devil. They may not have wanted to be tares at all. They surely wanted to be the best kind of plant available and useful to humankind. If they thought about it, they probably recognized that they were jealous of the wheat.
But the farmer recognizes that the tares have a part to play in the scheme of things. If they get pulled up, they will take the wheat with them.
Is that the explanation for evil? If we didn’t have evil, there might be no reason to be good.
Let’s look at the problem from a slightly different viewpoint. Consider worms in apples. Humankind has been working a long time to make a perfect apple, and that now that we have got the color just right, and taken out the worms, they are unedible.
My thought is that they shouldn’t have taken out the worms. I understand that the aborigines in Australia enjoy the taste of insects. John the Baptist ate locusts, straight from the stalk of grass. Some of humankind, can find crunching down a snake quite tasty. Think of all the nourishment in a juicy worm! God created wormy, buggy apples as a special favor to those on a diet deprived of protein.
While worms may be nutritious, they are not socially acceptable. We should look at the other part of the problem, that the spray that encourages that nice red color on apples, is much unhealthier than worms. We are told that it is better to eat green apples, because they most likely didn’t get a poisonous coating to make them red. However, red apples are socially acceptable.
Evil is also socially acceptable. It’s advertised on TV, and many teenagers are converted to its suggestions. Perhaps, like the tares, evil has a part to play in the transformation of humanity.
If we didn’t have evil to compare it with, how would we know what is good for us?
If we didn’t have bombs and landmines, how would we recognize that people get killed from another nation’s weaponry, fear, and ignorance? How would we ever figure out that kindness and mercy are the way to go?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from I Kings 3:5-12
In Gibeon God appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, “Ask, and I shall give it to thee.” And Solomon said, “Thou hast shewed unto thy servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart; and thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. And now, my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father. I am but a little child; I know not how to go out or come in. And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad; for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?” And the speech pleased God, that Solomon had asked this thing. God said unto him, “Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; behold, I have done according to thy words. Lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.”
Responsorial Psalm is #119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-130
Response: My God, I love your commands.
Thou art my portion, O God; I have said that I would keep thy words.
The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.
Response: My God, I love your commands.
Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant.
Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live; for thy law is my delight.
Response: My God, I love your commands.
Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.
Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.
Response: My God, I love your commands.
Thy testimonies are wonderful. Therefore doth my soul keep them.
The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
Response: My God, I love your commands.
Reading 2 is from Romans 8:28-30
We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to God’s purpose. For whom God did foreknow, God also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of Jesus, that Jesus might be the firstborn among many children. Moreover whom God did predestinate, them God also called: and whom God called, them God also justified: and whom God justified, them God also glorified.
Gospel is from Matthew 13:44-52
Jesus said to the crowd, “The kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a person hath found, they hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that they hath, and buyeth that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant, seeking goodly pearls, who, when they have found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that they had, and bought it. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind; which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, and shall cast the wicked into the furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” Jesus saith unto them, “Have ye understood all these things?” They say unto him, “Yea, Rabbi.” Then said he unto them, “Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a householder which bringeth forth out of their treasure things new and old.”
Femily: Treasures of the Realm of Heaven
If a person found a tool that would make for greater peace between individuals and nations, wouldn’t that be a treasure that would lead people and nations straight to the heavenly realm? Wouldn’t rulers and world leaders sell all their armaments and teach all their subjects how to use such a marvelous tool? Perhaps world leaders who deal in confrontational politics don’t really want peace. Perhaps they feel that peace threatens their position; many leaders thrive on war machines and oppression of the poor.
True peace cannot effectively be built with new policies and guarantees alone. True peace also requires the building of trust between peoples, even when history divides them. Steps are needed to encourage greater dialogue, to deepen trust, to build confidence between the diverse peoples of the Middle East.
Greater dialogue among peoples is often not the result when leaders of those peoples consult together. Fortunately, there is a certain resistance of people to admit that all wisdom resides in leadership.
For maximum effectiveness, positive dialogue should take place at the grass roots level, as well as among the upper echelons, (and every place in between).
This has been realized in Israel-Palestine since its conception, and is a prime consideration in its holy books. There have been attempts by many individuals to increase dialogue and understanding, but such groups frequently run into government suspicion. Besides political mistrust, there is also the problem of religious differences. One religious organization may feel threatened by what they see as a grab for power by another religious organization, in such a harmless and positive activity as groups intended to increase friendship among children and teen agers.
What might work in this normal everyday human situation of unease with the attitudes of one’s neighbor, is getting official agreement for a non-religious workshop run by volunteers, which would give experiential instruction in trust, non-violence, and the community building of diverse groups. I want to emphasize the importance of the facilitators of such a program being volunteers, because as soon as there is money or possible power-grabs involved, participants become suspicious of the facilitators’ motives. This can destroy trust. The participants must also be volunteers, looking for peaceful solutions to violent situations.
These observations come from my more than 30 years of experience as a volunteer in the New York State Department of Corrections. In the building of community through the many diverse layers of the prison complex, I have found that the non-sectarian Alternatives to Violence workshops are most effective. They are voluntarily participated in by men and women of all faiths,- Muslim, Buddhist, Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Atheist. Not only is this program given to inmates, instilling creative solutions to the problems of violence within the prison and out in the larger society, but inmates are trained to give this program to others, multiplying its effect. The workshops are not restricted to prison, but are also available in the outside community. Such workshops have been done in the Palestinian refugee camps.
Building positive communities is one way to spread the qualities of heaven onto the earth. What better way to spread the Good Spirit?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 55:1-3
Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and they that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? And your labour for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto me. Hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
Responsorial Psalm is #145:8-9, 15-18
Response:The hand of God feeds us; God answers all our needs.
God is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
God is good to all, and God’s tender mercies are over all God’s works.
Response:The hand of God feeds us; God answers all our needs.
The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season.
Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.
Response:The hand of God feeds us; God answers all our needs.
God is righteous in all God’s ways, and holy in all God’s works.
God is nigh unto all them that call upon God, to all that call upon God in truth.
Response:The hand of God feeds us; God answers all our needs.
Reading 2 is from Romans 8:35-39
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, “For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through God who hath loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus.
Gospel is from Matthew 10:26-33
Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; but rather fear them which are able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Abba knowing. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore; ye are of more value than many sparrows. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before people, them will I confess also before my Abba which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before people, them will I also deny before my Abba which is in heaven.
Femily: Rewarding Political Poor Behavior
Jesus was on good terms with his Abba who resided in heaven. But this Abba also resided in Jesus, and this Abba also was aware of the little sparrows that fluttered about the temple. It is very reassuring to hear that a person is more valuable than many sparrows. Are our soldiers valuable? Are those in prison valuable? I hope so, but if they are truly valuable, couldn’t we help them more to be fulfilled people?
People have different motivations. Are soldiers to be rewarded for doing their job which often seems to be the killing of other people? The December 15, 2004 issue of Time records two contradictory events. We are asked to applaud when some people get medals for planning and carrying out the bombing, invading, and killing of innocent populations, described in War Figures Honored. Then we are expected to rejoice that another warlike leader, in an article called A Trial for Pinochet, will get his just deserts for harming those opposed to his regime in Chile. Approbation or disapproval seems to depend on who is in power. No wonder Timothy McVey got confused. First he got a medal for devastation to buildings and people in Iraq; then he got executed for being destructive to a government building and innocent civilians in this country. The ethical values displayed in these two newspaper articles seem rather inconsistent. What has happened to our belief in justice tempered with compassion and respect for all peoples? What will our political leaders do if the Iraqi people desire to go back to a more orderly society and re-elect some one like Sadam?
In a world where political leaders using flimsey information, can order soldiers into an area to kill women and children, it seems ridiculous to give life sentences for rape and murder. Many of the general population in the U.S. are there for raping and killing, yet they may be charged unjustly. 1% of the U.S. population is in prison. Each of these incarcerated has on the average, five family members or friends interested in his well-being. Considering this fact, then 5% of the U.S. population is affected by prison legislation. There are also the victims and their families who feel very serious, in both a positive and negative way, about the laws that affect the incarcerated. There are also about 25% of the U.S. citizens who don’t think much about prisons but who are concerned with public safety and just want to feel safe. There are also another 25% who want to have good laws that encourage public safety. There are another 25% whose jobs are tied in with public safety and law enforcement, inside prisons and on the public streets.
God takes care of the sparrows, and God takes care of soldiers and prisoners. God expects us to also recognize the problems of persons serving in the military, working in prisons, and being held in prisons and refugee camps.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from I Kings 19:9,11-13
Elijah came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of God came to him, and God said unto him, “What doest thou here, Elijah?” And Elijah said, “I have been very jealous for the God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” And God said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before God. And, behold, God passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before God; but God was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake; but God was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire; but God was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, “What doest thou here, Elijah?”
Responsorial Psalm is #85:8-13
Response: Loving God, let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation.
I will hear what God will speak, for God will speak peace unto God’s people;
Surely God’s salvation is nigh them that fear God; that glory may dwell in our land.
Response: Loving God, let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation.
Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven.
Response: Loving God, let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation.
Yea, our God shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase.
Righteousness shall go before God; and shall set us in the way of God’s steps.
Response: Loving God, let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation.
Reading 2 is from Romans 9:1-5
I say the truth in Christ; I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my sisters and brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh, who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; whose are the ancestors, and of whom as concerning the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
Gospel is from Matthew 14:22-33
Jesus told his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray. When the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves, for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.” But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” And Peter answered him and said, “Rabbi, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And Jesus said, “Come.” And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, “Rabbi, save me.” And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, “Of a truth thou art the Son of God.”
Femily: Rescue of The Earth
We need someone to rescue us from the wind and the waves. It may frighten us a bit when the rescuer walks on the water. We need someone to inspire us and lead us away from our fears. Jesus is willing to be that inspiration. We need someone to point out that the earth is beautiful.
Have you seen the pictures of our earth taken from outer space? What a beautiful place to live! How can we bomb and harm such a beautiful planet? How can we let North Africa exist as piles of nonproductive sand? We could plant gardens in the desert so that all Africans will have enough to eat. Then, with enough food to share, they might stop killing each other. We can help the people of the Near East and the Mideast make their deserts bloom! We can build water pipe lines in the deserts of the world. We must stop concentrating on the strength of armies. Instead concentrate on the will of the people to restore and renew their cities and their land.
