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Being an apostle involves suffering, but it also involves sharing the mission and the blessings of the Lord. In what ways am I an apostle?
Some years ago, the priest at a nearby chapel expressed a special love for Scripture. One lesson he often worked in was how the bible is full of little prayers. Consider starting a collection of your own favorite little bible prayers.
A Capuchin Poor Clare nun, Saint Veronica Giuliani received the unique gift of the stigmata of Christ. Few people have been blessed with these marks; Saint Francis of Assisi was probably the most notable among them.
In a world of violence, hatred, and division, Jesus implores us to work for peace. As we hope against all odds—believing that Divine love will one day have the victory—let us pray to be peacemakers.
Among the Chinese martyrs was the diocesan priest, Father Augustine Zhao Rong. Facing the strong anti-foreign and anti-Catholic feelings present in China for centuries, these martyrs were caught up in a situation that in many ways had nothing to do either with religion or with the Church. But they stayed loyal to Christianity and to their people, and gave their lives in witness.
Just as Jesus will survive the persecution that he must endure, so also will his disciples. The message of the kingdom still elicits hostility today. And Jesus still promises us his protection.
God didn’t put us here to fix, but just to be there. Practice presence with a friend or a family member today. Focus on what they’re saying and not on how you’re going to respond.
Among the 120 Chinese martyrs canonized in 2000 were Saint Gregory Grassi and companions. Victims of political maneuverings by other countries these Franciscan men and women, along with lay men and women, gave their lives in service of the Chinese people.
One might expect that the kingdom would be received with openness and joy. But instead proclaiming the kingdom brings hostility and rejection. How does that affect my witness to the kingdom?
Franciscan friar Blessed Emmanuel Ruiz and his companions were tortured and killed for their faith in 1860. Little else is known about them, but the testimony of their lives speaks volumes.
