One Minute Reflection – 18 March – “The Month of Saint Joseph” – St Cyril of Jerusalem (315-387) Bishop of Jerusalem, Confessor Father & Doctor of the Church – Ecclesiasticus 39:6-14 – Matthew 10:23-28 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“What you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops.” … Matthew 10:27
REFLECTION – “He had said previously, “What I tell you in the dark, declare in the light and what you hear whispered, proclaim upon the housetops.” He now explains what follows after this proclamation. The whole world is divided against itself, for the sake of faith in Christ. Every house contains both unbelievers and believers. And a necessary conflict has been sent to break an evil peace. It is written in Genesis, God did a similar thing to the rebellious people who streamed out of the east and rushed to build a tower, by which they meant to reach the heights of Heaven. God divided their languages. For this same reason, David prays in the Psalm, “O God, scatter the peoples who delight in war.” – St Jerome (343-420) Priest, Monk, Translator of the Sacred Scriptures into Latin, Father and one of the original 4 Doctors of the Latin Church (Commentary on Matthew 1)
PRAYER – Grant us, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, through the intercession of the blessed Bishop Cyril, so to acknowledge Thee, the only true God and Jesus Christ Whom Thou have sent, that we may be found worthy to be forever numbered among the sheep who hear His Voice.Through the same 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).
Our Morning Offering – 18 March – Tuesday after the Second Sunday in Lent
In Thy Name By St John Chrysostom (347-407) Father and Doctor of the Church
Oh Almighty God, Who hast given us grace at this time, with one accord, to make our common supplications unto Thee and hast promised that, when two or three are gathered together in Thy Name, Thou wilt grant their requests, fulfil now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of Thy servants, as may be most expedient for them; granting us, in this world, knowledge of Thy Truth and in the world to come, life everlasting. Amen
Saint of the Day – 18 March – Blessed Christian O’Conarchy (c1100-1186) O.Cist. Abbot, a disciple and then the Archdeacon of the renowned St Malacy O’More (1094 – 1148) , the Bishop and Confessor of Armagh, possibly also the Bishop of Lismore and the Papal Legate of all Ireland, although these latter Offices are unconfirmed. Born in c1100 at Bangor, County Down, Ireland and died in 1186 at Odorney Abbey, Ireland of natural causes. Also known as – Christianus, Giolla Criost Ua Condoirche.
Beyond the fact that Christian was the Abbot of the first Cistercian Monastery established in Ireland, practically nothing at all can be stated with certainty about his life.
The various traditions and legends are confused and conflicting. According to some accounts, he was born at Bangor in Ulster,and some reports say he was the disciple and then, the Archdeacon of St.Malachy the Bishop of Armagh. Christian probably accompanied the Prelate on a visit to Rome, visiting at Clairvaux on their way there.
It is believed that Christian was one of the four disciples of St Malachy, who remained behind at Clairvaux on the homeward journey and who received the Habit from St Bernard himself.
St Bernard
Upon Christian’s return to Ireland, St Malachy was anxious to introduce the Cistercian Order into Ireland and, at his prompting, Christian set about building Mellifont Monastery. In 1142, St Malachy applied to St Bermard to appoint a Superior and to send Monks to fill the new Monastery and St Bernard appointed Christian as the Abbot and sent several French brothers.
The ruins of the Mellifont Monastery built by Blessed Christian under instruction from St Malachy
Christian is said, by some writers, to have become the Bishop of Lismore andthe Papal Legate for Ireland. An ancient anonymous Irish analyst notes the year 1186 as the date of the death of Christian, the illustrious Prelate of Lismore, “formally Legate of Ireland, emulator of the virtues which he saw and heard from his holy father, St Bernard and from the Supreme Pontiff, the venerable man Eugenius, with whom he was in the novitiate at Clairvaux.”
The new Mellifont Monastery built after the reformation
Martyrs of Nicomedia – Commemorates the Christians who were Martyred anonymously, either singly and in small groups, by local pagans in the area of Nicomedia prior to the year 300 and who may have been over-looked in the waves of Diocletian persecutions that resulted in the deaths of thousands.
Thought for the Day – 17 March – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
“Short Meditations for March, St Joseph” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
17th Day – St Joseph’s Fifth Joy. Seeing the Idols of Egypt Fall to the Ground
+1. When the Holy Family had crossed the desert and arrived at the place of their abode in Egypt, tradition records a miracle. The idols in the temples are said to have fallen prostrate on the very night of their arrival. The news filled Joseph’s heart with joy. The one thought of Joseph’s life was to further the influence of Jesus. His one joy was to see Jesus vanquish His enemies and gather to Himself men of goodwill.
+2. This joy in the power of the Son of God, was a recompense for the sorrow he felt, at His apparent helplessness when he was commanded to carry the God-Child to Egypt. Then it seemed as if He were utterly feeble against His enemies but now, the Omnipotence of His Divinity manifests itself by unmistakable signs. So it is with those who trust in God under difficult circumstances. It seems as if He were unable or unwilling to save them but He will reward their patient confidence, by some glorious surprise they had not even ventured to hope for.
