Feasting on the Divine: Why Frequent Communion is a Spiritual Necessity

Imagine a lavish banquet, a table overflowing with the most exquisite delicacies. Guests gather, eager to take part, to savor the flavors, and to enjoy the fellowship. But what if, despite the abundance, many guests only nibbled at the edges, too distracted or disinterested to truly feast?

This image, while imperfect, offers a glimpse into the reality of many Christians and their relationship with the Eucharist. We know it's the "source and summit" of our faith (CCC 1324), the true banquet where we encounter Christ Himself. Yet, for many, Communion remains an occasional event, a distant memory between Sunday Masses.

The Body of Christ: A Source of Life and Grace

Bishop Robert Barron powerfully reminds us that the Eucharist is not merely a symbol, but a profound encounter with the risen Christ. "This is my Body, this is my Blood" – these are not metaphors, but words f institution. We are not simply consuming bread and wine, but truly receiving the very Body and Blood of Christ.

Pope Saint John Paul II, in his encyclical Ecclesia de Eucharistia emphasizes the centrality of the Eucharist in Christian life. It's not just an occasional event, but the very heart and soul of our faith, the source from which we draw strength and nourishment.

The Benefits of Frequent Reception

Just as physical food sustains the body, the Eucharist strengthens our souls. It provides the

grace we need to overcome sin, to resist temptation, and to grow in holiness. Through Communion, we are united with Christ mystically, becoming one with him in his Body and Blood. This intimate union transforms us from within, making us more Christ-like in our thoughts, words, and deeds. Furthermore, the Eucharist empowers us for mission. It fills us with the love of God and sends us out to share that love with the world. We are called to be witnesses to the Gospel, and frequent reception of the Eucharist strengthens us for this vital task.

Overcoming Obstacles

Of course, there are obstacles to frequent Communion. True reception requires worthy preparation. This includes examining our conscience, seeking forgiveness through Confession, and approaching the altar with a humble and contrite heart. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to let other things crowd out the Eucharist. We must prioritize this sacred encounter, making time for prayerful preparation and attentive reception. Perhaps the greatest obstacle is spiritual apathy. We may intellectually understand the importance of the Eucharist, but our hearts remain lukewarm. We must cultivate a deeper desire for the Lord, a longing to encounter Him in the sacrament.

Practical Suggestions

How can we overcome these obstacles? Frequent Confession helps us to cleanse our souls and prepare ourselves to receive the Eucharist worthily. A spiritual director (usually a priest, deacon or religious) can provide guidance and support as we deepen our relationship with Christ and the Eucharist. Spending time in prayer before Mass helps us to focus our minds and hearts on the sacred encounter that awaits.

A Call to Action

Let us strive to deepen our relationship with the Eucharist. Let us make a conscious effort to receive Communion more frequently. Let us prepare for Mass with prayer and reflection. And let us share the joy of the Eucharist with others, inviting them to experience the transformative power of this sacred encounter.

May the Lord, who gives Himself to us in the Eucharist, fill us with His grace and send us forth to be His loving witnesses in the world. I hope this blog post helps you to understand and appreciate the profound benefits of frequent Eucharistic reception.

Awaiting the Dawn: Reflections on Advent and Christmas

Advent, the season of expectant waiting, is a time to prepare our hearts for the arrival of Christmas. This year, as we journey towards the Nativity, the words of Catholic Cardinal Father Raniero Cantalamessa offer profound insights into the true meaning of this sacred season.

In his Advent sermons, Cardinal Cantalamessa emphasizes the importance of "the gate of charity" as the pathway to welcoming Christ into our lives. He reminds us that true charity is not merely about giving alms, but about opening our hearts to the needs of others, to their suffering, and to their joys. By embracing charity, we create space within ourselves for the love of God to dwell.

This message resonates deeply with the Gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday of Advent (December 22nd), which recounts the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth. Zechariah, initially struck mute for doubting the angel's message, is filled with the Holy Spirit and bursts forth in praise. This powerful encounter highlights the transformative power of faith and the importance of preparing ourselves to receive God's grace.

