Our Morning Offering – 26 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus”
O Heart of Jesus! By St Gertrude the Great (1256-1302)
Sanctity of the Heart of Jesus, consecrate my heart; Providence of the Heart of Jesus, watch over my heart; Unchangeableness of the Heart of Jesus, strengthen my heart; Purity of the Heart of Jesus, purify my heart; Obedience of the Heart of Jesus, subjugate my heart; Amiability of the Heart of Jesus, make Thyself known to my heart; Divine attractions of the Heart of Jesus, captivate my heart; Riches of the Heart of Jesus, do ye suffice for my heart; Floods of grace and blessing which flow from the Heart of Jesus, inundate my heart. O Heart of Jesus! be Thou my joy, my peace, my repose in this world and in the next. O Heart of Jesus! adored in Heaven, Invoked on earth, feared in hell, Reign over all hearts, Reign throughout all ages, Reign forever in celestial glory. Amen
Saint of the Day – 26 June – St Maxentius (c448-c515) Abbot, Miracle-worker, in of Poitou . Born in c448 in Agde, France and died in c515. Also known as – Masenzio, Massenzio, Maixent.
The Roman Martyrology records: “In the territory of Poitiers in Aquitaine, in today’s France, Saint Maxentius, Abbot, famous for his virtues.”
Maxentius was born at Agde,and Baptised with the name of Adjutor. He was placed, from his infancy, by his pious parents in the Monastery of St Severus and formed to piety by that holy Abbot, who never lost sight of him and continually taught him that everything in the world, is full of snares and temptations and unless we live in watchfulness and circumspection, the devil besieges us so close that it is impossible for us not to be surprised by him.
The youth, by walking always in holy fear, was happy to preserve his soul free from whatever could defile it. He fled with great dread the applause of men, as the bane of virtue. To avoid this danger, he stole away into a distant country but after two years was found and brought back by his parents and friends. The fear of the esteem of men again forced him abroad,and going into Poitou, he changed his name into that of Maxentius and put himself under the direction of a virtuous Abbot named Agapetus.
The brethren were struck with admiration to see one so perfectly disengaged from the world, so humble, so mortified, so full of charity and so enlightened in the paths of salvation and they unanimously chose him their superior. In his devotions he seemed animated with the spirit of David when he composed his psalms and in his instructions with the zeal and charity of John the Baptist. Austere towards himself, he showed in all his actions that he sought only that food which never perishes. Following the example of Agapetus, he laid down his office as soon as it was possible and shut himself up in a remote cell but the Monks obliged him still to continue to direct them by his counsels.
St Maxentius turns back the plundering army
Clovis, the King of the French, was then at war with Alaric, King of the Visigoths, who reigned in Spain, Languedoc and Aquitaine. A barbarous army was stopped by the Saint’s presence from plundering the Monastery and a soldier who attempted to strike him was seized with a numbness which continued until he was cured by the Saint. Nature on many occasions obeyed his voice, as St Gregory of Tours relates.
St Maxentius died about the year 515 and is named in the Roman Martyrology.
St John of Rome * Layman Brothers, Martyr St Paul of Rome * Layman Brothers, Martyr The year of their Martyrdom is uncertain according to their Acts; it occurred under the Emperor, Julian the Apostate. The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Rome, on Mount Coelus, the holy Martyrs, John and Paul, brothers. The former was Steward, the other Secretary of the virgin Constantia, daughter of the Emperor Constantine. Afterwards, under Hulian the Apostate, they received the Palm of Martyrdom by being beheaded.” Their Lives and Deaths: https://anastpaul.com/2023/06/26/saints-of-the-day-26-june-saint-john-and-saint-paul-died-c362-laymen-brothers-martyrs/
St Acteie of Rome St Albinus of Rome
St Anthelm of Belley O. Cart. (c 1105-1178) Bishop of Belley, France, Prior of the Carthusian Grand Chartreuse. Reformer, talented Administrator, Founder of the female Carthusians and originated of the Carthusian Rule (with the zealous and learned assistance of Bless John the Spaniard whom we celebrated yesterday) Apostle of the poor, the sick and the needy. The wonderful St Anthelm: https://anastpaul.com/2021/06/26/saint-of-the-day-st-anthelm-of-belley-o-cart-c-1105-1178/
St Babolenus of Stavelot-Malmédy St Barbolenus of Fossés Bl Bartholomew of Vir St Corbican St David of Thessalonica St Deodatus of Nola St Dionysius of Bulgaria St Edburga of Gloucester St Hermogius of Tuy St John of the Goths St Maxentius of Poitou (c448-c515) Abbot St Medico of Otricoli St Pelagius of Oviedo St Perseveranda of Poitiers Bl Raymond Petiniaud de Jourgnac St Salvius Bl Sebastian de Burgherre St Soadbair St Superius St Terence of Rome St Vigilius of Trent
Martyrs of Africa – 4 Saints: Four Christians who were Martyred together – Agapitus, Emerita, Felix and Gaudentius at an unknown location in Africa, date unknown.
Martyrs of Alexandria – 3 Saints: Three Christians who were Martyred together but we really know little more that the names – Agatho, Diogenes and Luceja. They were Martyred in Alexandria, Egypt, date unknown.
Martyrs of Cambrai – 4 Beati: Four Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, Nuns at Arras, France. Imprisoned together in 1792 and executed together two years later in the anti-Catholic excesses of the French Revolution. They were: , Jeanne Gerard, Marie-Françoise Lanel, Marie-Madeleine Fontaine, Thérèse-Madeleine Fantou, They were guillotined on 26 June 1794 at Cambrai, Nord, France and Beatified in June 1920 by Pope Benedict XV.