A quote from Martin Luther King, Jr. describes the negativity inherent in prehistoric thinking. “Violence as a way of achieving justice is both impractical and immoral. It is impractical because it is a descending spiral ending in destruction for all. The old law of an eye for an eye leaves everybody blind. It is immoral because it seeks to humiliate the opponent rather than win his understanding; it seeks to annihilate rather than to convert. Violence is immoral because it thrives on hatred rather than love. It destroys community and makes brotherhood impossible. It leaves society in monologue rather than dialogue. Violence ends by defeating itself. It creates bitterness in the survivors and brutality in the destroyers.”
Optimists in this time of warfare are to be commended for visualizing a world where all things work together for good. A belief in the evolution of the earth in a positive direction allows us to see beyond the prehistoric and violent confrontations of those interested in power plays and excessive wealth, to a society of restoration and fulfillment.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies. Ask that all the nations would “beat their swords into plough shares and their spears into pruning hooks.”
Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 56:1, 6-7
Thus saith our God, “Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to our God, to serve, and to love the name of our God, to be God’s servants, every one that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.
Responsorial Psalm is #67:1-2, 4-7
Response: Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the nations praise thee.
God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and may God’s face shine upon us;
That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.
Response: Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the nations praise thee.
O let the nations be glad and sing for joy;
For thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth.
Response: Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the nations praise thee.
Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us.
God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear God.
Response: Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the nations praise thee.
Reading 2 is from Romans 11:13-15, 29-32
I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office. If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief. Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that God might have mercy upon all.
Gospel is from Matthew 15:21-28
Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, “Have mercy on me, Rabbi, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.” But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, “Send her away; for she crieth after us.” But he answered and said, “I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Then came she and worshipped him, saying, “Rabbi, help me.” But he answered and said, “It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs.” And she said, “You speak the truth, Rabbi; yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus answered and said unto her, “O woman, great is thy faith: be it done unto thee even as thou wilt.” And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.
Femily: Women and Their Children
Women will do almost anything to help their children. The Canaanite woman had to put up with prejudicial statements by Jesus to prove that she and her daughter were deserving of human rights. What about the mothers of those children mutilated by cluster bombs?
The 34-day war between Israel and Hezbollah ended some time back, but up to a million unexploded cluster munitions that Israel dropped on Lebanon are the terrible remnant of that war. Lebanese civilians are still being killed or maimed by the bomblets (many U.S.-made). If left on the ground, a slight disturbance may cause bomblets to explode. Worse, many bomblets are brightly colored, with others attached to small parachutes, making them look like toys and enticing kids to pick them up. No international treaties outlaw the use of cluster bombs, although the Geneva Conventions contain laws to protect civilians during conflict.
According to the U.N. Mine Action Coordination Centre of South Lebanon, unexploded cluster munitions have killed 30 civilians and permanently wounded 230, since hostilities ended on August 14th, 2006. How can the U.S. have any part of this mutilation? God bless America and Israel and Palestine and Lebanon and Iraq. War is not patriotic. It is not good for anyone’s country or for anyone’s soul.
Will the Holy Spirit send us healers to help the children of the world?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentyfirst Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 22:15, 19-23
Thus saith the God of hosts, “Go, get thee unto this treasurer, even unto Shebna, which is over thy house, and say,
“God will surely violently turn and toss thee like a ball into a large country. There shalt thou die, and there the chariots of thy glory shall be the shame of thy master’s house. And I will drive thee from thy station, and from thy state shall God pull thee down. And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will call my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah. I will clothe him with thy robe, and strengthen him with thy girdle, and I will commit thy government into his hand. He shall be a ruler to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah. And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder. What he shall open, none shall shut; and what he shall shut, none shall open. And I will fasten him as a nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a glorious ruler in his father’s house.
Responsorial Psalm is #138:1-3, 6, 8
Response: O God, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands.
I will praise thee with my whole heart; before all the rulers will I sing praise unto thee.
I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth.
Response: O God, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands.
In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.
All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O God, when they hear the words of thy mouth.
Response: O God, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands.
Yea, they shall sing in the ways of God; for great is the glory of our God.
Though God be high, yet hath God respect unto the lowly, but the proud God knoweth afar off.
Response: O God, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands.
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me. Thy right hand shall save me.
God will perfect that which concerneth me. Thy mercy, O God, endureth for ever.
Response: O God, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands.
Reading 2 is from Romans 11:33-36
O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are God’s judgments, and God’s ways are past finding out! For who hath known the mind of God? Or who hath been God’s counsellor? Or who hath first given to God, and it shall be recompensed unto them again? For of God, and through God, and to God, are all things; to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Gospel is from Matthew 16:13-20
When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, “Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?” And they said, “Some say that thou art John the Baptist; some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.” He saith unto them, “But whom say ye that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said unto him, “Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona, for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Abba which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Then Jesus charged his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.
Femily: What Is An Avatar?
Who do you think I am? What do you think about Jesus? Who do you think you are? What do you think about immigrants? Are we all avatars? How would church groups answer all these questions?
When we make our laws, it is often advisable to see what church communities think about the problem.
Most Christian Churches would agree that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah. A messiah is a messenger of God, and so is an avatar. We who think Jesus was a messenger to be imitated, ought to repeat his message of compassion. We can be welcoming to the immigrant, and supportive of our fellow humanbeings.
What do church groups think about immigration? Most churches have an attitude of welcoming the stranger.
Quote from Pope John Paul II in Ecclesia in America #65: “In its history, America has experienced many immigrations, as waves of men and women came to its various regions in the hope of a better future. The phenomenon continues even today, especially with many people and families from Latin American countries who have moved to the northern parts of the continent, to the point where in some cases they constitute a substantial part of the population. They often bring with them a cultural and religious heritage which is rich in Christian elements. The Church is well aware of the problems created by this situation and is committed to spare no effort in developing her own pastoral strategy among these immigrant people, in order to help them settle in their new land and to foster a welcoming attitude among the local population, in the belief that a mutual openness will bring enrichment to all.”
What do religious communities suggest we do about this immigration problem?
One position is given by Catholic Bishops as stated in their pastoral letter Strangers No Longer.
* An “earned” legalization for undocumented persons in the United States, regardless of country of origin;
* A worker program that allows foreign-born workers to enter and work in the United States safely and legally and that provides a living wage and adequate workplace protections;
* Reform of the immigration system to permit families to reunite in a timely and dignified manner;
* Restoration of due process protections lost in the 1996 immigration legislation;
* Policies addressing the root causes of migration, such as global economic inequities.
Let us not become hysterical with fear of the unknown and of other people, when we make our immigration laws. Let us make laws that are compassionate and just.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentysecond Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Jeremiah 20:7-9
O God, thou hast deceived me, and I was deceived; thou art stronger than I, and hast prevailed. I am in derision daily, every one mocketh me. For since I spake, I cried out, I cried violence and spoil; because the word of God was made a reproach unto me, and a derision, daily. Then I said, “I will not make mention of God, nor speak any more in God’s name. But God’s word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.”
Responsorial Psalm is #63:2-6, 8-9
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, my God and my Creator.
To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, my God and my Creator.
Thus will I bless thee while I live; I will lift up my hands in thy name.
My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, my God and my Creator.
When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, my God and my Creator.
My soul followeth hard after thee; thy right hand upholdeth me.
But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, my God and my Creator.
Reading 2 is from Romans 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Gospel is from Matthew 16:21-27
From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, “Be it far from thee, Rabbi. This shall not be unto thee.” But Jesus turned, and said unto Peter, “Get thee behind me, Satan. Thou art an offence unto me, for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of humans.” Then said Jesus unto his disciples, “If any person will come after me, let them deny themselves, and take up their cross, and follow me. For whomsoever will save their life shall lose it, and whomsoever will lose their life for my sake shall find it. For what is a person profited, if they shall gain the whole world, and lose their own soul? Or what shall a person give in exchange for their soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of Abba with the angels; and then every person shall be rewarded according to their works.”
Femily: The Value of our Souls
Jesus asks, “What shall a person give in exchange for their soul? A soul is a something that goes along with our body. We suspect it might have something to do with our brain, but those who do brain research have not yet found it. Some would say a soul has to do with ethical beliefs. Some think it has to do with conscience. Some believe that when you die, your soul might go to heaven, or to some place less desirable.
There is a belief that the Holy Spirit might come and take up residence in a person’s soul. When Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit descended like a dove onto Jesus. No one can see a soul, but no one can see the wind either. We know there is wind, when the trees shake violently. We can also make decisions about whether someone has the Holy Spirit within.
Possibly Jeremiah in the first reading was describing the soul when he said, “God’s word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones.” Some people feel that the eyes are the windows to the soul, that you can look in someone’s eyes and make judgments about whether they are speaking the truth, or have God’s Spirit within.
We must think seriously about what a soul is. The Church tells us that God is a Trinity or Threesome; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, the last being love between the Father and the Son. As a woman, I feel excluded from this love; they all seem to be male quantities. I would rather go with Jesus’ definition that God is Love. I can more easily think of the Good Spirit as Love that fills the Earth and the Universe, and comes into our hearts (or souls) if we fulfill certain requirements. Just what are these requirements?
The Spirit of Wisdom of the Old Testament was thought of as a female quantity. She was the embodiment of kknowledge, but she didn’t seem to have a body. She was Wisdom that was somehow accessible to people. How do we get love into our hearts?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentythird Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, Sept.4,2011;2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Ezekiel 33:7-9
So thou, O son of man, I have set thee aa a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word from my mouth, and warn them for me. When I say unto the wicked, “O wicked man, thou shalt surely die;” if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from their way, that wicked person shall die in their iniquity; but their blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of their way to turn from it; if they do not turn from that way, they shall die in their iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.
Responsorial Psalm is #95:1-2, 6-9
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
O come, let us sing unto God. Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before God’s presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto God with psalms.
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
O come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before God our Maker.
For God is our Creator. We are the people of God’s pasture, and the sheep of God’s hand.
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
To day if ye will hear God’s voice, harden not your heart, as in the day of temptation in the wilderness;
When your ancestors tempted me, proved me, and saw my work.