+3. Christ’s task is always to destroy idols. In my heart there are many idols – sloth, sensuality, selfishness, impatience, anger, neglect of religious duties, unkindness to others, self-love, disobedience and worst of all, pride! If Jesus is to dwell within me, these idols must be overthrown and pride above all. It is a difficult task, as long as they hold sway within my heart. O good St Joseph, bring Jesus and His love and cast these hateful itruders which Jesus hates, out of my heart.
Quote/s of the Day – 17 March – St Patrick (c386-461) “The Apostle of Ireland,” Bishop, Confessor
“The man of God, Patrick, was marvellously favoured with heavenly visions and revelations in prayer. ‘When,’ says his biographer, ‘he everyday, in the Mass, sacrificed the Son to the Father, or devoutly recited the Apocalypse of St John, it was granted to him to see the heavens opened and Jesus standing there, surrounded by a multitude of Angels and whilst he meditated on these great visions, his soul was altogether lost in God.’ Three times in the week the Angel Victor, visited and conversed with him, filling his soul with celestial consolations. The labours of the day, amongst men, seem to have been less arduous than those of the night with God.” (The Life of St Patrick, Apostle of Ireland)
Prayer of St Patrick
I bind unto myself today the power in the love of the Seraphim, in the obedience of the Angels, in the ministration of the Archangels, in the hope of Resurrection unto reward, in the prayers of the Patriarchs, in the predictions of the Prophets, in the preaching of the Apostles, in the faith of the Confessors, in the purity of the holy Virgins, in the deeds of Righteous men. Amen
Lenten Meditations – 17 March – With Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900) Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“The Sacred Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ” “Short Meditations for Lent” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
Monday after the Second Sunday in Lent The Consolations of the Sacred Agony
Read St Luke xxii:40-46
[40] And when He was come to the place, He said to them: Pray, lest ye enter into temptation. [41] And He was withdrawn away from them, a stone’s cast and kneeling down, He prayed, [42] Saying – Father, if Thou wilt, remove this chalice from Me but yet, not My Will but Thine be done. [43] And there appeared to Him an Angel from Heaven, strengthening Him. And being in an agony, He prayed the longer. [44] And His sweat became as drops of blood, trickling down upon the ground. [45] And when He rose up from prayer and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow. [46] And he said to them: Why sleep you? arise, pray, lest you enter into temptation. [Luke 22:40-46]
+I. No words can tell, no human heart can conceive, the intensity of the Sacred Agony of Jesus. It would have crushed His very Life, had He not, by means of His Divinity, supported His Sacred Humanity and so enabled it, to suffer more. See Him pale, haggard, scarcely to be recognised in His abasement and His terror! See the sweat of Blood pouring from His Sacred Limbs! Can this be the well-beloved Son of God? My God, make me more contrite at the thought that I have taken part in bringing Thee to this great horror!
+2. But He was not without consolation in His Agony. An Angel was sent to comfort Him, to present before His vision, the innumerable company of the Saints won by His Precious Blood. He saw their joy and happiness to be won by His Sacred Passion, by the labour of His Soul and seeing it, He was satisfied to bear it all. O pure unselfish joy! O joy surpassing all other joys! The joy of seeing others happy was the promised reward which supported Jesus in His Agony.
+3. But He had a still greater and stronger support than this. He beheld the honour and glory which would accrue to His Eternal Father. He saw that all the glory God would reap from His Works, would be as nothing in comparison to this greatest Work, to be wrought by His Eternal Son and seeing this, He was satisfied and more than satisfied. In the beginning of the Book, it is written of Him: “Behold, I come to do Thy Will, O my God. I am content to do it.“” Have I the glory of God at heart as the first and foremost motive of my actions?
One Minute Reflection – 17 March – “The Month of Saint Joseph” – St Patrick (c386-461) “The Apostle of Ireland,” Bishop, Confessor – Ecclesiasticus Sirach 44:16-27 – 45:3-20, Matthew 25:14-23 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Well done, good and faithful servant … Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”- Matthew 25:21
REFLECTION – “The Word of the Father, Only-begotten Son of God, Sun of Justice (Mal 3:20), is the great Merchant Who has brought us the price of our redemption. It is a truly precious exchange which we can never value sufficiently, when a King, Son of the King Most High, has become the Coin, the Gold has paid our dues, the Just Man is given for the sinner. Truly unmerited mercy, perfectly disinterested love, astonishing goodness …, it is a completely disproportionate purchase, in which the Son of God is delivered up for the servant, the Creator is put to death for the one He has created, the Lord is condemned for His slave.
O Christ, these are Thine Works, Thou Who descended from Heaven’s brightness into our hellish darkness, to bring Light to our gloomy prison. Thou came down from the Right Hand of the Divine Majesty, into our human misery, to redeem the human race, Thou Who descended from the Father’s glory, to death on the Cross, to triumph over death and its author. Thou art the only One and there is no other but Thee Who could have been drawn to redeem us through Thine Own Goodness…
Let all the merchants of Teman (Bar 3:23) withdraw from this place … it is not they but Israel [Thy] beloved whom [Thou hast] chosen, Thou Who hide these mysteries from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to those babes and humble servants of Thine (Lk 10:21) … O Lord, I willingly embrace this purchase since it concerns me!… I remember all the things Thou hast done, Thou Who desire that I should keep them alive … Therefore, I shall profit by this talent which Thou hast lent to me until Thy return and will stand before Thee with great joy. O God, grant that I may then hear these sweet words: “Well done, good and faithful servant! Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Mt 25:21).” – St Bernard O.Cist. (1091-1153) Cistercian Monk, known as the Last Father and the Mellifluous Doctor of the Church (Selected sermons, no 42: The Five Purchases).