As we approach Christmas, let us heed the call to open our hearts to charity. Let us strive to see Christ in the faces of those around us, to offer a helping hand, and to share the joy of the season with those in need. By doing so, we prepare ourselves to truly welcome the Christ child into our lives and experience the profound peace and joy that only He can bring.

May this Advent season be a time of grace and renewal for us all, as we await the dawn of Christmas with hope and expectation.

Love, the Greatest Gift: A Christmas Reflection

The Heart of Christmas

The ancient pagans, as Aristotle articulated, conceived of God as a being whose power and influence were contingent upon human love and devotion. This notion, however, was radically challenged by the Christian revelation that God wants our love but He doesn't need our love to exist.

The New Testament inverts Aristotle's paradigm, revealing that divine love precedes human love. God, in His infinite mercy, loved us first. "We love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19). This truth lies at the heart of the Christmas message. It is what makes this time of the year perfect for forgiveness and reconciliation as we prepare for the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

The Gift of Divine Love

Christmas offers us a unique opportunity to receive this infinite gift of God's love with amazement and gratitude. To fully embrace this gift, we must adopt a childlike faith, unburdened by the cynicism and caution that often accompany life's disappointments. Children, by nature, trust in the love of their parents. They instinctively believe in the goodness and generosity of those who care for them. All of us have the instinct for goodness and charity.

The Holy Spirit, the love shared between the Father and the Son, empowers us to welcome God's love into our hearts. This love, expressed in the virtue of charity, is the cornerstone of the Church. It is the enduring force that binds us together as a community of believers. It is also the model for all families.

The Power of Love

In the words of St. Paul, "love never fails." It is the one thing that remains when all else fades away. Charity, the love of God and neighbor, is the unique capacity of the human person. It is a gift that transcends technological advancements and artificial intelligence.

This Christmas, the Child Jesus knocks on the door of our hearts, offering Himself as the ultimate gift. To receive Him, we must become like children, trusting in His love and embracing His grace.

As the legend of the poor shepherd boy reminds us, sometimes, having nothing is the greatest blessing. Let us, like the shepherd boy, empty ourselves of our pride and self-sufficiency, and allow the love of Christ to fill our hearts.

 

Celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe: A Beacon of Hope and Unity

A Divine Encounter

Every year on December 12th, millions of Catholics worldwide commemorate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This sacred day holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly in Mexico and the Americas. It's a day filled with devotion, miracles, and the powerful message of faith and hope that Our Lady of Guadalupe brings to all of us.

The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Our Lady of Guadalupe, often referred to as "La Virgen de Guadalupe," is more than just a religious figure; she's a reminder of Christ’s love, compassion, and unity. Her story begins in the early 16th century when she appeared to Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill, near present-day Mexico City. The most iconic moment was when her image was miraculously imprinted on Juan Diego's "tilma," which is still on display at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

Mary's Message of Love, Unity, and Universal Patronage

Our Lady of Guadalupe's message is timeless and clear. She appeared to Juan Diego with a mission to unite, spread love, and offer hope. Often called the "Patroness of the Americas," her image symbolizes the blending of indigenous and European cultures and faith. She urges us to recognize the dignity of every individual, regardless of their background or citizenship, highlighting the power that love and unity can build a better world.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

You may not know that the Basilica in Mexico City is one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites globally. Pilgrims from all corners of the world come to pay their respects, offer prayers, and witness the miraculous image of Our Lady on Juan Diego's tilma. The basilica's architecture is a testament to the enduring devotion and faith inspired by Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Marian Apparitions: A Gift to the Faithful

Marian apparitions, like the one of Our Lady of Guadalupe, are extraordinary events where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to individuals. These encounters have occurred worldwide and hold immense significance for the Catholic faithful. They often bring messages of hope, repentance, and love, serving as a source of spiritual inspiration for millions.