Response: If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.
Reading 2 is from Romans 13:8-10
Owe no person any thing, but to love one another: for they that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this:- Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to the neighbour; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
Gospel is from Matthew 18:15-20
Moreover if thy sister or brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell them their fault between thee and them alone: if they shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy sister or brother. But if they will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if they shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if they neglect to hear the church, let them be unto thee as an heathen and a publican. Verily I say unto you, “Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Again I say unto you, “That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Abba which is in heaven, for where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
Femily: Ordinary Persons as Watchpersons
Ezekiel, (as son of man or servant of humankind or public servant or a person willing to help others), was asked by God to be a watchman for the Israeli people. Are you listening for God’s voice? Is God asking you to be a watchman (or a watchlady, or a watchperson) for those around you? Can you help the people you know to be more kind and understanding with each other?
In many towns across the world there are people who mediate disputes. Matthew is giving us ordinary people good advice as to how to get along with other ordinary people. Sometimes mediators even get to mediate disputes between governments. Such high level mediation can help nations to avoid wars with each other.
The ordinary Mediation Model for ordinary people has participants who sit around a table with one to three Complainants on one side, one to three Respondents on the side opposite the Complainants, and usually two mediators at the same end of the table. This model can be used in Community Dispute Resolution Centers for family mediations, divorce and child custody problems, landlord and tenant disputes, neighbor to neighbor complaints, victim and offender reconciliation, small claims, and some police referrals.
There are mediation centers in many of the counties of many states. Other countries have such organizations and train their citizens to help in the resolution of disputes.
Are you called to be a Watchperson?
What good work does God have in store for you to do?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentyfourth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Sirach 23:1-7
O my God, Ruler and Governor of my whole life, leave me not to bad counseling, and let me not fall by them. Who will set scourges over my thoughts, and the discipline of wisdom over mine heart, that they spare me not for mine ignorance, and it pass not by my sins; lest mine ignorance increase, and my sins abound to my destruction, and I fall before mine adversaries, and mine enemy rejoice over me, whose hope is far from thy mercy. O my God, Ruler and Governor of my life, give me not a proud look, but turn away from thy servant always a haughty mind. Turn away from me vain hopes and concupiscence, and thou shalt hold them up that is always desirous to serve thee. Let not the greediness of the belly nor lust of the flesh take hold of me; and give not thy servant over into an impudent mind. Hear, O ye children, the discipline of the mouth; they that keepeth such discipline shall never be taken over in their speech.
Responsorial Psalm is #103:1-4, 9-12
Response: Our God is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.
Bless our God, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless God’s holy name.
Bless our God, O my soul, and forget not all God’s benefits;
Response: Our God is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
Response: Our God is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.
Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
Our God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
Response: Our God is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.
For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
As far as the east is from the west, so far hath God removed our transgressions from us.
Response: Our God is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.
Reading 2 is from Romans 14:7-9
Not one of us liveth to themself, and no person dieth to themself. For whether we live, we live unto God; and whether we die, we die unto God. Whether we live therefore, or die, we belong to God. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be with both the dead and the living.
Gospel is from Matthew 18:21-35
Then came Peter to him, and said, “Rabbi, how oft shall a person sin against me, and I forgive them? Till seven times?” Jesus saith unto him, “I say not unto thee, ‘Until seven times,’ but, until seventy times seven. Therefore is the realm of heaven likened unto a certain ruler, which would take account of the servants. And when the ruler had begun to reckon, a servant was brought unto them, which owed ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as the servant had nothing with which to pay, the ruler commanded for the servant to be sold, and also the family and all that they had, so that payment could be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped the ruler, saying, “Governor, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the ruler of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed them, and forgave them the debt. But the same servant went out, and found a fellowservant, which owed the first servant an hundred pence: and the servant laid hands on the fellowservant, and took him by the throat, saying, “Pay me that thou owest. And the fellowservant fell down at their feet, and besought them, saying, “Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.” And the first servant would not be patient: but went and cast the fellow servant into prison, till that one should pay the debt. So when the other servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their ruler all that was done. Then the ruler, after calling back the first debtor, said to that one, “O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me. Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?” And the ruler was wroth, and delivered that servant to the tormentors, till that one should pay the ruler all that was due. So likewise shall my heavenly Abba do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one their trespasses.
Femily: Holy Spirit as Go-Between?
Are some of us able to be with both the dead and the living?
From the reading of Roman’s 14, we understand that Christ died and rose and revived that the Christ Spirit might be with both the dead and the living. Paul, who wrote the letter to the Romans, had some ideas that were difficult to express. We can see some of these ideas come to fruition in the reign of the Emperor Constantine and the Council of Niceae. Those thoughtful people at that council came up with the idea of the Trinity. This is a good expression of how the Good Spirit might be a pass-through between the living and the dead. However, the women seem to be excluded from this pronouncement and from its formulation.
The Spirit, in the Jewish and earlier beliefs was a feminine quantity, sometimes referred to as Wisdom. If we let this notion of wisdom as being feminine, get out of hand, then mankind is distressed. They might get the implication that men cannot be wise, and cannot carry the Good Spirit in their hearts.
Thus we needed a masculine Christ to assure us that men can be filled with the Holy Spirit, and can guide all people of the earth into the way of righteousness.
We are also given Jesus’ mother Mary as being full of grace, to help us hold onto a belief that women, too, are capable of having Holy Spirit dwell within.
To conclude, and answer the question,—Are some of us able to be with both the dead and the living? My answer is that the Holy Spirit is a go-between between the dead and the living. Thus Jesus could say, “My Abba is in me, and I am with Abba.”
Can we all say, “Holy Spirit, dwell with us, and with those we love, both the living and the dead”?
The first reading from Sirach requests deliverance from bad counselors and poor advice. If what I have described in the femily sounds like bad advice to you, I am willing to admit my ignorance on the subject, because no person can fully understand the mind of God. But let us all think more about the Holy Spirit:— We all have intimations of the Spirit within; some of us call it conscience and dismiss it preemptorily. Let’s think about Good Spirit some more and ask God to flood the earth with Good Spirit.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentyfifth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 65:6-9
Behold, it is written before me, “I will not keep silence, but will pay them back, even as their sins deserve. Your iniquities, and the iniquities of your ancestors together,” saith God, “have blasphemed me by burning incense upon the mountains. Therefore will I measure their former work into their bosom.” Thus saith God, “As the new wine is found in the cluster, and one saith, ‘Destroy it not; for a blessing is in it.’ so will I do for my servants’ sakes, that I may not destroy them all. And I will bring forth a seed out of Jacob, and out of Judah an inheritor of my mountains; and mine elect shall inherit it, and my servants shall dwell there.”
Responsorial Psalm is #145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18
Response: God is near to all who truly call for help.
Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.
Great is our God, and greatly to be praised. God’s greatness is unsearchable.
Response: God is near to all who truly call for help.
One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.
I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works.
Response: God is near to all who truly call for help.
They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness.
Our God is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
Response: God is near to all who truly call for help.
Our God is good to all. God’s tender mercies are over all God’s works.
Our God is righteous in every way, and holy in every work.
Response: God is near to all who truly call for help.
Reading 2 is from Philippians 1:20-24, 27
According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour; yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is a far better choice. Nevertheless for me to abide in the flesh is more what you need, that your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ; that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.
Gospel is from Matthew 20:1-16
The realm of heaven is like unto a person that is a property holder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into their vineyard. And when the person had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, they were sent into the vineyard. And the property holder went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and said unto them, “Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you.” And they went their way. Again the property holder went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour there were other workers still standing idle, and the householder saith unto them, “Why stand ye here all the day idle?” They say in reply, “Because no one hath hired us.” The property owner saith unto them, “Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.” So when even was come, the owner of the vineyard saith unto the steward, “Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first.” When they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise each received a penny. And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house, saying, “These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day.” But the owner answered one of them, and said, “Friend, I do thee no wrong; didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that is thine, and go thy way. I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?” So the last shall be first, and the first last; for many be called, but few chosen.
Femily: Employability
When God calls us to work for the Realm of Truth and Justice, God does not pay us wages according to how we spent our whole life. From the parable in the Gospel of Matthew, we are to understand that it doesn’t matter how we passed the long hot day. If we arrive at the conclusion in our last hours that we of the Eleventh Hour should serve God with truth and justice, then we of the Eleventh Hour will get the same reward as those who worked for God’s agenda all day long.
Does this seem just to you?
Looking at the property owner from God’s viewpoint, consider other factors that may be involved. Those who have borne the burden and heat of the day may be the ones who go along with presentday social customs and are content to behave themselves from force of habit. They are good people, but they have not had to wrestle with the weightier problems of prejudice and evil.
Those of the eleventh hour have suffered from joblessness and lack of good leaders or employers. At some point near the end of their adventures, they were given an opportunity to serve, and they made the most of that opportunity.
Could we make a further comparison of the Eleventh Hour people with the employability of those incarcerated in our prisons?
A worldwide problem that contributes to violence is a lack of job opportunities. Many of the unemployed or underemployed across the world are inner city youth, persons in prison, and women. Many people migrate to find jobs with which they can support themselves and their families. Creating plentiful jobs would do much to help solve the immigration problem, the prison problem, and the sex slave problem.
What are the causes of unemployment? Stalled economic development; disabilities such as dyslexia, that hamper learning; lack of good education in inner city schools; inability to pay for college. There is the enticement of the military and weaponry which often is a dead end. Youth need mentors to inspire them, but those who might be mentors for inner city youth are often jobless themselves and end up in prison. Jobless women with children to support resort to prostitution to make ends meet.
What are steps that could be taken to create jobs? I would like to set down some ideas that I have thought about. Fear mongering and making stricter laws aimed against immigrants and sex offenders does not help those people to earn a livelihood, but drives them underground.
What kind of jobs are needed? We need more health care professionals. We need social workers who are trained to care for the mentally ill and who can monitor sex offenders. We need more affordable housing, especially for those returning from prison to the outside communities. We need people who can build inexpensive, yet durable, houses. We need a different kind of energy other than oil, such as geo-thermal, wind, solar, or water power. We need builders to renew infrastructure such as road, bridges, and inner city apartments (as is being done in Harlem). With foreclosures and threatened banking and credit disasters, we need to rethink our financial operations. In Bangladesh an infusion of microfinance into small business economies led to greater respect for the abilities of women.