Thought for the Day – 25 June – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
PATIENCE Meditations for a Month
Some Motives for Patience under Contempt
It is always foolish to complain or to be dissatisfied with that which ,of its own nature. is calculated to advance our happiness and our highest interests. Contempt is better suited, than almost anything else, to humble us, if we take it as we ought. It cannot fail to tear up the pride which is so deeply rooted in our hearts and, which is the great obstacle between us and God. Ought we not then, to be grateful to those who do us this service? Instead of resenting this treatment of us, we ought to thank God and pray for them as our benefactors!
When we look into ourselves, must we not acknowledge that contempt is what ought to be felt towards us? It is the fitting disposition, the proper attitude towards one so contemptible as I am. My love of what is fitting ought to make me welcome it as the right and proper thing. I ought, not only to acquiesce in it but, to be pleased at justice being done to me. I ought to say to myself when treated with contempt, ‘That is just and right! It is exactly the true view to take of me!’
Above all, I ought to value contempt because it gives me a share in the humiliation of my dear Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He humbled Himself even to death. He was treated with the utmost contempt and ignominy by the very creatures He had made, who owed all to Him and, on whom, He had bestowed countless benefits and lavished unmeasured love. What can be better or happier or a greater privilege, than thus to be clad in the livery of my Lord and to be treading, all unworthy as I am, in His footsteps? Welcomethen, contempt and ignominy, for Jesus’ sake and as giving me a share in His Divine Life!
Quote/s of the Day – 25 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – St William (1085-1142) Abbot – Ecclesiasticus 45:1-6; Matthew 19:27-29 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“And everyone who has left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands for My Name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold and shall possess life everlasting.”
Matthew 19:29
“The one who walks in the love of God seeks neither gain nor reward but seeks only, with the will, to lose self and all things, for God and this loss, the lover judges to be a gain! ”
“Seek for nothing, desiring to enter for love of Jesus, with detachment, emptiness and poverty in everything in this world. You will never have to do with necessities greater than those to which you made your heart yield itself – for the poor in spirit are most happy and joyful in a state of privation and he, who has set his heart on nothing, finds satisfaction everywhere.
The poor in spirit (Mt 5:3) give generously all they have and their pleasure consists in being thus deprived of everything for God’s sake and out of love for their neighbour …”
By St John of the Cross (1542-1591) Doctor of the Church
“It is true that we require great confidence to abandon ourselves, without any reserve, to Divine Providence but, when we do abandon all, Our Lord takes care of all and disposes of all. But, if we reserve anything which we are unwilling to confide to Him, He leaves us, as if He would say: “You think yourselves sufficiently wise to manage that affair without Me – you can do so and see what will come of it!”
One Minute Reflection – 25 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – St William (1085-1142) Abbot – Ecclesiasticus 45:1-6; Matthew 19:27-29 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“… Shall receive a hundredfold and shall possess life everlasting.” – Matthew 19:29
REFLECTION – “The possessions which we have, are not our own: God has given them to us to cultivate and He wishes us to render them fruitful and profitable … Always deprive yourself, therefore, of some part of your means, giving them to the poor with a willing heart … It is true that God will return it to you, not only in the next world but also in this, for there is nothing which makes a person prosper, in temporal matters, so much, as almsgiving. But until such time as God shall repay it, you will always be impoverished to that extent. Oh! how holy and rich is the impoverishment which is caused by almsgiving.
Love the poor and poverty, for by this love you will become truly poor, since, as Scripture says: “We become like the things that we love” (cf Hos 9:10). Love makes those who love, equal to one another: “Who is weak and I am not weak?” says St Paul (2 Cor 11:29). He might have said: “Who is poor, with whom I am not poor?” For love made him become, such as those whom he loved. If, then, you love the poor, you will be truly participating in their poverty and poor like them. Now, if you love the poor, be often among them; be pleased to see them in your house and to visit them in theirs; associate willingly with them; be glad that they are near you in the Churches, in the streets and elsewhere. Be poor in speech with them, speaking to them as their equal but be rich in deed, giving them of your goods, as one who possesses more abundantly.
Will you do even more? … Become a servant of the poor; go to serve them … with your own hands … and at your own expense. This service has more glory in it than a throne!” – St Francis de Sales (1567-1622) Bishop of Geneva and Doctor of the Church (Introduction to the devout life, Part three Ch 15).
PRAYER – O God, Who made Thy Saints an example and a help for our weakness, grant us, as we walk the path of salvation, so to venerate the virtues of the blessed Abbot William that we may obtain his intercession and follow in his footsteps. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
“JESUS, meek and humble of HEART, make my heart like unto Thine.” – 300 Days, EVERYTIME. (Unless otherwise stated, e.g., “once a day,” a partial Indulgence may be gained any number of times in succession.) St Pope Pius X, 15 September 1905.
Our Morning Offering – 25 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus”
Be my Strength, O Sacred Heart! By St Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647-1690) Visionary of the Sacred Heart
O Sacred Heart of Jesus, I fly to Thee, I unite myself to Thee, I enclose myself in Thee! Receive my call for help, O my Saviour, as a sign of my horror of all within me, contrary to Thy holy love. Let me die rather a thousand times, than consent to sin against Thee! Be my strength, O God – defend me, protect me. I am Thine and desire forever to be Thine! Amen
Saint of the Day – 25 June – Blessed Burchard of Mallersdorf OSB (Died 1122) the 1st Abbot of the Monastery of Mallersdorf. Born in the 11th Century in the Upper Franconia (in modern Bavaria, Germany) died on 25 June 1122 of natural causes in Mallersdorf, Bavaria, Germany. Also known as – Burkhard.