Unity Under Our Lady's Maternal Care

The Blessed Virgin Mary's apparition at Guadalupe united diverse cultures under her maternal care and guidance towards God, something that is needed now in our divided world. She speaks to people in their language, transcending cultural boundaries. Pope Francis emphasized this in his catechesis on evangelization, stating, "The Virgin of Guadalupe... appears dressed in the clothing of the native peoples, she speaks their language, she welcomes and loves the local culture. Mary is Mother, and under her mantle, every child finds a place."

A Lasting Legacy

Our Lady of Guadalupe continues to exercise extraordinary influence worldwide. Her appearance and message to Juan Diego in 1530 were the most successful evangelization effort in Christian history. Over the following decade, millions of people were brought to Christ. Pope St. John Paul II aptly called her "the Star of the New Evangelization."

As we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, let us embrace her message of love, unity, and hope. May her intercession guide us on our spiritual journey and inspire us to build a more compassionate and just world, especially as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ.

 

Conquering the Fear of Evangelization: Sharing Your Faith Story

Friends, today's Gospel passage (Matthew 9:35-10:1, 5a, 6-8) compels us to consider evangelization – spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. But for many Catholics, the very idea sparks fear. This fear often stems from two anxieties: a lack of knowledge and the potential for social rejection.

Fear #1: Not Knowing Enough
We might worry we lack the theological expertise to effectively answer questions. But remember, evangelization isn't a religious quiz show. It's about sharing your own faith story – how Jesus has impacted your life and the joy you find in Catholicism.

Think of St. Paul, the great evangelist. He constantly recounted his transformation from a Christian-hating Pharisee to the Apostle to the Gentiles. Your story may not be as dramatic, but it holds immense power.

Living as a Catholic is inherently counter-cultural, and this will naturally pique curiosity. Sharing the reason for your joy becomes a beautiful opportunity to evangelize.

Fear #2: Social Rejection
Let's be honest, rejection is a genuine concern. We all crave acceptance. But the fear of not being invited to the next barbecue shouldn't silence our faith.

Social rejection for our beliefs is a growing reality. Recently, on a social media platform, I simply expressed hope for the success of a pro-life law and was bombarded with negativity. It's enough to make anyone hesitant.

This is precisely the tactic some employ – to silence opposing views through aggression. But Christ's call to evangelize extends to everyone – coworkers, neighbors, even online critics.

The great evangelists all faced hardships. St. Paul himself rejoiced in his sufferings for Christ's sake (Colossians 1:24).

So, how do we overcome these fears?

·         Embrace the Story-Sharing Model: Focus on sharing your personal faith journey.

·         Don't Be Afraid to Say "I Don't Know": Google is your friend! There's no shame in researching answers to challenging questions.

·         Remember, Rejection Doesn't Define You: Christ calls us to evangelize, and He doesn't promise it will always be easy. But don't let fear silence your faith.

Let's move forward, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to share the transformative power of Jesus with the world!

 

St. Joseph: The Silent Saint

St. Joseph, the foster father of Jesus and husband of the Virgin Mary, is often called the "Silent Saint." Though he speaks few words in Scripture, his life is a testament to faith, obedience, and love.

Foretold in the Old Testament, Joseph's story echoes that of his namesake, the son of Jacob. Both men endured trials and remained steadfast in their faith. The younger Joseph, however, faced a unique challenge: protecting the Holy Family. Guided by divine dreams, he fled to Egypt to safeguard the infant Jesus from Herod's murderous decree.

As a carpenter, Joseph instilled in Jesus the skills and values of hard work. He also taught the young boy the Torah, laying the foundation for Jesus's profound knowledge of Scripture. This knowledge would later enable Jesus to engage in insightful theological debates with the learned elders.

Joseph's role in the life of Christ is often overlooked, yet it is essential. He provided a stable and loving home for the Holy Family, ensuring their physical and spiritual well-being. His silent sacrifices and unwavering devotion make him a model of the ideal Christian husband and father.

Private revelations from various saints offer further insights into Joseph's character. For instance, St. Teresa of Ávila reported that Joseph was a man of great prayer and contemplation. St. Alphonsus Liguori described him as a man of extraordinary humility and patience.

