The Visitation

Lectionary: 572
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
The Feast of the Visitation


Mary didn't waste any time living a life for Christ! After saying yes to God's call, she got busy doing his work. She ministered to her cousin who was elderly and pregnant. I'm sure she cooked and cleaned and did laundry while she was with Elizabeth. She was the perfect example of service to others, of the hospitality, blessing and love in the reading from Romans. By serving her kinswoman, she literally brought Christ to her. 
One more thing: When you find life challenging, the best way to take your mind off your troubles is to live out the gospel by serving someone else. Gather the kids, make cards for the nursing home, take a meal to the rectory for the priests, cut the neighbor's grass, invite the children of the young mom down the street over to give her a break. (Yes, more kids!) Helping others is the best way to help yourself, and to bring Christ to them.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank your for the example of motherhood I find in your mother, Mary. Give me the grace to be more like her, always saying yes to God and serving others. In your name I pray, Amen. Mother Mary, pray for me. St. Elizabeth, pray for me. 

Feast of the Holy Trinity

Lectionary: 166
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Reading 2

Gospel

Feast of the Most Holy Trinity

"Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions,

knowing that affliction produces endurance,

and endurance, proven character,

and proven character, hope,

and hope does not disappoint,

because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts

through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us."

One more thing: This passage from Romans should be taped to every fridge in every home. It reminds us that our afflictions and challenges are not for naught. With the help of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we will persevere through the challenges of this life and gain our eternal reward in heaven!

Prayer: In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, I pray for perseverance to face my current challenges and to celebrate the hope that I have in eternal life! Amen. 

By whose authority?

Lectionary: 352
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Madeleine Sophie Barat

"Build yourselves up in your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit.

Keep yourselves in the love of God and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ." Can't you just see Jesus looking at the chief priests with an "excuse me?!" look on his face. Questioning his authority seems a little ridiculous to us; I'm sure it did to him too!

One more thing: Even before Christ formally founded the church, his authority was in question. Every church leader since then has been challenged. I suppose that is true of all leadership, even parental leadership. Our subordinates, or children in the case of moms, will always question our authority. But remember, mom, you have the backing of God, Christ and the Holy Spirit. You live your vocation as you are called by the Lord. If anyone needs to know where you get your authority, simply point to the Crucifix hanging on the wall. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you call me to live the vocation of motherhood. I will have to answer to you one day about how I lived out this vocation. Help me to lead with the authority, mercy and love that you give me to fulfill your call. In your name I pray, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. St. Madeleine, pray for me. 

Bad mood.

Lectionary: 351
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
Saint Germanus of Paris


It's a relief to know that Jesus was fully human, with all the moods and feelings that you and I have. He seemed pretty ticked at what was going on in the temple and like many of us do, carried that in his heart until he exploded and turned over the tables of the money changers. The unfortunate fig tree also bore the brunt of his wrath. Who bears the brunt when you are in a bad mood?
One more thing: I never liked that old saying, "Don't go to bed angry." It's much easier to storm off and brood about what is bothering me than to face it. St. Peter counsels us in the first reading to let our love for one another be intense, for it covers a multitude of sins. Sins that someone may have committed that hurt us, but also our own sins that we commit when in a bad mood. Jesus says we can obtain anything we ask for with absolute faith, but first we must forgive those with whom we have transgressions. 
Prayer: Dear Jesus, help me to temper my anger with love so that I may be an example of forgiveness and mercy to my family. In your name I pray, through the power of the Holy Spirit, Amen. St. Germanus, pray for me. 

Take courage.

Lectionary: 350
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Augustine of Canterbury


St. Augustine of Canterbury was a saint who needed lots of encouragement. Sent to convert the Anglo-Saxons in England, he looked to Pope Gregory for advice and support. With a daunting task ahead of him, St. Augustine received a letter from Pope Gregory the Great who wrote: "He who would climb to a lofty height must go by steps, not leaps."
One more thing: In today's gospel, the blind man calls out to Jesus hoping to get his attention. When Jesus calls for him, the disciples tell Bartimaeus to have courage, that Jesus is calling him. Jesus has called you to motherhood, but did anyone tell you to have courage? Did anyone tell you there would be days you might want to throw in the towel or pull your hair out? Jesus calls Bartimaeus, but he also gives him the gift of healing. Jesus will give you the gift you need to do what he has called you to do. So, take courage and ask the Lord for what you need to make the daily steps to raise your kids. 
Prayer: Dear Lord, you know my weaknesses. Like Bartimaeus, I may be blind to what keeps me from being the person and mother you want me to be. Heal my weaknesses so that I may answer your call more fully. In your name I pray, Amen. St. Augustine, pray for me. 