Mallersdorf Monastery is now a Franciscan Convent for Poor Clares
Little is known about Burchard’s early life but it is believed that he entered the monastic life at an early age. He joined the Benedictine Monastery of Saint Michael in Bamberg, Bavaria, where he devoted himself to a life of prayer and contemplation. His deep spirituality and commitment drew the attention of his fellow Monks and Superiors, who recognised his piety and wisdom. Burchard’s dedication to the monastic life was evident in his adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict and his diligent study of the Sacred Scriptures.
In 1109, Burchard was appointed as the 1st Abbot of the newly founded Monastery of Mallersdorf. This appointment was a testament to his leadership qualities, spiritual depth and administrative skills. As Abbot, Burchard guided the community, fostering a spirit of holiness and discipline among them. Under his leadership, the Monastery flourished both spiritually and materially, becoming a centre of learning and devotion.
He was known for his humility and his care for the physical and spiritual well-being of his Monks. He provided for their needs and encouraged them to continually seek God through prayer, study and charitable works. As a teacher, Burchard imparted his knowledge and wisdom to his brothers, guiding them in the ways of sanctity and virtue.
Throughout his life, Burchard was a living example of holiness, inspiring those around him. . His devotion to the Virgin Mary was particularly notable, and he fostered a special reverence and love for her among the community.
Blessed Burchard died on 25 June 1122, in Mallersdorf, Bavaria, where he had served as the Abbot for many years. His Relics were enshrined in 1695, ensuring that his memory would be preserved for all of us.
While the Church has not officially recognised Burchard’s cult, he is venerated locally as such. l. His Feast Day is celebrated on 25 June. His legacy lives on in the monastic tradition, reminding us of the importance of seeking God wholeheartedly and offering ourselves in the service of others.
St Amand of Coly (6th Century) Founder and first Abbot of Saint-Amand-de-Coly Monastery, Diocese of Limoges, France. There is now a village named for St Amand. Blessed Burchard of Mallersdorf (Died 1122) Abbot St Cyneburga of Gloucester Bl Dorothy of Montau St Eurosia of Jaca St Febronia of Nisibis Bl Fulgentius de Lara St Gallicanus of Embrun
Thought for the Day – 24 June – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
PATIENCE Meditations for a Month
On Patience under Contempt
There are few things as difficult for human nature to bear as contempt. To be regarded as not worthy of notice, to be spoken of in terms implying that we are looked down upon, to be passed over as if of no importance in the eyes of others, all this is indeed painful to us and sorely tries our patience. When I am thus treated, how do I take it? Am I desirous to prove my importance and the necessity of considering me? If so, I shall not have the patience that I ought to have. I still have much of the spirit of pride left in me. I must pray God to make me more humble.
Why is it that contempt is so painful to us? It is because our natural craving is after power and influence. We do not realise our own insignificance. If we did, we should be quite willing to be overlooked. We should dislike the high esteem of men. This was the case with the Saints. They shunned honour and courted contempt. St Philip used to go into the Cardinals’ places in St Peter’s on a Feast that he might have the humiliation of being thrust out. St Francis used to kneel down in the refectory and openly accuse himself of gluttony. Oh my God! shall I ever obtain this grace of being satisfied to be despised and of disliking to be honoured?
What would be the treatment bestowed upon us if those around us saw us as we are in God’s sight, if they knew all the wicked thoughts and sinful actions of our past life? What would be their estimation of us if they saw us with all the abominations of our soul unveiled; if they beheld our pride and selfishness and sloth and impurity and self-indulgence, our high esteem of ourselves and our indifference to God?! Oh how they would despise us then! How we ought to despise ourselves now!
One Minute Reflection – 24 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – The Nativity of St John the Baptist – Isaias 49:1-3, 5-7, Luke 1:57-68 – – – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed and he spoke, blessing God.”- Luke 1:64
REFLECTION – “Speaking of John, we read in Luke: “He shall be great in the sight of the Lord and many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. And he shall go before Him in the spirit and power of Elias, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Lk 1:15-17). For Whom, then, did he prepare a people and in the sight of what Lord was he made great? Truly of Him, Who said that John was something “even more than a prophet” and that “among those born of women, none is greater than John the Baptist” (Mt 11:9.11). For he made ready a people for the Lord’s advent, warning his fellow-servants and preaching repentance to them, so that they might receive forgiveness from the Lord when He should arrive, after being converted to Him from Whom they had been alienated because of their sins and transgressions …
Yes, “in his mercy” God, “the Day-spring from on high, has looked upon us and appeared to those who sat in darkness and the shadow of death and has guided our feet into the way of peace” (Lk 1:78-79) just as Zacharias, recovering from the state of dumbness he had suffered because of his unbelief, blessed God in a new way, when he had been filled with a new spirit. For all things have entered upon a new phase by the fact that the Word, after a new manner, has accomplished the purpose of His coming in the flesh, that He might return to friendship with God, the human flesh which had departed from God. And this is why men were taught to worship God after a new fashion.” – St Irenaeus (130-202) Bishop, Martyr, Theologian, Father of the Church (Against the Heresies III).