Where is a good place to make a trial test on employability? We have a captive population in our prisons. The combination of excessively long sentences and a tardy parole release rate are costing us taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. (From Unlocking America, JFA Institute 11/07), “For the same crimes, U.S. prisoners receive sentences twice as long as English prisoners, … five times as long as Swedish prisoners … yet these countries’ rates of violent crime are lower than ours.” If we target the older prisoners who are much less likely to recidivate, train them and educate them in positive reentry programs, and release them into a semi-supportive step-down community, with assurance of jobs and/or micro-financing, New York State could perhaps establish a model community system that could be followed to rehabilitate those in Iraq and even in the Sudan. The N.Y. State POPS Bill might be a vehicle to carry these improvements. Positive accompaniments to this experiment might be the upgrading of prison and parole officers, community building in the step-down communities, the development of mentors, social workers, and health care professionals to aid in inner city communities, and a revitalized economic development.
What can be done for the youth in the city of Yonkers? Pair them up with mentors, such as the persons coming out of prison from the theology course at SingSing. Have them build playgrounds and refurbish schools. Build community through singing groups, marching bands, and orchestras. Have courses in how to do plumbing. Have land available for gardening.
The prisoners may have frittered away their long hot summers, but they have repented and are ready to work hard at their Eleventh Hour assignments.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentysixth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Ezekiel 18:25-28
Ye say:— “The way of God is not equal.” Hear now, O house of Israel, God speaks:—“Is not my way equal? Are not your ways unequal? When a righteous man turneth away from righteousness, and committeth iniquities, and dieth in them; for the iniquity that hath been done, that one shall die. Again, when the wicked man turneth away from the wickedness that hath been committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, that one’s soul shall live. Because that one considereth, and turneth away from all those transgressions that were committed, that one shall surely live. That one shall not die.”
Responsorial Psalm is #125:4-9
Response: Remember your mercies, O Loving God.
Shew me thy ways, O God; teach me thy paths.
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me, for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
Response: Remember your mercies, O Loving God.
Remember, O God, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
Remember not the transgressions of my youth. According to thy mercy, remember thou me for thy goodness’ sake.
Response: Remember your mercies, O Loving God.
Good and upright is our God. Therefore will God teach sinners in the way.
The meek will God guide in judgment, and the meek will God teach godly ways.
Response: Remember your mercies, O Loving God.
Reading 2 is from Philippians 2:1-11
If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfil ye my joy, by being likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every person on their own things, but every person also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God, but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of a humanbeing. And being found fashioned as a human, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name; that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus is the Christ, to the glory of God our Maker.
Gospel is from Matthew 21:28-32
But what think ye? A certain woman had two daughters; and she came to the first, and said, “Daughter, go work to day in my vineyard.” She answered and said, “I will not,” but afterward she repented, and went. And the woman came to the second daughter, and said likewise. And she answered and said, “I go, mother,” and went not. Whether of the twain did the will of their mother? They say unto him, “The first.” Jesus saith unto them, “Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the heavenly realm before you. For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not; but the publicans and the harlots believed him; and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.”
Femily: Offending God by Not Doing God’s Will
Do we follow our consciences by speaking out for the human rights of immigrants under the U.S. government? Do we follow our consciences in regard to the School of the Americas? Do we follow our consciences in regard to women priests?
Do we who think of ourselves as church goers and therefore doers of God’s will, relate to the second daughter who said, “I go”? But then she didn’t go. Do we affirm, “Loving God, we are able.” But when it comes right down to it, we are scared to feed the hungry and clothe the naked. We are afraid to go public with our opinions about Israel/Palestine. We don’t know what to do about getting our troops out of Afghanistan.
As for getting into religious arguments concerning Christians or Muslims, we don’t want to offend either group. Not to offend is a good reason to hold back an opinion on church or government practices. Suppose those practices are unjust or prejudiced against societal or cultural groups? If a person thinks certain practices are offensive to women, should that person keep quiet so as not to upset the President or governors or the Pope or the Cardinals?
Let’s avoid graver issues and talk about White Robes and Red Hats. How did cardinals get to wear their strange costumes?
The Pope has a white cassock while the cardinals’ robes have shades of red. Why do the cardinals wear red hats?
At a recent counting there were 103 active cardinals on the rosters of the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Paul VI made an arrangement that says there can be 120. Responsible Catholics most surely want to know what the head of our church, Jesus Christ, thinks about cardinals. In his time among us as a human being, Jesus had confrontations with the priestly leaders of the Hebrew people. He remarked that everything they did was to attract attention, like emphasizing their prayer amulets, enjoying the place of honor at banquets and synagogues, or being greeted by honorary names (Matthew 23:5-7).
Today there is a new generation of priests who are faced with the same old problems:- there are seats of honor to be given out at the banquet table, and honorary titles. Candidates are being speculated upon. Will the Archbishops of Philadelphia, St. Louis, or Detroit get to be appointed cardinals, as were their predecessors? Some of these appointments seem to be establishing traditions. Will the church continue in its way of imitating the Pharisaical patriarchal community that Jesus railed against? Jesus, looking down on us from his viewpoint at the right hand of God, must have some thoughts about cardinals.
Cardinals presumably exist at the instigation of the Holy Spirit. How did they come into being? Just what is a cardinal anyway? The word cardinal comes from cardo meaning point or pivot around which everything turns. In the second century of church history St. Ignatius (himself the Bishop of Antioch) spoke of the bishop of a church as the pivot on which the church turned. In the early church women leaders of congregations could easily be considered as pivotal to their flock. Both the name Cardinalis and Papa were applied freely to pastors and church officers generally, but as one diocese became more powerful and controlling, the use of titles became restricted. To keep power in Rome, cardinals came to be associated with the sees around the Vatican. They would gather to elect a new Pope from their number and thus kept the office of Pope as a Roman possession. Gradually, use was made of these honorary titles in order to reward far-flung Catholics and to tie them more closely to Roman opinion. It was not necessary to be a priest to gain this honor. John de Medici was designated a cardinal at the age of 14. A prince of the House of Bourbon became the Cardinal and Archbishop of Toledo at the tender age of 8 in the relatively recent year of 1740.
In order to really understand the office of cardinal, we must probe further back into history than the time of Jesus Christ, back to the pluralistic religion of Ancient Rome, when Rome was ruled, not by emperors, but by Etruscan kings. The king had a group of advisors called the Duoviri made up of priests (who offered sacrifices) and of augurs (who foretold the future). Both sacrificers and foretellers are very necessary in order for a king to guide his people properly; and in early Israel we find King David making use of both priests and prophets. In Rome the Duoviri became quite powerful, and overthrew the king. The chief priest became known as the pontifex maximus and moved into the king’s palace. The rest of the crew became known as his consilium. Variations of this form of rule continued in Rome, with the power sometimes in the hands of the religious specialists, sometimes in the hands of an emperor. As the different Roman gods had different functions and festivals, their support groups developed along the same model as the government of Rome. Consequently, the priest-sacrificers of Mars were known as Flamens and would perform elaborate rituals and dances on the God Mars’ special feast day. Also associated with the God Mars were the prominent ones, or Sali, presumably the men who were versed in ethics. In Israel the same societal mix occurred with the Council of the Seventy and the priest functionaries.
The Roman Senate became the consulting group for the emperor. Senators were allowed to wear a strip of purple on their garment as a notification of their dignity. A common person in Rome who had political ambitions would be spoken of as aspiring ‘to the purple’. In these later times we hear of ordinary priests who work hard, as similarly aspiring to the purple of the church senatorial group or cardinalate. If this honor lies in the color purple, why does a cardinal have a scarlet cap? Are we somehow being confused with the magenta shaded colors of lesser church dignitaries?
Why, indeed, a cap at all? The custom of prayer caps is another common thread that runs through religious observances. This custom may have started from as simple a thing as a balding sun-god-worshipper trying to prevent his head from getting sun-burned. Many men today proclaim their allegiance to a baseball team by wearing a cap with the proper insignia. This is often with the secondary agenda of covering up a receding hairline. There is nothing wrong with being bald; in fact, it gives your ordinary man an ennobling look. Yet some men are sensitive, and if you grew bald in ancient Rome and were a religious person, you could cover up this nakedness with a prayer cap. The color of the High Priest of Jupiter was white, signifying purity and light, and he traditionally wore all white clothes, and a white cap. His hench-men or hinge-men or pivotal priests who offered the animal sacrifices, could not wear white for the simple reason that animal sacrifice was a bloody business, and white clothing would be a bloody mess. A good cover-up color for animal sacrifice is red. When we call ourselves Roman Catholic, we are really announcing where our costume colors come from.
However, the Catholic Church might have remained more humble and less colorful, if it weren’t for the sacking of Rome by the barbarians. In meditating on some of the predicaments that societies get themselves into, and what some leaders are called upon to do, we may find ourselves becoming more sympathetic to those leaders, and their decisions. With the Vandals on the threshhold of the city, and the emperor leaving for safer parts, the city of Rome entered a period of social crisis. Who was able to fill the power vacuum and save the people from annihilation? The Pope of the time, after what must have been deep soul searching, stood up for the citizens of Rome, and gained respect from the invaders. In order to do this effectively, he and his counselors had to assume the power symbols of the fled aristocracy. Those symbols are with us today.
John Paul II may give this coveted red hat to as many as 17 of those in his employ. His hands are slightly restricted by a declaration of Pope John XXIII that cardinals must be bishops. However, it is easy to appoint a deserving person to be a bishop and then elevate him or her still further. Actually, with the power vested in a Pope, it would be relatively easy to appoint a deserving woman (such as Joan Chittister) to the priesthood and promote her rapidly up through the ranks as monsignor, bishop, archbishop, to cardinal. Just imagine Sister Joan in a red hat! This wise woman would certainly shun such flamboyant show, but as a dedicated servant of God she might accept the costume, in order to confirm the equality of women and men in the Catholic Church.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentyseventh Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 5:1-7
Now will I sing to my well-beloved a song of my beloved touching their vineyard. My well-beloved hath a vineyard on a very fruitful hill; and they fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein. My beloved looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it brought forth wild grapes. And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and people of Judah, judge, I pray you, betwixt me and my vineyard. What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it? Wherefore, when I looked that it should bring forth grapes, it brought forth wild grapes? And now listen:- I will tell you what I will do to my vineyard. I will take away the hedge thereof, and it shall be eaten up; and break down the wall thereof; and it shall be trodden down. I will lay it waste. It shall not be pruned, nor digged; but there shall come up briers and thorns. I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain upon it. For the vineyard of the God of Hosts is the House of Israel, and the people of Judah are God’s precious plant. God looked for judgment, but behold oppression; for righteousness, but behold a cry.