PRAYER – O, God, Who graciously sent blessed Patrick, Thy Confessor and Bishop, to preach Thy glory to the nations, grant through his merits and intercession that by Thy mercy, we may be able to accomplish what Thou command. 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).
Our Morning Offering – 17 March – St Patrick (c386-461) “The Apostle of Ireland,” Bishop, Confessor
Excerpt from St Patrick’s Breastplate (also known as “The Deer Cry”)
I bind unto myself today the power of God to hold and lead, His Eye to watch, His Might to stay, His Ear to hearken to my need; the Wisdom of my God to teach, His Hand to guide, His shield to ward; the Word of God to give me speech, His Heavenly Host to be my guard. Against the demon snares of sin, the vice which gives temptation force, the natural lusts which war within, the hostile men who mar my course; of few or many, far or nigh, in every place and in all hours against their fierce hostility, ……. Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win, Christ to comfort and restore me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ in quiet, Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all who love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger. I bind unto myself the Name, the strong Name of the Trinity, by invocation of the same, the Three in One and One in Three, of Whom all nature hath creation, Eternal Father, Spirit, Word. Praise to the Lord of my salvation: Salvation is of Christ the Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day – 17 March – St Agricola (498-580) Bishop of Châlon-sur-Saône, Defender of the true Faith against heretics, a zealous shepherd and teacher of his flock, Apostle of the poor and sick, building hospitals and leper colonies. He founded Churches and Monasteries. He was also a Diplomat and Peace-maker against invading barbarian forces and protector his people by his great courage. Agricola cared for his Diocese for 50 years with tireless dedication. He was born in 498 in the region and died there in 580 of natural causes. Patronage – of Châlon-sur-Saône. Also known as – Aregl, Agrele.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Châlon, in France, St Agricola, Bishop.”
Born in 498 to a noble senatorial family, Agricola of Châlon-sur-Saône distinguished himself from a young age for his pious nature and religious fervour. Having received a rigorous education, he developed a keen intelligence and a profound knowledge of the Sacred Scriptures which nourished his vocation to the Divine service.
In 532, he was Consecrated as the Bishop of Châlon-sur-Saône, assuming the leadership of the Diocese with tireless zeal and exemplary dedication.
His Episcopate, which lasted about 50 years, was marked by pastoral activity aimed at caring for the flock entrusted to him. Agricola did his utmost to strengthen the faith of Christians, promoting assiduous preaching, religious instruction and the celebration of the Sacraments. With wisdom and firmness, he fought the rampant heresies, especially Arianism, strenuously defending the orthodox doctrine.
Statue in the Church Saint-Marcel near Châlon-sur-Saône where St Agricola’s FRelics are enshrined
In 535, he participated in the Synod in Arvernis —present-day Clermont-Ferrand— and sent one of his Priests to the Synod in Orléans in 538.
His tenacity and courage were particularly evident in the context of the barbarian invasions which were devastating Europe at that time. Agricola stood as a bulwark of his community, protecting it from the violence and depredations of the barbarians. With skilled diplomacy and tireless commitment, he negotiated with the various invading leaders, obtaining their protection and ensuring the survival of the Diocese.
In addition to his pastoral and civil role, Agricola also distinguished himself for his generosity and charity towards the poor and needy. He promoted the construction of hospitals and leper colonies, offering relief and comfort to the outcasts and the suffering.
His fame for sanctity spread rapidly, attracting pilgrims from all over to Châlon-sur-Saône, who sought his blessing and advice. After a life spent in the service of God and his neighbour, Saint Agricola died peacefully in 580, leaving an indelible legacy of unshakeable faith, adamantine tenacity and loving compassion.
Agricola was buried in the Church of the then Monastery in Saint-Marcel near Châlon-sur-Saône, where his remains were found in 878.
St Joseph of Arimathea (Died 1st Century) “The Secret Disciple of Jesus.” Patronages – of pallbearers, funeral directors, morticians, undertakers, tin miners, tin smiths, Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Vancouver, Glastonbury Cathedral. Feast day moved after Vatican II to 31 August “The Secret Disciple of Jesus” https://anastpaul.com/2021/08/31/saint-of-the-day-31-august-saint-joseph-of-arimathea-died-1st-century/
NOVENA to ST JOSEPH DAY EIGHT: Click Link HERE:DAY EIGHT
St Agricola (498-580) Bishop of Châlon-sur-Saône St Alexander St Ambrose of Alexandria
St Llinio of Llandinam St Paul of Cyprus St Stephen of Palestrina St Theodore of Rome St Thomasello St Withburga (Died 743) Abbess, Princess
Martyrs of Alexandria – Also known as Martyrs of Serapis: An unknown number of Christians who were Martyred together by a mob of worshippers of the Graeco-Egyptian sun god Serapis. They were Martyred in c 392 in Alexandria, Egypt.
