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Christ laid the groundwork. St. Francis walked the path. Let’s do our part today: Volunteer, donate, or simply pray for organizations that promote peace and justice.
Born in Haiti and brought to New York City as a slave, Venerable Pierre Toussaint lived an exemplary Catholic life both before and after gaining his freedom. Married and then widowed, Pierre continued his charitable works well into his elder years.
We never walk alone as persons of faith. Jesus’ words remind us that what God asks of us, he promises the strength and fortitude to see it through.
Saint Augustine of Canterbury, a monk, was the first bishop of Canterbury. While he only labored for another eight years after establishing the diocese, his influence lives on. Part of his success, limited though it was, was due to his compassionate approach to the local peoples.
It is Jesus’ promise that even though all must die on their earthly journey, it is only the beginning of eternal life with God. Death is not final, but only the passage way into unending life with God and our loved ones.
We praise God for his becoming man and dwelling among us; for his death, which conquered sin; for his resurrection, which gives us new life; for his ascension to the right hand of the Father; and for sending the Holy Spirit to us at Pentecost
Jesus’ words tell us that we must all let go and accept our spiritual passage back to the light when the time comes.
For many years after his student days, Saint Philip Neri lived as a layman engaged in prayer and apostolic works in Rome. During this time, he attracted many to join him—poor and rich. After ordination, he became a noted confessor and eventually founded the Oratory, a religious institute, with some of his followers.
The Gospel version of Jesus’ ascension evokes the past. We hear Jesus explain how it was prophesied that he would suffer. In Acts, his words point to the future–to the commissioning of his apostles as witnesses through the power of the Holy Spirit they will soon receive.
Sometimes Jesus seems absent, yet he is never absent for long. Jesus invites us to look for his presence and action in our lives. In a little while we will see him, and we will rejoice.