St. Joseph's life is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and love. As we contemplate his example, let us strive to imitate his virtues and seek his intercession.

Advent: A Time for Preparation and Renewal

Advent, often referred to as "mini-Lent," is a season of reflection and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time to examine our lives, repent of our sins, and renew our commitment to God. Just as Lent is a time for fasting and prayer, Advent is a time to focus on good habits and spiritual practices.

As St. Francis of Assisi reminds us, "Let us now praise the Lord our God with grateful hearts, and let us offer Him our lives as a living sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving." Advent is an opportunity to offer God a living sacrifice by replacing our bad habits with good ones. By doing so, we can create new patterns of behavior that will bring us closer to Jesus.

The story of Mary and Joseph's response to the angel Gabriel's announcement of the coming of the Messiah provides a powerful example of how we should respond to God's call. Mary, filled with humility and faith, immediately accepted God's plan for her life. Zechariah, on the other hand, doubted the angel's message and was punished with silence. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that "Mary's 'yes' is the free assent of a creature to the Creator, an assent that opened the way for the Word to become flesh."

Advent is also a time to seek reconciliation with God through the sacrament of confession. As the Catechism states, "Reconciliation with God is thus also reconciliation with the Church." By confessing our sins to a priest, we receive God's forgiveness and are restored to communion with Him and His Church.

In the words of Jesus, "Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven" (Matthew 18:18). Through the sacrament of reconciliation, Jesus offers us the opportunity to break free from the chains of sin and experience the abundant love and mercy that He offers to all who seek Him.

As we journey through Advent, let us embrace this season as a time of grace and renewal. Let us follow the example of Mary and Joseph, and respond to God's call with humility and faith. Let us also seek reconciliation with God through the sacrament of confession, and experience the healing power of His love.

Dying to Sin, Living for God

In Romans 6, the Apostle Paul offers a profound exploration of the Christian life, one marked by a radical transformation. He paints a vivid picture of dying to sin and rising to new life in Christ. This passage is a powerful reminder of the spiritual battle we face daily and the victory that is ours through faith in Jesus Christ.

Paul begins by highlighting the significance of baptism. He emphasizes that through baptism, we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection. This spiritual rebirth signifies a break from our old sinful nature and an entrance into a new life of righteousness.

“We were indeed buried with him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4)

To live a victorious life, we must continually resist sin. Paul urges us to consider ourselves dead to sin and alive to God. This mindset shift is crucial. When we recognize that we are no longer slaves to sin, we are empowered to break free from its destructive grip.

“For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” (Romans 6:14)

How can we apply Paul's teachings to our daily lives?

1.    Renew Your Mind:

• Daily Bible Reading: Spend time in God’s Word to nourish your soul and renew your mind.
• Meditation: Meditate on Scripture to internalize its truths and resist temptation.
• Prayer: Communicate with God regularly, seeking His guidance and strength.

2.   Surround Yourself with Positive Influences:

• Christian Community: Join a local church and connect with like-minded believers.
• Accountability Partners: Share your struggles and victories with trusted friends.

3.    Practice Self-Discipline:

• Healthy Habits: Prioritize physical and mental health through exercise and rest.
• Limit Temptations: Avoid situations that could lead to sin.
• Delayed Gratification: Resist immediate pleasures for long-term rewards.

By embracing the transformative power of Christ's death and resurrection, we can live a life of victory over sin. Let us strive to follow Paul's exhortation and experience the fullness of God's grace.

Pope Saint John Paul II and the Socialist Threat

Pope Saint John Paul II, a towering figure of the 20th century, was a staunch critic of socialist ideologies. He recognized the inherent flaws in systems that sought to control economies and societies through centralized planning and state ownership. The pontiff's teachings offered a prophetic warning against the dangers of such regimes, which often led to oppression, poverty, and the erosion of individual freedoms.