Thought for the Day – 16 March – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
“Short Meditations for March, St Joseph” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
16th Day – St Joseph’s Fifth Sorrow The Flight into Egypt
+I. One night, as Joseph slept, a vision came before his eyes. He saw an Angel who bade him rise and take the Child Jesus and HisMother and fly into Egypt. Without a moment’s delay, he rose quickly, called Our Lady, put together what was necessary for the journey and started ere dawn appeared, in the sky. His heart was torn with sorrow but, like a true son of obedience, he hesitated not for a single moment but accepted all, as coming from God.
+2. Long and perilous was the journey, many were the sufferings of the Holy Family. Perils in the desert perils from the robbers who beset the road, perils from the wild beasts, perils from exposure to the sun by day and to the cold by night. Sorrowful indeed was St Joseph’s heart, as he trudged on day-by-day, leading the ass upon which Our Lady rode. S orrowful not for his own sake but because of the anxiety he felt for the safety of the precious treasure committed to him. Sorrowful at the thought of all they were suffering and would suffer, during their exile.
+3. At last, they arrived at the destination God had fixed for them and here, St Joseph earned a scanty livelihood day-by-day, by his trade as a carpenter. How uncongenial was all around them! They were among those who knew not the true God, among their old oppressors in Egypt, among idolaters and pagans. No murmur ever escaped St Joseph’s lips; he was willing to wait in Egypt, as long as God pleased. Do I submit with blind obedience to all God commands through my superiors or the arrangement of His Providence, without murmuring or complaining?
Quote/s of the Day – 16 March – The Second Sunday of Lent
“This is My beloved Son; in Whom I Am well pleased, listen to Him.”
Matthew 17:5
“Let us listen to the holy Voice of God which summons us from on high, from the holy mountain top. There, we must hasten – I make bold to say – like Jesus, Who is our leader and has gone before us into Heaven. There, with Him, may the eyes of our mind shine with His Light and the features of our soul be made new; may we be transfigured with Him and moulded to His image, ever becoming divine, being transformed in an ever greater degree of glory.”
St Anastasius Sinaita (Died 6th Century) Priest and Abbot
“At His Transfiguration Christ showed His disciples, the splendour of His Beauty, to which He will shape and colour, those who are His : ‘He will reform our lowness configured to the Body of His Glory.”
St Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) Doctor of the Church
“Aspire to God with short but frequent outpourings of the heart, admire His bounty, invoke His aid, cast yourself in spirit at the foot of His Cross, adore His goodness, treat with Him of your salvation, give Him your whole soul – a thousand times in the day.”
Lenten Meditations – 16 March – With Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900) Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“The Sacred Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ” “Short Meditations for Lent” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
The Second Sunday in Lent The Assitance Given the Saints, in the Sacred Agony
Read St.Matthew xxvi:40–44
40] And He cometh to His disciples and findeth them asleep and He saith to Peter: What? Could you not watch one hour with Me? [41] Watch ye and pray that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing but the flesh weak. [42] Again the second time, He went and prayed, saying: My Father, if this chalice may not pass away but I must drink it, Thy Will be done. [43] And he cometh again and findeth them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. [44] And leaving them, He went again and He prayed the third time, saying the selfsame word. [Matthew 26:40-44]
+1. Our Blessed Lord was not satisfied with taking upon Himself the sins of the world; in His Divine Mercy and compassion, He added to this, a further Sacrifice of Himself. He took upon Himself too, all the sufferings of the just and especially, all His Saints and Martyrs would have to suffer for His Sake. He endured beforehand, the thousand forms of agony to which they would be subjected for His Sake. Not only would He, in His Love and Mercy, redeem them but He bore their infirmities and carried their sorrows. What sufficient thanksgiving can we give Him for His unbounded Goodness?
+2. This it is which enabled the Martyrs to despise their torments and made the Apostles rejoice to suffer shame for His Sake. This it is which makes tolerable, anguish which otherwise would be intolerable; for, if it be borne patiently for love of Christ, He has already, in Himself, if not exhausted its bitterness, at least taken the bulk of it, onto Himself. Every pang, every struggle, every throb of agony which should fall to the lot of His servants until the end of the world, He made His Own, for their relief.
+3. For this reason, we are taught to unite our sufferings with those of Our Lord; for, what else does this mean, except that He desires to share them with us? In point of fact, the more we do this, the more we bear our troubles with a supernatural motive, the lighter they will become, or rather, the greater will be our power and willingness, to bear them. I will be more resigned, more patient, for Christ’s sake. To Him, I will offer all my sufferings and unite them to His.
One Minute Reflection – 16 March – “The Month of Saint Joseph” –The Second Sunday in Lent – Thessalonians 4:1-7 – Matthew 17:1-9 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“And lo a Voice out of the cloud, saying: This is My Beloved Son, in Whom I Am well pleased, hear ye Him.” –Matthew 17:5
REFLECTION – “He leads them up a high mountain to show them the glory of His Divinity and to let them know that He was Israel’s Saviour, as revealed by His Prophets … They saw Him eat and drink, get tired and rest, sleep, suffer anguish to the point where His sweat became like drops of blood, all things which did not seem to have much to do with His Divine nature but only, with his human nature. This is why He leads them up a high mountain, so that the Father may call Him “My Son” and show them He really was His Son and He is God.