Service with a smile.

Lectionary: 349
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Philip Neri


St. Philip Neri was the kind of guy you want to have at your party. He was jovial and known for his good nature. He was social and fun. He was also deeply spiritual and lived to serve others, especially the youth. What a great example of joyful spirituality for our families! 
One more thing: Jesus tells us if we wish to be great, we must be a slave of all. Sounds dreary, right? Do your kids every complain of being the servant or having to do everything or heave a big sigh when reminded of chores? We often have the wrong idea about service. Using St. Philip's example, teach your family to approach service as an opportunity to get to heaven. St. Philip used music and laughter to motivate and attract people to Christ. What are some ways you use to remind your family to perform service with a smile? 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, like James and John, I want to be close to you in eternity! Give me a spirit of joyful service so that others, especially my family, will see you in me. In your name I pray, Amen. St. Philip, pray for me. 

Holy.

Lectionary: 348
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Bede the Venerable


There is a popular Christian song entitled, "What do I know of holy?" St. Peter reminds us that what we know of holy is found by  looking at and imitating Christ's example. 
One more thing: What is Christ's example? In the gospel he tells us that the first shall be last and the last shall be first. His example is of service. With summer upon us, it's a good time to remind your children that by contributing to the family, they are serving others as Christ did. Summertime means more family time and more opportunities to be Christ to those we live with. 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to follow your example to holiness. Give me a spirit of service and help me to lead my children to holiness by example. I ask this in your name, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. St. Bede, pray for me. 

Camels.

Lectionary: 347
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi


 "The last thing I ask of you—and I ask it in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—is that you love him alone, that you trust implicitly in him and that you encourage one another continually to suffer for the love of him." These were the dying words of St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi to her fellow sisters. It seems she knew that most of us were camels. 
One more thing: We now return to ordinary time in the liturgical calendar. But make no mistake, there is nothing ordinary about each day we are given. Christ calls us to follow the commandments and then to go the extra mile. My interpretation of "all things are possible for God" is not just that God makes it possible for us to go to heaven through the saving power of our Lord Jesus Christ, but also that God makes it possible for us to go that extra mile. God gives us what we need to do the impossible, to minister to the sick, the dying, the lonely, the heartbroken, even the challenging children in our home. The young man didn't know how he could give up his possessions, but God would give him the grace he needed to do just that if he asked. Yesterday we felt the call of the Holy Spirit. Today Christ reminds us that God will give you what you need to accomplish what you are called to do! 
Prayer: Father in heaven, all things are possible for you. You know the mountains in my life and you know how daunting they look. Give me what I need to climb those mountains and to live my life for you. I ask this in Jesus' name through the power of the Holy Spirit, Amen. St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi, pray for me. 

Come Spirit, come!

Lectionary: 63
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Reading 2

Gospel

Pentecost

In the first reading, the disciples have just received the Holy Spirit and they aren't keeping it to themselves. The Advocate that Jesus promises spurs them out of the locked upper room. They begin to tell everyone about Jesus. They don't bother worrying about speaking the right language, because the Holy Spirit takes care of that. They are simply on fire for the Lord. 

One more thing: When Christ promised to send the Advocate, I don't think the disciples had any idea what was in store. Instead of comforting and coddling them because Jesus was no longer with them, the Holy Spirit gets right to work doing the job he is sent to do. When you say yes to the Holy Spirit in whichever direction he is calling you, hold on to your hat! On this feast of Pentecost, take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit what he is calling you to do in your life and in your vocation of motherhood. You are in for quite a ride! 

Prayer:Father in heaven, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to be with me, to guide me, and to give me the strength and courage to do your will. Help me to always say yes to his calling. In Jesus name I pray, through the power of the Holy Spirit, Amen. 

Purpose.