Responsorial Psalm is #80:9, 12-16, 19-20
Response: The vineyard of our God is the house of Israel.
Thou hast brought a vine out of Egypt: thou hast cast out the heathen, and planted it.
Thou preparedst room before it, and didst cause it to take deep root, and it filled the land.
Response: The vineyard of our God is the house of Israel.
Why hast thou then broken down her hedges, so that all they which pass by the way do pluck her?
The boar out of the wood doth waste it, and the wild beast of the field doth devour it.
Response: The vineyard of our God is the house of Israel.
Return, we beseech thee, O God of hosts: look down from heaven, and behold, and visit this vine;
And the vineyard which thy right hand hath planted, and the branch that thou madest strong for thyself.
Response: The vineyard of our God is the house of Israel.
It is burned with fire, it is cut down: they perish at the rebuke of thy countenance.
Turn us again, O God of hosts, cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.
Response: The vineyard of our God is the house of Israel.
Reading 2 is from Philippians 4:6-9
Be worried about nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do; and the God of peace shall be with you.
Gospel is from Matthew 21:33-43
Hear another parable:- There was a certain landowner, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to farmers, and went into a far country. When the time of the fruit drew near, the owner sent servants to the farmers, that they might receive the fruits of it. And the farmers took the servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. Again, the owner sent other servants more than the first; and they did unto them likewise. But last of all the owner sent unto them their beloved son, saying, “They will surely reverence my son.” But when the farmers saw the son, they said among themselves, “This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.” And they caught the son, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him. When the owner therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will the owner do unto the farmers?” They say unto Jesus, “The owner will miserably destroy those wicked people, and will let out the vineyard unto other farmers, which shall give back to the owner the fruit in due season.” Jesus saith unto them, “Did ye never read in the scriptures, ‘The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is God’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?’ Therefore say I unto you, ‘The Spiritual Realm of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.’”
Femily: Sharing the Vineyard
There are good things that we can think about in order to have the Spiritual Realm of God closer to our hearts. They are listed by Paul as “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” What would our world be like if all the people thought virtuous thoughts? If that were the case, God would have a vineyard to be proud of! But to be practical, we must admit that there are always people who are willing to kill the heir to the estate so that they themselves might be the inheritors.
For instance, when we are jealous of someone else’s good fortune, we often spoil their triumph by saying nasty putdowns about them. Politicians call each other names or spread rumors that amount to a political death for their victim. Teen age girls can be downright catty. Why are we so unkind to our fellow humanbeings? Is there something in our makeup that brings out the violence in us? Has God’s gift of evolution brought us to this sad state?
Yes, we are related to the dinosaur. Humans and dinosaurs have some of the same genetic structure. Yes, Palestinians and Hebrews are both descended from the same ancient father Abraham and his sister/wife Sarah. The National Geographic in its Genographic Project on peoples of the earth, is trying to prove that we are all products of the same evolutionary process. It should be possible for us all to share the earth and have reasonable relationships with one another. We don’t have to be the one supreme owner of the vineyard. We can learn how to share. Sharing prevents war; it is good for people to share.
Why are we all killing each other? The many cultural children of Abraham and Sarah have Holy Books with ethical teachings that relate how to get along on the earth. If you tromp violently into a land killing its people, you will not be welcome. If you are kind to the widow and the orphan, you will dwell in peace. If you forgive others’ misdeeds, your own misdeeds will be forgiven.
The Jewish people have had many ups and downs in their possession of the vineyard called Israel. Bloody turmoil has resulted many times from power plays by kings and tribesmen. King David was an example of how to unite disparite groups. In his coming to power, he became friendly with those who were disastisfied with the reign of his predecessor Saul. He was sympathetic to their complaints. They made a formal pact at Hebron. I Chronicles 11 names these champions. David got these tribespeople to agree on boundaries acceptable to all. They affirmed that they were one community, daughters and sons of the land of Jacob, descended from Abraham, and that they would help each other. This varied grouping stayed together under David, and also under Solomon (who was a bit more commercial and worked the people harder), but this unity disintegrated at Solomon’s death.
David had empathy and listened to the complaints of the people. He gathered religious people together and brought back the Ark of the Covenant, a major religious symbol, to the city of Jerusalem. How do the leaders of today resemble David? Not too well. They do not have empathy. They do not listen to the complaints of the people. They bomb the populace. They do not show respect for the religious buildings or symbols of others. They do not use the Restorative Justice techniques of mediation, consultation, understanding, and forgiveness.
Mediation may be able to help solve problems in Israel/Palestine if groups could be organized that would be useful in gathering vital information. To make a start at solving the problems in the Near East, one could get wise mediators from South Africa and India. One could request tribal leaders from all major divisions and cultures (Fatah, Hezbollah, Shi’ites, Sunnis). One could ask for proposals about land rights, oil rights, water rights, environmental concerns, and rebuilding projects to help refugees.
Women also need to be listened to. Most women abhor war and want peace for their children. However, if we really want peace in the land of Israel, we are to encourage everyone to think on “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” To encourage war and violence profits no one.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentyeighth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 25:6-10
On this mountain God All-powerful shall make for all nations a feast of finest food, of choice wines, and of the best cuts of meat. God will destroy on this mountain the face of sadness cast over all people, and the veil that is spread over all nations. God will swallow up death in victory; and God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of God’s people shall God take away from off all the earth; for God hath spoken it. It shall be said in that day, “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for God, and God will save us. This is God All-powerful; we have waited for God, we will be glad and rejoice in God’s salvation.” For on this mountain shall the hand of God rest, and Moab shall be trodden down, even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill.
Responsorial Psalm is #50:16-23
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Unto the wicked God saith, “What right hast thou to declare my statutes;
Or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth?
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee.
When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit.
Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
These things hast thou done, and I kept silence;
But I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Now reconsider this, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver.
Whoso offereth praise, glorifieth me; and to those that converse aright will I shew salvation.
Response: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Reading 2 is from Philippians 4:12-20
I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift; but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound. I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need by Christ Jesus according to the riches in glory. Now unto our God and Abba be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Gospel is from Matthew 22:1-14
Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, “The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain ruler, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden, to come to the wedding; and the guests would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, ‘Behold, I have prepared my dinner. My oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready; come unto the marriage.’ But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to their farm, another to their merchandise; and the remnant took the ruler’s servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. But when the ruler heard thereof, he was wroth. He sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.’ So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good, and the wedding was furnished with guests. And when the ruler came in to see the guests, he saw there a person which had not on a wedding garment. He saith unto the person, ‘Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And the guest was speechless. Then said the ruler to the servants, ‘Bind that person hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.”
Femily: On Feasts
Who doesn’t like a good party! Just imagine what a feast on the top of the Mountain of God would be like.
We are promised that Our Creator will prepare for us a feast upon that mountain. There will be good food to fill our stomachs. Most likely there will be good thoughts to fill our souls. I just know that kindness and love will abound, and that all my friends will be there. Who else will be invited? Will God invite the refuse from the highways and byways? What about my enemies?
Well, now that I think about it, maybe I’m not going to be invited. Maybe this party is for my enemies. We earthlings don’t all believe the same way. Maybe the party is just for the male priesthood, those men who have dedicated their lives to serving God through being celibate. Maybe the feast is just for bishops in long colorful robes.
If I do get invited, what shall I wear? I do not have long colorful robes. Where could I get fancy garments to wear to such an important function?
What would I eat? I’m a vegetarian, and I don’t drink wine. Maybe the feast consists of spiritual food.
What are we celebrating?
The passage in Isaiah talks about Moab. Perhaps we are celebrating the downfall of Moab. The Moabites were a group who also wanted to live in Israel, like the Palestinians today. Moab is the historical name for a mountainous strip of land in modern-day Jordan running along the eastern shore of the Dead Sea. In ancient times, it was home to the kingdom of the Moabites, a people often in conflict with their Israelite neighbors to the west. The Moabites were a historical people, whose existence is attested to by numerous archeological findings, most notably the Mesha Stele, which describes the Moabite victory over an unnamed son of King Omri of Israel. Their capital was Dibon, located next to the modern Jordanian town of Dhiban.
Why couldn’t the Moabites come to Isaiah’s and God’s party too?
Wouldn’t it be worth a worldwide party today if Israel and Palestine came to a peaceful settlement! We would hold parties on all the mountains of the world.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Twentyninth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Isaiah 45:1-6
Thus saith God to the anointed one, to Cyrus, whose right hand God has holden, to subdue nations; and to loose the loins of kings, to open before Cyrus the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut, “I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight. I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron, and I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the God who call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. For Jacob my servant’s sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name. I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me. I am God, and there is none else, there is no God beside me. I girded thee, though thou hast not known me that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am God, and there is no other.
Responsorial Psalm is #96:1, 3-5, 7-10
Response: Give to God glory and honor.
O sing unto God a new song: sing unto God, all the earth.
Declare God’s glory among the heathen, God’s wonders among all people.
Response: Give to God glory and honor.
For God is great, and greatly to be praised; God is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the nations are idols, but God our Maker made the heavens.
Response: Give to God glory and honor.
Give unto God, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto God glory and strength.
Give unto God the glory due unto God’s name. Bring an offering, and come into God’s courts.
Response: Give to God glory and honor.
O worship God in the beauty of holiness. Fear before God, all the earth.
Say among the heathen that God reigneth. The world also shall be established that it shall not be moved.
Response: Give to God glory and honor.
Reading 2 is from I Thessalonians 1:1-5
Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which believes in God and in Jesus the Christ:- Grace be unto you, and peace, from God and Jesus the Christ. We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in Jesus Christ, in the sight of God; knowing, beloved people, your election of God. For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of people we were among you for your sake.