He leads them up a high mountain and shows them His royalty before suffering, His power before dying, His glory before being insulted and His honour before undergoing ignominy. In this way, when He will be captured and Crucified, His Apostles will understand that He did not undergo this because of weakness but, to consent and willingly so, for the salvation of the world.
He leads them up a high mountain and shows them the glory of His Divinity, before His Resurrection. In this way, when He will rise from the dead in the glory of His Divinity, His disciples will testify that He did not receive this glory as a reward for having suffered – as if He needed to but thatH this gloryH belonged to Him long before the centuries, with the Father and in the Father as He Himself will say, as He approaches His voluntary Passion “Now glorify Me, Father, with Thyself, with the glory I had with Thee before the world began” (Jn 17:5).” – St Ephrem (306-373) Deacon at Syria, Father and Doctor of the Church
PRAYER – O God, Who in the glorious Transfiguration of Thy Only-begotten Son strengthened the Mysteries of faith, by the testimony of the fathers and, by the Voice coming down in a shining cloud, miraculously betokened the complete adoption of Thy children, mercifully grant that we, be made co-heirs with that King of glory and sharers in that same glory. Through the same 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).
Our Morning Offering – 16 March – The Second Sunday of Lent
Lux Alma, Jesu Light of the Anxious Heart By St Bernard (1091-1153). Father & Mellifluous Doctor of the Church
Light of the anxious heart, Jesus, Thou dost appear, To bid the gloom of guilt depart, And shed Thy sweetness here.
Joyous is he, with whom, God’s Word, Thou dost abide; Sweet Light of our eternal home, To fleshly sense denied.
Brightness of God above! Unfathomable grace! Thy presence be a fount of love Within Thy chosen place.
To Thee, Whom children see, The Father ever blest, The Holy Spirit, One and Three, Be endless praise addrest.
Translation by Cardinal Newman (1800-1890). There are eight translations. Liturgical Use: Hymn for Lauds on the Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord. This Hymn is a cento from St Bernard’s Jesu Dulcis Memoria.
Saint of the Day – 16 March – Saint Abraham Kidunaia (c 296-c 366) Priest, Hermit, Missionary and a great friend of the Deacon, St Ephrem (306-373) Father and Doctor of the Church.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “In Syria, St Abraham, Hermit, whose life has been written by the blessed Deacon, St Ephreme.”
Abraham, born near the Syrian City of Edessa, in modern-day Turkey. Abraham’s wealthy parents chose a bride for him, according to Syrian custom. There was only one problem – Abraham had privately vowed to live a celibate life but he had not reported his desires to his family. He certainly did not wish to disobey them but, he neither did he wish to maryy.
He joined in the week of festivities which led to his wedding but when the big day came, Abraham deserted the bride and the wedding. He ran into the desert, where he hconcealed himself in a cave, leaving only a small hole for food and messages.
During this period, often referred to as the golden age of Hermits, when many (including several who became Saints) chose to witness their faith, by holy solitude. Abraham’s family and friends tried encourage and entice him to return to civilisation but he refused. Finally, they agreed to call off the wedding and leave him in peace.
Abraham led his eremtical life for 10 years, until the local Bishop called upon him to help convert the people of Beth-Kiduna, who persisted in paganism and idol worship despite the Bishop’s best efforts. Abraham did not wish to leave his solitary life but was obedient to the Bishop who Ordained him a Priest before he began his mission.
The people of Beth-Kiduna were not happy to see Abraham. First, he tried preaching but they refused his call to Baptism. Then, he built a Church, came back into Town and destroyed their idols and pagan altars. This resulted in an uprising against our Saint whom they whipped and dragged out of the City gates.
He was back the next day, preaching in the village square. They again threw him outside the walls, stoned him and left him for dead. But he was back again the following day. For three years, Abraham continued to preach and the people continued to hurl rocks and insults at him.
Eventually, Abraham’s holiness and persistence, by the grace of God, resulted in him Baptising 1,000 of Beth-Kiduna’s citizens. He stayed with them another year, teaching them the Faith and Baptising many more converts. He prayed for another Priest to come and take care of the people. And when the Bishop sent one, Abraham returned to his csve, where he remained in prayer and solitude until the age of 70.
He won the love and admiration of the surrounding communities and many people flocked to his cave to receive his blessing during his last days. His final journeyaway from his cave, was for his funeral which was attended by numerous mourners.
St Julian of Anazarbus St Largus of Aquileia St Malcoldia of Asti St Megingaud of Wurzburg St Papas St Patrick of Clermont
Blessed Robert Dalby (Died 1589) Priest Martyr. Born at Hemingborough near Wakefield in North Yorkshire, England and died on 16 March 1589 at York, England by being hanged, drawn, and quartered during the persecutions of Elizabeth I. Also known as – Robert Drury. Additional Memorial – 29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai. Blessed Robert was Beatified on 15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI. His Life and Death: https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/16/saint-of-the-day-16-march-blessed-robert-dalby-died-1589-priest-martyr/
Thought for the Day – 15 March – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
“Short Meditations for March, St Joseph” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
15th Day – St Joseph’s Fourth Joy
+1. As our blessed Lord was consoled during His Sacred Agony by a vision of the fruits of His Passion, in the happiness of the countless multitude of the redeemed, so too, St Joseph was comforted in his sorrow for the coming sufferings of Jesus and Mary, by the knowledge of the reconciliation to God, of souls without number. This would be their recompense The knowledge of the Work which Jesus was to accomplish in enabling millions to arise from their sins, filled Joseph’s heart with sweetness and delight. It is one of the marks of love for God, when we rejoice in the spiritual good of others, beyond all else. Can I say that it is my greatest joy to hear of the advancing spiritual welfare of those with whom I am concerned?