PRAYER – O God, Who made this a day most worthy of our celebration because of blessed John; grant Thy people the grace of spiritual joys and direct the minds of all the faithful into the path of eternal salvation. T hrough Jesus Christ, thy Son our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Sweet Heart of my JESUS, Make me love Thee ever more and more! INDULGENCE – 300 Days. i. Partial, Every time ii. Plenary, once a month. Pope Pius IX, 26 November 1876 Raccolta 162
Our Morning Offering – 24 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – Pentecost V
Antra Deserti Thou, in thy Childhood By Paul the Deacon (c720s-c799) “Cassinensis (of Monte Cassino)” Monk, Spiritual Author, Historian, Poet
Thou, in thy childhood, to the desert caverns Fleddest for refuge from the cities’ turmoil, Where the world’s slander might not dim thy luster, Lonely abiding.
Camel’s hair raiment clothed thy saintly members; Leathern the girdle which thy loins encircled; Locusts and honey, with the fountain-water, Daily sustained thee.
Oft in past ages, seers with hearts expectant Sang the far-distant advent of the Day-Star; Thine was the glory, as the world’s Redeemer First to proclaim Him.
Far as the wide world reacheth, born of woman, Holier was there none than John the Baptist; Meetly in water laving Him who cleanseth Man from pollution.
Praise to the Father, to the Son begotton, And to the Spirit, equal power possessing, One God whose glory, through the lapse of ages, Ever resoundeth.
This Hymn, “Ut queant laxis resonare fibris”, is in three parts. The Breviary and Roman Missal list the above for Matins today, on the Feast of the Nativity of St John the Baptist.
Saint of the Day – 24 June – Saint Gohardus of Nantes (Died 843) and his Companions, Bishop Martyr, a Cephalophore (from the Greek for “head-carrier”), Lord of Blain. Born in 8th Century Angers, Neustria (in modern France) died on 24 June 843 in the Cathedral of Saint Peter, Nantes, Marche de Bretagne. Also known as – Gohard, Gunardo, Gunhard, Gundhard, Gunthard, Godard, Gonhard, Guichard, Guihard, Wighard.
Gohardus was born in Blain in Angers. It was during his Episcopate, in 843 that the Battle of Blain took place, the first major battle between the Franks and the Britons. Damage caused by struggles between these two factions in the area was compounded by Viking raids.
On the Feast day of St John the Baptist, a month after the defeat of Blain, the Vikings arrived at Nantes. Gohardus was celebrating Mass in Nantes Cathedral with a large community of Monks and Priests, when the Vikings attacked, killing the Bishop and his congregation.
Nantes Cathedra
Legend says that Gohardus picked up his severed head and walked down to the Loire River, where a boat took him to Angers. His body was buried in St Peter’s Collegiate Church in Angers, the City where he was born.
Gohardus was Canonised in 1096 by Pope Urban II. The Romanesque Crypt of Nantes Cathedral is dedicated to our Saint Gohardus and was redesigned shortly after his Canonisation to house his Relics brought from Angers. A side Chapel of the Cathedral is dedicated to enshrine his Relics.
His Feast Day is celebrated on 24 June.
St Gohardus Shrine and Relics in the Side Chapel at Nantes Cathedral dedicated to him
St Erembert I of Kremsmünster St Faustus of Rome and Companions St Festus of Rome St Germoc St Gohardus of Nantes (Died 843) Bishop Martyr St Henry of Auxerre/the Hagiographer St Ivan of Bohemia St John of Rome
St John of Tuy St Joseph Yuan Zaide St Rumold St Simplicio of Autun St Theodulphus of Lobbes
The First Martyrs of the Church of Rome: Countless numbers were Christians Martyred in the City of Rome during Nero’s persecution in 64. The event is recorded by both Tacitus and Pope Clement I, among others. They are celebrated today.
Martyrs of Satala: Seven Christian brothers who were soldiers in the imperial Roman army. They were expelled from the military, exiled and eventually martyred in the persecutions of Maximian. We know little more about them than their names – Cyriacus, Firminus, Firmus, Longinus, Pharnacius, Heros and Orentius. The martyrdoms occurred in c 311 at assorted locations around the Black Sea.
Thought for the Day – 23 June – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
The Adorable Heart of Jesus Meditations for a Month
On The Difference Between Devotion to the SACRED HEART and Devotion to the BLESSED SACRAMENT
There have been, from the very beginning, people who asserted that there was no essential difference between Devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and that to the Sacred Heart and who consequently, rejected the latter as only adding a new name to a very old Devotion. But whoever has read, what we have said in the preceding chapters, will readily perceive how far this opinion is removed from the truth, it being evident that these two Devotions differ from each other – firstly, in their objects ; secondly, in the motives for honouring these objects; thirdly, in the essential end of their institution. This is to say, they differ in the three most important points which can distinguish Devotions one from the other.
They differ in the first place in their object; for, in the one is proposed alone the Adorable Heart of Jesus Christ, without any reference to the rest of His Body. In the other the entire Body of Jesus Christ is proposed under the Sacramental Species, without any special reference to His Heart.
They differ, in the second place, in the motives for honouring the object, for in the Devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, the motive for honouring the Body of Jesus Christ, is the Infinite Dignity of this Adorable Flesh which, through its union with the Word, is worthy of the adoration of Angels and men. In the Devotion to the Sacred Heart, the essential motive for honouring I, is the love with which It is inflamed and the sufferings It endured, through the ingratitude of men which has relation to the Divine Heart and to no other part of the Body.