Lectionary: 302
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
Saint Rita


Today's Gospel shows that Jesus loves us all as individuals. He didn't lump all his apostles into one category or one future. He loved them each for their strengths, weaknesses, and the purpose God put them on earth to fulfill. Peter's purpose was different than John's. John's was to take care of Mary, live a long life, and write the Gospel. What is your purpose? 
One more thing: St. Rita thought her purpose was to live a religious life. Bowing to her parents, she married and found herself in an abusive relationship. Her purpose was to be a mother, and she bore two sons. Eventually, she did live a religious monastic life and because of her devotion to Christ, shared in his sufferings through his wounds. She found a way to live out her purpose within family life. If you are a mom, regardless of the circumstances, God is calling you to do the same. Just like a gear can not work if one of the cogs is broken, God's plan can not come to fruition without you! Life your life and motherhood with purpose. 
Prayer: Father, you created me and put me on earth for a purpose. Jesus, you died for me and called me to complete your work. Holy Spirit, you help me to carry out the work for which I was created and called. Be with me as I live out my vocation of motherhood. Amen. St. Rita, pray for me. 

Unity

Lectionary: 300
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Bernardine of Siena


Paul follows Christ and his resulting persecution echoes Jesus' persecution too. Paul is completely one with Christ and willing to suffer as he did. 
One more thing: The Father loves Jesus and they are one. Jesus loves the Father and they are one. Jesus and the Father love us. Jesus desires for us to be one with him. The only thing we have to do is love. That kind of unity sounds so beautiful. The first place to foster that unity is within our own families. Share with your children today that when they show Christ's love to their family members they are building unity within your family and unity with God. 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I desire to be one with you. Help me to show your love to my children so that we may grow in unity with each other and with you. In your name I pray, Amen. St. Bernardine, pray for me. 

Protection

Lectionary: 299
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
Saint Celestine V


Christ did not ask for God to take us out of the world, for the world is where we belong. The world is where we make our choices, freely to accept or reject God. Christ only asked that we be protected. 
One more thing: Christ left the earth, but he did not abandon you. He showers his protection over you and your family. St. Paul acknowledges to his followers that the wolves will come among them. He says further, "and from your own group men will come forward perverting the truth." As parents, it's your job to protect your children. When society says it's okay to let your kids have the run of the remote, the internet, even the neighborhood, know that with Christ as your model, you must protect your children. 
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the precious ones you have given me, my children. Help me to follow Christ's example and protect my children so that they will find their way home to you in heaven. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. St. Celestine, pray for me. 

Saying goodbye.

Lectionary: 298
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Felix of Cantalice


Paul was saying goodbye to his followers in a way that we as parents would like to say goodbye. He knew it was the last time he would see them so he clearly cherished the moment. He also knew that he had done all he could to prepare them for life ahead. He communicated Jesus' love and sacrifice and knew that each of them had the tools to get themselves to heaven if they chose to. 
One more thing: Jesus too is saying goodbye in the Gospel. His love for those of us "given" to him by the Father is evident. “I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me," Jesus said. At the end of our lives, don't you want to tell God the same thing about your children?
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for those you have given to me, my children. Help me to remember that they belong to you. Help me to live out my vocation of motherhood in a way that reveals you to my children and leads them to heaven. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. St. Felix, pray for me. 

Trust.

Lectionary: 297
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Paschal Baylon


When the disciples doubted who Jesus was, it wasn't because they didn't understand what he told them. It was just a matter of trusting what he said. It today's Gospel, the disciples finally make the leap and trust Jesus.  Jesus tells the disciples to continue to trust him when he is gone, even when times are troubling here on earth. The message holds true for you and I today, "take courage,  I have conquered the world."
One more thing: In a 'can-do' culture, it can be hard to trust in the Lord. Sometimes it is just easier to do it ourselves! As parents, we display a certain arrogance when we think we can save our kids, especially our adult children, from mistakes, hardships, and abuses. When we continually intervene in our adult children's lives, we keep hold of the reins and never even give God a chance to be present. We never allow our children to depend on him because we don't actually trust him ourselves. 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I believe, hope, and trust in you! Help me to trust that you will take care of the precious gifts that you have given me: my children. Help me to let my adult children depend solely on you. Help me to let go. In your name I pray, Amen. St. Paschal, pray for me. 

A blare of trumpets for the Lord.

Lectionary: 58
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Reading 2

Gospel

Ascension of our Lord

"God mounts his throne to shouts of joy..." Think of the revelry in heaven when Jesus took his place at the right hand of God. While the apostles may have felt a little lost without Christ, he did not abandon them. He reminds them that "the promise of my Father" is coming to them. 

