Podcast – Three Great Things: Recent Episodes
Fr. Andrew Ricci
Offering "Catholic Inspiration" to help us unite our hearts to Jesus Christ as we Study, Pray and Serve.
Photo by Pranto Khan on Pexels.comJesus offers a parable about a grain of wheat to illustrate the journey of death to new life that we find in the Paschal Mystery of Christ.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 19th Week of the Year (#618)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Lawrence, pray for us!
Photo by Rino Adamo on Pexels.comHere are some of the main themes in the Mass readings for the 20th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Isaiah 56:1,6-7
- All who observe what is right and do what is just, even foreigners from distant lands, will serve and follow the Lord.
- God will bring all who follow him to the holy mountain, and there will be a house of prayer for all peoples.
Psalm – 67:2-3,5-6,8
- “O God, let all the nations praise you!”
- May God’s ways be known to all peoples, and all the ends of the earth fear the Lord.
2nd Reading – Romans 11:13-15,29-32
- Paul, a minister to the Gentiles (non-Jewish people), gives glory that he can do his ministry to make his own race jealous and thus save some of them.
- Paul’s hope is that as God’s gifts to the Jews are irrevocable, the Lord’s mercy will extend to those who have rejected Jesus.
Gospel – Matthew 15:21-28
- Jesus, traveling through the region of Tyre and Sidon, encounters a persistent Canaanite woman who is calling for help for her daughter who is tormented by a demon.
- Through their dialogue, Jesus heals the girl on account of her mother’s faith.
Mass Readings – 20th Sunday of the Year (#118)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Lewis Ashton on Pexels.comJesus walks on the water to the disciples, confronting their fears with an exhortation to grow in faith.
Mass Readings – 19th Sunday of the Year (#115)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.comJesus drives out a demon after the disciples are unable to do so, reminding them of the crucial need to foster their faith.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 18th Week of the Year (#412)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Dominic, pray for us!
Photo by Kaan Demircan on Pexels.comThe response from the Book of Deuteronomy instructs us to seek the Lord, who guides us through life and death.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 18th Week of the Year (#411)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Sixtus II & St. Cajetan, pray for us!
Photo by Meshack Emmanuel Kazanshyi on Pexels.comThe Transfiguration of the Lord reveals the glory of Christ and inspires us to shine with the light of his understanding, courage, and love.
Mass Readings – Transfiguration of the Lord (#614)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Light of Christ, shine in our hearts!
Photo by Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz on Pexels.comJeremiah reminds us that in our moments of darkness and fear, we turn and follow the Lord our shepherd.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 18th Week of the Year (#409)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Our Lady of the Basilica of St. Mary Major, pray for us!
Photo by chickenbunny on Pexels.comJeremiah brings hope to the people in the midst of their persecution, reminding them that they are called by God to return to the Lord.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 18th Week of the Year (#408)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John Vianney, pray for us!
Photo by Brent Singleton on Pexels.comPsalm 119 invites us to open our minds to receive the wisdom that comes when we seek the light of God’s truth.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 18th Week of the Year (#407)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Jesus walks on water towards a boat during a stormy night.Let’s explore some of the themes in the readings for Mass on this 19th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 1st Kings 19:9a,11-13a
- Elijah takes shelter in a cave at Horeb and encounters mighty wind, an earthquake, and fire…but the Lord is not present in these natural forces.
- Elijah then hears a tiny whispering sound, and he recognizes the Lord in the whisper.
Psalm – 85:9-14
- “Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.”
- We listen to God, and encounter kindness and truth, justice and peace.
2nd Reading – Romans 9:1-5
- Paul is in anguish for his own people, the children of Israel, and would wish himself accursed for their sake.
- Paul acknowledges that the promises to the Israelites are the glory of the covenants and promises of salvation history, which are fulfilled in Jesus Christ who is over all.
Gospel – Matthew 14:22-33
- Jesus dismisses the crowds and goes up the mountain to pray while the disciples are in a boat being tossed about by a storm.
- Jesus walks on the water to the disciples, and Peter calls out to him and begins to walk on the water.
- When Peter sees the strength of the storm he starts to sink, and Jesus rescues him.
Mass Readings – 19th Sunday of the Year (#115)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.comA newly healed Samaritan leper returns to Jesus, praising God and filled with gratitude…inviting us to cultivate a thankful heart that fosters honesty, humility and joy.
Mass Readings – 28th Sunday of the Year (#144)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva on Pexels.comJesus teaches that we are blessed when we hear the word of God and observe it.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 27th Week of the Year (#466)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John XXIII, pray for us!
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.comResponding to a comment from the crowd, Jesus addresses the power by which he casts out demons.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 27th Week of the Year (#465)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Katya Wolf on Pexels.comSpeaking to his disciples, the Lord invites his followers to ask, seek, and knock with persistent effort as they call upon the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 27th Week of the Year (#464)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Denis & Companions and St. John Leonardi, pray for us!
Jesus teaches the Lord’s Prayer to his disciples in the Gospel of Luke.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 27th Week of the Year (#463)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Jesus responds with deep friendship to both Mary and Martha.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 27th Week of the Year (#462)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Our Lady of the Rosary, pray for us!
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.comJesus offers the parable of the Good Samaritan to remind us that we are called to care for all people with compassion.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 27th Week of the Year (#461)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Bruno & St. Marie Rose Durocher, pray for us!
Generated with ChatGPTHere are some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the 28th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 2nd Kings 5:14-17
- At the word of Elisha, Naaman plunges himself seven times in the Jordan river.
- Cleansed of his leprosy, Naaman desires to give a gift to Elisha in gratitude for his healing.
Psalm – 98:1-4
- “The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.”
- We joyfully sing, praising God for his justice, kindness, and faithfulness.
2nd Reading – 2nd Timothy 2:8-13
- We bear our sufferings with the strength of the unchained power of the word of God.
- “If we have died with him we shall also live with him; if we persevere we shall also reign with him.”
Gospel – Luke 17:11-19
- Ten lepers call out to Jesus for mercy, and the Lord heals them all with a word of command.
- One of them, a Samaritan, returns to Jesus to give thanks for his healing.
Mass Readings – 28th Sunday of the Year (#144)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.comThe Second Letter to Timothy and the Gospel of Luke instruct us about two crucial elements of our faith: we start small and keep feeding the flame!
Mass Readings – 27th Sunday of the Year (#141)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Sasha Martynov on Pexels.comThe 72 disciples return rejoicing at the power of the name of Jesus.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 26th Week of the Year (#460)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Francis of Assisi, pray for us!
Photo by John-Mark Smith on Pexels.comThe Psalmist encourages us to actively learn, both our understanding of the faith as well as the Lord who makes it all possible.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 18th Week of the Year (#407)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Let’s explore some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the 19th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 1st Book of Kings 19:4-8
- Elijah is exhausted, and he is fed in the desert by the angel of the Lord.
- The prophet, strengthened by this heavenly food, continues on his journey for forty days and nights.
Psalm – 34:2-9
- “Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.”
- We bless and glorify God, who saves us in our moments of distress.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 4:30-5:2
- The letter exhorts us to cast out all wickedness and malice.
- We are now imitators of God, beloved children who live in love as Christ loved us.
Gospel – John 6:41-51
- The people murmur about the teaching that Jesus is “the bread of life.”
- The Lord responds, reaffirming that he is the living bread that came down from heaven, and unlike those who ate manna in the desert and died, whoever eats this bread will live forever.
Mass Readings – 19th Sunday of the Year (B, #116)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
In response to the crowds who speak about how Moses gave the Israelites manna to eat, Jesus states that he is the bread of life, and whoever eats this bread will live forever.
Mass Readings – 18th Sunday of the Year (B, #113)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Note: This is the second of five weeks where we hear from John’s Gospel, chapter six. It really is worth it to dig out your Bible and read this chapter!
Photo by Alem Su00e1nchez on Pexels.comJeremiah and John the Baptist put their lives on the line for proclaiming God’s message, inviting us to consider how our faith in Christ is a matter of life and death.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 17th Week of the Year (#406)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Liza Summer on Pexels.comJeremiah is charged with delivering a tough message, even though the people do not want to hear it.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 17th Week of the Year (#405)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Eusebius of Vercelli and St. Peter Julian Eymard, pray for us!
Jeremiah reminds us that like clay in God’s hands, we can be molded, fashioned, reshaped, and restored.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 17th Week of the Year (#404)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Alphonsus Liguori, pray for us!
Jesus offers two examples that reveal that the Kingdom of Heaven far surpasses any treasure we possess here on earth.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 17th Week of the Year (#403)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Ignatius of Loyola, pray for us!
Photo by Mstudio on Pexels.comPsalm 79 invites us to recognize our sins and turn to the Lord for the grace we need for repentance, reconciliation, and newness of life.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 17th Week of the Year (#402)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Peter Chrysologus, pray for us!
Photo by Thomas Boehi on Pexels.comOn this Memorial of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, we recognize the deep friendship they have with the Lord, and we discern how we foster our connection with Christ, our savior and friend.
Mass Readings – Memorial of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (#401/607)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Martha, St. Mary, St. Lazarus, pray for us!
Here are some of the themes in the Mass readings for the 18th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Exodus 16:2-4,12-15
- Complaining about their hunger, the people grumble against Moses and Aaron.
- The Lord responds, offering quail and manna for the people to eat.
Psalm – 78:3-4,23-25,54
- “The Lord gave them bread from heaven.”
- The psalm recalls the miracle of the manna that God gave the children of Israel.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 4:17,20-24
- We put away the old self of our former way of life, corrupted through deceitful desires.
- Renewed in spirit, we put on the new self, created in God’s righteousness and truth.
Gospel – John 6:24-35
- Amazed by the miracle of the fishes and loaves, the crowd follows Jesus back to Capernaum.
- Jesus references the miracle of the manna, but then boldly claims, “I am the bread of life.”
Mass Readings – 18th Sunday of the Year (#113)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Download a pic Donate a buck! ^ on Pexels.comJesus carries out his earthly ministry among crowds of people and reveals his compassionate heart in the process.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 14th Week of the Year (#384)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Augustine Zhao Rong, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comPsalm 145 reveals that on one hand God is majestic and awesome, while on the other hand approachable and tender.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 14th Week of the Year (#383)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Eric Sanman on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the 15th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Amos 7:12-15
- When challenged by Amaziah, Amos claims his humble heritage tending sycamore trees.
- It was God that called Amos, empowering him to prophesy to the people of Israel.
Psalm – 85:9-14
- “Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.”
- The Lord proclaims peace and justice to the people.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 1:3-14
- We have been blessed in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
- We are known, saved, redeemed and filled with wisdom through the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Gospel – Mark 6:7-13
- The Twelve Apostles receive the authority of Jesus and are sent out two by two.
- They cure the sick, drive out demons, and preach repentance.
Mass Readings – 15th Sunday of the Year (Year B, #104)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Tiana on Pexels.comBoth Ezekiel and Jesus are in situations that are hostile and tense, reminding us that sometimes we are called to give witness to God when it is tough and uncomfortable.
Mass Readings – 14th Sunday of the Year (Year B, #101)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Diego Madrigal on Pexels.comPsalm 85 addresses the deep longing for peace in our hearts.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 13th Week of the Year (#382)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Maria Goretti, pray for us!
Photo by Riccardo on Pexels.comMatthew swiftly responds to the simple and direct invitation of Jesus, inspiring us to follow the Lord’s call each and every day.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 13th Week of the Year (#381)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria & St. Elizabeth of Portugal, pray for us!
Photo by RUN 4 FFWPU on Pexels.comThe Lord heals a paralytic who was carried by others, reminding us that sometimes we receive help, and sometimes we give it.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 13th Week of the Year (#380)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
May this 4th of July be a time for all Americans to be thankful for the gift of freedom!
Photo by Chei ki on Pexels.comAfter doubting the testimony of the disciples that Jesus had been raised from the dead, the Lord comes again and speaks to the doubts (and fears!) of Thomas.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Thomas, Apostle (#593)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Thomas, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comAs Jesus calms the wind and waves he reveals his authority over all creation.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 13th Week of the Year (#378)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Rahul on Pexels.comJesus minces no words as he calls his disciples to unconditional commitment if they choose to follow him.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 13th Week of the Year (#377)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Hyukman Kwon on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the 14th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Ezekiel 2:2-5
- The prophet is sent by God to speak to a people who are stubborn and obstinate of heart.
- Ezekiel must speak faithfully, so that whether they heed or resist, they will know that a prophet has been among them.
Psalm – 123:1-4
- “Our eyes are fixed on the Lord, pleading for his mercy.”
- We call upon the Lord to have pity on us when we have been mocked or held in contempt by the world.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 12:7-10
- That he might not become too elated, Paul is given a “thorn in the flesh.”
- Recognizing his weaknesses, Paul discovers that with the power of Christ he becomes strong.
Gospel – Mark 6:1-6
- Jesus arrives at his native place and the people take offense at him.
- Because of their lack of faith, the Lord does not perform any mighty deeds there.
Mass Readings – 14th Sunday of the Year (#101)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by PhotoMIX Company on Pexels.comJesus offers practical spiritual wisdom that brilliantly evaluates the character of our lives.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 12th Week of the Year (#373)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Oleksandr P on Pexels.comThe Lord offers three nuggets of spiritual wisdom, exhorting us to follow the narrow path to eternal life as we wisely use the blessings we have and we treat others the way we want to be treated.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 12th Week of the Year (#372)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe birth of John the Baptist reveals how God worked through him to point out Jesus to others, inspiring us to give witness to Christ through the words and actions of our lives.
Mass Readings – Nativity of John the Baptist (#587)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John the Baptist, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the themes that surface in the Mass readings for the 13th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24
- God did not make death, nor does the Lord rejoice in the destruction of the living.
- God formed humanity to be imperishable, but by the envy of the devil death entered the world.
Psalm – 30:2,4-6,22-24
- “I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.”
- We give thanks to God who has had pity on us and preserved us from death.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 8:7,9,13-15
- For our sake Jesus became poor, so that by his poverty we might become rich.
- Mindful of what the Lord has done for us, we supply the needs of those who are burdened.
Gospel – Mark 5:21-43
- While Jesus is on the way to heal a child, a woman touches his cloak and is healed.
- Upon arriving at the child’s home and told that she has died, Jesus approaches, takes the child by the hand, and with a word restores her to life.
Mass Readings – 13th Sunday of the Year (#98)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Rahul Pandit on Pexels.comJesus reminds his disciples to turn away from useless worry and seek the Kingdom of God.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 11th Week of the Year (#370)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Paulinus of Nola, St. John Fisher, and St. Thomas More, pray for us!
Photo by Bich Tran on Pexels.comThe Lord challenges us to examine what we treasure so that our hearts are directed toward a heavenly goal.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 11th Week of the Year (#369)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Aloysius Gonzaga, pray for us!
Photo by Arina Krasnikova on Pexels.comThe Lord’s Prayer is a gift from Christ to help us pray in direct and focused language. May we use it often!
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 11th Week of the Year (#368)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Arina Krasnikova on Pexels.comAlmsgiving, prayer, and fasting are ancient spiritual practices that have power to transform our souls. May we put them into practice today!
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 11th Week of the Year (#367)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Romuald, pray for us!
Photo by Savvas Stavrinos on Pexels.comArguably the toughest teaching in the Bible, Jesus makes it clear that his disciples must love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 11th Week of the Year (#366)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Julia M Cameron on Pexels.comContinuing the call to a higher standard in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus offers a couple of spiritual insights regarding our response to others when life gets messy.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 11th Week of the Year (#365)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the 12th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Job 18:1,8-11
- From the storm God addresses Job, reminding him that it was the Lord’s might that set the limits and boundaries of all creation.
Psalm – 107:23-26,28-31
- “Give thanks to the Lord, his love is everlasting.”
- In the midst of the power and might of nature, the people call upon the Lord and give him glory and praise.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 5:14-17
- Impelled by the love of Christ, we no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died and rose for us.
- Those who are in Christ are now a new creation, and they no longer live according to the flesh.
Gospel – Mark 4:35-41
- Jesus is with the disciples in a boat when a violent storm comes upon them.
- Upon awakening, the Lord calms the storm with a word and chastises the disciples for their lack of faith.
Mass Readings – 12th Sunday of the Year (#95)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by PhotoMIX Company on Pexels.comJesus offers a couple of parables to explain the kingdom of God, offering us an opportunity to apply these insights of faith into our daily lives.
Mass Readings – 11th Sunday of the Year (B, #92)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comJesus offers sound advice for how we speak in a truthful, sincere and solemn manner.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 10th Week of the Year (#364)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.comJesus offers a challenging teaching about lust, adultery, and divorce. Recognizing that these concerns have been with humanity since the dawn of time, we look for ways to build up marriage and respond with God’s grace when life gets messy.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 10th Week of the Year (#363)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe perfect sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross reveals the depth of God’s love and inspires us to share this love with those around us.
Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus (#171)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.comThe commandments to love God and love one another guide us on the journey of faith, directing our lives as we follow Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 9th Week of the Year (#356)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Norbert, pray for us!
Photo by Roman Pohorecki on Pexels.comThe Second Letter to Timothy invites us to stir into flame the gift of faith to bear our share of hardship with the strength that comes from God.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 9th Week of the Year (#355)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Boniface, pray for us!
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.comJesus sidesteps a trap and offers a prudent insight into how we conduct our lives here on earth as we journey to heaven.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 9th Week of the Year (#354)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Josh Sorenson on Pexels.comThe Second Letter of Peter reveals God’s divine power at work through the grace and peace of Jesus Christ, inviting us to respond in a variety of ways.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 9th Week of the Year (#353)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Charles Lwanga and Companions, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comLet’s explore the themes we find in the Mass readings for the 10th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Genesis 3:9-15
- Adam and Eve hide from God after they have eaten the fruit of the forbidden tree.
- When confronted by God, the serpent is banished and forced to crawl on its belly.
Psalm – 130:1-8
- “With the Lord there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.”
- From the depths we cry to God who offers kindness and forgiveness.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 4:13-5:1
- We believe that the one who raised Jesus from the dead will also raise us.
- We are not discouraged; rather, as our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed.
Gospel – Mark 3:20-35
- In response to the scribes, Jesus teaches that by his divine power he drives out demons.
- When his family tries to meet him, the Lord says that whoever does the will of God is part of his family.
Mass Readings – 10th Sunday of the Year (B, #89)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Gabriel Manjarres on Pexels.comJesus taught his disciples at the Last Supper that the bread and wine become his Body and Blood that they must eat and drink. Thus, we cherish the Eucharist and fervently come to the Lord’s table to receive Holy Communion, for we are what we eat.
Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Year B, #168)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe Letter of Jude offers a fervent exhortation, inviting us to call upon God’s mercy and offer it in our interactions with one another.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 8th Week of the Year (#352)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Justin Martyr, pray for us!