In short, in instituting the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament the object was to render to Jesus Christ, abiding amongst us, the adoration, the gratitude and the love which are so justly due to Him in this Ineffable Mystery. It is in order to satisfy these obligations that the Church has instituted the festival of the Blessed Sacrament with its Solemn Octave, with processions, decorations and all the pomp and magnificence with which this Feast is celebrated. But in that of the Sacred Heart the principal object of its institution is to make reparation to our Lord for the insults His Love has received in the Holy Sacrament through the ingratitude of men — a reparation which Jesus Christ desires should be directed to His Heart which is, as it were, the Source and the Seat of this Love.
Now it is clear that this object is not attained by Devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, for this Devotion would still remain intact, even if our Lord had never been outraged in this Mystery. All that is now done in honour of this Adorable Sacrament would still be justly given without any other aim than to render, to our Lord, the outward marks of respect and gratitude due to His Divine Presence among us.
Quote/s of the Day – 23 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” –The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost – 1 Peter 3:8-15; Matthew 5:20-24. – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Leave there thy offering before the Altar and go first to be reconciled to thy brother and then, coming, thou shalt offer thy gift.”
Matthew 5:24
“Remember not our former iniquities, let Thy mercies speedily prevent us, for we are become exceeding poor. Help us, O God, our Saviour and for the glory of Thy Name, O Lord, deliver us and forgive us our sins, for Thy Name’s sake.”
Psalm 78:8-9
“Then Peter came up and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times but seventy times seven.”
Matthew 18:21-22
“If your brother sins, rebuke him and if he repents, forgive him. And if he wrongs you seven times in one day and returns to you seven times saying, ‘I am sorry,’ you should forgive him.”
Luke 17:3-4
“No-one heals himself by wounding another.”
St Ambrose (340-397) Father and Doctor of the Church
“If a man finds it very difficult to forgive injuries, let him look at a Crucifix and think that Christ shed all His Blood for him and not only forgave His enemies but, even prayed His Heavenly Father, to forgive them too. Let him remember, that when he says the Pater Noster, everyday, instead of asking pardon for his sins, he is calling down VENGEANCE UPON HIMSELF!”
One Minute Reflection – 23 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” –The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost – 1 Peter 3:8-15; Matthew 5:20-24. – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Leave there thy offering before the Altar and go first to be reconciled to thy brother and then, coming, thou shalt offer thy gift.” – Matthew 5:24
REFLECTION – “The measure with which you measure shall be measured out to you” (Mt 7:2). And the servant who, after having had all his debt forgiven him by his master, would not forgive his fellow-servant, is confined to prison. Because he was unwilling to forgive his fellow-servant, he lost the forgiveness which had been granted him by the Lord (Mt 18:23f). And these things Christ sets forth still more strongly in his precepts by the greater force of his censure. He says: “When you stand praying, forgive anyone against whom you have a grievance, so that your heavenly Father may in turn forgive you your transgressions. But if you do not forgive, neither will your heavenly Father forgive your transgressions” (Mk 11:25) …
For God commands us to be peacemakers and of one heart and of one mind, in His House. And such as He has made us by a second birth, so by a second birth He wishes to preserve us that we, who are the children of God, may abide in the peace of God and that we ,who have one spirit, may have one heart and mind. Thus God does not receive the sacrifice of a person who is in disagreement but commands him to go back from the Altar and first be reconciled to his brother that so God also, may be appeased by the prayers of the peacemaker. The greater sacrifice to God is our peace and fraternal concord and a people united in the unity of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost.” – St Cyprian of Carthage (200-258) Bishop of Carthage, Martyr, Father of the Church (The Lord’s Prayer, 23).
PRAYER – O God, Thou Who hast prepared good things as yet unseen for those who love Thee, pour a burning love into our hearts, so that we, loving Thee, in and above all things, may obtain Thy promises which surpass all desire. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
EUCHARISTIC Heart of JESUS, have mercy on us. INDULGENCE: 300 Days. TQ Toties Quoties = any number of times. St Pius X, 26 July 1907; 26 December 1907 – Raccolta 176.
Our Morning Offering – 23 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – Pentecost V
Auctor Beate Sæculi Jesu, Creator of the World! Unknown Author
Jesu, Creator of the world! Of all mankind Redeemer blest! True God of God in whom we see The Father’s Image clear expressed!
Thee Saviour, love alone constrained To make our mortal flesh Thine own; And as a second Adam come, For the first Adam to atone.
That selfsame Love that made the sky, Which made the sea and stars and earth, Took pity on our misery, And broke the bondage of our birth.
O Jesu! in Thy Heart Divine May that same Love forever flow, Forever mercy to mankind From that exhaustless Fountain flow.
For this Thy Sacred Heart was pierced, And both with blood and water ran; To cleanse us from the stains of guilt, And be the hope and strength of man.
Jesu! to Thee be glory giv’n, Who from the Heart dost grace outpour, With Father and with Holy Ghost, Through endless ages evermore.
Trans. The Benedictines of Saint Cecilia’s Abbey, Ryde, UK slightly adapted from Fr Edward Caswell CO (1814-1878) original translation Music: PUER NOBIS, LM; adapted by Michael Praetorius, (1571-1621). This particular Vespers Hymn is taken from the Feast of the Sacred Heart. In a Seminary or Monastery, this hymn would be sung. It has a very compelling melody, which adds to the beauty of a Hymn which extolls the mercy of Our Lord Jesus Christ. The theme of the entire piece is Our Lord’s Sacred Heart and how It is the Fount of Mercy for all who come to Him. It tells how we should value the Infinite Redemption He wrought for us.