One more thing: The ascension of our Lord is a special day and fulfills all that Jesus came to earth to do. In our parish, we celebrate a priest appreciation day with a parish-wide lunch. What can you do with your family to commemorate this year of the priest? Something simple like praying for them, making a card or inviting a priest to dinner with show them that you love and support them in their ministry. If ever there was a time our priest needed support, it's now. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you suffered and died for me, and now sit in glory at your Father's right hand. Rain down your blessings upon your priests that minister to me and my family. In your name I pray, Amen. 

Teaching others.

Lectionary: 296
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Isidore the Farmer


Paul taught Pricilla and Aquilla, and they in turn taught Apollos, who then taught others. Christ's message is taught person to person. Even someone learned like Apollos needed others to explain and teach to him. 
One more thing: The transfer of Christ's message from person to person has two implications for moms. The first is, never underestimate the importance of what you teach your children about God. You may think they aren't listening, but keep talking! By God's design, it's the way we learn. The second is the importance of finding teachers to help you grow. Sure it's important to read God's word and to pray, but the reading today tells us it's also important to have teachers. Make a commitment to grow spiritually this summer through a prayer or study group at church or an online class through your diocese. 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to spread your message, especially to my family, by what I say and do each day. Bring wise and holy people into my life to help me grown in my faith and knowledge of you. In your name I pray. Amen. St. Isidore the Farmer, pray for me. 

Love one another.

Lectionary: 564
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Matthias


I wonder if St. Matthias hesitated to fill Judas' position. I mean, he must have had a moment of hesitation. But despite Judas' actions, the Gospel still had to be proclaimed and Matthias ultimately said "yes" to God's call. 
One more thing: Christ calls us all to love in today's Gospel. Notice how many times he says it? If it was easy to do, he wouldn't have had to make such a point of it. How do you say yes to loving one another in your family? Sometimes we focus on what's going wrong in our family, (the fighting, yelling, shirking responsibilities, etc) and forget to notice all the ways we show love every day. Try to point out when you see each family member show love to one another today and praise them for acting like Christ. 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to love every person I see. Help me to especially love my family members so that they may see your love through me. In your name I pray, Amen. St. Matthias, pray for me. 

Peek a boo.

Lectionary: 294
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Reading 2

Gospel

Our Lady of Fatima

Christ seems to be speaking in riddles to the disciples. Now you see me, now you don't. They must have been really confused! We have the advantage of history and understand the message that is underscored by our Lady of Fatima. Christ was, is and is to come. One day, we will see him again! 

One more thing: Ever get discouraged that you are fighting a losing battle? You know, the one where you try to raise healthy and holy kids in a world going to hell in a hand-basket? Take heart! Christ reminds us that we will mourn while the world rejoices, but our grieving will one day be turned into joy when we see him again! Hang in there mom; it will be worth the effort. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I can't wait to see you! Give me hope and peace while I wait here for you. In your name I pray. Our Lady of Fatima, pray for me. Amen.

Bloom where you are planted.

Lectionary: 293
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
Sts. Nereus and Achilleus


When the people heard Paul they all had different reactions. Some were not ready to receive the word, some needed some time to think about it, and some embraced it immediately. Isn't it beautiful that God waits for us to want him of our own free will?
One more thing: Jesus recognized that we are all at a different place in our faith journey. He held back his revelations to the disciples because they were not ready. He provides us with the Holy Spirit to give us what we need when we need it. 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to me to reveal the way to you. Sts. Nereus and Achilleus, pray for me. Amen. 

Keeping the peace.

Lectionary: 292
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Ignatius of Laconi


"Your right hand saves me O Lord." How calm Paul and Silas sound sitting in that jail cell singing God's praises. I was neither calm nor singing today when things got a little stressful. It's May and schedules are getting hectic, tempers are getting short and kids are getting tired. I'm seeking the peace and serenity of Paul in that jail cell. 
One more thing: Today I failed to utter my prayer to the Holy Spirit during my time of stress. Jesus reminds us in the gospel that the Advocate is here for us, and we should rely on him. The Holy Spirit is the right hand of God who saves us when we are troubled, just as he was with Paul and Silas in the jail. 
Prayer: Holy Spirit, I need you with me as my children finish the school year, take exams, wrap up sports and transition to summer. Help me to sing God's praises through these hectic times and to keep peace within my soul during this busy season. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. St. Ignatius, pray for me. 

Delight in your children.