Gospel is from Matthew 22:15-21
Then the Pharisees took counsel as to how they might entangle Jesus in his talk. And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, “Rabbi, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any person, for thou regardest not the outer appearance of any person. Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?” But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, “Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? Shew me the tribute money.” And they brought unto him a penny. And Jesus saith unto them, “Whose is this image and superscription?” They say unto him, “Caesar’s.” Then saith Jesus unto them, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.”
Femily: Politics
In the first reading we learn that Cyrus is foreordained to be a ruler that God approves of. He is not a Jew, but Cyrus is doing good things for the Jewish people.
In the second reading we are told that the Thessalonians are foreordained to listen to Paul’s preaching, and give glory to God.
And then in the Gospel we have the Pharisees who want to trip Jesus up in his talk. They ask, “Can a good Jew give tribute to Caesar?”
Jesus has a good answer, “Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.”
This is all good political dialogue. Can we follow a king or president who is not of our political party, if he is doing good things for people? Do we believe that some people are forordained to do the right thing, and have a positive influence on world events? Can some groups do no wrong because they are the elect of God? If we don’t like someone’s politics, can we withhold our tax money?
We have people in this country who believe they should have informed consciences about church and government policies. There are those who feel that South American soldiers trained at the School of the Americas at Fort Benning in Georgia were being trained in methods of torture and assasination; so they protested and lobbied for the closing of the school. There are others who believed that sending drones into Afghanistan was liable to kill innocent members of the Afghanistan population. So they protested. Still others attempted to withhold taxes that would go for war supplies such as land mines.
If governments have powerful Pentagons or militant armies, should citizens support the killing of other people by giving tax money to Caesar?
What belongs to Caesar and what belongs to God? Do the poor deserve our tax money, so that they can eat and have health care? So often the person who has money will say, “I worked for the place where I am today, and I don’t want to throw my hard earned dollars away on those jobless loafers.” They feel that they are the elect of God, and that the others have not obeyed God’s will. Those in power in church or state often believe that God is with them, and that the Moabites or the Palestinians or the poor are a threat to the well behaved community.
Whose side is God on? Which ball team will win?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Exodus 22:20-26
The person that sacrificeth unto any god, save unto the God of Israel only, shall be utterly destroyed. Thou shalt neither vex a stranger, nor oppress one, for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Ye shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child. If thou afflict them in any wise, and they cry at all unto me, I will surely hear their cry; and my wrath shall wax hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless. If thou lend money to any of my people that is poor by thee, thou shalt not be to them as an usurer, neither shalt thou lay upon them usury. If thou at all take thy neighbour’s raiment to pledge, thou shalt deliver it unto them before the sun goeth down.
Responsorial Psalm is #18:2-4, 47, 51
Response: I love you, O God, my strength.
God is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;
My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
Response: I love you, O God, my strength.
I will call upon God, who is worthy to be praised. So shall I be saved from mine enemies.
The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid.
Response: I love you, O God, my strength.
It is God that avengeth me, and subdueth the people under me. Great deliverance giveth God to the ruler;
God sheweth mercy to the anointed, to David, and to David’s seed for evermore.
Response: I love you, O God, my strength.
Reading 2 is from I Thessalonians 1:5-10
For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of persons we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of Jesus, having received the word in much affliction, with joy in the Holy Spirit. So that ye were examples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. For from you sounded out the word of God not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; and to wait for God’s Son from heaven, whom God raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.
Gospel is from Matthew 22:34-40
When the Pharisees had heard that Jesus had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together. Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked Jesus a question, tempting him, and saying, “Rabbi, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said unto him, “Thou shalt love thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”
Femily: The Prisoner as My Neighbor
The first and great commandment is to love God with your whole heart, and the second is like it— you shall love your neighbor as yourself. But who is my neighbor? Is the person in prison your neighbor? Many people protest that as a neighbor, the person in prison is rather dangerous. Is there any way we could make the prisoner less dangerous? Is there a formula for turning prisoners into good, law-abiding citizens? The ‘step-down’ community is a possible approach to a loving neighborhood and to greater public safety.
New York State Department of Correction approaches, but could further implement the written policy of the Correctional Service of Canada: “The greatest protection that can be offered to the community is to assist offenders, throughout the sentence, to change their criminal behavior and to help them learn to live by the rules of society. This preparation includes programming to meet specific needs and providing opportunities to demonstrate progress through transfers to reduced security or conditional release, including temporary absences, work release, or statutory release.”
There are many opportunities, some proven in other states, where rehabilitation and reentry can be greatly facilitated. Some of these would be valuable both during prison incarceration and in transitional ‘step-down’ communities that open the way for reintegration of ‘transitional’ persons into the community. Continuity of training in transitional ‘step-down’ communities could become a normal part of the experience for most incarcerated persons. For example:
(1) Education. Many of those incarcerated need post secondary education for meaningful work and a decent living. Privately sponsored prison education programs could be further encouraged. There is the good example of Kenneth Gibson, the President of Donnelly College, 608 N 18th Street, Kansas City KS 66102 (phone 913-621-8707) which holds a college program at Lansing Correctional Facility, Lansing KS, under Warden David McKune. Then there is the Milwaukee Area Technical “College of the Air” Program, providing satellite-delivered college education to correctional facilities. In the public sector, there may be possibilities of educational programs for incarcerated persons given by the New York State University System. These are examples which would increase the employability, self-esteem and responsibility of incarcerated and “step-down” persons.
(2) Employment. Much could be done to organize employment specifically for incarcerated and in-transition persons. For this, some states have arranged for private production companies to operate within selected prisons. For example, also housed inside the Lansing Correctional Facility is a 100% work release metal fabrication company, Zephyr Products founded by Fred Braun (913-651-7949). Other production companies use incarcerated and transitional persons in extended work release in factories outside the prison. Such work experience is invaluable in setting normal work patterns for incarcerated and transitional persons. Can NYSDOCS similarly arrange for private companies to employ incarcerated and transitional persons, either on or off correctional facility premises?
Housing Construction for the Poorest: Habitat for Humanity (121 Habitat Street, Americus GA 31709, <www.habitat.org>) is willing to help the poor around the globe with housing construction. One U.S. prison is noted for a cooperative arrangement with Habitat for Humanity where incarcerated persons can have direct involvement in production of parts of such housing developments. New York State could do the same. Both incarcerated and transitional “step-down” persons could participate.We should also consider whether such production facilities associated with prisons might contribute to the solution of the nation’s energy crisis, by – for example – production of parts for solar, wind, heat transfer, or battery systems.
(3) Microfinance Banking Support. A common means of economic development of the poorest is to encourage very small businesses and private enterprise. There have been successful small loan companies operating in poor countries such as Bangladesh. Incarcerated persons can also be taught basic economics and small business management. Even larger banks are beginning to see that small loans can make big profits. ACCION International (56 Roland Street, Suite 300, Boston MA 02129) (<www.accion.org>) has lent $12.3 billion over the years to 4.9 million people in 25 countries. Arrangements could be made for such companies to educate incarcerated and transitional persons on entrepreneurial opportunities. (4) The Merle Cooper Program and the Alternatives to Violence Project are examples of successful programs for changing attitudes and ways of thinking. Departments of Correction and Parole could make further use of graduates of these programs, as well as those graduated from the Sing Sing Theology program (graduates still incarcerated or released) for both incarcerated and “step-down” persons. As part of the “step-own,” family counseling could be offered; and time to live with their families could be selectively offered.
The elderly and infirm. Each year, the average age of the people incarcerated is getting older; and their illnesses are getting more severe. The elderly, sick, and handicapped are an increasing cost burden. Are we to expect that they will return to a life of crime? Statistics say NO. Consult Rozann Greco’s paper. <http://www.aging.state.ny.us/explore/project2015/briefs04.htm> There is very little recidivism by the elderly or infirm who are released back into society. On the other hand, their needs are very great.
These people are not simply statistics; they are human beings still seeking a degree of personal fulfillment. Some were the young who had been mislead by poor social environments into gang warfare or drug use. Many are the adults who still lack reading and social skills, employability, and support systems. They are part of the half of the incarcerated who have reading difficulties, autism, attention deficit disorder, etc. They are part of the eleven percent of the incarcerated who are diagnosed with mental health problems. Some of them committed horrible crimes 50 years ago and have regretted their actions ever since.
At what age or infirmity should they be considered for release? If they are to be considered for release, how can we help their reentry back into society?
There are two areas that can help their transformation: First, there is the legal area. We can encourage our state legislators to pass the POPS Bill, (the NYS geriatric and older prisoner act of 2007) providing for geriatric parole, electronic detention, correctional nursing care and selective early release.
Second there is the policy area of DOCS to facilitate reentry and change the lives of these people and their families. A “step-down facility” specially tailored for the elderly and infirm would help. Such a ‘step-down” and parole community might involve the remodeling of a portion of a prison into a facility with programs of education, physical and mental health, addiction treatment, constructive recreation, and personal transformation, all tailored for elderly, sick and handicapped persons.
Some of these elderly incarcerated and ‘step-down’ persons could also participate in the four activities cited above.
A climate of mutual respect, cooperation and care could be purposefully developed among the inmates and with the facility staff at all “step-down” facilities. Training and encouragement could be provided to enable ‘step-down’ persons to care for each other, both physically and mentally. Correction officers could be trained in psychology, sociology, addictions, mental health, and conflict resolution, to enable them to be part of the solution.
In such an experiment, much could be learned, particularly if good records were kept of all programming and measurable results, before, during and after ‘step-down,’ to find out what works best.
Working with the incarcerated is one way to transform them into good neighbors.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies. Ask that all the nations would “beat their swords into plough shares and their spears into pruning hooks.”
Thirtyfirst Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Malachi 1:14—2:2, 8-10
Cursed be the deceiver, which hath in their flock a male, and voweth, and sacrificeth unto God a corrupt thing; for I am a great ruler, saith the God of Hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen. And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the God of Hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings. Yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the God of Hosts. Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law. Have we not all one ancestor? Hath not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously every person against their neighbor, by profaning the covenant of our ancestors?
Responsorial Psalm is #131:1-3
Response: In you, O God, I have found my peace.
Loving God, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty.
Neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.