+2. St Joseph was himself, to have no direct part in the Divine Work of expiation, Jesus was to accomplish it and Mary was to have her share, as far as mortals could. Did Joseph rejoice the less because others were to do the work? Not a whit; he desired simply that God’s glory and man’s good should be advanced. How different am I, who am often jealous of others where I fail and take little interest in any good work save that with which I am personally concerned!
+3. St Joseph’s joy at the fruit of the sufferings of Jesus and Mary, quite overpowered his sorrow at the fact, of their having to suffer. He estimated things at their true value and, although he grieved at the thought that God and His Mother were to suffer, yet he counted it a privilege for Christ as Man, to suffer that, as Man, He might receive he plentiful and overflowing reward which God gives to those who suffer for Him.
Lenten Meditations – 15 March – With Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900) Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“The Sacred Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ” “Short Meditations for Lent” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
Saturday of the First Week in Lent The Aggravations of the Sacred Agony
Read St Mark xiv:32-42 (Posted at the end)
+1. If it is difficult to suffer, it is far more difficult to suffer willingly for those who show no gratitude in return for what we endure for them!. But most difficult, nay, impossible, save to One Who is Himself Divine, or else shares the Divine Charity of the Son of God, to suffer for those who requite our love, with hatred, our sufferings with bitter mockery the favours we win for them by outrages and insults! It was this which crushed to the earth, the Son of God. Alas! how ungrateful I am to Him!
+2. During His Sacred Agony, He took upon Himself, the sins of the whole world. Not in a general way but individually, so that each and every sin, from the first sin of Adam to the last that shall be committed on the eve of the Judgement, was present before Him and, not only present but each added its own pain. The great black cloud which passed before His soul contained each sin of each individual man, woman and child and Christ suffered for each! What a frightful thing it must be to deliberately commit even the least sin, if thereby, we add fresh pain to the agony of Jesus!
+3. It was in this way that “He was made sin for us,” i.e. He identified Himself with sin as far as it was possible for the Immaculate Lamb of God. He took upon Himself, all the effects of sin except those which necessarily belong to him who is guilty of the act of sin. All the darkness, all the gloom , the despondency, the loss of God, the feeling of hopelessness, the terrors which arise from sin, inundated His Sacred Soul.
32] And they came to a farm called Gethsemani. And He saith to His disciples: Sit you here, while I pray. [33] And He taketh Peter and James and John with Him and He began to fear and to be heavy. [34] And He saith to them: My soul is sorrowful even unto death; stay you here and watch. [35] And when He was gone forward a little, He fell flat on the ground and He prayed, that if it might be, the hour might pass from Him.
[36] And He saith: Abba, Father, all things are possible to Thee, remove this chalice from Me but not what I will but what Thou wilt. [37] And He cometh and findeth them sleeping. And He saith to Peter: Simon, sleepest thou? couldst thou not watch one hour? [38] Watch ye and pray that you enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing but the flesh is weak. [39] And going away again, He prayed, saying the same words. [40] And when He returned, He found them again asleep, (for their eyes were heavy) and they knew not what to answer Him.
[41] And He cometh the third time and saith to them: Sleep ye now and take your rest. It is enough, the hour is come – behold the Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of sinners. [42] Rise up, let us go. Behold, he that will betray Me is at hand. [Mark 14:32-42]
One Minute Reflection – 15 March – “The Month of Saint Joseph” – St Clement Mary Hofbauer CSsR (1751-1820) “The Apostle of Vienna” – Ember Saturday – Acts 1:15-26 Matthew 11:25-30 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“I praise Thee, Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, that Thou hid these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to little ones.” – Matthew 11:25
REFLECTION – “The fact that the all-powerful God has been able to humble Himself even to the humility of the human condition, constitutes a greater proof than the impact and supernatural character of miracles! Indeed, when Divine power effects something of great sublimity, this is, after a fashion, in conformity with and appropriate to God’s nature … On the other hand, that God descended even to our lowliness is, in a certain way, the expression of an overwhelming power which, is not in the least restrained, by what is contrary to its nature…
Neither the expanse of the heavens, the brightness of the stars, the governing of the universe, nor the harmony of created things, reveal the splendid power of God so much, as His indulgence, which leads Him to lower Himself to the weakness of our nature … God’s goodness, wisdom, justice and power, are revealed in His plans on our behalf: goodness in His Will to “save that which was lost” (Lk 19,10); wisdom and justice, in His manner of saving us; power in the fact, that Christ became “in the likeness of men” (Phil 2,7-8) and made Himself conformable to the humility of our nature.” – St Gregory of Nyssa (c.335-395) Bishop, Father of the Church (Catechetical Discourse 23-26 ; SC 453).