Photo by Nina Uhlikova on Pexels.comMary’s Magnificat invites us to reflect on how we proclaim the greatness of the Lord through the example of our daily lives.
Mass Readings – Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (#572)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comWe are living stones, built up together into a spiritual house to offer sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 8th Week of the Year (#350)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Alem Su00e1nchez on Pexels.comRansomed by the blood of Christ, we are mindful of the precious gifts of life and faith as we seek opportunities to love one another with a purity of heart.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 8th Week of the Year (#349)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Paul VI, pray for us!
Photo by Dolina Modlitwy on Pexels.comThe First Letter of Peter exhorts us to be holy, setting our hopes on Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 8th Week of the Year (#348)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by u0410u043du043du0430 u0420u044bu0436u043au043eu0432u0430 on Pexels.comThe First Letter of Peter reminds us that our hope in the saving work of Jesus Christ empowers us to endure the sufferings of our earthly trials with the Lord’s help.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 8th Week of the Year (#347)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Augustine of Canterbury, pray for us!
Pastoral Note: On this Memorial Day, we remember with grateful hearts the sacrifices of the men and women who have served our country.
Photo by Gabriel Manjarres on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the themes that surface in the Mass readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ – Corpus Christi.
1st Reading – Exodus 24:3-8
- The people affirm that they will do everything that the Lord has told them through Moses.
- Moses then offers a blood sacrifice and enters the people into a covenant with God.
Psalm – 116:12-13,15-18
- “I will take the cup of salvation, and call on the name of the Lord.”
- We pledge our service and sacrifice to the Lord, who has done good things for us.
2nd Reading – Hebrews 9:11-15
- Jesus Christ is our great high priest, who offers the unblemished sacrifice of his blood.
- As mediator of the new covenant, Christ has delivered us from death with the promise of eternal life.
Gospel – Mark 14:12-16, 22-26
- Jesus directs his disciples to prepare the place for the Passover supper.
- The Lord blesses bread and wine, defines it as his body and blood, and commands them to take it in his memory.
Mass Readings – Corpus Christi (#168)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Clement Eastwood on Pexels.comPaul’s Letter to the Romans reveals how we are adopted into the life of the Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, forging a communion here on earth that prepares us for the Communion of Saints in Heaven.
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity (#165)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.comChapter five in the Letter of James offers insight into Confession and Anointing of the Sick, profound sacraments in the Church that bring healing to body, mind, heart, and soul.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 7th Week of the Year (#346)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Bede, St. Gregory VII, and St. Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi, pray for us!
Photo by Brett Sayles on Pexels.comWhile it’s human to complain when life is tough, James invites us to persevere with God’s grace.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 7th Week of the Year (#345)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Zlau0165u00e1ky.cz on Pexels.comJames raises the awkward question about wealth, challenging us to ask the hard question, “When is it enough?”
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 7th Week of the Year (#344)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.comJames reminds us that life is uncertain and brief, like a puff of smoke that appears briefly and disappears.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 7th Week of the Year (#343)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Rita of Cascia, pray for us!
Photo by Garon Piceli on Pexels.comThe Letter of James offers sound spiritual advice and exhortation, reminding us to wage our spiritual battle by remaining close to the Lord and resisting temptation in all its forms.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 7th Week of the Year (#342)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Christopher Magallanes & Companions, pray for us!
Photo by Nou00ebl Raffoux on Pexels.comThe words of Jesus to John the beloved disciple apply to us as well: “Behold your Mother.”
Mass Readings – Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church (#572)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity.
1st Reading – Deuteronomy 4:32-34-39-40
- Moses reminds the people of God’s grandeur, power and might when they were in Egypt.
- The people fix in their hearts the Lord’s statutes and commandments, so that they will prosper and have long life in the land.
Psalm – 33:4-6,9,18-20,22
- “Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.”
- We wait for the Lord, whose word is upright, just, and trustworthy.
2nd Reading – Romans 8:14-17
- Those who are led by the Spirit are children of God by adoption.
- The Spirit bears witness to this relationship, and we are glorified through our suffering with Christ.
Gospel – Matthew 28:16-20
- After the resurrection, Jesus gathers the eleven disciples, some of whom are still doubting.
- He sends them on a great commission to baptize and teach in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity (#165)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Mayu on Pexels.comMay the power of the Holy Spirit fill our hearts, casting out fear and strengthening us to face the trials of life. Come Holy Spirit!
Mass Readings – Pentecost (#62,#63)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Davi Pimentel on Pexels.comPaul’s journey of faith leads him to the city of Rome and the heart of the empire.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 7th Week of Easter (#302)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Pope John, pray for us
Photo by ANTONI SHKRABA production on Pexels.comSpeaking about Paul’s situation to King Agrippa and Bernice, Festus reveals that our words and actions are always under observation and discussion. It begs the question, what do people say about our faith when we are not around?
Mass Readings – Friday of the 7th Week of Easter (#301)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Josh Sorenson on Pexels.comPaul is brought before the Sanhedrin, where he faithfully proclaims his message as he shrewdly reads the group dynamics.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 7th Week of Easter (#300)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.comAs Paul prepares to depart from Miletus, he offers a heartfelt exhortation to the community, revealing his common sense, insight, and love.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 7th Week of Easter (#299)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Isidore, pray for us!
Photo by Download a pic Donate a buck! ^ on Pexels.comChosen by lot to fill the vacancy left by Judas Iscariot, Matthias was with the apostles from the beginning and witnessed the Lord’s resurrection.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Matthias, Apostle (#564)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Matthias, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comWhile teaching and preaching in Ephesus, Paul comes upon disciples who have not yet received the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 7th Week of Easter (#297)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThere are MANY choices for Mass readings on the feast of Pentecost, so let’s focus on the themes we find in the Gospel options.
Vigil Mass: John 7:37-39
- Jesus quotes the prophet Isaiah, saying that he satisfies the thirsty with living water.
- His disciples later understand that this refers to the gift of the Holy Spirit after the Lord is glorified.
Mass during the Day: John 20:19-23
- Jesus appears to the disciples after his resurrection saying, “Peace be with you.”
- The Lord then breathes on them saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”
Mass during the Day (2nd Option): John 15:26-27; 16:12-15
- Jesus tells his disciples that he will ask the Father to send the Advocate, the Spirit of truth.
- The Spirit will guide the disciples in truth and glorify Christ.
Mass Readings – Pentecost (#62, #63)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe Lord’s Ascension marks the transition as the disciples begin to do the ministry that Jesus had modeled and empowered them to do.
Mass Readings – Ascension of the Lord (#58)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by olia danilevich on Pexels.comFilled with zeal to share the Good News of Jesus, Apollos takes to heart the instruction he receives and eagerly travels to pass it on to others.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 6th Week of Easter (#296)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Josiah Lewis on Pexels.comGod tells Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid. Go on speaking, and do not be silent, for I am with you.”
Mass Readings – Friday of the 6th Week of Easter (#295)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John of Avila & St. Damien de Veuster, pray for us!
Photo by jimmy teoh on Pexels.comPreaching to both Jews and Greeks in Corinth, Paul’s work touches the hearts of many and leads them to faith in Christ.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 6th Week of Easter (#294)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Pastoral Note: We have today’s daily Mass readings because in my diocese the Feast of the Ascension is celebrated on the 7th Sunday of Easter.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comPreaching to the people of Athens, Paul’s attempts are met with scoffing and ridicule.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 6th Week of Easter (#293)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Jimmy Chan on Pexels.comPaul’s circumstances change suddenly in Philippi when he encounters physical suffering, imprisonment, and a natural disaster; yet he responds with prayer and leads others to faith in Christ.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 6th Week of Easter (#292)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Nikola Mihajloski on Pexels.comPaul’s journey to Philippi and his initial efforts are marked with success and apparent ease, inviting us to be grateful for moments in our own lives when we have been blessed.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 5th Week of Easter (#291)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the Ascension of the Lord.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 1:1-11
- Beginning where the Gospel of Luke ended, Acts describes how Jesus was present to the disciples for forty days after his resurrection.
- Promising the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus commands the disciples to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth as he is lifted up into heaven.
Psalm – 47:2-3,6-9
- “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.”
- The people rejoice and sing as God rules over all the nations from his throne in heaven.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 1:17-23
- We seek the Spirit of wisdom and enlightenment to understand all that God has revealed through Jesus Christ.
- From the time of his earthly ministry, through his death, resurrection and ascension, all power has been given to Christ over all of creation.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 4:1-13 (2nd Option)
- We are urged to live with humility, gentleness, patience, peace, and love as we strive to unite in one body and one Spirit
- There are many different gifts and callings, and all are necessary to work together to build up the body of Christ.
Gospel – Mark 16:15-20
- The risen Lord commands his disciples to go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature, and they will be accompanied by many signs of power.
- The Lord then ascends into heaven as the disciples go forth and carry out their commission.
Mass Readings – Ascension of the Lord (Year B, #58)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Ricky Esquivel on Pexels.comJesus commands his disciples to love another as he loves us, reminding us that when we stay near the Lord we will have all the love that we need.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of Easter (Year B, #56)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comPrompted by a vision, Paul sets out for Macedonia to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 5th Week of Easter (#290)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Julian Jagtenberg on Pexels.comOn this feast of the apostles Philip and James, we recognize that the Lord continues to call us by name, empower us with grace, and send us out in the context of our daily lives to proclaim Good News to the people we meet.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Philip and St. James, Apostles (#561)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Philip and St. James, pray for us!
Photo by Anton Atanasov on Pexels.comAfter much discussion from many points of view, the disciples welcome the Gentiles to receive the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 5th Week of Easter (#288)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Athanasius, pray for us!
Photo by Christina Morillo on Pexels.comA debate arises within the Church about who can be saved, and the community gathers to engage in an intense debate to determine a course of action.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 5th Week of Easter (#287)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Joseph the Worker, pray for us!
Photo by Riccardo on Pexels.comPaul faces personal struggles and exhorts others to embrace hardship as a necessary part of the journey of faith.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 5th Week of Easter (#286)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Pius V, pray for us!
Photo by lalesh aldarwish on Pexels.comFacing hardship, opposition, and misunderstanding, Paul and Barnabas travel to Lystra where a crippled man is healed.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 5th Week of Easter (#285)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!
Photo by Dio Hasbi Saniskoro on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the main themes in the Mass readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 10:25-26,34-35,44-48
- Peter encounters Cornelius, discovering that the Holy Spirit of God comes to all people who fear the Lord and act uprightly.
- As a result, Gentiles are now able to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
Psalm – 98:1-4
- “The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.”
- Singing joyfully to the Lord, we proclaim God’s victory, justice, kindness and wondrous deeds to all the nations.
2nd Reading – 1st Letter of John 4:7-10
- We love one another because God first loved us, for God is love.
- Out of love, God sent his son as expiation for our sins.
Gospel – John 15:9-17
- Jesus commands his disciples to love one another as he loves us.
- The Lord chooses us and appoints us to go and bear fruit that will remain as we carry out his command to love one another.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of Easter (Year B, #56)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV on Pexels.comThe Lord’s command to be fruitful requires us to stay close to Christ and be open to the pruning of the Father.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of Easter (Year B, #53)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Peter Simmons on Pexels.comThe crowd’s response to the preaching of Paul and Barnabas reminds us that our joyful proclamation of the Good News will bring moments of trial and difficulty.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 4th Week of Easter (#284)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.comThe First Letter of Peter offers an exhortation to live the gift of faith with vibrant conviction in the midst of our daily lives.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Mark, evangelist (#555)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Mark the Evangelist, pray for us!
Photo by Keegan Houser on Pexels.comPaul and Barnabas are set apart after people have discerned God’s will through prayer, fasting, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 4th Week of Easter (#281)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Fidelis of Signaringen, pray for us!
Photo by Kelly on Pexels.comAs the Church grows, more and more people seek to learn about the faith and how it is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of Easter (#280)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. George & St. Adalbert, pray for us!
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.comPeter recounts a vision and an experience with some Gentiles how God’s salvation is now at work in all people by the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 4th Week of Easter (#279)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Janko Ferlic on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the 5th Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 9:26-31
- Saul arrives in Jerusalem and seeks to join the disciples, but they are afraid of meeting with him.
- Barnabas takes charge of the situation, and explains how Saul has had a conversion of heart.
- When Saul speaks boldly about Jesus, his life is threatened, and the disciples send him off to Caesarea to make his way to Tarsus.
Psalm – 22:26-28,30-32
- “I will praise you, Lord, in the assembly of your people.”
- From the ends of the earth, all the families of nations proclaim God’s justice and praise.
2nd Reading – 1st Letter of John
- We have confidence in God as we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.
- Believing in the name of Jesus Christ, we love one another as he commanded us.
Gospel – John 15:1-8
- Jesus teaches his disciples that he is the vine, we are the branches, and his Father is the vine grower.
- We fulfill the Father’s will when we bear fruit by remaining in Jesus and become his disciples.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of Easter (Year B, #53)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by kailash kumar on Pexels.comThe Lord teaches the disciples that he is the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Easter (Year B, #50)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Download a pic Donate a buck! ^ on Pexels.comPeter, filled with the Holy Spirit and calling upon the name of Jesus, heals two people and fosters the faith of many.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 3rd Week of Easter (#278)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Eren Li on Pexels.comOn his way to Damascus to hunt for followers of Christ, Paul is struck to the ground and blinded. Having his sight restored through Ananias’ intercession, the one who formerly persecuted the Church now becomes a shining example of faith.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 3rd Week of Easter (#277)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comPhilip meets an Ethiopian eunuch, and through this encounter he has an opportunity to talk about Jesus and lead the man to faith in Christ.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 3rd Week of Easter (#276)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Bradley Hook on Pexels.comDriven to its knees by persecution, the Church thrives with God’s grace and guidance…inspiring us to face our challenges today and never, ever, quit!
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Easter (#275)
Catholic Inspiration Archives
This exhortation from the Letter to the Colossians inspires us to put our focus on Christ, and put to death those things that are not worthy of heaven. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 23rd Week of the Year St. John Chrysostom, pray for us!
Jesus spends the night in prayer, and then he calls the Twelve Apostles by name from among his disciples. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 23rd Week of the Year On this feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary…Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Jesus cures a man with a withered hand on the sabbath, revealing his divinity as Lord and reminding us to put him first and foremost in our lives. Mass Readings – Monday of the 23rd Week of the Year
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the 24th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Sirach 27:30-28:9
- While wrath and anger are hateful things, the sinner hugs them tight.
- If a person expects mercy and pardon for sins, enmity must be set aside.
Psalm – 103:1-4,9-12
- “The Lord is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.”
- God pardons, heals, and redeems us out of kindness.
2nd Reading – Romans 14:7-9
- None of us lives or dies for oneself, but for the Lord.
- Christ has died and rose that he might be Lord of the dead and the living.
Gospel – Matthew 18:21-35
- When asked by Peter how often must he forgive his brother, Jesus offers a parable about a servant who failed to forgive someone in a small way after he had experienced great forgiveness from his master.
- The Lord then applies the parable to us all: we must forgive one another if we expect to be forgiven by God.
Mass Readings – 24th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Christina Morillo on Pexels.comJesus offers a path through conflict and animosity, helping us to constructively engage in deep conversation where talking and listening are crucial in order to heal and grow in grace.
Mass Readings – 23rd Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Andrei Tanase on Pexels.comThe Letter to the Colossians offers a succinct summary of our life in Jesus Christ, who frees us from our sins through his death. Our task? Remain firm in faith and embrace the hope of the Gospel!
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 22nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Peter Claver, pray for us!
The genealogy of Jesus Christ helps us see how God has been present throughout salvation history, bringing all to fulfillment in the Lord. Mass Readings – Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels.comJesus gets in a boat with Peter, preaches to the crowd on shore, and performs a miracle that changes Peter’s life forever.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 22nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by vjapratama on Pexels.comIn Capernaum, Jesus heals the sick, drives out demons, and tells the people that he must travel to the other towns, proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom of God.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 22nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Jesus casts out a demon in the synagogue in Capernaum, revealing his power and authority as the Holy One of God.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 22nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Tom Fisk on Pexels.comJesus speaks at the synagogue in Nazareth where he grew up, and he encounters doubt and hesitation as he proclaims his fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 22nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Here are some of the main themes in the Mass Readings for the 23rd Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Ezekiel 33:7-9 Psalm – 95:1-2,6-9 2nd Reading – Romans 13:8-10 Gospel – Matthew 18:15-20 Mass Readings – 23rd Sunday of the Year
Photo by Alem Su00e1nchez on Pexels.comWhen Peter’s fear of crucifixion leads him to tempt Jesus away from his saving mission, the Lord responds with a stern rebuke and a call to follow him as we carry the Cross. In other words, when fear rises up in our hearts, we face it with faith, knowing that the Cross is not the end, but a doorway that leads to eternal life.
Mass Readings 22nd Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comJesus offers a parable, showing how the Lord considers our abilities and invites us to use wisely and well what we have been given.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 21st Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
The Lord urges his disciples to stay awake and be prepared, for we do not know the hour of the return of the Son of Man. May we live each day as the precious gift it is with conviction and joy! Mass Readings – Thursday of the 21st Week of the Year
Psalm 139 reveals the awareness that God searches and knows our hearts, inspiring us to embrace the depth of the Lord’s love and respond with joyous faith. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 21st Week of the Year
The cruelty and injustice of John’s death remind us that such forces are ever-present in our world. In our times of suffering, we look to the Cross of Christ for the grace and strength we need to carry on. Mass Readings – Memorial of the Passion of John the Baptist St. John the Baptist, pray […]
In his First Letter to the Thessalonians, Paul gives thanks to God for the people’s faith response to the Good News. May their example inspire us to do the same! Mass Readings – Monday of the 21st Week of the Year St. Augustine, pray for us! Note: St. Augustine is the patron for my local […]
Here are some of the central themes in the Mass readings for the 22nd Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Jeremiah 20:7-9 Psalm – 63:2-6,8-9 2nd Reading – Romans 12:1-2 Gospel – Matthew 16:21-27 Mass Readings – 22nd Sunday of the Year
Following his profession of faith, Peter is given a new name, authority, and keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. May we accept the keys of faith that we have received from the Lord and use them wisely for the glory of God. Mass Readings – 21st Sunday of the Year St. Monica, pray for us!
The Lord takes a teachable moment to direct his disciples to seek greatness through the service of others with a humble heart. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 20th Week of the Year
When tested by a scholar of the law, Jesus quotes Scripture and offers two Commandments as a summary of all the rest. Our task? To love the Lord and one another! Mass Readings – Friday of the 20th Week of the Year St. Louis of France and St. Joseph Calasanz, pray for us!
Nathanael is brought to Jesus, and through the discussion he acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God. Mass Readings – St. Bartholomew, Apostle St. Bartholomew, pray for us!
Jesus offers a parable to illustrate God’s generous grace in our lives. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 20th Week of the Year St. Rose of Lima, pray for us!