Recently, a conference organized by the Catholic Association of Propagandists in Spain brought together prominent figures who echoed the concerns raised by the late Pope. Bishop José Ignacio Munilla of Orihuela-Alicante boldly declared socialism an "enemy of the cross," highlighting its incompatibility with Christian values. He emphasized the need for a spiritual renewal, urging individuals to embrace the cross as a path to true happiness and fulfillment.

French philosopher Fabrice Hadjadj also addressed the challenges posed by modern society, warning against the dangers of despair and the erosion of traditional values. He called for a renewed commitment to truth and virtue, urging individuals to resist the pressures of a culture that seeks to undermine the dignity of the human person.

Human rights activist Ayaan Hirsi Ali offered a sobering assessment of the West's current trajectory. She highlighted the decline of Christian values and the rise of identity politics, warning of the dangers of a society that has lost its moral compass. She urged Christians to reclaim their faith and to actively engage in the public square, defending traditional values and promoting a culture of life.

The insights shared by these esteemed individuals offer a timely reminder of the enduring relevance of Pope Saint John Paul II's teachings. In a world increasingly dominated by secular ideologies, it is imperative for Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and to actively participate in the shaping of society. By embracing the cross and living according to the teachings of Christ, we can hope to build a more just and compassionate world.

What are your thoughts on the topics discussed in this blog post? Do you agree with the assessments of socialism and the current state of Western society? Share your comments below.

Encounter the Divine at Mass

Many of us grew up attending Sunday Mass as a matter of routine. Perhaps it was a family tradition or a societal expectation. But as we grow older, we may question the value and purpose of this weekly ritual. Is it merely a social obligation, or does it hold deeper significance?

While the Church's Code of Canon Law outlines numerous holy days of obligation, the weekly celebration of the Eucharist on Sunday remains central. It's more than just a religious duty; it's a divine invitation to encounter the living God. It's a moment to step away from the noise of the world and immerse ourselves in the sacred.

Attending Mass, especially during challenging times, can provide solace and strength. The communal celebration, the shared prayers, and the powerful liturgy can uplift our spirits and renew our faith. It's a chance to connect with a community of believers and experience the transformative power of God's grace.

As humans, we naturally desire to express gratitude and worship our Creator. The Mass offers us the perfect opportunity to do so. Through the Eucharist, we participate in the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It's a tangible way to offer our thanks and praise to God, acknowledging our dependence on Him and our need for His grace.

The quiet moments of reflection after receiving Communion are often the most profound. It's a time to listen to the still, small voice of God and to ponder the mysteries of faith. These sacred moments can deepen our spiritual lives and bring us closer to God.

While attending Mass is important, it's not enough. True discipleship involves living our faith daily. It means striving to love our neighbors, to forgive our enemies, and to serve the poor and marginalized. By participating in the Eucharist, we commit ourselves to a life of love and service.

So, why bother with Sunday Mass? Because it's an opportunity to encounter the divine, to find strength and renewal, to offer praise and thanksgiving, to deepen our spiritual lives, and to live a life of love and service. It's an invitation to a deeper relationship with God, and it's a gift that keeps on giving.

 

Without the Family, the World Will Crumble

The family, the fundamental unit of society, has been the cornerstone of human civilization for millennia. Rooted in the divine plan, the family structure of one man and one woman has been integral to the well-being of individuals and communities. The Catholic Church, as a guardian of timeless truths, has consistently affirmed the sanctity of marriage and the importance of the family.

The Catholic Church views marriage as a sacred sacrament, a bond ordained by God. This divine institution unites a man and a woman in a lifelong covenant of love and fidelity. Through the sacrament of Matrimony, couples receive the grace to love each other unconditionally, to raise their children in faith, and to build strong families.

Unfortunately, in recent decades, we have witnessed a decline in the importance placed on family life. The rise of individualism, secularism, and a culture of death has led to a growing number of people choosing to remain single or to delay or avoid marriage and parenthood. This trend is particularly alarming among younger generations, who often view traditional family structures as outdated or unnecessary.

The erosion of the family unit has far-reaching consequences for society. Studies have shown that children raised in stable, two-parent homes are more likely to succeed in school, avoid substance abuse, and lead fulfilling lives. Conversely, children from broken homes are more prone to poverty, crime, and mental health issues.