PRAYER – From all perils of soul and body defend us, O Lord, we beseech Thee, and by the intercession of blessed and gloriosus ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God, of blessed Joseph, of Thy blessed Apostles Peter and Paul and of blessed N.St Clement Mary Hofbauer and all the Saints, graciously grant us safety and peace that all adversities and errors being overcome, Thy Church may serve Thee in security and freedom. 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).
Our Morning Offering – 15 March – Ember Saturday in the 1st Week of Lent and the Feastday of St Clement Mary Hofbauer C.Ss.R (1751-1820) Below is a prayer by the Founder of his Order, the Redemptorists, St Alphonsus
Jesus, My Saviour, Help Me! By St Alphonsus Maria de Liguori (1696-1787) Most Zealous Doctor of the Church
Jesus, my Saviour, help me! I am resolved truly to love Thee and to leave all, to please Thee. Help me to free myself from everything which hinders me from belonging wholly to Thee, Who has loved me so much. By thy prayers, O Mother Mary, which are so powerful with God, obtain for me this grace, to belong wholly to God. Amen
Saint of the Day – 15 March – St Longinus (1st Century) Martyr, the Roman Centurion who we believe was he who pierced the Sacred Side of Our Lord with his lance. He was Baptised and became a Monk in Caesarea, where he was Martyred by beheading.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Caesarea, in Cappadocia, the Martyrdom of St Longinus, the soldier who is believed to have pierced the side of Our Lord Jesus Christ, with a lance.”
Statue of Saint Longinus by Bernini in Saint Peter’s Basilica
Longinus is the Centurion who pierced the side of Our Lord while He was hanging on the Cross.
Tradition tells us that Longinus, who was nearly blind, was healed when some of the blood and water from Jesus side, dripped into his eyes. It was then, he exclaimed “Indeed, this was the Son of God!” [Mark 15:39].
Longinus then converted, retired from the army, took instruction from the Apostles and became a Monk in Cappadocia.
There, he was arrested for his faith, his teeth forced out and tongue cut off. However, Longinus miraculously continued to speak clearly and managed to destroy several idols in the presence of the Governor. The Governor, who was made blind by the demons which came out of the idols, had his sight restored when Longinus was being beheaded because his blood came in contact with the Governors’ eyes.
St Longinus’ Relics are now in the Church of St Augustine in Rome. His Lance is contained in one of the four pillars over the Altar in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, where also the glorious Bernin Statue, above resides. Below is a detail of the Statue and the Lance.
St Longinus (1st Century) Martyr St Mancius of Evora St Matrona of Capua St Matrona of Thessaloniki St Menignus of Parium Bl Monaldus of Ancona St Nicander of Alexandria St Peter Pasquale St Sisebuto St Speciosus St Vicenta of Coria Bl Walter of Quesnoy
Thought for the Day – 14 March – Meditations with Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
“Short Meditations for March, St Joseph” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
14th Day – St Joseph’s Fourth Sorrow The Prophecy of Simeon
+1. When the aged Simeon took the Infant Jesus into his arms and gave thanks to God for he had, at length seen the salvation of Israel, we are told, he blessed the little group before him. But it was a strange benediction. The Glory of Israel, the Light to lighten the Gentiles, was to be set for the fall of many of His people. St Joseph could scarce believe his ears at the unexpected words. Was this to be the result of the Incarnation of the Son of God? We little know the sorrows which God may have in store for us, the sudden blow which may unexpectedly fall upon our head!
+2. This was not all. Another clause in the strange blessing, declared that the spotless Lamb of God should be a Sign Who should be contradicted. What could there be in Him which should rouse ill-will, or opposition, or contradiction? Had He not come to be the Saviour of mankind? Were not His lips to be full of grace from the first day on which He began to speak? St Joseph accepted, with resignation, the heart-breaking news.
+3. It was not only Jesus Who was to suffer. Mary’s heart was to be pierced through with a sword. Her life was to be one continual sorrow. She was to suffer with the sufferings of Jesus. The tender, compassionate heart of Joseph was filled with fresh sorrow at the prospect of the anguish which was to overtake his holy spouse. To sorrow with the sorrow of others, assuages their grief. It is this which will win for us a share in the joy which St Joseph has in Heaven.
Quote/s of the Day – 14 March – Ember Friday, First Week of Lent – Ezekiel 18:20-28, John 5:1-15 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Do you wish to be made whole?”
John 5:6
“O Heavenly Father, have compassion for my cry as Thou did for the prodigal son, for I, too, am throwing myself at Thy feet and crying aloud as he cried: “Father, I have sinned!” Do not reject me, Thy unworthy child, O my Saviour but cause Thy Angels to rejoice too, on my behalf, O God of goodness Thou, Who desires that all should be saved.”
St Romanos Melodios (c490-c 556) Monk, Composer of hymns, Poet
“When it is dark, we do not see how dusty and dirty our house is. Only when the place is flooded with sunlight, do we realise its awful condition. So, we need the light of God’s grace to show us the real state of our soul and to induce us to clean up our hearts!”