The Lord teaches a tough message, that “it will be hard for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven.” Yet when we focus on our faith in Christ, God makes it possible for us to use the gifts of wealth and power as wise stewards who promote the Good News in the […]
The Book of Judges outlines an emerging pattern in the children of Israel. For a time they draw close to the Lord, and then they fall away into temptation. Yet through it all the Lord continues to be present, raising up judges to guide the people into right relationship with God. Mass Readings – Monday […]
Let’s explore some of the themes in the Mass readings for the 21st Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Isaiah 22:19-23 Psalm – 138:1-3,6,8 2nd Reading – Romans 11:33-36 Gospel – Matthew 16:13-20 Mass Readings – 21st Sunday of the Year
The readings on this 20th Week of the Year reveal God’s providence to foreigners, Gentiles, and people of different cultural, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds. As members of this vast family, may we foster ties of community and friendship as we shine with the light of faith in the world. Mass Readings – 20th Sunday of […]
Having given a quick recap of salvation history at Shechem, Joshua now puts before the people a crucial choice about God. May we, like Joshua, boldly proclaim, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord!” Mass Readings – Saturday of the 19th Week of the Year St. John Eudes, pray for us!
At Shechem, a town that has geographical and historical significance, Joshua holds a great assembly of the leaders of Israel and recalls God’s saving works on their behalf. Mass Readings – Friday of the 19th Week of the Year
Joshua, who was formerly the right hand of Moses, now leads the children of Israel over the Jordan River and into the Promised Land. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 19th Week of the Year
Moses gazes upon the Promised Land before he dies, seeing how God has brought to fulfillment the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This “Holy Land” thus forms the context of salvation history, culminating in the saving work of Jesus Christ. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 19th Week of the Year St. Stephen […]
Mary’s Magnificat gives glory to God for the marvelous things that the Lord has done. Her song of praise becomes our own as we follow her example and offer our lives for her son, Jesus Christ. Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray […]
Moses offers an exhortation, calling the people to adhere to the commandments that God has given them for their own good. Mass Readings – Monday of the 19th Week of the Year St. Maximilian Kolbe, pray for us!
Here are some of the main themes in the Mass readings for the 20th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Isaiah 56:1,6-7 Psalm – 67:2-3,5-6,8 2nd Reading – Romans 11:13-15,29-32 Gospel – Matthew 15:21-28 Mass Readings – 20th Sunday of the Year
St. Paul speaks of sorrow and anguish about his own people who have rejected the Good News, echoing a similar pain that many people today express about their own loved ones. How do we move forward? By prayer and personal witness of God’s grace in our lives. Mass Readings – 19th Sunday of the Year
Moses offers the great commandment – which Jesus says is the greatest of all – that we love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and strength. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 18th Week of the Year St. Jane Frances de Chantal, pray for us!
Moses reminds the people of God’s mighty actions on their behalf, exhorting them to follow the Lord’s commandments and decrees all the days of their lives. Mass Readings – Friday of the 18th Week of the Year St. Clare, pray for us!
On this feast of St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr, we recognize the Paschal Mystery of Jesus as the model for our generous and cheerful sacrifices that we offer to God. Mass Readings – St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr St. Lawrence, pray for us!
After reconnoitering the promised land and finding it fruitful, the scouts begin to raise doubts about the strength and ferocity of the people living there. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 18th Week of the Year St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, pray for us!
At the resentful complaint of Aaron and Miriam about Moses, God responds with anger and punishment, reminding us that jealousy is an ugly vice to guard against at all times. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 18th Week of the Year St. Dominic, pray for us!
As the children of Israel complain about the lack of food in the wilderness, Moses speaks directly to the Lord about his frustration and exhaustion. Mass Readings – Monday of the 18th Week of the Year St. Sixtus II and St. Cajetan, pray for us!
Let’s explore some of the themes in the readings for Mass on this 19th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – 1st Kings 19:9a,11-13a Psalm – 85:9-14 2nd Reading – Romans 9:1-5 Gospel – Matthew 14:22-33 Mass Readings – 19th Sunday of the Year
The Transfiguration of the Lord brings both consolation and challenge to our hearts. We are consoled by the glory of God revealed on the mountaintop, yet we are challenged to prepare for the moment when we will stand before the Risen Lord on the day of judgment. Mass Readings – The Transfiguration of the Lord
The Lord sets before the children of Israel the guidelines for a jubilee year, where wrongs are righted and relationships are restored. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 17th Week of the Year
God prescribes sacred days to Moses, exhorting the people to keep these moments in time as set apart to worship and honor the Lord. Mass Readings – Friday of the 17th Week of the Year St. John Vianney, pray for us!
The children of Israel, guided on their journey by Moses, follow the Lord in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 17th Week of the Year
Moses stands before God and then goes out to the people (radiant in appearance) to speak the Lord’s message to the children of Israel. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 17th Sunday of the Year St. Eusebius of Vercelli and St. Peter Julian Eymard, pray for us!
Moses pleads on behalf of the people for the Lord’s forgiveness. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 17th Week of the Year St. Alphonsus Liguori, pray for us!
During Moses’ absence, the children of Israel grow restless and demand that Aaron fashion a golden idol in the shape of a calf. Mass Reading – Monday of the 17th Week of the Year St. Ignatius of Loyola, pray for us!
Let’s examine some of the key themes in the Mass readings for the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. 1st Reading – Daniel 7:9-10,13-14 Psalm – 97:1-2,5-6,9 2nd Reading – 2nd Peter 1:16-19 Gospel – Matthew 17:1-9 Mass Readings – Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord
The Lord offers three parables that cast light on the Kingdom of Heaven. May we cherish the treasure of our faith and put it into practice! Mass Readings – 17th Sunday of the Year
The children of Israel enter into a covenant with God, striving to do all that the Lord commands. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 16th Week of the Year St. Martha, St. Mary, and St. Lazarus, pray for us!
The Ten Commandments have played a crucial in the spiritual and ethical development of our civilization. May these precepts direct our hearts and empower of our lives to serve the Lord today! Mass Readings – Friday of the 16th Week of the Year
God appears in glory before the people on Mount Sinai with a majestic intensity. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 16th Week of the Year
Grumbling in the desert, the children of Israel are heard by God. The result? Manna and quail nourish and sustain the people for the journey. May this “bread from heaven” help us to cherish the Body and Blood of Christ – the Bread from Heaven of our Holy Communion – as we regularly come to […]
On this feast of St. James, the Apostle, we discover that we hold the treasure of our Christian faith in the “earthen vessel” of our human limitations. As we acknowledge our sins and embrace God’s grace, we offer our lives as a worthy sacrifice that draws us closer to the Lord and one another. Mass […]
Confronted by Pharaoh’s army, the children of Israel are guided on dry land through the Red Sea by the mighty power of God. Mass Readings – Monday of the 16th Sunday of the Year St. Sharbel Makhluf, pray for us!
Here are some of the main themes in our readings for the 17th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – 1st Kings 3:5,7-12 Psalm 119:57,72,76-77,127-130 2nd Reading – Romans 8:28-30 Gospel – Matthew 13:44-52 Mass Readings – 17th Sunday of the Year
The Lord offers a parable that challenges complacency and invites us to a continuing conversion of heart. Knowing that there will be a Final Judgment, may we take the gift of today to turn away from sin and embrace the gift of grace that comes from Jesus Christ. Mass Readings – 16th Sunday of the […]
Mary Magdalene encounters the Risen Lord, and she is empowered by Christ to announce his resurrection to the Apostles. Mass Readings – Feast of St. Mary Magdalene St. Mary Magdalene, pray for us!
God gives specific Passover preparations to Moses, directing how the people are to remember their liberation from slavery. This Passover takes on enormous significance when it is celebrated by Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God! Mass Readings – Friday of the 15th Week of the Year St. Lawrence of Brindisi, pray for us!
Speaking with Moses, God promises the redemption of the people and a new home in a land flowing with milk and honey. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 15th Week of the Year St. Apollinaris, pray for us!
With the birth of Moses we begin a journey in a crucial part of salvation history. As we walk with the people of Israel, we discover that their challenges are often reflected in our lives. May we recognize the obstacles in our hearts today, and call upon the Lord for the help we need. Mass […]
We continue our journey through Salvation History with the beginning of the story of Exodus, discovering how the people of Israel will be freed from bondage and slavery. Mass Readings – Monday of the 15th Week of the Year
Here are some of the main themes that surface in the Mass readings for the 16th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Wisdom: 12:13,16-19 Psalm – 86:5-6,9-10,15,16 2nd Reading – Romans 8:26-27 Gospel – Matthew 13:24-43 Mass Readings – 16th Sunday of the Year
The Lord offers a parable filled with spiritual insights about how to cultivate the Word of God in the midst of the daily dangers we find in the world. Mass Readings – 15th Sunday of the Year
Joseph calms his brothers fears in the face of Jacob’s death. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 14th Week of the Year St. Bonaventure, pray for us!
After years apart, Joseph is reunited with his father, Jacob, in a heartfelt and tender encounter. Mass Readings – Friday of the 14th Week of the Year St. Kateri Tekawitha, pray for us!
Joseph reveals his identity to the brothers who sold him into slavery, initiating an experience of healing and forgiveness. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 14th Week of the Year St. Henry, pray for us!
Joseph, sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, now stands before them in a position of power and authority in Egypt. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 14th Week of the Year
Through his struggle with a mysterious person, Jacob is blessed by God and receives a new name. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 14th Week of the Year St. Benedict, pray for us!
While on a journey, Jacob encounters God in a dream where the angels are ascending and descending from Heaven. Mass Readings – Monday of the 14th Week of the Year
Here are some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the 15th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Isaiah 55:10-11 Psalm – 65:10-14 2nd Reading – Romans 8:18-23 Gospel – Matthew 13:1–23 Mass Readings – 15th Sunday of the Year
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus offers comfort and rest to weary hearts who labor. May we offer to the Lord our cares and concerns, recognizing that Christ understands our needs and offers us a consolation that renews our spirits. Mass Readings – 14th Sunday of the Year
Rebekah and Jacob go to great lengths to deceive Isaac so that he will give Jacob (and not Esau!) his blessing. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 13th Week of the Year
As Isaac encounters, death, life, and marriage, we recognize the Lord’s hand at work in our lives through the cycles of life. Mass Readings – Friday of the 13th Week of the Year
Abraham undergoes a terrible test of faith, reminding us that when we are pushed to our limits and beyond, we seek the Lord’s help. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 13th Week of the Year St. Maria Goretti, pray for us!
Sarah demands that Abraham sends away his son Ishmael, the son of Hagar, the servant woman. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 13th Week of the Year St. Elizabeth of Portugal and St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, pray for us!
As the Lord intervenes to save the lives of Lot and his family, Sodom and Gomorrah are destroyed. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 13th Week of the Year On this 4th of July, may we all pray for our country and those who lead us in government, industry, education, and business.
In many ways, we all identify with St. Thomas the Apostle, who overcame his doubts about the resurrection of Jesus after he encountered the Risen Lord. Mass Readings – Feast of St. Thomas, Apostle St. Thomas, pray for us!
Here are some of the main themes that surface in the Mass readings for the 14th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Zechariah 9:9-10 Psalm – 145:1-2,8-11,13-14 2nd Reading – Romans 8:9,11-13 Gospel – Matthew 11:25-30 Mass Readings – 14th Sunday of the Year
The Lord exhorts his apostles to put him first and center in their lives. This challenging admonition requires us all to look at our lives with honesty and humility as we discern the values we hold by the sacrifices we make. Mass Readings – 13th Sunday of the Year
Upon their approach to Abraham and Sarah, three men receive their hospitality and announce that in their old age they will have a son. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 12th Week of the Year St. Junipero Serra, pray for us!
God enters into a covenant with Abraham and Sarah, having changed their names and promising them a son in their old age. Mass Readings – Friday of the 12th Week of the Year 1st Martyrs of the Roman Church, pray for us!
On this Solemnity of St. Peter and St. Paul, we recognize the powerful proclamation of their faith in Christ, and we also acknowledge the many sufferings they endured as witnesses for the Lord. Mass Readings – Solemnity of St. Peter & St. Paul St. Peter & St. Paul, pray for us!
Jesus offers classic spiritual advice regarding how we conduct our lives and interact with one another. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 12th Week of the Year St. Irenaeus, pray for us!
The Lord offers three admonitions of spiritual advice, challenging his disciples to embrace the difficult path of holiness as we live the precious treasure of our faith in Christ. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 12th Week of the Year St. Cyril of Alexandria, pray for us!
Continuing in the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord invites us to abandon judging others and instead discern our own sinfulness and need for God’s grace. Mass Readings – Monday of the 12th Week of the Year
Let’s explore some of the main themes in the Mass readings for the 13th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – 2nd Kings 4:8-11,14-16a Psalm – 89:2-3,16-19 2nd Reading – Romans 6:3-4,8-11 Gospel – Matthew 10:37-42 Mass Readings – 13th Sunday of the Year
Fear affects us all in unique and powerful ways, yet the Lord exhorts his disciples to confront our fears and embrace our faith in God’s loving grace. Mass Readings – 12th Sunday of the Year
The birth of John the Baptist inaugurates a crucial moment in salvation history as he will prepare the people and point out the Lord Jesus to them. May John’s example inspire us to continue the proclamation of the Good News in our lives today. Mass Readings – Nativity of St. John the Baptist
Jesus offers a powerful spiritual insight that challenges us to examine the treasures in our lives. May we take a long, hard look at what we treasure here on earth…and see if it is worthy of heaven. Mass Readings – Friday of the 11th Week of the Year
The teaching of the Lord’s Prayer within the context of Christ’s command regarding forgiveness offers us a powerful and essential way to draw closer to God and one another. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 11th Week of the Year St. Paulinus of Nola, St. John Fisher, and St. Thomas More, pray for us!
The teaching of almsgiving, prayer, and fasting is set within the context of a humble heart that does not seek human praise. When we do this, these spiritual disciplines take on extraordinary power to transform our lives as disciples of Jesus Christ. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 11th Week of the Year St. Aloysius […]
It’s perhaps the toughest teaching of Jesus, yet when we love our enemies we conform our hearts to the love of Christ. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 11th Week of the Year
Jesus calls his disciples to a higher standard in the face of oppression. May we call upon the Lord for insight and strength to follow his example in tough times. Mass Readings – Monday of the 11th Week of the Year St. Romuald, pray for us!
Here are some of the main themes in the Mass readings for the 12th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Jeremiah 20:10-13 Psalm 69:8-10,14,17,33-35 2nd Reading – Romans 5:12-15 Gospel – Matthew 10:26-33 Mass Readings – 12th Sunday of the Year
Seeing the crowds, the Lord shows compassion and pity for their needs. Summoning the Twelve, he gives them authority and sends them on mission. The point? These words apply to us as well! Mass Readings – 11th Sunday of the Year
After searching for their lost son for three days, Mary and Joseph find Jesus in the midst of the teachers in the Temple area. Mass Readings – The Immaculate Heart of Mary Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
The deep and abiding love of Jesus brings peace to our souls in a way that cannot be found anywhere else. May we come to Christ, and allow his gentle mercy to renew our hearts with his divine love. Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
The Lord teaches with clarity on the crucial necessity to reconcile with one another. It begs a question: with whom do we need to reconcile today? Mass Readings – Thursday of the 10th Week of the Year
Jesus teaches that he has come to fulfill the law and the prophets, inviting us to carry out his commandments as his disciples. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 10th Week of the Year
The Lord invites us to be salt and light in the world, enhancing every opportunity as we use the gifts that God has given us to bring life and love to those we meet. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 10th Week of the Year St. Anthony of Padua, pray for us!
The Beatitudes begin the Sermon on the Mount in chapters five through seven in Matthew’s Gospel, and they offer consolation and strength in the midst of the challenges of daily life. Mass Readings – Monday of the 10th Week of the Year
Here are some of the key themes in the Mass readings for the 11th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Exodus 19:2-6a Psalm – 100:1-3,5 2nd Reading – Romans 5:6-11 Gospel – Matthew 9:36-10:8 Mass Readings – 11th Sunday of the Year
On this Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ – often known as Corpus Christi – we receive with open hearts the gift of the Eucharist. May this spiritual food strengthen us for the task at hand as the Lord nourishes us to do his work today. Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Body […]
Seeing the example of a poor widow, Jesus teaches us that in the eyes of Heaven the value of our offering is not counted in the amount, but rather in the amount of sacrifice. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 9th Week of the Year
The Psalm response encourages us to count our blessings and direct our gratitude to God, the source of all. The next step? Do this EVERYDAY! Mass Readings- Friday of the 9th Week of the Year St. Ephrem, pray for us!
Jesus responds to a question from a scribe, and his answer provides us with two powerful rules to guide our daily lives. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 9th Week of the Year
Responding to the Sadducees, Jesus offers insight into the reality of the resurrection, inspiring us to consider how we might live today in preparation for the eternal life to come. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 9th Week of the Year
Aware of a trap that is set to ensnare him, Jesus responds with clever wisdom, inviting us to consider how we call upon God for grace and insight as we use all the resources we possess to deal with the challenges of life. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 9th Week of the Year St. […]
Photo by Nandhu Kumar on Pexels.comJesus offers a parable that points out his role in salvation history. May we turn the to the Lord, our cornerstone, for the strength we need today.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 9th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Boniface, pray for us!
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the themes in the Mass readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, sometimes called Corpus Christi.
1st Reading – Deuteronomy 8:2-3,14b-16a
- Moses reminds the people how they were fed by God with Manna during their journey of forty years.
- Moses goes on to exhort the people to never forget the Lord their God and the marvels that they experienced.
Psalm – 147:12-15,19-20
- “Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.”
- We glorify God as we recall how the Lord strengthens and blesses the people with peace.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 10:16-17
- The cup of blessing and the bread we break are part of our communion with the blood and body of Christ.
- This communion unites us to God and one another.
Gospel – John 6:51-58
- Jesus proclaims that he is “the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will last forever.”
- The Lord’s flesh is true food and his blood is true drink; whoever eats his flesh and drinks his blood has eternal life, and Christ will raise us up on the last day.
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by THIS IS ZUN on Pexels.comThis essential mystery of Christianity, that there is one God revealed in three divine Persons, speaks about a unity of a community founded in love. May the example of the Most Holy Trinity inspire us to unite in love as we foster the communion we share with God and one another.
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.comPsalm 19 reminds us that when we place ourselves under God’s guidance, we discover a purpose and power that enlivens our hearts and brings peace to our souls.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 8th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Charles Lwanga & Companions, pray for us!
Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.comJesus offers rich spiritual insights that guide our lives to grow in God’s grace.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 8th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Marcellinus and St. Peter, pray for us!
