Doubts are the ants in the pants that keep faith moving. It's similar to our relationship with other human beings. The decision to trust them is a gamble, and we can lose if we're wrong. God doesn't give you a guarantee.
     
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Monday, January 14, 2008 Love Letters
Hands down one of my favorite authors has done it again! Peter Kreeft writes another one I can't wait to read. There's a short Q & A interview with him in the Globe from Saturday that I missed (h/t to Dom). While the interviewer did a terrible job, Kreeft gets in this little gem:
Ordinary Time Round-Up
This portion of the Season of Ordinary Time runs from Monday, January 14 through Tuesday, February 5, 2008, a mere 23 days.
This period of Ordinary Time covers the time between the Christmas and Lenten seasons, a time of quiet while creation enjoys a period of cold and rest in anticipation of the renewal of spring. Ordinary Time begins on Monday, January 14, 2008 after a break of six weeks for the seasons of Advent and Christmas. We will celebrate the first to the fourth week of Ordinary Time during this time, with the fourth week being interrupted for Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. Ordinary Time will return after the Easter season on May 12. During this brief season, there are no holy days of obligation nor are there any feasts that fall on a Sunday. There are no solemnities during this period this year, although the patron saint of the parish may be marked during this season as a solemnity. There is an important feast, however, the Presentation of the Lord, celebrated on February 2. Another feast, the Conversion of Saint Paul, is on January 25. The patron of a diocese is celebrated as a feast if it falls during this time. The Sunday readings this year come from Cycle A, which features a continuous reading of Matthew’s Gospel (except for the second Sunday, January 20, which features John’s Gospel). The first readings throughout the season are chosen to complement the Gospel. The second readings will feature a tour through 1 Corinthians. The weekday readings this year come from Year 2. These first weeks of Ordinary Time feature the beginning of Mark’s Gospel. The first readings will be from 1 and 2 Samuel. The liturgy also allows for two very popular blessings in this period. On February 2, the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, candles are blessed. On February 3, Catholics are treated to the famous Blessing of Throats in honor of the Feast of Saint Blaise, which may be tricky since the third falls on a Sunday this year. Outside of the liturgy, there are a number of observances at this time of the year. In the United States, there is National Migration Week (January 6-12), National Vocation Awareness Week (January 13-19), the Day of Prayer and Penance for Life (January 22), and Catholic Schools’ Week (January 27-February 2). International observances include the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (January 18-25) and World Day for Consecrated Life (February 2 worldwide; February 3 in the United States).
History in the Making
Each new year, various Catholic news outlets give a retrospective of the previous year's most noteworthy news items. I'm dumbfounded that the Church which has existed for 2,000 years can still make news! Yet, hardly a month goes by without something happening which is truly worthy of our attention. Last year, we can hardly forget the momentous Motu Proprio of Pope Benedict in July or the cardinals he created in November, the first of the American South and the first from the Chaldeans of Iraq. Each year, the news is filled with talk of unique canonizations and other initiatives of the Holy See.
This year will surely be no different. Already this week, just a few weeks into the new year, we have the guarantee of something coming which we may see but rarely in a lifetime: the election of a new Father General of the Society of Jesus. This will be the first chronologically of what will no doubt be a newsworthy year for the Church. Now superiors of religious orders are elected fairly regularly, but one cannot overemphasize the global influence of the Jesuits, whether one is a fan or not. In our country alone, they are affiliated with no less than 28 colleges and universities. Worldwide they are present in 112 countries and have more than 19,000 members. The man the General Congregation elects this week will, with the approval of the Holy Father, influence the direction of the Society for at least a generation. This month is very busy ecclesiastically. As a teacher, there is so much to talk with the students about. Last week was National Migration Week and this week is National Vocation Awareness Week. On Friday, we begin the international observance of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity to be followed two days later by Catholic Schools' Week. In the middle of all of this is the 35th anniversary of Roe v. Wade and the return of Ordinary Time. In most schools, this month is marked by mid-terms or finals and the start of the second half of the school year. With Ash Wednesday so early this year, Lenten preparations are no doubt underway or will be shortly. However, in those few moments at the end of class this week as students are gathering their things and waiting to leave our classrooms, mention each day a different piece of Jesuit trivia. Here are some ideas:
Some websites that are very helpful: Wikipedia on the Society of Jesus Creighton's roundup and background on the General Congregation The official website of the General Congregation Let us all remember the Jesuits in prayer this week and for the duration of the General Congregation. Include them in class prayer and school prayer if you can. And may the best man for the job win!