Response: In you, O God, I have found my peace.
Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of their mother.
My soul is even as a weaned child.
Response: In you, O God, I have found my peace.
Let Israel hope in God from henceforth and for ever.
Response: In you, O God, I have found my peace.
Reading 2 is from I Thessalonians 2:7-13
We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children. So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail, for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God. Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe. As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a parent doth a child, that ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto the kingdom of glory. For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of persons, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
Gospel is from Matthew 23:1-12
Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works, for they say, and do not. They bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on people’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do for to be seen of other people. They make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments. They love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets, and to be called by others, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’ But be not ye called Rabbi, for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are Christ’s community. Call no person your father upon the earth, for one is your Abba Father, which is in heaven. But the one that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt themselves shall be abased; and the one that shall humble themself shall be exalted.”
Femily: Call No Person ‘Father’
Call no person ‘father’ on earth. This is a hard thing to do, for we are trained to call even very young priests ‘father’. Must a priest always be male? Should a woman priest be called ‘mother’?
One of the products of God’s creation is humanity, and one possible purpose for our existence might be to increase the amount of love in the world. God’s community, the church, was established to guide us to greater love, but the authoritarian church, with its rules and regulations, runs the risk of stifling love in some areas. When its rules forbid women to officiate on the altar, women become second class citizens, and this situation makes for a decrease of love in the world.
In the first reading Malachi advises, “Have we not all one ancestor? Hath not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously every person against their neighbor, by profaning the covenant of our ancestors?” The Jewish people lived in a particular spot in time and location. I believe they had no idea of the extent of God’s rule. They pictured a small time god who had authority in one spot around Jerusalem.
The people of the earth today are handicapped with the same sort of perception. I do not know how to introduce them to the God of the Universe. This God is beyond Muslim and Christian, beyond male and female. This is the God of the Sun, Moon, and Stars. The stars are not the limit. God is limitless, but this infinite God is still concerned with the wellbeing of each of us.
Those in authority in our religious bodies haven’t had much to do with the sun, moon, or stars recently. How a church prays, shows what a church believes. ‘Lex orandi, lex credendi‘, the Latin phrase left over from the teenage years of the church, means literally that the law of praying is the law of believing. In our worship forms, we express our beliefs. When we worship only under the guidance of male priests, the belief that shows is that women are a lesser species, not equal with men in the sight of God. Actions speak louder than words, and liturgical actions speak loudly of male supremacy. Jesus Christ spoke out for “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Are we prepared to love the people in neighboring countries? Are we prepared to love the creations of God on neighboring solar systems? Which is more important: Giving respect, human rights, and equality to women, or keeping them under control?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Thirtysecond Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Wisdom 6:12-16
Resplendent and unfading is Wisdom, and she is readily perceived by those who love her, and found by those who seek her. She hastens to make herself known in anticipation of those who desire her. Those who watch for her at dawn shall not be disappointed, for they shall find her sitting by their gate. Taking thought of her is the perfection of prudence, and those who for her sake keep vigil shall quickly be free from care; because she makes her own rounds, seeking those worthy of her, and graciously appears to them in the ways, and meets them with all solicitude.
Responsorial Psalm is #63:2-8
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, O my God.
To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, O my God.
My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness;
My mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, O my God.
Thus will I bless thee while I live. I will lift up my hands in thy name.
When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, O my God.
Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
My soul followeth hard after thee. Thy right hand upholdeth me.
Response: My soul is thirsting for you, O my God.
Reading 2 is from I Thessalonians 4:13-18
But I would not have you to be ignorant, sisters and brothers, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of Jesus, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of Jesus shall not prevent them which are asleep. For Jesus himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet Jesus in the air, and so shall we ever be with Jesus. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
Gospel is from Matthew 25:1-11
Then shall the realm of God be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them; but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. At midnight there was a cry made, “Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.” Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, “Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.” But the wise answered, saying, “Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you; but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.” And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage, and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, “Master, open to us.” But he answered and said, “Verily I say unto you, I know you not.” Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
Femily: God’s Good Time
The virgins waited for the coming of the bridegroom, and some of them were ready, and some were not. Others looked forward to the coming of Wisdom, and some just didn’t get up early enough to track her down. Still others were wondering about when they would see again the ones they loved who had died, and Paul was reassuring them that that great day would come, in God’s good time.
Then there are the women who are waiting for the Pope to OK women as priests. The Pope wants the hierarchy to be in solidarity with women, but there is still the matter of God’s good time.
Surely, God wants all the poor to be fed, but we are not to push the hand of God. All these things will come to pass in God’s good time.
The papal encyclical, Sollicitude Rei Socialis, tells us that we should be in solidarity with all human beings and with the earth. Solidarity is defined as a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good, the good of each and all and of the natural world. How do we implement this directive from the concerned hearts of those selected to guide us? In looking about for someone to solidarize with, we find that American blacks are still frequently treated as second class citizens. How can we assist this ethnic group to its proper place in the sun?
In the first place, we err by specifying that the black community has a problem. We have singled them out again, and emphasized that they are separate, different, somehow less. We subconsciously swell our chests in thinking that they do indeed need our superior help. Just in posing the question of greater acceptance and more equal treatment, we have somehow condescended. We have increased our self esteem and decreased theirs. The problem is not just a black problem. It may be more of a white problem. We seem to need someone to feel superior to. When caught in a bad situation, we like to blame it on someone else. Look how Adam blamed it all on Eve.
Why can’t all humanbeings be in solidarity with one another? Why do we who are born into privilege and expectation, find it so hard to understand the frustrations of others?
When we diagram the hierarchy of the church as a pyramid, and realize that a few voices at the top of the pyramid presume to know the God thoughts of the mass at the bottom (without even listening to the base), we must admire the faith of those at the top. They believe that whatever words they speak from out of their cultural perspective, will suit the plurality of cultures and problems of those who suffer at the base. They are guilty of a certain blindness (we might laud this as blind faith); their own selves are so big in their sights that they cannot see beyond those selves. They have been linked for so long to a particular theology and culture, that they actually believe God has given them pre-eminence of wisdom in the earth. Thus a further area where reconciliation or liberation is needed is in the area of the priesthood. All are capable of serving God, not just those who have educational degrees and male sex organs.
Why is it that no American Catholic has made use of our laws on non-discrimination in hiring, in order to high light the discriminatory practices of the Catholic Church? All American Catholics are subject to these laws. When it comes to the abortion question, many Catholics are ready to uphold God’s justice over man’s justice. If the state is more Christian than those in power in our church community, aren’t we, as Christian, compelled to uphold the more loving choice?
When those in the church community disagree as to what is the proper course to pursue, they are advised to confront their maligner face-to-face. If no justice comes from this confrontation, they then take it to civil law, and to ultimate disruption and penalties. Matthew 5:26 urges that we come to terms with the opponent. I Corinthians 6:6 frets that Christians cannot come to just decisions without consulting ruling magistrates. “You should be ashamed: is there really not one reliable man among you to settle differences and so one person brings a court case against another in front of unbelievers?”
In every diocese there are women who could apply for the job of deacon, and file a law suit against the employer who refused to hire them. Why don’t Catholic women make use of civil laws on non-discrimination due to sex, age, color, or marital status, in order to have equal employment in all areas in the U.S. Catholic Church? All other big employers are forced to comply. What would happen if GM refused to hire a qualified woman? What would happen if the local firehouse refused to take a nursing mother on its team? We know that the result would be a lot of publicity, and also anger.
The reason why Catholic women do not often use civil laws to achieve justice and equality, is that they are too kind or too subservient to their authorities. To be Catholic and Christian is to make a statement that one is loving and searching for God’s justice to be done in all situations. In the case of women and married deacons and priests, we do not prosecute our bishops and cardinals with civil law, because they are frail, elderly gentlemen who are doing their best to be obedient to what they feel is the next best thing to God’s authority, which for them is the Pope’s authority. We do not want to rock the boat (the bark of Peter), so we do not prosecute, but we seek open communication. How we wish that these elderly gentlemen would follow the advice to shepherds in I Peter 5:3, “Never be a dictator over any group that is put in your charge.” We hope that bishops and popes will listen to the subservient, and stabilize the boat with justice and equality, or they will tip the boat with their unjust emphasis, and we will all fall out!
If they do not listen to the consensus of opinion of those who make up the body, particularly on issues such as contraception, they cannot speak for the Holy Spirit, for the Holy Spirit dwells in all of us!
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Thirtythird Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A, 2011,2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth God, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
Responsorial Psalm is #128:1-5
Response: Happy are those who fear God.
Blessed is every one that feareth God; that walketh in God’s ways.
For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands; happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.
Response: Happy are those who fear God.
Thy husband shall be as a faithful friend dwelling in thine house.
Thy children like olive plants round about thy table.
Response: Happy are those who fear God.
Behold, that thus shall the woman be blessed that feareth God.
God shall bless thee out of Zion, and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life.
Response: Happy are those who fear God.
Reading 2 is from I Thessalonians 5:1-6
But of the times and the seasons, sisters and brothers, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of atonement cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, “Peace and safety;” then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, sisters and brothers, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
Gospel is from Matthew 25:14-30
For the realm of heaven is as a person travelling into a far country, who called their own servants, and delivered unto them some money. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every person according to their several ability; and then the master went on his journey. Then the servant that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made, with them, another five talents. And likewise the one that had received two, gained another two. But the servant that had received only one talent went and digged in the earth, and hid the master’s money. After a long time the master of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. And so the one that had received five talents came and brought another five talents, saying, “Master, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.” The master said to that servant, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy master.” The one also that had received two talents came and said, “Master, thou deliveredst unto me two talents. Behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.” The master said to that one, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy master.” Then the one which had received the one talent came and said, “Master, I knew thee that thou art diligent, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed. And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth. Lo, there thou hast that is thine.” The master answered and said to the last servant, “Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed. Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and those shall have abundance, but from those that hath not, shall be taken away even that which they hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
Femily: Profitable Servants
I always feel a bit sorry for the last servant, who obviously had disabilities, and couldn’t keep up with the other servants. Why did the master give that one money in the first place, and then expect the poor servant to come up with a solution that would profit the master?
The master doesn’t seem to be using good sense in his treatment of the last servant. I hope that God isn’t like that, gathering where God hasn’t planted.