Photo by Eren Li on Pexels.comAs Jesus heals the physical blindness of Bartimaeus, he also brings sight to his soul, showing us that we, too, call upon the Lord for the vision that offers spiritual strength for our lives.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 8th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Justin, Martyr, pray for us!
Photo by Alexander Nadrilyanski on Pexels.comAs baby John the Baptist, Elizabeth, and Mary all respond to Jesus, their example inspires us to acknowledge the Lord’s presence in our lives whenever two or more gather in his name.
Mass Readings – Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
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Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comPeter’s statement and the Lord’s response inspire us to make a daily offering for God. While sacrifice is often challenging, Christ strengthens and guides us with help from heaven.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 8th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Noel Raffoux on Pexels.comOn this feast of Mary, the Mother of the Church, may the words of Jesus to John inspire us to look to Mary’s example of discipleship and love as Christ invites each of us to “behold, your mother.”
Mass Readings – Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of the Church
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us!
Photo by CHRISTO JAMES V on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes in the Mass readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity.
1st Reading – Exodus 34:4b-6,8-9
- Moses, holding the stone tablets, encounters the Lord on Mount Sinai.
- Moses asks the Lord to accompany the stiff-necked people of Israel and pardon their wickedness and sins.
Psalm – Deuteronomy 3:52-55
- “Glory and praise for ever!”
- Blessed be the Lord who is holy, glorious, praiseworthy, and exalted above all forever.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 13:11-13
- Paul exhorts the people to mend their ways as they encourage one another to live in peace.
- Paul then extends the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit to be with them.
Gospel – John 3:16-18
- One of the most beloved lines in the entire Bible: “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.”
- God sends his Son, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by takenbytablo on Pexels.comThe power of the Holy Spirit transforms the hearts and minds of disciples, filling us with God’s grace and sending us forth to offer our lives as we follow the call of Christ.
Mass Readings – Pentecost Sunday, Mass during the Day
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Davi Pimentel on Pexels.comPaul speaks with the Jews in Rome, giving witness to Christ even while under house arrest.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 7th Week of Easter
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St. Augustine of Canterbury, pray for us!
Photo by Keira Burton on Pexels.comIn a rare moment in Acts of the Apostles, we get to “listen in” on a conversation between Festus, King Agrippa, and Bernice.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 7th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Philip Neri, pray for us!
Photo by Haley Black on Pexels.comSpeaking before the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem, Paul is informed by the Lord that he has one more journey…to give witness to Christ in Rome.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 7th Week of Easter
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St. Bede, St. Gregory VIII and St. Mary Magdalene de’Pazzi, pray for us!
Photo by Afta Putta Gunawan on Pexels.comPaul concludes his farewell to the presbyters of the Church of Ephesus, and the response from the group reveals how one life can make a profound difference in the hearts of many.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 7th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Rifki Ramadhani on Pexels.comPaul offers a heartfelt farewell from Miletus to the presbyters of the Church at Ephesus. His words reveal the depth of friendship that was forged from his passionate proclamation of the faith.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 7th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz on Pexels.comTraveling to Ephesus, Paul encounters disciples who only knew about the baptism of repentance. After teaching and baptizing them in the name of the Lord Jesus, these disciples are filled with the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 7th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Rita of Cascia, pray for us!
Photo by David Dibert on Pexels.comLet’s explore some of the main themes for the Mass During the Day of Pentecost.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11
- Gathered together, the disciples are filled with the Holy Spirit and begin to speak in different languages.
- People from many different languages hear them speaking in their native tongue of the mighty acts of God.
Psalm – 104:1,24,29-30,31,34
- “Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.”
- God’s Spirit creates and renews the earth with life and glory.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 12:3b-7,12-13
- There are different gifts, forms, and workings of the Holy Spirit given uniquely to each person.
- As a body is one through many parts, all the parts of the body are one.
- In Christ we are united in the Spirit into one body, whether Jew or Greek, slave or free person.
Gospel – John 20:19-23
- Although the doors are locked, Jesus appears to the disciples and says, “Peace be with you.”
- The Lord breathes on them saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Mass Readings – Pentecost: Mass During the Day
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Bruno Scramgnon on Pexels.comThe Lord Jesus ascends into heaven, not to distance us from his help, but rather to empower us to grow in grace and stature as we face the challenging transitions of life.
Mass Readings – The Ascension of the Lord
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Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comWorking together in multiple ways in several locations, many people are cooperating to proclaim the Gospel as the Church continues to grow.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 6th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Bernadine of Siena, pray for us!
Photo by jimmy teoh on Pexels.comPaul continues to preach the Gospel in Corinth, even as the tensions rise and opposition increases.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 6th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.comPaul and Barnabas, proclaiming the Gospel with power, are mistaken for pagan gods after a miraculous healing. Their humble response reminds us to keep our eyes fixed on Christ as we carry out the Lord’s work in the world.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 5th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by S Migaj on Pexels.comLet’s explore some of the themes in the readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 8:5-8,14-17
- Philip continues the ministry of Jesus in Samaria, driving out evil and performing mighty acts of healing.
- The Apostles, hearing about Philip’s ministry, send Peter and John to pray over the people that they might receive the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 66:1-7,16,20
- “Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.”
- Nature itself gives praise and glory to the tremendous deeds that God has done.
2nd Reading – 1st Peter 3:15-18
- This passage readily applies to our modern world, inspiring us to “be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.”
- The practical, spiritual advice reminds us to be reverent and gentle, keeping our focus on Christ.
Gospel – John 14:15-21
- Out of love for the Lord, we keep the commandments of Christ.
- Jesus will ask the Father to send us the Advocate – the Spirit of truth – to remain with us.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Lily on her First Communion, holding a plain rock and a beautiful, polished agate.The First Letter of Peter reminds us that we are living stones, “chosen and precious in the sight of God…built into a spiritual house…to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God.” May these words inspire us to cherish the gift of our lives as we unite together to give praise and glory to the Lord.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Diego Madrigal on Pexels.comAs the number of believers grows in Antioch, Paul faces hostility and opposition. His experience reminds us to follow the Lord with all our heart, knowing that there will be challenges, but God will work through what we say and do.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 4th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kasuma on Pexels.comSt. Paul concludes his preaching in the synagogue with the resurrection of Christ. This crucial component of the faith inspires us to follow the Risen Lord with hope and joy, leading others to Jesus.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Eren Li on Pexels.comFollowing the Scripture readings in the synagogue in Antioch, Paul connects salvation history to Jesus, showing how Christ fulfills the Old Testament. May this passage inspire us to learn more about our faith, so that we can share it with the people in our lives.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comOn this Feast of St. Philip and St. James, we hear about the many people who gave personal witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There example inspires us to seek out ways that we can offer our own individual testimony of the Good News today.
Mass Readings – Feast of Saints Philip and James
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Philip and St. James, pray for us!
Photo by Keith Wako on Pexels.comFollowing the persecution of Stephen, the disciples travel and proclaim the Gospel to Jews and Gentiles. More people are joining the Church, and new believers are taking the initiative to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Athanasius, pray for us!
Photo by Allan Mas on Pexels.comPeter’s vision and experience reveals the Holy Spirit at work in the hearts of people who have no connection to Jewish custom and salvation history. The Good News has no boundaries, and we are invited today to consider how we proclaim the Gospel message by what we say and do.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 4th Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Joseph the Worker, pray for us!
Photo by Tobias Bju00f8rkli on Pexels.comHere are some of the key themes that surface in the readings for the 5th Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7
- Seven reputable men are appointed to assist with the daily distribution as the Christian community grows.
- Freed from these tasks, the Apostles continue to focus their efforts on prayer and the ministry of the word.
Psalm – 33:1-2,4-5,18-19
- “Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.”
- We rejoice in the kindness and justice of the Lord, who preserves those who fear him.
2nd Reading – 1st Peter 2:4-9
- Christ “the stone that the builders rejected, has become the cornerstone” calls us to become living stones that are built up into God’s spiritual house.
- We are chosen by God, called to offer our lives by the one who leads us out of darkness into his wonderful light.
Gospel – John 14:1-12
- Jesus is “the way and the truth and the life” who prepares a place for us in heaven.
- Christ, united to the Father, invites us to believe in him and carry out his work in the world.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe 23rd Psalm strengthens our faith as we claim Christ as the shepherd of our lives. May we turn to the Lord in our need and call upon God for help when we assist others on their journey through life.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comSt. Peter performs two miracles, revealing how the power of the Holy Spirit works through human hearts to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 3rd Week of Easter
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St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comGod calls both Saul and Ananias in a powerful way, and their response will change their lives and leave a lasting impact on the Church.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Peter Chanel and St. Louis Mary de Montfort, pray for us!
Photo by nappy on Pexels.comIn a powerful four step process, Philip talks to an Ethiopian eunuch about Jesus. These four simple steps offer us a practical guide to sharing our faith with the people in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Nans 82 on Pexels.comAs the hostility and persecution intensifies, the Holy Spirit works powerfully through the disciples and leads to dynamic growth in the early Church.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Josh Willink on Pexels.comThe Risen Lord commands his disciples with direct and pointed language to preach the Good News. May we take this instruction to heart as we live our faith today.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Mark, evangelist
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Mark, pray for us!
Photo by Chei ki on Pexels.comStephen, filled with grace and power, works great signs among the people. As a result, he is attacked in an unjust way and brought before the Sanhedrin.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the main themes in the readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 2:14a,36-41
- Peter stands with the Eleven Apostles and preaches a message of repentance and baptism to receive the Holy Spirit.
- About 3000 people respond!
Psalm – 23:1-6
- “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.”
- This well known Psalm has inspired millions of Christians with a promise of God’s grace and strength.
2nd Reading – 1st Peter 2:20b-25
- Following the example of Jesus on the Cross, we receive the grace of God as we patiently endure suffering.
- Having gone astray like sheep, we find our restoration in Christ, who shepherds and guards our souls.
Gospel – John 10:1-10
- Jesus is both the shepherd who knows his sheep and the gate through which they pass into safety.
- The sheep recognize the shepherd’s voice and they follow him so that they may have abundant life.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.comOn the road to Emmaus, two disciples are traveling the wrong way – away from Jerusalem – when they are suddenly accompanied by Jesus, whom they do not recognize. Through the Scriptures and the Breaking of the Bread their hearts blaze with faith and they return to Jerusalem. Their encounter with Christ through the Word of God and the Eucharist inspires us to draw near to the Lord at every Mass, so that we might regularly get back on track as we encounter and follow Jesus.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Julian Jagtenberg on Pexels.comAs the early Christian community continued to grow, the Apostles requested that seven men – filled with the Holy Spirit – be charged with the task for the daily distribution. May this practical, ordinary work remind us that the Spirit touches every aspect of our lives…helping and blessing all our efforts to serve the Lord and one another.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas on Pexels.comGamaliel offers sound spiritual guidance to the Sanhedrin regarding their judgment of the Apostles, reminding us that if we remain close to Christ we will be directed and strengthened to carry out the Lord’s work amidst the ongoing attacks of this world.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Anselm, pray for us!
Photo by Oziel Gu00f3mez on Pexels.comFilled with the Holy Spirit, the Apostles give witness before the Sanhedrin about Jesus. Their conviction in this critical situation inspires us to call upon the Spirit for daily guidance and strength.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Riccardo on Pexels.comThrown in jail, the Apostles are freed by the Angel of God who directs them to continue to preach the Good News. They respond with conviction, revealing to us an example of how we live our lives for the Lord today.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Dio Hasbi Saniskoro on Pexels.comWe discover in the Acts of the Apostles a common theme of unity within the early Church. They were of “one heart and mind” and lived their faith in Christ in both physical and spiritual ways.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comReleased from prison, Peter and John rejoin the disciples in a moment of prayer and praise to God. They are filled with the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Stephan Seeber on Pexels.comHere are some of the main themes in the readings for the 3rd Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts: 2:14,22-33
- Peter preaches to the people about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
- Peter cites Psalm 16, revealing how this passage is fulfilled in Christ.
Psalm – 16:1-2,4,7-11
- “Lord, you will show us the path of life.”
- The passage recaps a substantial amount of what Peter quoted to the people in the first reading.
2nd Reading – 1st Peter 1:17-21
- This exhortation to conduct ourselves with reverence finds its strength in Christ, the spotless unblemished blood of the lamb of God.
- Christ is revealed to us through our faith, hope, and belief in God.
Gospel – Luke 24:13-35
- On the road to Emmaus, two disciples encounter Jesus along the way as he interprets the scripture passages that refer to Christ.
- During the breaking of the bread, they recognize Jesus – who disappears from their sight – and return to Jerusalem to announce to the disciples what they experienced.
- This basic structure – Scripture and the breaking of the bread – is the basic outline for the Mass we celebrate!
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe Lord’s greeting to the disciples, “Peace be with you” is directed to us as well. May we recognize the struggles in our hearts each day and draw near to Christ who calms our souls and fosters our joy. Peace be with you!
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by DSD on Pexels.comRecognized by the Sanhedrin to be uneducated, ordinary men, Peter and John demonstrate through their words and actions how God works through people. May we follow their example as we call upon the Lord to guide us in all that we say and do.
Mass Readings – Saturday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by u0410u043du043du0430 u0420u044bu0436u043au043eu0432u0430 on Pexels.comFilled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly addresses the Sanhedrin and proclaims the Good News of Jesus Christ. May his example in the face of opposition inspire us to call upon the Spirit every day for guidance and strength.
Mass Readings – Friday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kat Smith on Pexels.comLacking silver or gold, Peter and John give a crippled man a priceless gift: physical healing through the name of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Wednesday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom on Pexels.comPeter’s response to the question, “What are we to do?” inspires us to embrace the daily call to conversion of heart as we repent of our sins and draw strength from the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Tuesday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Ricky Esquivel on Pexels.comPeter’s boldness and Mary Magdalen’s commission reveal the transformation that takes place when people open their hearts to the saving grace of God.
Mass Readings – Monday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Belle Co on Pexels.comHere are some of the main themes that we find in the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Easter, also known as Divine Mercy Sunday.
1st Reading – Acts 2:42-47
- The disciples are living in community, eating and praying together as they share their resources to take care of one another.
- The apostles perform many signs and wonders, and the numbers of believers continue to grow.
Psalm – 118:2-4,13-15,22-24
- “Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting.”
- God gives help and strength to those in need, renewing lives that have been rejected by others.
2nd Reading – 1st Peter 1:3-9
- Praise is given to God the Father who has saved us through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- We acknowledge our present sufferings and place our hope in the Lord as we journey toward eternal life.
Gospel – John 20:19-31
- The Risen Lord Jesus appears to the disciples on two occasions saying, “Peace be with you.”
- Thomas, absent at the first appearance, comes to believe and professes his faith in Christ.
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by David Dibert on Pexels.comAs we hear the great proclamation of salvation history through the readings of this Easter Vigil, we wait upon the Lord with renewed hope and strength: Christ is alive!
Mass Readings- Holy Saturday at the Easter Vigil
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Francesco Paggiaro on Pexels.comWe stand before the Cross of Christ and acknowledge the darkness in our hearts. This is what inspired the love of God the Father to send his Son, to shine with heavenly light upon our world and free us from our sins.
Scripture Readings – Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels.comWe celebrate the gift of the Eucharist that gives us strength to serve the Lord and one another. May the Body of Christ renew our bodies and transform our lives each and every day.
Mass Readings – Holy Thursday, Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Elti Meshau on Pexels.comJudas goes to the Chief Priests and receives thirty pieces of silver to find an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of Holy Week
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Mstudio on Pexels.comAt the Last Supper, Jesus foretells the betrayal of Judas and the denial of Peter. It is a dark moment, revealing to us both the reason why Christ came, and his commitment to offering his life on the Cross.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of Holy Week
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comAs we hear how the plot is swirling around Jesus, events are set in motion that will lead to the Cross. May we reflect on God’s great love story for our salvation, making any adjustments and corrections for the day that we, too, will journey from this life to the next.
Mass Readings – Monday of Holy Week
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the main themes in the readings for Easter Day.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 10:34a,37-43
- Peter proclaims the life, death and resurrection of Jesus to the crowd.
- The disciples are witnesses of Christ and testify on his behalf for the forgiveness of sins.
Psalm 118: 1-2,16-17,22-23
- “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.”
- We give thanks for the might and glory of God who is merciful to us.
2nd Reading – Colossians 3:1-4
- You have died with Christ, and your life is hidden with God.
- When Christ your life appears, you will appear with him in glory.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 5:6b-8
- We clear out the old yeast of malice and wickedness.
- We make a new batch of dough with the new yeast of sincerity and truth.
Gospel – John 20:1-9
- Mary Magdalen finds the tomb empty and runs to tell Peter and the other disciple.
- Peter and the other disciple run back to the tomb.
- They had not yet understood that Jesus had to rise from the dead.
Mass Readings – Easter Day
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Note: This post was first published on April 11, 2022.
Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Pexels.comEvery year we hear God’s great love story when we recall the Passion of Jesus. Rather than fall into the trap of forgetfulness, we remember what Christ has done for us so that we might be renewed to offer our lives for the Lord.
Mass Readings – Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe high priest, Caiaphas, offers a prophetic insight: “It is better for you, that one man should die instead of the people, so that the whole nation may not perish.” With these solemn words, we step into Holy Week.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 5th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by David Garrison on Pexels.comPsalm 18 honestly expresses human suffering and struggle. In these moments of distress, we call upon the Lord, who hears our cry for help.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 5th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Gustavo Fring on Pexels.comCome, Holy Spirit! is a six week series of presentations on the Holy Spirit. This sixth talk discusses the Fruits of the Holy Spirit and shows how they are both the goal and guide of the spiritual life. This presentation was given by Fr. Andrew at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior, WI on March 30, 2023.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Cliford Mervil on Pexels.comJesus reveals his identity while discussing Abraham and the prophets. This revelation that Jesus is God inspires us to follow the Lord in the midst of the blessings and burdens of daily life.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 5th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by takenbytablo on Pexels.comThe story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the book of Daniel is an well-known passage that illustrates our faith in God in difficult and challenging times. May we be inspired in our daily struggles to hold fast to our faith, recognizing that these are opportunities to witness our love for the Lord.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 5th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Alan Cabello on Pexels.comThe Psalm response offers us a framework for a prayer to the Lord from the depths of our hearts. In our need, may we trust in God’s mercy as we seek the pilgrim path of our lives.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 5th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kasuma on Pexels.comJust as the Lord extends his mercy to the woman caught in adultery, Christ also offers his mercy to us when we acknowledge our sins and with humble honesty.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 5th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Alem Su00e1nchez on Pexels.comLet’s examine some of the major themes that surface in our readings for Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion.
1st Reading – Isaiah 50:4-7
- This passage of the “Suffering Servant” is interpreted by the Church to apply directly to Jesus.
- Note how it is written in the first person, from the Lord’s perspective, and points to the agony of the Passion.
Psalm – 22: 8-9,17-20,23-24
- “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”
- This Psalm offers a prophecy that is fulfilled with the Passion of the Lord.