Sunday, January 06, 2008 Epiphany of the Lord Almanac History: First Mass celebrated in the New World at La Isabela, Hispaniola (1494); Mother Teresa arrives in Calcutta to begin a legacy of work amongst India's poorest and diseased people (1929); Death of Berengar of Tours (1088)
Liturgy Liturgy of the Hours: Seasonal proper; EP II of Epiphany Liturgical Notes: Gloria; Creed; Preface of Epiphany; Proclamation of the Date of Easter. Today begins National Migration Week in the United States.
The Epiphany of the Lord Epiphany means manifestation, or the appearance of Jesus. The significance of this day is not just the arrival of the Magi but the coming of Gentiles (non-Jews) to adore the newborn King of the Jews. The event recognizes Jesus' lordship over all the world. Many traditions have evolved about the Magi. The influence of Psalm 72 on the liturgy led to the belief that they were kings. Other translations call them astrologers. The blessing today calls them wise men. The Bible says there were three gifts, but never says how many Magi brought them nor what their gender was. Nonetheless, European tradition claims there were three and even ascribed to them the names of Melchior, Balthasar, and Caspar. In iconography, one is often depicted with dark skin. Interestingly, in India they honor twelve Magi! It is a custom on Epiphany in the Eastern tradition to bless chalk. The chalk, which reminds us of the dust of the earth from which we were made, is used to mark over doorways. This year you would mark the following symbols: 20 + C + M + B + 08. The numerals (20, 08) consecrate the new year. The initials remind us of the legendary names of the Magi - Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar - and also stand for the Latin motto: Christus mansionem benedicat. ("May Christ bless the house"). In the United States, we usually celebrate Epiphany on the Sunday closest to January 6. The rest of the world always celebrates Epiphany on January 6, regardless of the day of the week that it falls on. This year, January 6 falls on a Sunday so all will celebrate the Epiphany on the same day. Blessing of the Front Door on the Feast of the Epiphany: Blessed are You, O Lord our God, for you guide our footsteps. You bless our coming in and going out, from birth to death, you hold us in your care. Bless this door, O Lord, which we consecrate to this time of preparation. Each day we pass this place, draw us more deeply into your presence and the wonders of your love for us. You are the door to the Kingdom of God, the sheep gate to life eternal. O portal of eternal peace, our new and living way, lose our sins and open for us the door of salvation. O God, protect our going out and our coming in; let us share the hospitality of this home with all who visit us. May the poor find rest within these walls and all who hunger find refreshment in our home. Lead us home through You, to You, and with You, one God, forever and ever. Amen. With chalk write on the door frame: 20 + C + M + B + 08
Proclamation of the Date of Easter on Epiphany The Proclamation of the Date of Easter on Epiphany dates from a time when calendars were not readily available. It was necessary to make known the date of Easter in advance, since many celebrations of the liturgical year depend on its date. The number of Sundays that follow Epiphany, the date of Ash Wednesday, and the number of Sundays that follow Pentecost are all computed in relation to Easter. Although calendars now give the date of Easter and the other feasts in the liturgical year for many years in advance, the Epiphany proclamation still has value. It is a reminder of the centrality of the resurrection of the Lord in the liturgical year and the importance of the great mysteries of faith which are celebrated each year. On the solemnity of the Epiphany, after the homily or after the prayer after communion, the deacon, or in his absence, another minister announces the date of Easter and the other feasts of the liturgical year according to the following text.
Dear brothers and sisters, the glory of the Lord has shone upon us, and shall ever be manifest among us, until the day of his return. Through the rhythms of times and seasons let us celebrate the mysteries of salvation. Let us recall the year’s culmination, the Easter Triduum of the Lord: his last supper, his crucifixion, his burial, and his rising celebrated between the evening of the twentieth of March and the evening of the twenty-third of March. Each Easter – as on each Sunday – the Holy Church makes present the great and saving deed by which Christ has for ever conquered sin and death. From Easter are reckoned all the days we keep holy. Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, will occur on the sixth of February. The Ascension of the Lord will be commemorated on the first of May. Pentecost, the joyful conclusion of the season of Easter, will be celebrated on the eleventh of May. And this year the First Sunday of Advent will be on the thirtieth of November. Likewise the pilgrim Church proclaims the Passover of Christ in the feasts of the holy Mother of God, in the feasts of the Apostles and Saints, and in the commemoration of the faithful departed. To Jesus Christ, who was, who is, and who is to come, Lord of time and history, be endless praise, for ever and ever. R. Amen.
Thursday, January 03, 2008 Mother Seton Friday, January 4, 2008
Almanac History: Death of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (1821) Other celebrations: The Eastern Orthodox remember the seventy-two disciples sent out by Jesus. The Roman Martyrology notes that today is the Octave Day of the Holy Innocents and also marks the entrance into heaven of Saint Titus.