Saint of the Day – 23 June – St Bilio of Vannes (Died c915) Bishop, Martyr, Confessor, a zealous Defender of the Faith and of his flock. St Bilio is believed to have been the 31st Bishop of Vannes in Brittany, France during (circa 892-915/919). He was murdered by Norman invaders whilst defending his See and his people. Also known as – Bili, Bille, Bily, Bilius.
Bilio played a significant role in the history of the Church in Brittany during the 9th Century. His existence, although debated by some scholars, is testified by historical documents and by the popular veneration which elected him Patron of the parish of Plandren.
Information on Bilio comes from various sources, including:
Historical documents: The codex of the Abbey of San Salvatore di Redon preserves seven documents which mention the pastoral activity of Bilio between 892 and 913, offering concrete evidence of his life and his Episcopate.
Episcopal lists: The Episcopal list of Vannes includes our Saint in thirty-first place, placing him between Kenmonoc (878-888) and Cunadan. However, the reliability of this list, especially for the early Bishops, has been questioned by some scholars. -The Roman Martyrology: Recognises him as a Martyr, specifying that he was killed by the Normans invaders during their incursions into Brittany. -Hagiography: The hagiographic tradition narrates his Martyrdom during a Viking raid, elevating him to a symbol of heroic resistance and sacrifice for the Faith.
The period in which Bilio exercised his Episcopate (circa 892-915/919) was marked by the devastating Norman invasions which plagued Brittany. Despite difficulties and dangers, Bilio distinguished himself as a zealous and courageous shepherd, dedicated to the well-being of his people and the defence of the Faith and the Church.
According to tradition, Bilio met his death during one of these Norman incursions, suffering Martyrdom for his faith. His heroic resistance made him a symbol of reference for the Christian community, who venerated his remains and proclaimed him Patron of the parish of Plandren, where he is presumed to have been buried. The figure of St Bilio, although fascinating and full of meaning, is not exempt from historiographical debates. Some scholars question his Martyrdom, while his precise chronological lposition remains uncertain, due to the unreliability of some sources. Nevertheless, we will entreat his intercession for the whole Catholic Church and for ourselves, as time is non-existent in Heaven!
Bl Peter of Juilly Bl Thomas Corsini of Orvieto St Thomas Garnet Bl Walhere of Dinant St Zenas of Philadelphia St Zeno of Philadelphia
Martyrs of Ancyra: A family of converts who were arrested, tortured, and sent in chains to Ancyra, Galatia (modern Ankara, Turkey) where they was tortured again by order of governor Agrippinus during the persecutions of Diocletian. Martyrs. They were – Eustochius, Gaius, Lollia, Probus, Urban. Died by being roasted over a fire and finally beheaded c300 in Ancyra, Galatia (modern Ankara, Turkey).
Martyrs of Nicomedia: During the persecutions of Diocletian, many Christians fled their homes to live in caves in the area of Nicomedia. In 303 troops descended on the area, systematically hunted them down and murdered all they could find.
Thought for the Day – 22 June – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
HUMILITY Meditations for a Month
The Sweetness of Humility
The humble are always pleasant to deal with and pleasant in their conversation. They always try to consult the wishes of the person with whom they have to deal. They conduct themselves as his inferior. They forget themselves and their own interests and so, are able to enter into his wishes and see things as he himself sees them. They are ready to give way to him and they have a high esteem for his opinion and their words and behavior show this. Ask yourselves if these are your own characteristics?
The humble show a special sweetness towards those to whom they are naturally disinclined and whom they are tempted to regard with repugnance and aversion. Instead of turning their back on such and having nothing to do with them, they recognise, in this natural aversion, a sign of pride against which they must struggle and which has to be overcome. They remember that, in themselves, there are defects far greater than those they dislike in others. Remembering this, they not only put up with the disagreeable qualities of others but for this reason, they also determine, with a sort of Divine generosity, to show the greater kindness to them.
This is always the conduct of the Saints. We admire their self-conquest in tenderly nursing those affected with loathsome diseases or in kissing their sores but, we should admire still more, their gentleness to those who insult them and their sweetness and charity to the coarse, rude and brutal. This is the way to win sinners to Christ! This is the way to attain solid peace and joy of heart. It is the charity of Christ overcoming self which makes the humble always contented and happy.
Quote/s of the Day – 22 June – St Paulinus of Nola (c 354-431) Bishop, Confessor, Father.
“The present is nothing. But eternity abides for those on whom all Truth, all Good, has shone, in One Entire and Perfect Light. ”
“Listen, then, my son and give me your ear. Break off all ties which bind and entangle you in this world. Change your secular service into something better – start being a soldier for the eternal King!”
“It is a loving act to show sadness when our dear ones are torn from us but, it is a holy act to be joyful,through hope and trust in the promises of God … Thankful joy is more acceptable to God than long and querulous grief.”