- I strongly suggest that we all read Psalm 22 repeatedly during Holy Week. For although it begins in anguish and suffering, it ends with a resounding praise of the glory of God.
2nd Reading – Philippians 2:6-11
- Jesus humbly “empties himself” and takes on our human form in order to die on the Cross for our sins.
- Because of this sacrifice, Jesus Christ is exalted above all creation, and we acknowledge him as Lord.
Gospel – Matthew 26:14-27:66
- This is the great drama of God’s love for us!
- Do yourself a favor and take time this week to slowly read and reflect on the Passion of our Lord. Seriously, just do it, and offer a prayer of gratitude for the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross.
Mass Readings – Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Jeswin Thomas on Pexels.comThe account of the raising of Lazarus provides us with an insight into the Lord’s love for him and his sisters, Martha and Mary. Yet as we enter into the eleventh chapter of John’s Gospel, we discover that this passage applies directly to our lives as well.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.comThe Good News of the angel Gabriel to Mary inspires us to live this message of grace in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comPsalm 34 speaks about the pain of human suffering and heartache. In the midst of this sorrow, the Lord draws near to us with healing grace and mercy.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kasuma on Pexels.comCome, Holy Spirit! is a six week series of presentations on the Holy Spirit. This fifth talk discusses the seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit and shows how they cooperate with other virtues to form us for holiness as Sons and Daughters of God. This fifth presentation was given by Fr. Andrew at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior, WI on March 23, 2023.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comJesus speaks about the sources of testimony about himself: John the Baptist, the works that Christ performs, his heavenly Father, and the Scriptures themselves. May this testimony foster our faith to follow the Lord with all our heart!
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 4th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Turibius of Mogrovejo, pray for us!
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.comJesus speaks about his profound relationship with his heavenly Father, teaching that he will one day judge all souls in the resurrection that leads either to life or death. May we embrace our faith in Christ today, preparing ourselves for the moment when we stand before the Lord.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 4th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz on Pexels.comJesus heals a man who has been ill for 38 years. With a single word the Lord heals him, revealing his glory as God.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Josh Willink on Pexels.comSt. Joseph never says a word in the Gospels; rather, he puts his faith in God into concrete action as he provides a home for Mary and Jesus. May his example inspire us to put our faith into daily practice.
Mass Readings – Solemnity of St. Joseph, spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Joseph, pray for us!
Photo by Anna-Louise on Pexels.comLet’s explore some of the themes we discover in the Mass readings for the 5th Sunday of Lent.
1st Reading – Ezekiel 37:12-14
- The Lord calls the people to rise up from their graves and return to the land of Israel.
- God promises them the gift of his spirit that they will live.
Psalm – 130:1-8
- “With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.”
- Out of the depths we cry to the Lord, trusting in the Lord’s forgiveness and kindness.
2nd Reading – Romans 8:8-11
- We cannot please God if we remain in the flesh, but if the Spirit of God dwells in us, we are raised to life.
- If Christ is in us, then the spirit that raised Christ will also raise us up.
Gospel – John 11:1-45
- Jesus returns to Bethany to raise Lazarus who has been in the tomb for four days.
- Both sisters of Lazarus, Martha and Mary, reveal their faith in Jesus, and many more people come to believe as well.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Alan Cabello on Pexels.comThe healing encounter between Jesus and the blind man brings about the gift of sight, followed later by the gift of faith. We, too, in the darkness of our ignorance and sin, call upon the Lord to foster spiritual sight within our hearts to help us journey through this life to the next.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Note: the Feast of St. Joseph (March 19th) is transferred to tomorrow.
Photo by Rene Asmussen on Pexels.comThe prayer of the tax collector offers a powerful spiritual insight as we recognize both our sins and the forgiving grace of God.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 3rd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Cyril of Jerusalem, pray for us!
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comThrough his encounter with a scribe, Jesus affirms the two great Commandments to Love. May we open our hearts to the love of God, so that we can offer that love to the Lord and one another.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 3rd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Patrick, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comCome, Holy Spirit! is a six week series of presentations on the Holy Spirit. This fourth talk explores how we “plug in” to the Spirit with the assent of our free will and then offer the unique gifts of our lives as fuel for the fire of Spirit to flourish within us. This fourth presentation was given by Fr. Andrew at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior, WI on March 16, 2023.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Min An on Pexels.comJesus drives out a demon and then he uses the opportunity to teach about his power to destroy the bondage of evil.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 3rd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by omar alnahi on Pexels.comThe Lord announces that he fulfills the Law and the Prophets, emphasizing that his commandments are essential for the Kingdom of Heaven. May we heed his teaching and allow his grace to transform us…from the inside out!
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels.comJesus offers a parable that highlights the awesome mercy and compassion of God, inspiring us to reach out with forgiveness to one another.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 3rd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Lisa Fotios on Pexels.comAs the Jesus addresses the people in his native place of Nazareth, we discover the challenge and opportunity of living our faith among people who believe that they know us best.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 3rd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Josh Sorenson on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes in the Mass readings for the 4th Sunday of Lent.
1st Reading – 1st Samuel 16:1b,6-7,10-13a
- The Lord sends Samuel to Jesse in Bethlehem to anoint one of his sons as the new king.
- The Lord then tells Samuel that, “Not as man sees does God see, because man sees the appearance but the Lord looks into the heart.”
- Samuel will eventually anoint the youngest of Jesse’s sons, David.
Psalm – 23:1-6
- “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.”
- The Lord guides through the dark valley and protects us, anointing us with oil and blessing us.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 5:8-14
- Once we were in darkness, but now we live as children in the light of the Lord.
- We expose whatever is shameful to the light of Christ.
Gospel – John 9:1-41
- Jesus encounters a blind man and heals him on the sabbath.
- Christ proclaims that he is the light of the world, healing both body and soul.
- Cured of his blindness, the man comes to believe in Jesus.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comJesus offers the “living water” to the Samaritan woman. This water, capable of destroying the bonds of sin and nourishing our souls for eternal life, transforms our lives and configures our hearts to Christ.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Saeid Anvar on Pexels.comThe parable of the Prodigal Son reveals the extraordinary love of the Father. This love extends to us, in our weaknesses and sins, reminding us to acknowledge our need for God’s grace in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comJesus directs a stinging parable to the chief priests and elders, exhorting us to cultivate a fruitful life for the Lord.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comCome, Holy Spirit! is a six week series of presentations on the Holy Spirit. This third talk examines three classic ways we are filled with the Spirit in our lives today. This 3rd presentation was given by Fr. Andrew at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior, WI on March 9, 2023.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.comThe parable of the rich man and Lazarus directs disciples today to consider how we might put our knowledge of Jesus Christ into practice, particularly as it applies to repentance.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Frances of Rome, pray for us!
Photo by Kim Stiver on Pexels.comOn the way to Jerusalem, Jesus speaks of his suffering, death, and resurrection. As we follow the Lord today, may we consider how we are called to offer our lives through the sacrifices we make.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John of God, pray for us!
Photo by Tyler Lastovich on Pexels.comBoth Isaiah and Jesus offer practical insights for a vibrant spiritual life. May we take their lessons to heart as we continue through this holy season!
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Saints Perpetua & Felicity, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe Lord offers practical advice for what we should do, and what we should avoid.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Frans van Heerden on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the 3rd Sunday of Lent.
1st Reading – Exodus 17:3-7
- In their thirst for water, the people grumble against Moses.
- At the Lord’s command, Moses takes his staff and strikes a rock, from which water flows and the people are able to drink.
Psalm – 95:1-2,6-9
- “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.”
- Unlike the Israelites who grumbled, we are exhorted to come before the Lord in joyful worship with thanksgiving.
2nd Reading – Romans 5:1-2,5-8
- Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
- God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.
Gospel – John 4:5-42
- Jesus, sitting at a well in the town of Sychar in Samaria, encounters a woman and converses with her.
- Jesus announces that he is the Christ, and the woman tells others about Jesus…and they come to believe that he is the savior of the world.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by S Migaj on Pexels.comThe Transfiguration reveals the glory of Jesus to the disciples, offering them hope for the journey as the Lord sets his face toward Jerusalem. As we travel through life, may we draw strength from God and follow Christ through this life until we reach our destination in heaven.
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe command of Christ to love – even our enemies – demands our ongoing vigilance and effort as disciples of the Lord. May we pray for the grace to carry it out, following the example of Jesus and putting it into practice.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Casimir, pray for us!
Photo by Min An on Pexels.comThe Lord exhorts the disciples to exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, seeking the path of reconciliation that strengthens our relationships with God and one another.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Katharine Drexel, pray for us!
Photo by NIKOLAY OSMACHKO on Pexels.comCome, Holy Spirit! is a six week series of presentations on the Holy Spirit. This second talk explores how the Holy Spirit is at work in our lives. This 2nd presentation was given by Fr. Andrew at Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior, WI on March 2, 2023.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kat Smith on Pexels.comJesus speaks about “the sign of Jonah,” urging us to repent of our sins that we might be saved.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Mstudio on Pexels.comThe Lord’s Prayer is a powerful spiritual tool that has fostered faith in the heart of believers since the time of Christ. This potent prayer, however, packs an added punch: it demands that we forgive one another as God forgives us.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels.comJesus teaches the disciples about the grace of the corporal works of mercy, revealing how these profound acts of service to those in need have eternal consequences for us all.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Gregory of Narek, pray for us!
Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Pexels.comLet’s explore some of the themes we find in the Mass readings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent.
1st Reading – Genesis 12:1-4a
- God sends Abram forth from his kinsfolk to a new land.
- God promises that he will make Abram a blessing, and he will become the father of a great nation.
Psalm 33:4-5,18-20,22
- “Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.”
- With hope in his kindness, we wait upon the Lord, who loves justice and right.
2nd Reading – 2nd Timothy 1:8b-10
- We bear our share of hardship for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God.
- God saves and calls us to a holy life, through the appearance of our savior, Christ Jesus.
Gospel – Matthew 17:1-9
- Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a high mountain where he is transfigured in glory.
- The disciples see the Lord conversing with Moses and Elijah.
- From a bright cloud they hear the Father’s voice, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe Lord’s triumph over temptation heals the first sin of Adam and Eve, blazing a trail for us as we draw strength from Christ for perseverance and mercy.
Mass Readings – 1st Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Ricardo Esquivel on Pexels.comLike the call of Levi, Jesus calls us to turn from our sins and follow the Lord. May Levi’s example inspire us to accept Christ’s invitation with joyful enthusiasm today.
Mass Readings – Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Both the Gospel of Matthew and the prophet Isaiah refer to fasting. When this ancient spiritual practice is linked with spiritual fruitfulness, we grow closer to the Lord and one another.
Mass Readings – Friday after Ash Wednesday
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comCome, Holy Spirit! is a six week series of presentations on the Holy Spirit. This first presentation explores who is the Holy Spirit and how we understand the Spirit at work through salvation history. This 1st talk was given by Fr. Andrew at Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior, WI on February 23, 2023.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by TOFIN PHOTOGRAPHY CREATIONS on Pexels.comAs disciples of the Lord Jesus, we recognize that the Cross is an essential part of our spiritual lives.
Mass Readings – Thursday after Ash Wednesday
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Polycarp, pray for us!
We begin the season of Lent by acknowledging our sins and admitting our faults. Rather than blame others or hide from our shortcomings, we place ashes on our foreheads as a sign and confession that we need Jesus to receive forgiveness and mercy.
Mass Readings – Ash Wednesday
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas on Pexels.comJesus uses a child to teach the disciples how to live with trusting simplicity. When we are tempted to seek positions of favor and power, we are directed instead to take the Lord’s hand and follow his lead.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 7th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Peter Damian, pray for us!
Photo by Arina Krasnikova on Pexels.comAfter the disciples fail, Jesus drives out a demon from a little child. He later explains to them about the crucial role of prayer in the life of faith.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 7th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comHere are some of the powerful themes that surface in the 1st Sunday of Lent.
1st Reading – Genesis 2:7-9, 3:1-7
- God breathes life into the man who is formed from the clay.
- In the garden in Eden, God plants many trees, including the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
- The serpent tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit, and she and Adam eat it.
Psalm – 51:3-6,12-13,17
- “Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.”
- Acknowledging our sins, we call upon the Lord for mercy and ask for a clean heart and a steadfast spirit.
2nd Reading – Romans 5:12-19
- Through the transgression of one man (Adam) condemnation came upon all, so, through one righteous act (Jesus) acquittal and life came to all.
- Through the disobedience of the one man (Adam) the many were made sinners, so, through the obedience of the one (Jesus), the many will be made righteous.
Gospel – Matthew 4:1-11
- Jesus is led by the Spirit into the desert, where he fasts for forty days and nights and is then tempted by the devil.
- The first temptation: command stones to become bread. Jesus rejects this, citing Deuteronomy 8:3.
- The second temptation: jump off the parapet of the temple. Jesus rejects this, citing Deuteronomy 6:16.
- The third temptation: worship Satan and receive the kingdoms of the world. Jesus rejects this, citing Deuteronomy 6:13.
Mass Readings – 1st Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comIt’s (in my pastoral opinion) the toughest teaching of Jesus, and it challenges us to call down help from Heaven to carry it out. May we honestly consider who is difficult to love in our lives today and strive with the Lord’s help to love…even our enemies.
Mass Readings – 7th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Josh Sorenson on Pexels.comThe Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that “faith is the realization of what is hoped for, and evidence of things not seen.” May our faith be strengthened by God’s grace, so that we might persevere in times of struggle and strife.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 6th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Note: ASH WEDNESDAY is next week! How do you want to your faith in Christ to grow? Take this time now to reflect on the practical things you want to do to make this your best Lent ever.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comAs the people began to reject the Lord’s injunction to spread out over the earth, their desire to congregate together and build a tower to the heavens reveals their pride. May we take the lesson to heart and humbly acknowledge this nasty sin whenever it surfaces in our souls.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 6th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order, pray for us!
Note: ASH WEDNESDAY is next week, and in preparation for Lent perhaps we might want to do a thorough Examination of Conscience.
Photo by Francesco Ungaro on Pexels.comGod blesses Noah and makes a covenant. May we see God’s blessings abound in our own lives as we turn to the Lord.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 6th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Note: ASH WEDNESDAY is next week. Take this time to consider the blessings in life right now and determine how we might live them in the holy season of Lent.
Photo by Fabian Wiktor on Pexels.comAs dry land reappears, Noah leaves the ark and makes an offering to God.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 6th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Note: ASH WEDNESDAY is one week away; take some time over these next few days to consider how you want to enter into this powerful spiritual season.
Photo by Ray Bilcliff on Pexels.comAs God prepares to flood the earth and rid it of all wickedness, Noah finds favor with the Lord and enters the ark with his family and the animals.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 6th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Cyril and St. Methodius, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comCain’s murder of his brother, Abel, reveals the destructive power of sin in our world.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 6th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes that surface in the readings for the 7th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Leviticus 19:1-2,17-18
- The Lord commands Moses to tell the people, “Be holy, for I, the Lord, your God, am holy.”
- The Lord continues, saying not to bear hatred for a brother or sister, a fellow citizen or any of one’s own people; rather, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Psalm – 103: 1-4,8,10,12-13
- “The Lord is kind and merciful.”
- The Lord pardons all our iniquities and heals our ills.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 3:16-23
- Each of us is a temple of God, and the Spirit of God dwells in us.
- We do not boast in human beings; instead, our focus is on Christ.
Gospel – Matthew 5:38-48
- Jesus continues to speak forcefully about exceeding the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees.
- The Lord speaks about violence and hating one’s enemies, but then he takes the command to “love your neighbor” and extends it to love of one’s enemies.
Mass Readings – 7th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kamaji Ogino on Pexels.comThe Book of Sirach reminds us to choose wisely as we confront the daily decisions before us. Not only is it crucial what we choose; we are also defined be how we choose to do it.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.comAs God confronts Adam and Eve about their actions, we discern the natural consequences of sin, whereby division arises and separates us from the Lord and one another.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us!
Photo by Kostiantyn Klymovets on Pexels.comThe serpent tempts Adam and Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Once they commit this Original Sin, their relationships begin to unravel with God.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Scholastica, pray for us!
Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.comGod creates a woman as a suitable partner for the man, and they are in harmony with creation and one another.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comGod leads Adam to the garden of Eden and there he is given the command not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Jerome Emiliani & St. Josephine Bakhita, pray for us!
Photo by Josh Willink on Pexels.comThe second part of the creation account shows how living creatures (including humanity) came to be. May the gift of life and the beauty of this world help us to humbly and wisely steward the precious gift of life.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comFor the next two weeks the first reading will be taken from the Book of Genesis, beginning today with the fundamental act of creation.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Paul Miki and Companions, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes in the readings for the 6th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Sirach 15:15-20
- Trusting in God and following the commandments bring us life and salvation.
- God understands all our deeds and no one has license to sin.
Psalm – 119:1-2,4-5,17-18,33-34
- “Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!”
- Those who are blameless and observe the Lord’s decrees will live.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 2:6-10
- Paul preaches the wisdom of God as it has been revealed through the Spirit.
Gospel – Matthew 5:17-37
- Jesus teaches how his commandments far exceed the precepts of the law.
- The Lord speaks forcefully about killing, adultery, divorce and false oaths.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Min An on Pexels.comBlessed by the Lord, we give glory to Christ when we extend our blessings to those in need. As we alleviate the sufferings of others, our good deeds proclaim the Gospel as we become God’s salt and light in the world.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Here is more a great website to learn more about Sir Nicholas Winton.
Photo by FRANK MERIu00d1O on Pexels.comPsalm 23 has comforted people for thousands of years. May we hear these words today with an open heart, as we follow the call of the Good Shepherd.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Noureddine Belfethi on Pexels.comPsalm 27 offers consolation and strength to all who put their hope in the Lord…for when we remain in God’s company, there is no room for fear.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Blaise and St. Ansgar, pray for us!
Photo by Juan Carlos Leva on Pexels.comAs Mary and Joseph present the Christ child in the temple, the responses of Simeon and Anna instruct us how we receive the Lord in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by The Lazy Artist Gallery on Pexels.comThe Letter to the Hebrews makes it clear that the spiritual battle will require discipline and conviction. In moments of weakness, may we lean on the Lord for the help we need to stay focused and keep going.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by RUN 4 FFWPU on Pexels.comThe Letter to the Hebrews offers a powerful visual image for our spiritual journey: we are running in a great race, surrounded by a cloud of witnesses, with our eyes fixed on Jesus!
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John Bosco, pray for us!
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.comJesus drives out many demons from a man and sends him home to his family to announce what the Lord has done. May we be a living witness to our families as we authentically live our faith in the context of daily life.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comLet’s explore some of the themes in the readings for the 5th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Isaiah 58:7-10
- The prophet exhorts the people to corporal works of mercy: sharing food; sheltering the homeless, clothing the naked, responding to the needs of others.