Liturgy Liturgy of the Hours: Seasonal proper of day; Sanctoral (Appendix V)
The Difficulty of Conversion Mother Seton faced much opposition in her conversion to the Catholic faith. There are many lessons we can take. The beauty of the model of faith given to her by the Filichi family should inspire all of us to a deeper commitment, cognizant of the mandate to always be ready to give a reason for our hope. But often we forget the conflict that can exist within the person. As Cardinal Newman, another famous convert wrote: A convert is undeniably in favor with no party; he is looked at with distrust, contempt and aversion by all. His former friends think him a good riddance, and his new friends are cold and strange; and as to the impartial public, their very first impression is to impute the change to some eccentricity of character, or fickleness of mind, or tender attachment, or private interest. Their utmost praise is the reluctant confession that "doubtless he is very sincere." Despite the difficulties, Mother Seton did follow through. She gives us an insight into her motives which show her serious commitment to her maternal responsibilities before God: I am a mother, and must answer for my children at the judgment seat, whatever faith I lead them to. That being so, I will go peaceably and firmly to the Catholic Church. For if faith is so important to our salvation, I will seek it where true faith first began... . The controversies on it I am quite incapable of deciding, and as the strictest Protestant allows salvation to a good Catholic, to the Catholics I will go, and try to be a good one.
The more things change... This excerpt is from a letter written by Saint Elizabeth to Fr. Simon Brute. It demonstrates the dynamic relationship between teachers and students that we can assume is new. It seems that Mother Seton encountered the same tension. “…I will tell you in what I know Americans parents to be most difficult-in hearing the faults of their children. In most instances, when you see the faults are not to be immediately corrected by the parents but rather by good advice and education, it is best not to speak of them to papa and mama, who feel as if you reflected on their very selves. While to you it will be, ‘Yes sir, I know…’ in the heart they think it is not so much and will soften and excuse the child [of] what they condemn to us, and our efforts afterwards avail very little.”
Miracles According to the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the following miracles were approved by the Church in the canonization process.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008 January 3 Christmas Weekday Almanac History: Joan of Arc is handed over to the Bishop Pierre Cauchon (1431); Pope Leo X excommunicates Martin Luther in the papal bull Decet Romanum Pontificem (1521); Pope John XXIII excommunicates Fidel Castro (1962) Other Celebrations: The Roman Martyrology notes that today is the Octave Day of Saint John, apostle and evangelist. The Orthodox commemorate Malachi the Prophet today. The Old Roman Calendar celebrated Saint Genevieve of Paris today.
Liturgy Liturgy of the Hours: Seasonal proper of day
Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus Considering the widespread misuse of the name of Jesus in our world today, you may want to recite the following litany as part of your prayer. The Enchiridion Indulgentiarum (1999) says the following (22, #2): A partial indulgence is granted to the faithful who devoutly recite approved litanies (e.g., of the Most Holy Name of Jesus). Lord, have mercy / Lord, have mercy God the Father of Heaven / have mercy on us Jesus, Son of the living God / have mercy on us Lord, be merciful / Jesus, save your people Christ, hear us / Christ, hear us Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world / have mercy on us Let us pray. Lord, may we who honor the holy name of Jesus enjoy his friendship in this life and be filled with eternal joy in the kingdom where he lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008 January 2
Today is the memorial of Saints Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, bishops and doctors of the Church.
Almanac History: Mercurius becomes Pope John II, the first pope to adopt a new name upon elevation to the papacy (533) Other Celebrations: The Roman Martyrology mentions today is the Octave of Saint Stephen, the first martyr. The Orthodox world today commemorates Saints Sylvester and Seraphim of Sarov. The Church today remembers Abel of the Old Testament whose sacrifice was pleasing to God. Liturgy Mass Readings Liturgy of the Hours: Week I; Sanctoral and Seasonal Proper The Roman Canon mentions the gifts of Abel. Focus on the Saints With the feast of the Baptism of the Lord coming soon and a new year full of baptismal catechesis on the horizon, Saint Gregory of Nazianzen reminds us of the basics: Baptism is God's most beautiful and magnificent gift.... It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace because it is given even to the guilty; Baptism because sin is buried in the water; anointing because it is priestly and royal as are those anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame; bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God's lordship.
Happy New Year!
A most blessed and healthy 2008 to all of my readers!
Since I can't sleep and tomorrow (today) is going to be busy as I prepare to return to school, I'll post this now. There's a link from the home page, but just in case you've bookmarked the blog, I'll put it here too. Milestones in the Hierarchy 2008: my annual look at what's happening with the leaders of the Church in the United States and beyond. Enjoy! And for all those who didn't catch a vigil... remember it's a holy day so visit Mass Times if you're looking to go to Mass today.
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