One Minute Reflection – 22 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – St Paulinus of Nola (c 354-431) Bishop, Confessor, Father of the Church –2 Corinthians 8:9-15; Luke 12:32-34 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Fear not, little flock, for it hath pleased thy Father to give thee a Kingdom. ” – Luke 12:32
REFLECTION – “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven”. The beginning of the New Testament is altogether joyful and full of fresh grace. It even nudges the unbeliever and sluggish to pay heed and, more to the point, to act, by promising happiness to the unfortunate and the Kingdom of Heaven to those in exile, those in any kind of distress. The beginning of the new Law is pleasant to hear and starts off under happy auspices, since the Legislator follows on from this beginning ,by giving so many assurances of beatitude. In this way those who have been attracted by them will go from one virtue to the next, climbing the eight steps that this Gospel has set up and placed within our hearts… For, it is clear that what it is all about, is the ascent of the heart and of the progress of merit, through eight steps of virtue, leading men gradually from the lowest to the highest levels of evangelical perfection. In this way they will at last enter and see the God of gods in Zion (Ps 83: 8), in His Temple, of which the Prophet has said: “It had a stairway of eight steps,” (Ez 40:37).
The first virtue for the beginner, is to renounce the world, through which we become poor in spirit; the second is gentleness, by which we submit ourselves and become accustomed to obedience; then, the grief with which we lament our sins or with weeping beg for the virtues. These we certainly enjoy, wherever we have the greatest hunger and thirst for justice, as much for ourselves as for others and begin to be stirred by zeal against sinners. Yet, lest immoderate fervour turn into fault, the mercy by which it is tempered follows after. Through putting this into practice and training ourselves, when we have learnt how to be just and how to be merciful, then we may, perhaps, be capable of entering into contemplation and giving oursees to the purification of our hearts, so as to see God!” – Blessed Guerric of Igny (c1080-1157) Cistercian Abbot (Sermon for All Saints).
PRAYER – O God, Who promised to those who forsake all things in this world for Thee, a hundred-fold reward in the world to come and life everlasting, mercifully grant that, following closely in the footsteps of the holy Bishop, Paulinus, we may look upon earthly things as nought and long only for those of Heaven. Who lives and reigns with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
OUR Lady of the Sacred Heart, pray for us. 100 Days. St Pius X, 9 July 1904. Raccolta 174
Our Morning Offering – 22 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” and Mary’s Day
The Mater Christi! Unknown Author
Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, What shall I ask of thee? I do not sigh for the wealth of earth For the joys that fade and flee, But, Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, This do I long to see — The bliss untold which thy arms enfold, The Treasure upon thy knee.
Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, He was All-in-All to thee, In the winter’s cave, in Nazareth’s home, In the hamlets of Galilee, So, Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, He will not say nay to thee, When He lifts His Face to thy sweet embrace, Speak to Him, Mother, of me.
Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, The world will bid Him flee, Too busy to heed His gentle Voice, Too blind His charms to see, Then, Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, Come with thy Babe to me, Tho’ the world be cold, my heart shall hold A shelter for Him and thee.
Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, What shall I do for thee? I will love thy Son with the whole of my strength, My only King shall He be. Yes! Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, This will I do for thee, Of all that are dear or cherished here, None shall be dear as He.
Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, I toss on a stormy sea, O lift thy Child as a Beacon Light, To the Port where I fain would be! And, Mother of Christ, Mother of Christ, This do I ask of thee — When the voyage is o’er, oh! stand on the shore And show Him at last to me!
Saint of the Day – 22 June – Saint Eberhard of Salzburg (1085-1164) Archbishop of Salzburg, Austria, Defender of the Papacy, Apostle of the poor and sick, Papal Legate and negotiator. Born in 1085 at Nuremberg, Germany and died on 21 June 1164 at the Cistercian Monastery of Rein, Austria of natural causes. Patronages – Bamberg, Germany, Salzburg, Austria. Also known as – Ebergard, Everard.
Eberhard belonged to the noble Biburger family. From his mother, who with her own hands had taken part in the construction of the pilgrimage Church in Allersdorf, he had inherited a great devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mother of God.
Having received a Canonry in Bamberg, he completed his Ecclesiastical studies in that City. He attempted to enter the Abbey of St Michael but, as soon as he was received, he left due to unknown reasons. He continued his studies in Paris.
Now in his forties, he obtained, from Bishop Otto to embrace the monastic life in Prufening. In 1133 his family founded the Monastery of Biburg, reserving its Abbey dignity for Everhard whose virtue recommended him for this position but he, however, refused to receive the Abbey blessing, until, in 1138, during a trip to Rome with the Bishop of Bamberg, it was conferred upon him by Pope Innocent II.
On 11 May 1147 he was elected as the Archbishop of Salzburg. When, in 1159, after the election of Alexander III, Frederick Barbarossa and with him the majority of the German Bishops, favoured the antipope Victor IV, Everhard openly took the side of the legitimate Pope, without however separating himself from the Emperor, whose political power he respected. Frederick tried several times to win the Prelate to his cause – to this end, in 1162, after his triumphal entry into Milan, he had him come to Italy but Everard was able to defend his position and beliefs so well that Frederick let him return to his Diocese.
Having become Legate of the Pope (legitimate), Everard was unable to reconcile Barbarossa with Pope Alexander III. Returning from Styria, where he had ensured peace between the military leader of Leubnitz and Duke Ottokar, he was forced to stop at the Monastery of Rein, where he died on 21 June. 1164. Cardinal Archbishop Burchard of Weisspriach had begun the process of Canonisation,but it was interruptedin 1466, upon his death.
Everhard had his Mass and Office in Salzburg until the introduction of the Roman Breviary in 1598. That year the Cathedral was destroyed by fire and the Relics that had been kept safely there were never found again. The memory of the Saint is found in the Benedictine Martyrology on 22 June. Ssaint Eberhard is depicted on the Baptismal Fonts of Salzburg Cathedral which dates from 1321 and is particularly renowned as having been the site of Mozart’s Baptism.