- The Lord responds to us when we care for others, and the Lord’s light shines upon us.
Psalm – 112:4-9
- “The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.”
- Light shines upon those who care for the needs of others.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 2:1-5
- Paul reminds the people that he came to them speaking of Christ crucified.
- He gave the message simply and without demonstrations of power, so that they would trust in God alone.
Gospel – Matthew 5:13-16
- Jesus teaches that we are salt and light, meant to use what we have been given for the good of others.
- When we let our light shine, we give glory to our heavenly Father.
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Dolina Modlitwy on Pexels.comThe lives of the Saints repeatedly demonstrate a central point in the Scriptures today: our strength does not come from us but from the Lord. May we call upon Christ for the guidance and help we require as we put our faith into practice.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Dolina Modlitwy on Pexels.comWe find aspects of faith in the Letter to the Hebrews, the Canticle of Zechariah, and the words of Jesus to the disciples in the midst of a storm. In all three we see how our faith in God is built up as we trust in the Lord and look to the future with hope.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 3rd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Thomas Aquinas, pray for us!
Photo by Gelgas Airlangga on Pexels.comJesus offers two crucial insights about the Kingdom of God, reminding us that we all start small and flourish with slow and steady growth over time.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 3rd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Angela Merici, pray for us!
Photo by Ray Bilcliff on Pexels.comBoth Timothy and Titus were friends and companions of St. Paul. Their example follows the exhortation of Christ to let the light of our faith shine in the world.
Mass Readings – The Memorial of St. Timothy & St. Titus
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Timothy & St. Titus, pray for us!
Photo by Mstudio on Pexels.comThe conversion of St. Paul reveals how God’s grace can transform our lives. Once an enemy of the Christian faith, Paul went on to become one of its greatest champions, and his New Testament letters continue to inspire disciples today.
Mass Readings – The Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Paul, pray for us!
Photo by Daan Stevens on Pexels.comWhen we conform our lives to God’s will we are united into Christ’s family. May the Lord’s love inspire us to faithfully follow him with sincere and open hearts.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 3rd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Francis de Sales, pray for us!
Photo by S Migaj on Pexels.comJesus addresses the scribes, revealing his power to cast out Satan and sin. Calling upon the Holy Spirit, we follow Christ in the midst of our spiritual battles and face our challenges with God’s grace.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 3rd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Vincent & St. Marianne Cope, pray for us!
On this Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, we call upon the Holy Spirit to help us defend their lives and foster their safety and growth.
Photo by Kamaji Ogino on Pexels.comLet’s take a look at some of the themes in the readings for the 4th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13
- Seek the Lord in justice and humility, observing the Lord’s laws.
- The Lord will preserve a remnant who will remain faithful to God.
Psalm – 146:6-10
- “Blessed are the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs!”
- The Lord protects those in need, bringing healing, comfort, and hope.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 1:26-31
- God works through the weak and despised to shame the strong.
- We boast only in God, who sustains us through Jesus Christ.
Gospel – Matthew 5:1-12a
- The Beatitudes have given comfort and consolation to countless people.
- This is the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, a source of the great teaching of Jesus.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Dhivakaran S on Pexels.comFrom the prophecy of Isaiah to the preaching of Christ, the Lord’s light banishes the darkness in our hearts and leads us to repent of our sins. May we walk in his light!
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Leah Kelley on Pexels.comBig or small, all of us are part of a family that has many different dynamics. Mark’s Gospel reveals that similar traits were also present in the family of Jesus, offering insight into the humanity of Christ.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 2nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Agnes, pray for us!
Photo by Luis Quintero on Pexels.comJesus calls, empowers and sends the Twelve Apostles to carry out his ministry. We, too, have been chosen by the Lord to offer our lives for service in the world.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 2nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Fabian & St. Sebastian, pray for us!
Photo by Jonathan Petersson on Pexels.comAs the crowds flock to Jesus, he cures the sick and rebukes the evil spirits that recognize he is the Son of God.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 2nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Valeria Boltneva on Pexels.comJesus heals a man with a withered hand on the sabbath, revealing not only his majesty, but also his compassion to heal and restore us to life.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 2nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comJesus uses a teachable moment about the sabbath to reveal his divinity as the Lord.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 2nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Anthony, Abbot, pray for us!
Photo by Markus Spiske on Pexels.comJesus offers a helpful insight about the purpose and nature of fasting, reminding us that this powerful, spiritual practice is a tool that is meant to draw us closer to the Lord.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 2nd Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Ben Jessop on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes in the readings for the 3rd Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Isaiah 8:23-9:3
- The Gentiles who walked in darkness have seen a great light.
- The people have abundant joy, and the rod of their taskmasters has been broken.
Psalm – 27:1,4,13-14
- “The Lord is my light and my salvation.”
- The Lord’s strength gives us courage; we are no longer afraid.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 1:10-13,17
- Paul urges the people to be united in the same mind and the same purpose.
- Christ is the source of our unity, and all our efforts give glory to him.
Gospel – Matthew 4:12-23
- Jesus, preaching repentance, fulfills the words of Isaiah the prophet.
- The Lord calls Peter and Andrew, then James and John to follow him.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Martin on Pexels.comThe Psalm response stirs our hearts to offer our lives each and every day in service to God. May we call upon the Lord’s grace to journey through life with open eyes as we say, “Here am I, Lord!”
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Rahul on Pexels.comThe call of Levi and his response to the Lord reveals how God meets us where we’re at in life and invites us to step out in faith and follow.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 1st Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels.comAs Jesus heals the paralytic on a stretcher, the action of the four men who brought him reveals our opportunity to bring others to the Lord for help and comfort.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 1st Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Hilary, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe pity of Jesus in the presence of a leper reveals the Lord’s compassion for human suffering. As Christ heals the leper, we recognize God’s great desire to restore us to health and wholeness.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 1st Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas on Pexels.comCrowds gather as Jesus heals the mother-in-law of Simon Peter and the subsequent people who come for comfort and relief. May we turn to the Lord for the healing grace we require today.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 1st Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.comJesus reveals his authority in Capernaum through his teaching and ability to drive out demons. May we pledge our allegiance to Christ and submit to his rule of our hearts.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 1st Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comAs Jesus is baptized, the Father’s voice is heard from Heaven, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” May these words inspire us to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to the Lord.
Mass Readings – The Baptism of the Lord
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comLet’s explore some of the themes in the readings for the 2nd Sunday of the Year.
1st. Reading – Isaiah 49:3,5-6
- The people are brought back and gathered together, made glorious by God’s strength.
- They shall be a light to the nations, so that God’s salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.
Psalm – 40:2,4,7-10
- “Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.”
- We wait for the Lord, who strengthens us to offer our lives in service.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 1:1-3
- Paul introduces his letter stating that he is an apostle of Christ.
- He greets the people in the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus.
Gospel – John 1:29-34
- John the Baptist sees Jesus and says, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.”
- John testifies that he has seen the Spirit come down like a dove from heaven upon the Lord.
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comAs the Magi encounter the Christ child in Bethlehem, their example inspires us to continue our daily journey to Jesus, guided by the Lord’s light through this life to our Heavenly home.
Mass Readings – The Epiphany of the Lord
Catholic Inspiration Archives
The Lord’s first miracle takes place at a wedding at Cana in Galilee, foreshadowing the glory of his saving death and resurrection for us all.
Mass Readings – Christmas Season, January 7th
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Raymond Penyafort, pray for us!
Note: this photo was taken at Cana during the renewal of vows of those married couples who traveled on my pilgrimage to the Holy Land in December 2019.
Photo by Brett Sayles on Pexels.comJohn the Baptist proclaims that Christ will baptize with the Holy Spirit. As we follow the Lord today, may we call upon the Spirit to draw us into a deeper, fruitful union with the Lord and one another.
Mass Reading – Christmas Season, January 6th
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. André Bessette, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe Lord’s invitation to Philip is simple and direct: “Follow me.” May Philip’s swift response inspire us to embrace Christ’s invitation in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Christmas Season, January 5th
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John Neumann, pray for us!
Photo by Mabel Amber on Pexels.comAndrew encountered Jesus and afterward brought his brother Simon to meet the Lord. May we, too, come and see the Lord for ourselves in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Christmas Season, January 4th
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, pray for us!
Photo by Jonas Ferlin on Pexels.comAfter he saw the Spirit come down and remain upon the Lord, John the Baptist testifies that Jesus is the Lamb of God, the Son of God who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Christmas Season, January 3rd
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comWhen questioned by the priests and Levites as his popularity with the crowds increased, John the Baptist humbly admitted that he was not the Christ; rather, he claimed his role as one who points out the Lord to others…thus giving us an example for our own lives today.
Mass Reading – Christmas Season, January 2nd
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Basil the Great & St. Gregory Nazianzen, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comLet’s explore some of the themes in the readings for the Epiphany of the Lord.
1st Reading – Isaiah 60:1-6
- Jerusalem rises up in the shining light of the Lord’s glory.
- By this light people will come together, praising the Lord.
Psalm – 72:1-2,7-8,10-13
- “Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.”
- God endows the king with justice and right judgment to care for the people.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 3:2-3a,5-6
- The Holy Spirit has revealed to the apostles and prophets that the Gentiles are coheirs of God’s grace.
- As members of the same body, they are copartners in the promise of Christ.
Gospel – Matthew 2:1-12
- The Magi, guided by a star, come to Jerusalem seeking the king of the Jews.
- They go to Bethlehem, where they encounter Jesus and present him with gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Mass Readings – The Epiphany of the Lord
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Alexander Nadrilyanski on Pexels.comAs the shepherds describe what had been revealed to them by the angel, Mary kept all these things and reflected on them in her heart. May her example lead us into our own reflections on her Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, as we put our faith into practice.
Mass Readings – Mary, the Mother of God
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Photo by Dhivakaran S on Pexels.comThe Prologue of the Gospel of John offers a beautiful, mystical reflection on the person of Jesus Christ. The Lord, who is the Word made flesh, is the light of the world who shines in the darkness. May we run to this light!
Mass Readings – 7th Day in the Octave of Christmas
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Sylvester, pray for us!
Photo by JINU JOSEPH on Pexels.comThe Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph offers us an example of family life and inspires us to reach out to our own families with the love of the Lord.
Mass Readings – The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Family of God, pray for us!
Photo by Ricardo Esquivel on Pexels.comThe First Letter of John offers us a crucial spiritual insight about our relationship with the Lord and one another. May our desire to follow Jesus Christ inspire us to continue to walk in his light as we love one another.
Mass Readings – 5th Day in the Octave of Christmas
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Thomas Becket, pray for us!
Photo by Kat Smith on Pexels.comHerod’s murder of the baby boys in Bethlehem reveals the senseless violence of our darkened world. This evil, and all the forms it embodies, is overcome by the baby laid in a manger…the Christ who breaks the bonds of sin and death by his victory on the Cross.
Mass Readings – The Feast of the Holy Innocents
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Innocents, pray for us!
Photo by Archie Binamira on Pexels.comSt. John – Apostle and Evangelist – inspires us to be living witnesses for Jesus Christ by authentically living the Good News in our daily lives.
Mass Readings – St. John, Apostle & Evangelist
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe Church celebrates the martyrdom of St. Stephen immediately after Christmas, in no small way to remind us that the child we worship in the manger will grow to offer his life for the salvation of the world. May Stephen’s example inspire us today to live our lives for the Lord.
Mass Readings – St. Stephen, the first martyr
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Stephen, pray for us!
Photo by Ange Sista on Pexels.comHere are some of the themes for the readings for the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God.
1st Reading – Number 6:22-27
- The Lord directs Moses to speak to Aaron and his sons about how they are to bless the Israelites.
- This “Blessing of Aaron” is still used by the Church today!
Psalm – 67:2-3,5-8
- “May God bless us in his mercy.”
- We praise God and ask that the Lord have pity on us and bless us.
2nd Reading – Galatians 4:4-7
- In the fullness of time God sent his son, born of a woman, to ransom us so that we might have adoption.
- We call upon the Lord as “Abba, Father!” and are heirs of God.
Gospel – Luke 2:16-21
- This reading is also proclaimed at the Mass at Dawn on Christmas Day.
- Mary is at the center of the passage, reflecting in her heart what God has done.
Mass Readings – Mary, the Mother of God
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Photo by Jeswin Thomas on Pexels.comMerry Christmas! Depending on the Mass you attend, there are four different sets of readings. Yet as we ponder God’s love for our fallen world, may the hope in our hearts burst forth as we proclaim the Good News with tidings of glad joy: today is born our savior, Christ the Lord!
Mass Readings
Vigil Mass – Mass at Night – Mass at Dawn – Mass during the Day
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Nina Uhlikova on Pexels.comThe Canticle of Zechariah brings the season of Advent to a close with a resounding proclamation of praise to God. May these words ring out in our hearts!
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 4th Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Brett Sayles on Pexels.comThe birth of John the Baptist indicates a new element in salvation history. The hand of the Lord is upon the one who comes to prepare the way for Christ our savior.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John of Kanty, pray for us!
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.comMary’s Magnificat becomes a model for our prayer and praise to God. May these words inspire us to keep our focus upon the Lord as we draw strength from the one who saves us.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 4th Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe encounter between Mary and Elizabeth reveals how God’s gift of joy surfaces in the presence of faith and fellowship. As we count our blessings today, may we express the Good News of the Lord’s love in our lives with those around us.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 4th Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Peter Cansius, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comMary encounters the angel Gabriel, who announces God’s saving power that comes to our world through Jesus Christ. May this Good News sustain us in our difficult moments…for nothing will be impossible for God!
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Nilufer Kayaduman on Pexels.comThe angel Gabriel speaks to Zechariah, announcing that his wife Elizabeth will conceive a son who will go forth with the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare a people for the Lord.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 4th Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Burkay Canatar on Pexels.comThere are FOUR different options for Mass Readings on the Feast of Christmas! As it depends on the Mass you attend (and the preference of the presider) I will limit my reflection to the Gospel readings.
Vigil Mass – Matthew 1:1-25
- The Genealogy of Jesus Christ, with fourteen generations between Abraham to David, fourteen generations between David to the Babylonian exile, and fourteen generations between the Babylonian exile to Christ.
- The passage concludes with the angel’s message in Joseph’s dream to welcome Mary into his home.
Mass at Midnight – Luke 2:1-14
- Joseph brings Mary to Bethlehem for the census, and there Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays him in swaddling clothes in a manger.
- The angels proclaim a message of hope to the shepherds nearby, singing “Glory to God in the highest!”
Mass at Dawn – Luke 2:15-20
- The shepherds go to Bethlehem and find the baby Jesus in the manger.
- The message of the angels is made known to Mary and Joseph, and the shepherds return home praising God.
Mass during the Day – John 1:1-18
- The Prologue of John’s Gospel reveals that Jesus is the Word of God who became flesh and came into our world, shining with a light that the darkness can neither understand nor overcome.
- John the Baptist testifies that Jesus is the Son of God.
Mass Readings – Christmas
Vigil Mass
Mass at Midnight
Mass at Dawn
Mass during the Day
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comAs we transition from Advent to Christmas, we prepare to meet Jesus Christ, who is “Emmanuel” which means “God is with us”. With joy, then, we open our hearts and let the Lord enter, for he is the King of Glory!
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe genealogy of Jesus walks us through several high points in salvation history. Yet, once we understand that we are grafted on to this tree through the gift of faith, we see our connection to Christ enriched and enlivened. We are a part of the Lord’s family!
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 3rd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi on Pexels.comJust as John the Baptist was “a burning and shining lamp” that guided the people to Jesus, we, too, are called by the Lord to shine with the light of Christ in the world today.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comJesus speaks about John the Baptist to the crowds, revealing the greatness of the prophet and inspiring us to follow the call to repentance.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 3rd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Franck Denis on Pexels.comIsaiah speaks with bold and passionate intensity, revealing God as the source and center of our lives. May we reaffirm this truth each and every day as we follow Jesus Christ with full and open hearts.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of 3rd Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. John of the Cross, pray for us!
Photo by Oziel Gu00f3mez on Pexels.comThe Lord reminds the disciples that it is crucial to follow God’s call with actions of repentance. May we take this insight to heart as we put our faith into practice.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 3rd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Lucy, pray for us!
Nuestra senora de Guadalupe: our by Library of Congress is licensed under CC-CC0 1.0To all who have a special devotion to the Blessed Mother, happy feast day! May her example inspire us to draw closer to her Son!
Mass Readings – Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us!
Photo by Min An on Pexels.comThe Psalm response reveals our universal cry to God for help in moments of grave need. May the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy through the actions of Christ inspire us to call out everyday to the Lord with gratitude and trust.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comIn speaking with his disciples, Jesus reveals the suffering that he and John the Baptist must endure.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 2nd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Our Lady of Loreto, pray for us!
Photo by Dazzle Jam on Pexels.comBoth Isaiah and the Psalmist urge us to follow the Lord in word and action so that we may dwell in God’s living light.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 2nd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, pray for us!
In the fullness of time, God sent his Son, born of the Virgin Mary, to save and set us free from the original sin of Adam and Eve. May Mary’s “fiat” inspire us to cooperate with divine grace as we offer our lives for the Lord today.
Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Photo by nappy on Pexels.comWe draw near to Jesus and find comfort, rest and strength. The Lord renews us so that we may run and not grow weary!
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Ambrose, pray for us!
Photo by Kat Smith on Pexels.comThe Lord teaches that it is the will of our Heavenly Father to seek out those who are lost. May we call upon the Lord in our moments of doubt and confusion as we seek the Good Shepherd of our souls.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 2nd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Nicholas, pray for us!
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels.comJesus heals a paralytic who was brought to him by others who were determined and faithful. May their witness inspire us to bring others to Christ for the healing they need.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 2nd Week of Advent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThis homily was part of a Communal Penance Service at the Cathedral on November 29, 2022. Reflecting on the Parable of the Lost Son, we take time this Advent to “Come to our senses” and return to the Lord.
Luke 15:11-32
Catholic Inspiration Archives
John the Baptist bluntly and forcefully addresses the crowds, calling them to repent and prepare for the one who will come after him. May this message inspire us to repent of our sins and be ready for the Lord’s coming. Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Advent
Jesus empowers and sends out the Apostles to continue his ministry. What’s more, the Lord’s compassion for those in need sets the context for how we serve one another in his name. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 1st Week of Advent St. Francis Xavier, pray for us!
Two blind men are healed by Jesus and are filled with joy. As we drawn near the Lord today may we see clearly, for the Lord is our light and our salvation! Mass Readings – Friday of the 1st Week of Advent
Both Isaiah and Jesus use the image of rock when speaking about a relationship with God. Unchanging and immutable, the rock of faith is a sure and solid foundation that provides the stability we need to build our spiritual lives. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 1st Week of Advent
The call of Andrew, along with Peter, James and John reveals God’s initiative in our lives. As St. Paul reminds us, we are all called and sent by the Lord so that others may hear the Good News. Mass Readings – Feast of St. Andrew, Apostle St. Andrew, pray for us!