However, our God has planted everywhere, as all the Universe is God’s production. So what does God expect of us? Why did God make us and the universe?
So many of us are unprofitable servants; give us five talents and we are liable to waste them all. Can we use our talents or gifts somehow to save the earth and please God?
What can we do for God, so that we can be considered profitable servants? Nero fiddled while Rome burned. Politicians argue while our infrastructure and youth rot away. Our country is falling apart! Because many in the federal government haven’t listened to each other, we have a Middle East war, jobs are going overseas, our market economy is failing us, purchase power of the minimum wage is down over thirty percent, company pensions are failing, health insurance is ridiculous. What can states do for their people?
California is trying to do something about these problems, but New York State is organized so that we are subject to the disagreements of lawmakers and the insinuations of newspapers. Is there any reason why Republicans and Democrats must be so controversial? Can’t the major parties cooperate on a positive project to save their state and perhaps even demonstrate to the rest of the world a way out of the desolation?
Major problems in the state (and in the world) are joblessness, environmental degradation, severe militarization (guns, landmines, nuclear weapons, torture of prisoners, youth soldiers), immigration, and politicians and news media who play on our fears. What can we do about all that?
Legislators understandably have trouble listening to their constituents about discarding drug laws because they see as an immediate after effect, thousands on the streets to join the homeless, the jobless, the addicted, the uneducated, and the unmentored. Why didn’t our leaders supply job training, addiction treatment, education, parenting skills, etc. to the incarcerated for the past 35 years under the drug Laws? The same problems exist in the Sudan. The youth have no jobs and see no positive future. They are easily convinced to join the military who give them companionship and food to eat. To a lesser extent, the same is true in the City of Yonkers. The youth are brought up in a culture of guns and gangs.
Imagine a news headline that says “Republicans cooperate with Democrats on job creation for inner city youth.” Can’t we formulate a work/study program for our youth where they congregate in a local school or office building for four hours to watch educational videos on building construction and then go out in the community for four hours to apply their skills on dilapidated housing? We have so many colleges, but we condemn our young black men to prison. How could we stop this waste of young people? How can we undo the waste of human energy that has occurred under the Rockefeller Drug Law fiasco? Can’t we have a Study, Work, and Apply program for the incarcerated? Can’t we guide the youth and the formerly incarcerated into being mentors for each other?
Our present infrastructure is decaying. We depend on oil, and that is being priced out of existence. What jobs can we find for our formerly incarcerated and our youth? There are many projects that will help us into the future. We can create jobs that are environmentally sound such as the manufacture of electric or solar buses, wind turbines, geothermal systems, solar power, water power, the rebuilding of decaying cities in an environmental manner (such as Beacon and Yonkers), beach homes can be put up on stilts, highways rebuilt, highway fences painted and repaired, and bridges strengthened. We could start training persons for these jobs while they are still incarcerated, using practical videos. Have them rebuild their own prisons into homes they can live in.
Those who want to be classified as ‘profitable servants’ might consider these suggestions and discuss them with each other and with other knowledgeable people. God’s purpose in making the universe might be a desire to see humans helping each other onward to personal fulfillment.
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
Last Ordinary Sunday, The Feast of Christ The King - Year A ending Nov.20,2011; also 2015,2019,etc.
Reading 1 is from Ezekiel 34:11-12,15-17
For thus saith our Loving God;- Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. As a shepherd seeketh out her flock in the day that she is among her sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be. There shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith God. I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick; but I will destroy the fat and the strong. I will feed them with judgment. And as for you, O my flock, thus saith our Loving God, behold, I judge between cows and bulls, between rams and goats.
Responsorial Psalm is #42:6-10
Response: As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
O my God, my soul is cast down within me.
Therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan.
Response: As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts.
All thy waves and thy billows are gone over me.
Response: As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
Yet God will command God’s lovingkindness in the day time,
And in the night God’s song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.
Response: As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
I will say unto God my rock, Why hast thou forgotten me?
Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?
Response: As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
Reading 2 is from I Corinthians 15:20-26,28
Christ is now risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by humanbeings came death, by humanbeings came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every person in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. Then cometh the end, when Christ shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For the Good Spirit must reign, until all enemies are subdued. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For God hath subdued all material and spiritual quantities. But when God saith all things are put under Christ, it is manifest that God is excepted, which did put all things under Christ. And when all things shall be subdued unto Spirit, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto God that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.
Gospel is from Matthew 25:31-45
When the Servant of Humanity shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory. Before him shall be gathered all nations; and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats. He shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the Ruler say unto them on his right hand, “Come, ye blessed of my Abba, inherit the realm prepared for you from the foundation of the world, for I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat. I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink. I was a stranger, and ye took me in. Naked, and ye clothed me. I was sick, and ye visited me. I was in prison, and ye came unto me.” Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, “Good Ruler, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? Or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?” And the Ruler shall answer and say unto them, “Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these of my community, ye have done it unto me.” Then shall the Ruler say also unto them on the left hand, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels, for I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat. I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink. I was a stranger, and ye took me not in. Naked, and ye clothed me not. Sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.” Then shall they also answer him, saying, “Good Ruler, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?” Then shall the Ruler answer them, saying, “Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.”
Femily: U.N. Commission on Social Development Worries about The Least of These
Does God rule in the United Nations? If we do not feed and clothe the immigrant, and do not perform other works of mercy on them, is it the same as if we turned the Christ or the Spirit of the Messiah, out of our hearts? If we no longer proclaim and act on the Message of Love, will the earth dry up and become unfruitful? What happens when the enemy Death is destroyed, and all things are subdued under God or Great Merciful Spirit?
What is the situation in the world today, particularly as in regards to women? Women are subjected to the sex slave trade. They are tortured and killed. They see their children go hungry. The message of love urges us all to seek life for others instead of death. When we put people at the center of everything that we do to assure full employment and decent work for all, we take the first step in making a decent life possible for every member of society.
Perhaps God has some influence in the U.N.. The U.N. Commission for Social Development is working on promoting full employment and decent work for all. There is agreement by the United Nations Member States to put people at the center of development in order to overcome poverty, create full employment and foster social integration (Copenhagen, 1995) which underpins the international commitment to achieving the Millennium Development Goals. The 46th session of the Commission for Social Development, offers an opportunity to embed this principle in both policy options and practical measures to accelerate the “Promotion of Full Employment and Decent Work for all”. It urges that such policies and actions must recognize that (and I quote):
o “Basic human rights affirm the dignity of work and its value in the development of the person.
o Assuring worthwhile and productive work is an important means to eradicate poverty.
o Work alone is not enough. Jobs are created for people and cannot be created in a vacuum. Employment needs to respond to the needs of the community and contribute to the development of the community.
o Governments must involve their citizens, especially those living in poverty, in social dialogue at the local, regional and global levels, so that the voices of ordinary people can be heard, especially in decision-making that determine all the parameters of work.
o The right to decent working conditions, adequate compensation, social protection and social security must be honored in employment policies and regulations that govern labor standards.
o Women make up at least half of the work force. Just compensation for their contributions in both the formal and informal work sectors contributes to social stability and protects them from forced labor and exploitation.
o Sustainability and social integration of the marginalized members of society are assured when governments work hand in hand with their citizens, using the principles of cooperatives within their countries, rather than allowing external, global institutions motivated by profit, regulate trade and financing that only increases the inequalities that already exist in our world.
“Gender, age, education, health, ethnicity and location are just a few variables influencing the attainment of full employment and decent work. Our concern is particularly with the most vulnerable and disproportionately affected populations. Long-standing inequities must be addressed and new opportunities presented by new situations, like climate change, must be maximized for employment of these groups.
“We believe that the plight of women in the workplace must be addressed to undo the feminization of poverty. Women are highly affected by mechanisms that generate poverty and lack of decent work: women are denied access, participation and power. These inequities cannot be addressed without taking gender into account in every aspect of global economy and employment policy. Women must have equal opportunity for employment with equal pay and equal social protections. An NGO Survey of Effective Practices in Employment examined 50 successful employment environments. The Survey found that successful workplaces are characterized by legal protections that are fair, transparent and equally applied. Where gender-responsive budgeting has been implemented there have been positive impacts on the economy and on lifting people out of poverty. It is imperative that such mechanisms become the norm.
“The plight of women in poverty is related to the phenomenon of unpaid work like child care and care of the critically ill and aging. We propose national and international recognition and accounting of unpaid work that sustains society. Further, we believe that governments must find creative means to remunerate unpaid work. Remuneration would recognize the vital contribution of unpaid work to quality of life, provide economic support for families that are under-served and infuse another stream of currency into national economies. Remuneration for unpaid work could be attached to food vouchers, health services and other social protections.
“The search for decent work is a driving force in the ever increasing population of migrants and internally displaced persons throughout the world. More emphasis must be placed on a normative and rights based framework within which migration should be regulated. We strongly support such a framework, and believe that it should take into account core labor standards and the decent work agenda including due process and fair wages. We believe a rights-based framework would aid in ameliorating the exploitative conditions under which many migrants are currently employed.
“Forced labor and the trafficking of women and children for sexual exploitation and prostitution are closely linked to poverty and migration. While poverty as a root cause of trafficking and migration must be addressed, governments must also enforce anti-trafficking laws, punish the perpetrators and confiscate the profits. Governments must uncover and prosecute the source of demand for forced labor, sexual exploitation and prostitution. It is a human right to have decent work where one is not exploited.
“We urge that all member states examine the free movement of capital and labor across borders in making multilateral agreements. Further, we encourage governments to create migration policies that facilitate family unification, productive employment and the transfer of remittances. Finally, as a preventative measure, sending countries must be assisted to develop domestic markets in order to retain skilled laborers.”
Will we stand with the sheep or with the goats at the Last Judgment?
For Communion: We advise a silent meditation for ten minutes with eyes closed, on the compassion of Jesus who said, “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Greet the Great Spirit and invite the Dweller to dwell in your soul. After the meditation, remember those who are a part of your life. Ask yourself, “How can I be more patient with those I love? How can I help those who enter my daily life very briefly? How can I help the people of the nations? How can I share my goods with others?” Ask for the help you need, by sincere prayer. Ask for special healings for those who lead nations or religious bodies.