Lectionary: 291
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Damien of Molokai


During the beatification homily for St. Damien in 1995, Pope John Paul II said: "Holiness is not perfection according to human criteria; it is not reserved for a small number of exceptional persons. It is for everyone; it is the Lord who brings us to holiness, when we are willing to collaborate in the salvation of the world for the glory of God, despite our sin and our sometimes rebellious temperament."
One more thing: The psalm tells us that "The Lord takes delight in his people." Not just the special people we recognize as 'saints', but all of his people. When you find yourself giggling at the funny things your children say or do, being overwhelmed when they are especially kind and thoughtful, shaking your head at their determination and stubbornness, just remember that's exactly how God feels about you! He delights in you and will bring you to the holiness he intends for you. Just say yes! 
Prayer: Holy Spirit, come to me and fill my heart so that I may be holy in the eyes of God. Protect me from my desires and the temptation for human perfection.  In Jesus' name I pray. St. Damien, pray for me. Amen. 

Happy Mother's Day!

Lectionary: 57
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Reading 2

Gospel

St. Catherine of Bologna

Christ went out of his way to make sure the apostles understood they would not be abandoned when he left. How much he loves us! He sends the Holy Spirit to teach us everything and remind us of what he taught while here on earth. The apostles then relied on the Holy Spirit to lead them in making decisions about the early church. 

One more thing: The Holy Spirit is alive and well in today's church and in your life. He desires to be a part of your decision making too! Even when those decisions seem as mundane as what to have for supper.  Jesus said the Holy Spirit is your advocate and will bring you peace. Call on him daily to help you in your vocation of motherhood! 

Prayer: Holy Spirit, come into my heart and home, brining your peace and wisdom. Lead me in the ways of Christ so that I may be the mother he desires me to be. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. St. Catherine, pray for me. 

Led by the spirit.

Lectionary: 290
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Acacuis


Paul and Timothy were led by the Spirit. The Holy Spirit has been very active in my life lately. He's at work in yours too, but are you aware of it? Notice how the Spirit didn't allow Paul and Timothy to go into certain areas, needing to direct them other places? Do you ever get that weird urge to take a different route home, or call a friend you haven't talked to in a while, or spend a little extra time with one of your children? These aren't arbitrary whims, but rather promptings by the Spirit. 
One more thing: Being aware of God's work in your life means you do not belong to the world. You are different. You might come under a little ridicule for this if your mom-tourage consists of other gals who are not like-minded. Just remember what Jesus said to his disciples,“If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first."
Prayer: Holy Spirit, fill my heart with your love and lead me to be the mom you want me to be. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. 

Love.

Lectionary: 289
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Flavia Domitilla


Love. It's so simple, it has become trite. Jesus says it is all we need to do: love one another. He doesn't play any games, or pull any punches. There's no club level you have to get to in order to find the secrets of God. No, Jesus lays it all out for us. Love one another. 
One more thing: Loving our family, especially our rebellious teens or tiresome twos, can be a real challenge. While you don't have to like them, you do have to love them enough to be the mother God wants you to be. That might be unpopular. But approach your parenting like the apostles did when forming the early church. Go to the Holy Spirit; seek council from those who are wise and holy; and trust in the Lord to help you make the right decisions steeped in love. 
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for showing me how to love. Help me to always model your love to my children, even when they are not very likable. In your name I pray. Amen. St. Flavia, pray for me. 

Joy.

Lectionary: 288
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Dominic Savio


After a rough afternoon of running the roads taxing kids to various events, trying to squeeze in cooking and feeding them all and never getting anyone completely satisfied, and then dealing with the grouchies once we all got home, I admit it -  I lost my joy. My two year old picked out a book of bible songs for his bedtime story. Maybe he was trying to tell me something! 
One more thing: "Remain in my love." Sometimes its hard to remain in Christ's love and keep his commandments. This is especially true when the wheels are falling off around you. I know at times like these I have the urge to sit down and throw a tantrum just like everyone else! It's those times when I try to whisper a prayer, "Holy Spirit, help me."  Sometimes I just whisper it to myself over and over. Sometimes I shout it! Remaining in Christ's love is a choice, and with his help, you can choose to find the joy, even when you are up to your eyeballs in alligators!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank you for your infinite love for me! Help me to follow your commands so that I may remain in your love, and share in your joy. In your name I pray. St. Dominic, pray for me. Amen.