The prophetic words of Isaiah ring in our hearts. Christ is coming into our world! May we prepare our hearts to welcome the Lord. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 1st Week of Advent
A centurion puts his faith in the healing power of Jesus, and the Lord takes the opportunity to speak about how people from around the world will come to know God. Mass Readings – Monday of the 1st Week of Advent
Let’s take a look at some of the themes we find in the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Advent. 1st Reading – Isaiah 11:1-10 Psalm – 72: 1-2,7-8,12-13,17 2nd Reading – Romans 15:4-9 Gospel – Matthew 3:1-12 Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Advent
The season of Advent urges us to prepare not only for the Lord’s birth, but also for his return in glory. May these coming weeks help us to meet the Lord on Christmas day and make us ready for the hour when we are called from this life to the next. Mass Readings – 1st […]
The Lord exhorts his disciples to remain awake and be vigilant in the midst of the struggles of life. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 34th Week of the Year
Amidst the changes of life, one thing remains permanent, one thing remains constant…Jesus Christ! Mass Readings – Friday of the 34th Week of the Year St. Catherine of Alexandria, pray for us!
On this Thanksgiving Day we pause to count our blessings as we cultivate gratitude for the gift of life. Mass Readings – Thanksgiving Day St. Andrew Dung-Lac and Companions, pray for us!
Both heaven and earth proclaim God’s glory, which we glimpse when we reflect upon the beauty of nature. May the glory of creation inspire us to offer our lives to the creator with grateful and humble hearts. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 34th Week of the Year St. Clement I, St. Columban, and Blessed […]
The Psalm response reminds us that all judgement belongs to the Lord, and one day we will all be held accountable when we stand before the Just Judge. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 34th Week of the Year St. Cecilia, pray for us!
As Jesus observes a poor widow offering a few coins for the temple treasury, he reveals that in the eyes of Heaven what is valued looks a little differently. It’s the sacrifice, not the amount, that makes the angels rejoice. Mass Readings – Monday of the 34th Week of the Year
Here are some of the themes that surface in the readings for the 1st Sunday of Advent. 1st Reading – Isaiah 2:1-5 Psalm – 122: 1-9 2nd Reading – Romans 13:11-14 Gospel – Matthew 24:37-44 Mass Readings – 1st Sunday of Advent
The words of the Dismas (the “good thief”) in the Gospel of Luke echo in our hearts as we claim Jesus Christ as our King: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom!” Mass Readings – The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe
The Psalm response offers a joyous affirmation of the Lord’s strength in times of struggle. May this spiritual durability sustains us in our spiritual battles and draw us closer to God and one another. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 33rd Week of the Year
The Lord cleanses the temple area and teaches the crowds. As temples of the Holy Spirit, we call upon the Lord to purify our lives so that we may be a proper dwelling place for the Lord. Mass Readings – Friday of the 33rd Week of the Year St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, pray for us!
As Jesus weeps over Jerusalem, we gain a crucial insight into the Lord’s Sacred Heart. Filled with sorrow for the sins of our world, Christ reveals the depth of his love and points us to the Cross as the instrument of our salvation. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 33rd Week of the Year St. […]
The Lord offers a somber parable, reminding us about the crucial responsibility we have to be good stewards of the things entrusted to our care. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 33rd Week of the Year St. Margaret of Scotland and St. Gertrude, pray for us!
Jesus chooses to stay with Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector and sinner. May this Scripture give us all hope, for the Lord chooses to stay with us – knowing full well all our sins – that he might seek and save what was lost. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 33rd Week of the Year […]
The blind man’s reply, “Lord, I want to see!” invites us to consider how we, too, long to see clearly our path through this life. May our eyes be opened as we walk in the light of Jesus Christ. Mass Readings – Monday of the 33rd Week of the Year
Here are some of the main themes in the readings for the solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. 1st Reading – 2nd Samuel 5:1-3 Psalm – 122:1-5 2nd Reading – Colossians 1:12-20 Gospel – Luke 23:35-43 Mass Readings – The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
The Lord’s response to questions about the end times, invites us to reflect on how we will prepare for our own exit from this world. Mass Readings – 33rd Sunday of the Year
Jesus reminds his disciples with a parable to pray always. May we take this instruction to heart as we pause each day to draw near to the Lord. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 32nd Week of the Year St. Josaphat, pray for us!
The exhortation of the first reading to love one another serves as a ready reminder for daily life. For as the Lord cautions in the Gospel of Luke, the Son of Man will come at an unexpected time. May we take every opportunity to put love into practice! Mass Readings – Friday of the 32nd […]
Jesus responds to the Pharisees with the stunning pronouncement that the Kingdom of God is among us. Instructing his disciples further, the Lord explains that the path to God’s Kingdom leads through the suffering of the Cross. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 32nd Week of the Year St. Leo the Great, pray for us!
St. Paul’s reminds the people of Corinth that each of us is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Our care and custody of this “sacred space” reveals our awareness of God’s presence and our desire to be an inspiring example to one another. Mass Readings – Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
Jesus uses an example to illustrate and expand our concept of service. Rather than simply completing what is expected, we actively strive to seek out new ways to respond to the opportunities around us. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 32nd Week of the Year
St. Paul shows how God calls the weak, the lowly and those deemed foolish in the eyes of the world to stand with might before the powerful. Where do these humble people find their strength? In Jesus Christ! Mass Readings – Saturday of the 21st Week of the Year St. Monica, pray for us!
St. Paul proclaims the power of the Cross of Christ as the source of power and wisdom that comes to us from God. Mass Readings – Friday of the 21st Week of the Year
St. Paul begins his First Letter to the Corinthians with gratitude to God for the gift of their lives. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 21st Week of the Year St. Louis & St. Joseph Calasanz, pray for us!
Psalm 145 proclaims the marvels of God’s might, and the response reminds us to echo this Good News to all the world. Mass Readings – Feast of St. Bartholomew, Apostle St. Bartholomew, pray for us!
St. Paul continues his exhortation in the Second Letter to the Thessalonians, pointing out that deception comes from a number of different directions. Our task? Stand firm in our faith in the Lord Jesus! Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 21st Week of the Year St. Rose of Lima, pray for us!
St. Paul acknowledges the endurance and faith in his 2nd Letter to the Thessalonians, reminding us that as we face the struggles of life we call upon the Lord for the strength we need. Mass Readings – Monday of the 21st Week of the Year Holy Mary, Queen of Heaven, pray for us!
Here are some of the key themes that surface in the readings for the 22nd Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Sirach 3:17-18,20,28-29 We find favor with God when we conduct our affairs with humility. Aware of our limitations, we cultivate wisdom and give alms. Psalm – 68:4-7,10-11 “God, in your goodness, you have […]
The Letter to the Hebrews exhorts us to be disciplined by the Lord, who out of love trains us for the spiritual battles of life. May we call upon Christ to see where discipline is lacking and put it into practice. Mass Readings – 21st Sunday of the Year
The end of today’s passage in the Gospel of Matthew invites us to reflect on humble service, offering us a way to engage with one another in the spirit of Jesus Christ. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 20th Week of the Year St. Bernard, pray for us!
Jesus offers the commandments to love God and neighbor as the foundation for the law and the prophets. Our task requires us to understand how we put this commandment into practice amidst the challenges of modern life. Mass Readings – Friday of the 20th Week of the Year St. John Eudes, pray for us!
Both Ezekiel and Psalm 51 offer the beautiful image of God cleansing our souls with pure water that washes away our sins. May the image inspire us to repent and run to the Lord, who longs purify our hearts. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 20th Week of the Year
Jesus offers a parable to show how God’s generosity far surpasses our notion of justice. May this insight inspire us…no matter what has happened before, God welcomes us with generous grace. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 20th Week of the Year
The Lord’s words challenge and console us as we consider who will be saved. The challenge happens when we place our hope in worldly things. The consolation comes when we trust in the Lord, who makes all things possible. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 20th Week of the Year St. Stephen of Hungary, pray […]
Mary proclaims her great Magnificat in Luke’s Gospel, giving praise to God who does mighty things through our lowly lives. May her words inspire us to offer our lives to the Lord! Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Here are some of the themes present in the readings for the 21st Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Isaiah 66:18-21 God gathers the people of all nations, and the Lord knows their works and thoughts. These people will proclaim God’s glory and gather in Jerusalem. Psalm – 117:1-2 “Go out to all the […]
The Letter to the Hebrews offers the example of running a race before a cheering crowd as an example of our spiritual journey through this life. May we run toward Jesus with all our heart, and encourage each other along the way. Mass Readings – 20th Sunday of the Year
Jesus welcomes the children and blesses them, making it clear to his disciples that all obstacles must be removed. Let the children come to Jesus! Mass Readings – Saturday of the 19th Week of the Year St. Pontian & St. Hippolytus, pray for us!
Jesus addresses the topic of divorce to both the Pharisees and his disciples. As painful as the topic is today, we acknowledge that it has been a challenge throughout human history, reminding us to do all that we can to foster marriage as well as help those who suffer when marriage fails. Mass Readings – […]
Jesus uses a powerful parable to teach us the crucial role of forgiveness in our lives. Understanding the teaching is the easy part; our task is to make forgiveness a daily discipline that shapes our thoughts, words and actions. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 19th Week of the Year St. Clare, pray for us!
Jesus uses a grain of wheat to explain the marvelous gift of love that happens when a person offers one’s life for others. Mass Readings – Feast of St. Lawrence St. Lawrence, pray for us!
Using the example of a little child, the Lord teaches the disciples that true greatness comes from a humble heart. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 19th Week of the Year
Matthew’s Gospel offers the second prediction of the Lord’s Passion, reminding us that all disciples must face the Cross as they journey through this life. Mass Readings – Monday of the 19th Week of the Year St. Dominic, pray for us!
Let’s take a look at the key themes in the Mass readings for the 20th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Jeremiah 38:4-6,8-10 Jeremiah’s life hangs in the balance as he is thrown into a cistern for his preaching. Psalm – 40:2-4,18 “Lord, come to my aid!” We call upon the Lord for help […]
The Lord exhorts the disciples to be prepared and ready to act. For those to whom much has been given, much is expected! Mass Readings – 19th Sunday of the Year
As Jesus is transfigured before their eyes, the disciples hear the voice of the Father, “This is my chosen Son, listen to him.” May we drawn near and take the Lord’s words to heart as well. Mass Readings – The Transfiguration of the Lord
The Lord exhorts his disciples to take up their Crosses and follow him. Crosses come in all sizes; may the Crosses we carry become a worthy offering to the Lord as we put his example into daily practice. Mass Readings – Friday of the 18th Week of the Year
St. Peter gets it right…then he gets it wrong. Yet in the end we know that Peter will not only understand who Jesus is, but he will have the courage to follow the Lord, carrying the Cross from this life to the next. We, too, are works in progress; may we strive to learn from […]
The Canaanite woman in Matthew’s Gospel refuses to take no for an answer; instead she persistently seeks the Lord’s help to cure her daughter…offering us a great example of faith. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 18th Week of the Year
Jesus responds to Peter’s cry for help, reminding the disciples that faith in him empowers us to face our fears. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 18th Week of the Year St. Eusebius of Vercelli and St. Peter Julian Eymard, pray for us!
Following the death of John the Baptist, Jesus goes to a deserted place, only to find a vast crowd in need of his teaching and guidance. There he nourishes body and soul as he takes, blesses, breaks and gives the bread and fish to feed the 5000. Mass Readings – Monday of the 18th Week […]
Let’s take a look at some of the key themes in the Mass Readings for the 19th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Wisdom 18:6-9 During the first Passover (in Egypt) the people awaited the salvation of the just. Their faith gave them courage in the face of their adversaries. Psalm 33:1,12,18-22 “Blessed the […]
In the face of a family, financial conflict, Jesus offers a parable that warns about the danger of greed. May we use the wealth we have wisely and well in this life…for we cannot take it with us in the next! Mass Readings – 18th Sunday of the Year
Today’s psalm both acknowledges our struggles and affirms our faith in God’s grace. May we turn to the Lord in our times of trial and draw strength from the one who died that we might have eternal life. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 17th Week of the Year St. Peter Chrysologus, pray for us!
Martha testifies to her faith in Jesus, giving witness that he is the Lord. May her example inspire us to do the same each and every day. Mass Readings – Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus Saints, Martha, Mary and Lazarus, pray for us!
Jeremiah uses the image of the clay and the potter to describe our relationship to the Lord. May we offer our lives to Christ, the Master Potter, to shape us for his service in the world. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 17th Week of the Year
Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of Heaven is a fantastic treasure, greater than anything we might discover here on earth. Will we make the sacrifices necessary in this life to obtain what awaits us in the next? Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 17th Week of the Year
In a rare moment Jesus explains a parable and reveals the significance of good, evil and the final judgment. Whoever has ears ought to hear! Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 17th Week of the Year St. Joachim and St. Anne, pray for us!
As the disciples become indignant over the request from the mother of James and John, the Lord uses the opportunity as a teachable moment…showing how his disciples are called to serve one another. Mass Readings – Feast of St. James, Apostle St. James the Apostle, pray for us!
Here are some of the main themes that surface in the readings for the 18th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Ecclesiastes 1:2; 2:21-23 All things (apart from God) are vanity. Toil and labor (again, apart from God!) are of no use. Psalm – 90:3-6,12-14,17 “If today you hear his voice, harden not your […]
Jesus teaches his disciples the Lord’s Prayer in the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing the importance of persistence in praying for what we need. Mass Readings – 17th Sunday of the Year
Jesus offers a parable that illustrates how our souls are like gardens that require careful cultivation and diligent weeding. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 16th Week of the Year St. Bridget of Sweden, pray for us!
Mary Magdalene is the first disciple to meet the Risen Lord, and she is empowered by Christ to proclaim the resurrection to the Apostles. Mass Readings – Feast of St. Mary Magdalene St. Mary Magdalene, pray for us!
Like a fountain that brings life to a vibrant garden, the Lord renews our souls with grace, mercy and peace. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 16th Week of the Year St. Lawrence of Brindisi, pray for us!
Jeremiah is sent by the Lord to go forth and proclaim God’s message, and Jesus offers a parable illustrating the need to be fruitful in our lives. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 16th Week of the Year St. Apollinaris, pray for us!
The Lord offers comfort in times of exhaustion, reminding us that we find a lasting peace in his presence. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 15th Week of the Year St. Kateri Tekawitha, pray for us!
Jesus affirms his divinity as he acknowledges his relationship to his Heavenly Father. May we draw near to the Lord today, and configure our lives to the Son of God. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 15th Week of the Year St. Henry, pray for us!
Jesus reproaches the villages that rejected his message of repentance, reminding us that our response to the Lord’s invitation has crucial consequences. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 15th Week of the Year
Jesus concludes his teaching to the Twelve before he sends them out on their mission, reminding them to make him the priority and center of their lives. Mass Readings – Monday of the 15th Week of the Year St. Benedict, pray for us!
Here are some of the key themes that surface in the readings for the 16th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Genesis 18:1-10a Abraham offers hospitality to three strangers with food that Sarah prepares. The strangers foretell that she will have a child within a year. Psalm – 15:2-5 “He who does justice will […]
Jesus offers a parable when asked to clarify what we must do to enter eternal life. May we actively respond with compassion and mercy to the “neighbors” in our lives! Mass Readings – 15th Sunday of the Year
Having called and empowered the Twelve Apostles, Jesus exhorts them to cast aside fear in the face of difficulty and duress. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 14th Week of the Year St. Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions, pray for us!
Continuing from the call of the Twelve and the explanation of their mission, Jesus now prepares his followers for the difficulties that are part of the path of discipleship. Mass Readings – Friday of the 14th Week of the Year
Jesus gives instructions to the Twelve in preparation for their mission, reminding them that they have received the the truths of salvation without cost…and thus without cost they give them to others. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 14th Week of the Year
Jesus calls the Twelve Apostles by name and empowers them to carry out his earthly ministry. Their efforts, fortified by the Holy Spirit, would change the world and leave us a legacy of faith. May we continue this ministry today! Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 14th Week of the Year St. Maria Goretti, pray […]
We glimpse the compassion of Christ as he pities the people who come to him with their suffering and pain. May the Lord’s mercy inspire us to run to him in our needs, as we share his kindness and love. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 14th Week of the Year St. Anthony Zaccaria & […]
The two miracles in the Gospel of Matthew encourage us to look at how we both receive and share the healing power of Christ in our daily lives. Mass Readings – Monday of the 14th Week of the Year
Here are some of the themes that we see in the readings for the 15th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Deuteronomy 30:10-14 The Lord enjoins the people to keep the commandments and statutes set before them. These commands are not mysterious; rather, they are in their mouths and hearts…they only need to carry […]
As Jesus sends out the 72 disciples, he empowers them to carry on his earthly mission. Their efforts inspire us to consider how the Lord directs and sends us out into the world to offer our lives today. Mass Readings – 14th Sunday of the Year
Psalm 85 offers a beautiful reflection on the serenity that comes from the Lord; a peace that our world is in short supply of today. May we pray for peace! Mass Readings – Saturday of the 13th Week of the Year
The call of Matthew inspires us to reflect on how the Lord invites us to follow him in our lives today. Mass Readings – Friday of the 13th Week of the Year St. Junipero Serra, pray for us!
With a simple phrase Jesus heals both body and soul, revealing not only his power to save but also our need to receive his mercy with an open mind and heart. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 13th Week of the Year Holy First Martyrs of Rome, pray for us!
They are two of the brightest lights in the communion of Saints, yet these very sinful, fallible men can inspire us to follow their example as we turn away from our past sins and embrace a future guided by the grace of Jesus Christ. Mass Readings – Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul St. Peter […]
Matthew’s Gospel echoes the reading we heard from Luke yesterday, underscoring the point that as his disciples we place Jesus at the center of our lives. Mass Readings – Monday of the 13th Week of the Year St. Cyril of Alexandria, pray for us!
Here are some of the main themes in the readings for the 14th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – Isaiah 66:10-14c Rejoice and exult over the prosperity of Jerusalem. The Lord’s power shall be known to his servants in the sight of these blessings. Psalm 66:1-7,16,20 “Let all praise the name of the Lord.” […]
It’s one thing to say “I follow Jesus” and other thing to actually do it. May Luke’s Gospel inspire us to trust the Lord as we put our faith into practice. Mass Readings – 13th Sunday of the Year
The feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary offers us an opportunity to reflect on the extreme range of emotions she encountered, particularly sorrow. The Blessed Mother had many experiences to ponder in her heart; may her intercession lead us to the Cross of her Son. Mass Readings – Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin […]
The Sacred Heart of Jesus beats with a shepherd’s love. For while we were still sinners, Christ died for us; and like the shepherd who leaves the 99 other sheep, the Lord looks for us when we stray. Mass Readings – Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
The birth of John the Baptist reveals a pattern in his relationship to Jesus. John comes first to prepare the way for the greater glory that shines upon Christ. May John’s example inspire us to continue to blaze a trail for the proclamation of the Good News in our lives today. Mass Readings – Solemnity […]
The Lord offers us (once again!) practical spiritual wisdom to guide our interactions with one another. But to use this wisdom we have to ask ourselves one question: What’s growing in our hearts? Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 12th Week of the Year Saints Paulinus, Thomas More and John Fisher, pray for us!