The Catholic Church has consistently spoken out against the attacks on the family. Pope John Paul II, in his encyclical Lumen Gentium, emphasized the importance of the family as the "domestic church." Pope Francis has also frequently addressed the crisis of the family, calling on Catholics to defend and promote the sacredness of marriage and family life.

As faithful Catholics, we must be vigilant in defending the family. We must pray for the strengthening of families, for the conversion of hearts, and for the restoration of traditional values. We must also be willing to engage in the public square, to educate others about the importance of the family, and to advocate for policies that support marriage and family life.

By embracing the Church's teachings on the family, we can help to build a more just and compassionate society. Let us renew our commitment to the family, the domestic church, and work together to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to grow up in loving, stable homes.

Let us pray: Lord Jesus Christ, we entrust to your loving care all families. Protect them from harm, strengthen their bonds, and fill them with your grace. May they be beacons of love and faith in our world. Amen.

 

 

The Castle With Many Rooms

In our journey of faith, St. Teresa of Avila offers timeless wisdom on building a closer relationship with Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church through her spiritual classics, The Way of Perfection and The Interior Castle. Her writings provide a roadmap for navigating the complexities of life while remaining anchored in God’s love and truth. 

St. Teresa’s teachings revolve around one central truth: a close, personal relationship with Jesus is the foundation of the spiritual life. In The Way of Perfection, she writes, 

For Teresa, intimacy with Jesus begins with a profound awareness of His love and sacrifice. This awareness transforms our perspective, helping us endure life’s challenges with grace. Prayer, especially meditative prayer, becomes the doorway to this relationship. Teresa invites us to speak to Jesus as a friend, sharing our joys, sorrows, and struggles with Him. 

The Catholic Church, as the Body of Christ, plays a pivotal role in fostering this relationship. Teresa emphasizes the importance of frequenting the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, where we encounter Jesus in a tangible and personal way. 

In The Interior Castle, St. Teresa describes the soul as a magnificent castle with many rooms, at the center of which dwells God Himself. The journey through these rooms represents the stages of spiritual growth, from initial conversion to profound union with Christ. 

Teresa teaches that self-knowledge, humility, and reliance on God’s grace are essential for progressing through the rooms. The deeper we go, the more we encounter the transformative power of Christ’s love. She writes, 

This interior journey mirrors our connection to the Catholic Church. Just as the sacraments and teachings of the Church guide us toward God, the rooms of the castle guide us to an ever-deepening relationship with Jesus. 

St. Teresa reminds us that the path to a close relationship with Jesus is not without challenges. Distractions, temptations, and trials are inevitable, but perseverance in prayer and fidelity to the Church are key. She encourages us to cultivate a life of virtue and trust in God’s providence, knowing that He desires our union with Him even more than we do. 

In our modern world, St. Teresa’s call to intimacy with Jesus and faithfulness to the Catholic Church is more relevant than ever. Amidst the noise and distractions of daily life, her writings invite us to create space for prayer, silence, and reflection. They challenge us to see the Church not just as an institution but as our spiritual family, guiding us toward God. 

As we embrace Teresa’s teachings, let us remember her words from The Way of Perfection:  "All our trials, distractions, and distress will not take away our peace. The soul will remain in the fortress of its own union with God."

May we, like Teresa, journey ever deeper into the heart of Christ, finding in Him the source of our strength, peace, and ultimate fulfillment.

Deacons Ministry Began with St Stephen

The role of deacons in the Catholic Church is ancient, integral, and rooted deeply in service. As the Second Vatican Council reaffirms in Lumen Gentium (29), deacons occupy a unique position within the Church's hierarchy. They receive "the imposition of hands 'not unto the priesthood, but unto the ministry,'" underscoring their distinct calling to serve the People of God rather than fulfill priestly duties. Although this concept of service originated in the early Church—Hippolytus, for instance, described it as "service to the Bishop"—the Council broadened it to encompass the entire community. St. Ignatius of Antioch also reflected on this foundational aspect, referring to deacons as "ministers of God’s Church" who should be beloved by all.

