Tuesday 7th March

Beyond distinctions

Devotion to Jesus seriously conflicted with Roman rule in the second century, with citizens expected to worship the emperor instead. Thus, the fate of two young mothers, Perpetua and Felicity: forced into a public amphitheater to be killed by wild beasts, just because they wouldn’t renounce Jesus. But Christian faith challenged social convention in other ways, too. Normally, Felicity—as Perpetua’s slave—wouldn’t be seen as her equal. But belief in Jesus, as Saint Paul writes, makes brothers and sisters of all. Take Perpetua’s final words to heart: “Stand fast in the faith, and love one another, all of you.”

Today's readings: Isaiah 1:10, 16-20; Matthew 23:1-12 (231).

Wednesday 8th March

A brother called to heal 

On this day, the church commemorates Saint John of God, a Portuguese religious brother who—like Saint Ignatius of Loyola—was a military man who experienced a sudden conversion. In fact, the two men (along with Saint Teresa) shared a spiritual mentor in Saint John of Ávila. A sermon from the priest moved John of God to repent of his former excesses, so much so that it was mistaken for a mental health crisis; he was quickly institutionalized. Later engaging in work with the poor, he founded the Brothers Hospitallers in 1572, who continue to care for the sick around the world—including as official caretakers of the pope. In an age of increased mental health awareness, may we always remember John’s holy life and recognize our call to serve those in need.

Today's readings: Jeremiah 18:18-20; Matthew 20:17-28 (232).

Thursday 9th March

Priceless service 

It’s entirely appropriate that the Memorial of Frances of Rome coincides with a gospel that tells us in no uncertain terms to care for the poor. Frances of Rome was a wealthy Italian married woman in the early 1400s, a time of great instability and poverty in Italy. She poured her family treasure into efforts to feed and heal the poor. She was recognized for her piety and compassion and founded a religious order dedicated to serving suffering people, now known as the Oblates of St. Frances of Rome. Upon her husband's death, she became superior of the order. What can you do for the poor or sick in your corner of the world?

 Today's readings: Jeremiah 17:5-10; Luke 16:19-31 (233).

Friday 10th March

Celebrate sisters

During Catholic Sisters Week, we celebrate the good works of Catholic sisters collectively and individually; tell stories of Catholic sisters we love, respect, admire; and share information about becoming a Catholic sister, including directing people to VISION VocationNetwork.org. But, most of all, we focus on the truth that a religious vocation reveals: God is all we need. As Catholic nun and Doctor of the Church Saint Teresa of Ávila observed: “Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices.”

Today's readings: Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a; Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46 (234).

Saturday 11th March

Confession heals the soul 

Catholics are encouraged to partake of the sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) as much as possible, but especially during Lent, because confession is good for the soul. None of us is perfect, and all of us carry burdens that could be lightened through honest reflection and repentance. Other religions include a confessional practice as well, attesting to the universal need: Jews confess “We have sinned” in the Yom Kippur service. Confession is part of the Hindu Prāyaścitta. In Islam, the act of seeking forgiveness from God for sins is called Istighfar. Buddhist monks confess their sins to other monks. Check the bulletin, and find time for Confession. You'll feel better for it.

Today's readings: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 (235).