The “Golden Rule” that Jesus offers his disciples has directed countless Christians in their relationships with one another. May this rule of life help us to interact with one another in a way that leads us all closer to the Lord. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 12th Week of the Year St. Aloysius Gonzaga, […]
The Lord offers powerful spiritual advice for those times when we are tempted to judge others before we’ve done the hard work to examine our own blind spots. Mass Readings – Monday of the 12th Week of the Year
Here are some of the main themes in the readings for the 13th Sunday of the Year. 1st Reading – 1st Kings 19:16b,19-21 God tells Elijah to anoint Elisha as a prophet to succeed him. Elijah throws his cloak over Elisha as he is plowing with 12 oxen. Psalm – 16:1-2,5,7-11 “You are my inheritance, […]
On this feast of Corpus Christi, we gratefully acknowledge the sacrament that Jesus defines and commands us to receive. May this precious gift of the Real Presence strengthen us for our work on earth and guide us safely to Heaven. Mass Readings – The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
It is so easy to give in to worry! How often do we feed our fears and yield to anxiety? Jesus speaks to this common human condition and offers us a powerful way forward. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 11th Week of the Year
The Lord teaches his disciples to examine their hearts regarding WHAT their treasure is and WHERE they will store it. Mass Readings – Friday of the 11th Week of the Year
The Lord’s Prayer has provided spiritual strength and guidance for countless Christians. May we call upon it frequently throughout our day! Mass Readings – Thursday of the 11th Week of the Year
The Lord speaks of three ancient and powerful spiritual practices: fasting, prayer and almsgiving. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 11th Week of the Year
Perhaps one of the toughest teachings in Christianity is found in the Gospel of Matthew today. Yet this command to love our enemies offers a practical path that unites us to the example of Jesus. Mass Readings- Tuesday of the 11th Week of the Year
Jesus offers guidance when someone causes us harm; we are challenged to repay evil with good – and what a challenge at times it can be! Mass Readings – Monday of the 11th Week of the Year St. Anthony of Padua, pray for us! (Or as I was taught when I needed this mighty saint’s […]
Here are some of the central themes that we find in the readings for the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. 1st Reading – Genesis 14:18-20 Melchizedek the king of Salem offers a blessing to Abram along with a gift of bread and wine. Abram gives a tenth of his possessions to the king. […]
Jesus refers to the Trinity in John’s Gospel, pointing out that we are “works in progress” who are growing in our discipleship and communion with one another. Mass Readings – The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 10th Week of the Year Jesus urges his disciples to use plain direct speech when interacting with one another. St. Barnabas, pray for us!
While we might be tempted to think that adultery and divorce are recent problems of modern society, the Lord’s teaching today reminds us that these issues have been with humanity from the beginning. Mass Readings – Friday of the 10th Week of the Year
The Lord challenges us to surpass the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees. How? By reconciling with one another! Mass Readings – Thursday of the 10th Week of the Year St. Ephrem, pray for us!
The Mass on June 8, 2022 marked the 25th anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood for Fr. Andrew.
Jesus teaches that he has come, not to abolish, but to fulfill the Law and the Prophets. As we follow the Lord with all our hearts we pray that his saving work will flourish within and through our lives. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 10th Week of the Year Friends, today is the 25th […]
The Lord teaches that we are salt and light in the world, but with a purpose. We are called to engage this life, adding joy and strength as we share the love of Christ with those around us. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 10th Week of the Year
From the Cross, Jesus entrusts his mother into the care of his beloved disciple. His words to John are also directed to us as we recognize Mary as our mother and Mother of the Church. Mass Readings – The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church Holy Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us!
Let’s explore some of the themes that surface in the readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. 1st Reading – Proverbs 8:22-31 From the beginning, God’s wisdom was present and prior to all creation. God delights in creation, including the human race. Psalm – 8:4-9 “O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name […]
The Holy Spirit ignites the hearts of the disciples and empowers them to go out into the world. May their example inspire us to call upon the Spirit each and every day! Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and […]
For the last two years of his life Paul will live as a prisoner in Rome, meeting with people and teaching them about Jesus. Mass Readings – Saturday of the 7th Week of Easter
Paul’s particular circumstances are discussed by regional Roman leaders, revealing how one person’s life can make a huge impact on others. Mass Readings – Friday of the 7th Week of Easter St. Charles Lwanga and Companions, pray for us!
Paul is brought before the Sanhedrin and evokes a fierce debate between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 7th Week of Easter Saints Marcellinus and Peter, pray for us!
Before he departs from Miletus, Paul offers some parting advice to the disciples that combines hard-nosed common sense, mingled with faith and tender compassion. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 7th Week of Easter St. Justin, pray for us!
Mary visits Elizabeth and both women experience a revelation about how God is present in their lives. Mass Readings – Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
Upon his arrival in Ephesus, Paul encounters disciples who had not yet received the Holy Spirit until he prays over them. Mass Readings – Monday of the 7th Week of Easter
There are LOTS of options for the Mass Readings for Pentecost, including the Vigil Mass and the Mass During the Day. Here is a short summary: VIGIL MASS 1st Reading Options Genesis 11:1-9 – The Tower of Babel Exodus 19:3-8,16-20b – Moses encounters God on Mount Sinai Ezekiel 37:1-14 – Ezekiel prophesizes over the dry […]
The Ascension of the Lord empowers us to face the transitions and changes of life with the conviction that God’s grace strengthens us in times of upheaval. Mass Readings – The Ascension of the Lord
Apollos is a disciple who eloquently shares his knowledge of the Lord and demonstrates an openness to learning and instruction. May his example inspire us to continue to grow in our faith! Mass Readings – Saturday of the 6th Week of Easter
Paul is informed in a vision to not be afraid, and he continues to preach the Gospel in the presence of opposition in Corinth. Mass Readings – Friday of the 6th Week of Easter St. Augustine of Canterbury, pray for us!
Paul arrives in Corinth and begins to experience both persecution and success as he proclaims that Jesus is Lord. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 6th Week of Easter St. Philip Neri, pray for us!
Athens was a cosmopolitan, sophisticated, intellectual powerhouse in the ancient world. Paul’s failure here reminds us that sometimes our best efforts do not guarantee success. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 6th Week of Easter Saints Bede, Gregory VII and Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi, pray for us!
Paul is beaten and imprisoned for preaching the Good News. Yet through an earthquake and a moment of grace he converts an entire household to faith in Christ. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 6th Week of Easter
The Apostles fill the vacancy caused by Judas and apply criteria and prayer to discern who will join their ranks. Their choice helps us understand how God chooses us for specific tasks today. Mass Readings – Feast of St. Matthias St. Matthias, pray for us!
Building upon salvation history, Paul speaks about the death and resurrection of Jesus. Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of Easter Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us!
Paul preaches in a synagogue, offering a short recap of salvation history. His example inspires us to know the key elements of our faith so we can share the Good News with others. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter Saints Nereus, Achilleus and Pancras, pray for us!
Having returned to Jerusalem, Paul & Barnabas are chosen for a mission after an extensive period of fasting and prayer. Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 4th Week of Easter
As the early Church experiences new growth with the reception of non-Jewish Greek speakers, Barnabas sets out to find Paul and the two of them work together in Antioch for over a year. Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of the Year St. Damien of Moloka’i, pray for us!
Peter defends his actions, showing how God’s grace and the gift of the Holy Spirit is now accessible to all people. Mass Readings – Monday of the 4th Week of Easter
Let’s explore some of the themes we find in the readings for the 5th Sunday of Easter. 1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 14:21-27 Paul and Barnabas proclaim the Good News and exhort the people to persevere in faith. They appoint elders in the churches they have founded and announce that the door of […]
As part of the flock of the Good Shepherd, we have lessons to learn and put into practice every day. Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Easter
Peter – calling upon the name of the Lord – performs two miracles in the first reading from Acts, continuing the ministry of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. May we do the same today! Mass Readings – Saturday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Philip’s interaction with the Ethiopian eunuch shows us how we are all called to help others learn more about Jesus. Mass Readings – Thursday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Photo by Min An on Pexels.com St. Paul recounts a quick recap of how Christ was present after his resurrection to the Apostles. May their example inspire us to continue to proclaim the Good News in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Philip and St. James
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Philip and St. James, pray for us!
Photo by stein egil liland on Pexels.com St. Stephen – the first martyr of the Early Church – is filled with the Holy Spirit and speaks with bold eloquence as he is brought before the Sanhedrin.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Athanasius, pray for us!
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels.com Here are some of the key themes for the readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 13:14,43-52
- While in Antioch, Paul and Barnabas preach Good News to the Gentiles who are delighted.
- As they quote from the prophet Isaiah, they incur the wrath of the Jews and are expelled.
Psalm – 100:1-3,5
- “We are his people, the sheep of his flock.”
- We rejoice at the kindness and faithfulness of the Lord, who protects us.
2nd Reading – Revelation 7:9,14b-17
- John has a vision of a great multitude who have survived the time of great distress and are before the throne of the Lamb.
- The Lamb will shepherd them, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.
Gospel – John 10:27-30
- Jesus teaches that his sheep hear his voice and follow him for they know him.
- United with the Father, no one can the sheep out of the Lord’s hand.
Mass Readings – 4th Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Alem Su00e1nchez on Pexels.com The profound transformation of the Apostles is witnessed by their joyful willingness to suffer for the name of Jesus. Why? Because they have been filled with the love of Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit!
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com The formal selection of the first deacons reveals the noble calling it is to be chosen to serve others. May we look for opportunities to care for one another with dignity and respect.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Pius V, pray for us!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com Gamaliel offers practical wisdom to the Sanhedrin, reminding us that while human plans will fail, God’s plan will flourish.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!
Photo by Archie Binamira on Pexels.com As the Sanhedrin’s tension turns to fury, the Apostles remain adamant: we must obey God rather than men.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Peter Chanel and St. Louis de Montfort, pray for us!
Photo by u0410u043du043du0430 u0420u044bu0436u043au043eu0432u0430 on Pexels.com Confronted by the jealousy of the high priests and the Sadducees, the Apostles continue to remain steadfast in their proclamation of the Good News of Jesus.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.com We are inspired to unite with one another as we observe the example of the Apostles, who were of one heart and mind.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com We take a break from the Acts of the Apostles and read from First Letter of Peter on this feast of St. Mark. What we find is some sound practical advice to help us in our spiritual battle.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Mark, Evangelist
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Mark, pray for us!
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.com Here are some of the key themes that surface in the readings for the 3rd Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts 5:27-32,40b-41
- The Apostles stand before the Sanhedrin, stating that they must obey God rather than men.
- The Apostles rejoice that they were found worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name of Jesus.
Psalm – 30:2,4-6,11-13
- “I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.”
- God offers help in times of testing and trial.
2nd Reading – Revelation 5:11-14
- John sees the heavenly host of angels praising the Lamb of God.
- All present cry out, “Amen!” and worship the Lord.
Gospel – John 21:1-19
- A group of disciples recognize the Risen Lord while fishing.
- Peter responds three times to Jesus’ question, “Do you love me?”
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.com The Risen Lord casts out doubt and fear with the gift of peace from the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com As the persecution of the Sanhedrin continues, Peter and John remain steadfast in their faith.
Mass Readings – Saturday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. George, pray for us!
Photo by Lukas on Pexels.com Arrested and persecuted, Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit and preaches the Good News in front of the Sanhedrin.
Mass Readings – Friday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Jens Johnsson on Pexels.com Having done a miracle through the name of Jesus, Peter then takes the opportunity to lead people to the Lord.
Mass Readings – Thursday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Anselm, pray for us!
Photo by Valeria Boltneva on Pexels.com Peter heals a crippled man in the name of Jesus, revealing the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our world.
Mass Readings – Wednesday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com Peter continues to proclaim the Good News of Christ, calling the people to repentance and baptism.
Mass Readings – Tuesday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Min An on Pexels.com Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly preaches the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – Monday in the Octave of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Download a pic Donate a buck! ^ on Pexels.com Here are some of the themes in the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 5:12-16
- The apostles continue the healing ministry of the Lord by performing many signs and wonders.
- Many people are cured of their illnesses, and the number of believers continues to increase.
Psalm – 118:2-4,13-15,22-24
- “Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting.”
- God performs great deeds, even in the midst of human suffering and tribulation.
2nd Reading – Revelation 1:9-11a,12-13,17-19
- John is caught up in a prophetic vision where he sees the Son of Man.
- He is told not to be afraid, for death has been overcome.
Gospel – John 20:19-31
- “Doubting Thomas” does not believe that the disciples have seen the Risen Lord.
- Once Thomas does see, Jesus gives praise to those who have not seen, but still believe.
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Easter
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com The joy of the resurrection of Jesus Christ transforms our hearts and overflows into our lives as we share the Good News. The Lord is risen! He is risen, indeed!
Mass Readings – Easter Sunday
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Ted GoldBerg on Pexels.com On this holy night Christians around the world celebrate the great events of salvation history as we acknowledge our part in God’s great love story. May we embrace what we have been given and share it with one another!
Mass Readings – Easter Vigil
Catholic Inspiration Archives
We recall the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross so that we never take for granted the Lord’s saving gift as we are inspired to grow in faith, hope and love.
Readings – Good Friday
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by sharkido on Pexels.com Matthew’s Gospel reveals both the Cross of Christ and the Cup of suffering. As disciples of Jesus, we must be prepared for both throughout the course of our lives.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.com Teaching the disciples, Jesus emphasizes that to follow him requires us to serve one another.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Vittorio Staffolani on Pexels.com The Lord speaks directly and to the point about a number of specific actions in this short and powerful selection of Luke’s Gospel.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com Here are some of the main themes in the readings for the 3rd Sunday of Lent.
1st Reading – Exodus 3:1-8a,13-15
- Moses encounters the Lord who speaks from the burning bush.
- God announces the plan to save the people of Israel from their bondage in Egypt and will be called “I AM” when the people ask Moses what is God’s name.
Psalm – 103:1-4,6-8,11
- “The Lord is kind and merciful.”
- God is merciful and gracious, healing, redeeming and pardoning our sins.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 10:1-6,10-12
- St. Paul recounts part of the mistakes of the people of Israel as they fled Egypt.
- We are encouraged to learn from this and seek what is good as we follow Jesus Christ.
Gospel – Luke 13:1-9
- Jesus speaks to the people, encouraging them to repent.
- The Lord then offers a parable about cultivating a fruitful life, and he includes a warning if we neglect our growth.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Note: These are the readings for “Year C” in the Lectionary for Mass. On the 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays of Lent, parishes may use the “Year A” readings at Masses that includes members of the RCIA process.
Photo by Felipe Balduino on Pexels.com In this second of six presentations we hear about some of the key elements that have been a part of the Mass from the very beginning of the Church, in particular the reading of Sacred Scripture and the elements of bread and wine that become the Body and Blood of Christ.
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Erick Nuevo on Pexels.com The Transfiguration reveals the glory of Jesus while on his journey to the Cross in Jerusalem. This glimpse of the Lord’s majesty provides hope, offering grace and strength to all who strive to carry their Crosses through this life.
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com This is one of the toughest teachings to carry out in Christianity. Love is often something we cherish…until we are called upon to love someone who has hurt us or those we care about. Yet without this crucial command we cannot heal and grow as children of God.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Alex Green on Pexels.com The Lord teaches the disciples about the essential element of reconciliation in the spiritual life.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com The readings today all emphasize the urgent invitation to pray for what we need. This is prayer that flows from the heart and unites with the mind to ask for what is necessary as we journey through this life.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
A note from Fr. Andrew: For all who have been directly affected by the war in Ukraine, I keep you in my daily prayers from the altar.
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com The readings today all point out the crucial need to repent of our sins. It’s one of those teachings that we all acknowledge yet find hard at times to carry out. May we call upon the Lord for the grace we need to honestly admit our faults and seek God’s forgiveness.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 1st Week of Lent
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Frances of Rome, pray for us!
Photo by Bella White on Pexels.com The queen of Sheba seeks out Solomon to listen to his responses to her questions. Her search for wisdom gently reminds us to draw near to those who help us grow in knowledge and insight.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Abhiram Prakash on Pexels.com Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the Temple serves as a crucial reminder to keep our relationship with the Lord anchored in prayer each and every.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Josephine Bakhita and St. Jerome Emiliani, pray for us!
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com As his kingdom prospers, Solomon gives thanks to God and dedicates vast resources for the construction of the Temple which will house the Ark of the Covenant.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 5th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Pexels.com Let’s examine some of the themes that surface in the readings for the 6th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Jeremiah 17:5-8
- Cursed is the one who trusts in human beings.
- Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.
Psalm – 1:1-4,6
- “Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.”
- We are blessed when we avoid sin and cultivate a life of faith in God.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 15:12,16-20
- Paul affirms the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is a central truth to our faith.
- Without the resurrection our faith is in vain and we are still in our sins.
Gospel – Luke 6:17,20-26
- This is the “Sermon on the Plain” (Luke’s version of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew’s Gospel.)
- Note the contrast of the “blessings” and the “woes” in the teaching of Jesus.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Kun Fotografi on Pexels.com Both Isaiah and Peter face their fears as they embrace the Lord’s invitation and follow with all their heart. May their example inspire us to echo the words of Isaiah: Here I am Lord! Send me!
Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Lukas Rychvalsky on Pexels.com In response to God’s prompting, Solomon prays for wisdom so that he can govern the people with justice and integrity. May we call upon the Lord for wisdom in our own lives as well!
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Agatha, pray for us!
Photo by Sindre Stru00f8m on Pexels.com The Book of Sirach offers a short eulogy on the life of King David, acknowledging the good and the bad. The passage provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our own lives and what we might want others to say about how we lived when our time on earth is ended.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com David’s final words to his son, Solomon, are filled with wisdom and trust in the Lord; furthermore, they remind us that there are moments in our lives when we are capable of heartfelt sincerity with those we love.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives
St. Blaise and St. Ansgar, pray for us!
As Mary and Joseph present Jesus in the Temple, the blessings of Anna and Simeon echo in our hearts with a similar prayer of praise.
Mass Readings – Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Catholic Inspiration Archives
Photo by Download a pic Donate a buck! ^ on Pexels.com David grieves over the death of his beloved son, Absalom, whose rebellion reveals the weaknesses within the kingdom.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of the Year
Catholic Inspiration Archives