Deacons are vital in three areas: the liturgy, the Gospel, and charity. Working closely with the bishop and priests, they support the liturgical life of the Church, proclaim the Gospel, and lead charitable works. Their sacramental ordination empowers them to embody Christ’s servanthood, helping to build up the Church through these ministries.

Before ordination, deacons undertake the ministries of lector and acolyte. Pope Paul VI, in Ad Pascendum (1972), explained that these roles prepare deacons for a dual responsibility: serving the Word and the Altar. As lectors, they grow in their understanding of Scripture, learning to preach and teach. As acolytes, they assist at the altar, gaining familiarity with the liturgy and its symbols. This dual formation highlights the breadth of a deacon’s vocation, which is oriented both to the spiritual and the practical needs of the Church.

The story of St. Stephen, the Church’s first martyr, sheds light on the powerful legacy of deacons. A Greek-speaking Jew chosen to care for widows within Jerusalem’s Hellenistic community, Stephen was called beyond this practical task into bold evangelization. Acts 6–7 recounts how his “great wonders” and fearless preaching unsettled religious leaders, ultimately leading to his martyrdom. As he was stoned, Stephen prayed for his persecutors, inspiring Saul—the future St. Paul—who witnessed this event.

Without Stephen’s courageous witness, the transformation of Saul into Paul, the Church’s greatest missionary, may never have happened. Stephen embodies the deacon’s call to serve both through charity and, at times, even unto martyrdom. His legacy reminds us that deacons are essential witnesses to the love and courage required in following Christ.

In today’s Church, deacons remain crucial servants who bring the Gospel to life through their work, prayer, and dedication. Their roles may vary—preaching, assisting in liturgy, caring for the marginalized—but their commitment to serving others remains central to their identity. In honoring the memory of deacons like St. Stephen, we see the profound impact of a life dedicated not to priesthood but to ministry, strengthening and building the Body of Christ.

You Have Seen the Movie, Now Dig Deeper into Cabrini's Life

Today, November 13, we celebrate the feast day of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, a remarkable figure in the Catholic Church and the first U.S. citizen to be canonized a saint. Known as Mother Cabrini, she was born in Italy on July 15, 1850, and dedicated her life to serving immigrants and those on the margins of society. 

After founding the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Italy, she journeyed to the United States at the request of Pope Leo XIII to minister to the growing population of Italian immigrants. Her tireless work in education, health care, and social services not only transformed lives but laid a foundation for Catholic social teaching on immigration.

In 1909, Mother Cabrini became a naturalized U.S. citizen, deepening her connection to the country she would serve until her passing in 1917. She is now the patron saint of immigrants, and her legacy continues in our communities today through the work of her congregation. With compassion and courage, she dedicated herself to uplifting those who were often isolated and vulnerable, especially immigrants, providing them with shelter, education, and health care.

St. Frances Cabrini's example emphasizes that serving newcomers and advocating for their dignity is essential to living the Gospel. As Pope Francis reminds us, this mission is at the heart of Christian life and Catholic social teaching. In the Catholic understanding, migration is an opportunity to build unity and a deeper sense of shared humanity. Reflecting on the Holy Family’s own journey to Egypt, Catholic teaching sees every migrant family as a reflection of God’s presence among us. In his letter to the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pope Francis encouraged Catholics to follow Mother Cabrini’s model of love, affirming that service to newcomers is not merely optional—it is a sacred duty.

In recognition of her contributions, Colorado established Frances Xavier Cabrini Day in 2020 as the first paid state holiday in the U.S. named after a woman. This annual celebration, held on the first Monday in October, replaced Columbus Day and honors Cabrini’s legacy of love and dedication to immigrant communities.

On this special feast day, let us remember Mother Cabrini’s life as an invitation to reach out with compassion to newcomers in our own communities. In welcoming the stranger, we not only honor her legacy but participate in building the “human family,” united in dignity and love.