St Paulinus of Nola (c 354-431) Bishop, Confessor, Poet, Writer, Apostle of Charity, Preacher, Orator, Senator and Governor. St Paulinus was an inspiration to many—including six great Saints of the Church, who referenced him in letters of encouragement to others: St Augustine, St Jerome, Melania, St Martin of Tours, St Gregory and St Ambrose. St Augustine wrote, “Go to Campania– there study Paulinus, that choice servant of God. With what generosity, with what still greater humility, he has flung from himself the burden of this world’s grandeurs to take on him the yoke of Christ and in His service how serene and unobtrusive his life!” This glorious Saint Paulinus!: https://anastpaul.com/2018/06/22/saint-of-the-day-22-june-st-paulinus-of-nola-c-354-431/ AND: https://anastpaul.com/2022/06/22/saint-of-the-day-22-june-st-paulinus-of-nola-c-354-431-2/
St Aaron of Brettany St Aaron of Pais-de-Laon St Alban of Britain Bl Altrude of Rome St Consortia St Cronan of Ferns St Eberhard of Salzburg (1085-1164)Archbishop St Eusebius of Samosata St Exuperantius of Como St Flavius Clemens St Gregory of Agrigento St Heraclius the Soldier St Hespérius of Metz
Blessed Pope Innocent V OP (c 1225-1275) Papal Ascesion 21 January 1276 unril 22 June 1276 (the date of his death. Friar of the Order of Preachers, Theologian, renowned Preacher, Scholar, Writer,, Dominican Office bearer, disciple of St Albert the Great and collaborator and friend of St Thomas Aquinas.and St Bonaventure. His Life: https://anastpaul.com/2021/06/22/saint-of-the-day-22-june-blessed-pope-innocent-v-op-c-1225-1275/
St John IV of Naples St Julius of Pais-de-Laon Bl Kristina Hamm Bl Marie Lhuilier St Nicetas of Remesiana St Precia of Epinal St Rotrudis of Saint-Omer St Rufinus of Alexandria
Martyrs of Samaria – 1480 Saints: 1480 Christians massacred in and near Samaria during the war between the Greek Emperor Heraclius and the pagan Chosroas of Persia. c 614 in the vicinity of Samaria, Palestine.
Thought for the Day – 21 June – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
HUMILITY Meditations for a Month
The Patience of Humility
The humble are always patient and these two virtues are most intimately connected with each other. He who forms a low estimation of himself, is convinced that it is well for him to suffer, to be contradicted, to wait for others, to be thwarted in his projects, to have to bear with the ill temper of others and the unkindness of others. He regards all this as his due and takes it accordingly. Am I thus patient and ready to submit to the disagreeable?
On the other hand, impatience is one of the surest signs of hidden pride! If we detect ourselves succombing to impatience and becoming “put our or upset” when we cannot get our own way and carry all before us, we may put it down, as certain, that we are still very deficient in the virtue of humility! Even physical impatience (except when it arises from weakness and ill health) is a mark of pride. It shows that we have not learned perfectly the lesson of submission. Alas, how impatient I am in spite of long years of striving after virtue. How deeply rooted pride must be in me! How can I get rid of this most detestable of vices!
One of the best means of acquiring humility is to school ourselves in patience. Everyday a hundred occasions present themselves when we can, if we choose, prevent the rising spirit of impatience. We wait at a friend’s door, or we are hindered by persons who walk in our way, while walking. Some sound annoys us or others take our turn or place. All these are splendid opportunities to acquire humility by schooling ourselves to patient endurance.
Quote/s of the Day – 21 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – St Aloysius de Gonzaga SJ (1568-1591) Confessor
“There is no finer thing in this life, than to be faithful to the Lord. Nothing can be compared to this.”
“What is it to serve God and to go to Heaven? Nothing else but to love!”
“My confidence is placed in God, Who does not need our help for accomplishing His designs. Our part, is to pray that we may be worthy of becoming His instruments.”
One Minute Reflection – 21 June – “The Month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” – St Aloysius de Gonzaga SJ (1568-1591) Confessor – Ecclesiasticus 31:8-11, Matthew 22:29-40 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“On these two commandments dependeth the whole law and the prophets.” – Matthew 22:40
REFLECTION – “God does not ask many things of you, for charity alone fulfills the whole Law. But that love is double – love of God and love of the neighbour… When God tells you to love your neighbour, He does not tell you to love him with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind. Rather, He tells you to love your neighbour as yourself. Thus, love God with all that you are because He is greater than you are; love your neighbour as yourself because he is what you are…
Thus, our love has three objects. But why are there only two commandments? I will tell you – God did not consider it necessary to commit you to loving yourself, since there is no-one who does not love himself. But many people lose themselves because they love themselves in a bad way. By telling you to love God, with all that you are, God gave you a rule according to which you must love yourself. Without doubt, you want to love yourself? So love God with all that you are. For it is in Him that you will find yourself and avoid losing yourself in yourself… Therefore, the rule according to which you must love yourself is given to you – love the One Who is greater than you and you will love yourself!” – St Augustine (354-430) Father and Doctor of Grace of the Church (Sermon on the Letter of St James).
PRAYER – O God, bestower of heavenly gifts, Who in the angelic youth Aloysius joined wondrous innocence of life to an equally wondrous love of penance; grant, by his merits and prayers, that we who have not followed him in his innocence may imitate him in his penance. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
DIVINE Heart of JESUS, convert sinners, save the dying, set free the holy souls in Purgatory. Indulgence 300 Days Everytime – St Pius X, 11 September, 1907
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