St Anthony of Padua (1195-1231) Evangelical Doctor of the Church
“Let us then depart, let us depart from Egypt, let us approach Our Lord, let us make provision of good works; let the feet of our affections be bare, let us clothe ourselves with innocence, let us not be satisfied with crying for mercy, let us go forth from Egypt, let us delay no longer. The hour is come to arise from sleep, since we know that He receives sinners; the Angels await our repentance, the Saints pray for it!”
St Francis de Sales 91567-1622) Doctor of the Church
Lenten Meditations – 14 March – With Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900) Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“The Sacred Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ” “Short Meditations for Lent” From “The Devout Year” By Fr Richard Frederick Clarke SJ (1839-1900)
Friday of the First Week in Lent The Sacred Agony in the Garden
Read St Matthew xxvi: 30-40 (Posted at the end)
+I. During the Agony in the Garden, Our Lord anticipated all the coming agony of His Passion. He allowed His human soul to feel, in all its intensity, each detail of the unspeakable suffering which was now close at hand. Hitherto, it had indeed been distinctly present to Him but now, it seemed to take possession of His whole soul Now, it was a mortal horror, resulting from a clear, vivid realisation of all He had to endure – for those who would not believe and love Him! When darkness invades our souls, we should remember that none is like the deep, black darkness which spread over Jesus’ Sacred Soul.
+2. What relief did Jesus seek, in this agonising terror? The relief of prayer. He knew that, in all desolation and distress, the best plan, indeed the only plan! is to throw ourselves upon the mercy of God. There is no imperfection in asking to be delivered from something which we can scarcely endure, whether present agony or the anticipation of it. For Christ would not have prayed: “My Father, if it be possible let this chalice pass from Me!” In our darkest hours, we can at least repeat these Sacred Words spoken as a pattern for us!
+3. Yet. we must remember the conclusion of the prayer, the act of resignation which leaves all in the hands of God. “Not as I will but as Thou wilt!” These words spoken from our hearts, will always give us strength to bear that which seems unbearable and will take the bitterness out of our pains.
[30] And a hymn being said, they went out unto mount Olivet. [31] Then Jesus said to them: All you shall be scandalised in Me this night. For it is written: I will strike the shepherd and the sheep of the flock shall be dispersed. [32] But after I shall be risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. [33] And Peter answering, said to Him: Although all shall be scandalized in thee, I will never be scandalised. [34] Jesus said to him: Amen I say to thee, that in this night before the cock crow, thou wilt deny me thrice. [35] Peter saith to Him: Yea, though I should die with Thee, I will not deny Thee. And in like manner said all the disciples.
[36] Then Jesus came with them into a country place which is called Gethsemani and He said to His disciples: Sit you here, until I go yonder and pray. [37] And taking with Him, Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, He began to grow sorrowful and to be sad. [38] Then He saith to them: My soul is sorrowful even unto death, stay you here and watch with Me. [39] And going a little further, He fell upon His Face, praying and saying: My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from Me. Nevertheless, not as I will but as Thou wilt. [40] And He cometh to His disciples and findeth them asleep and He saith to Peter: What? Could you not watch one hour with Me? [Matthew 26:30-40]
One Minute Reflection – 14 March – “The Month of Saint Joseph” – Ember Friday, 1st Week in Lent – Ezekiel 18:20-28 – John 5:1-15 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Now a certain man was there who had been thirty-eight years under his infirmity. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew he had been in this state a long time, He said to him: Do you wish to be made whole?” – John 5:5-6
REFLECTION – “Christ’s Miracles are symbols of the different events of our eternal salvation … this pool is the symbol of the precious gift the Lord’s Word gives us. To explain – this water is the Jewish people; the five porticos are the Law which Moses wrote in five books. And so, this pool was surrounded by five porticos, like the people enclosed by the Law. The water which was stirred and troubled, is the Saviour’s Passion in this people’s midst. Whoever went down into this water was healed – but only one person, so as to express unity. Those, who were unable to bear anyone speaking to them about the Passion, are the proud – they do not wish to go down and are not healed. “What!” says that arrogant man: “Believe a God to be Incarnate! that a God was Born of a woman, that a God has been Crucified, Scourged, covered with Wounds ,that He Died and has been Buried?! No, I would never believe in these Humiliations of a God, they are unworthy of Him!”
Let your heart speak here, rather than your head. The Humiliations of a God seem unworthy to the arrogant and that is why, they are very far from a cure. So protect yourself from this pride. If you desire your cure, accept to go down. There would be something to be worried about, if someone said to you that Christ had undergone some sort of change, in becoming Incarnate. But no … your God remains what He Is, have no fear; He does not perish and He prevents you, yourselves from perishing. Yes, He remains what He Is; He Is born of a woman but according to the flesh … it is as Man that He has been Seized, Bound, Scourged, Mocked and finally Crucified and put to Death. Why be afraid? The Word of the Lord remains forever. Anyone who refuses these humiliations of a God, does not wish to be cured of the mortal swelling of his pride!
By His Incarnation, our Lord Jesus Christ has, therefore, restored hope to our flesh. He assumed the fruits of this earth which are only too well known and common – Birth and Death. Birth and death – here indeed are goods which the earth possesses in abundance! But in them were found, neither resurrection nor eternal life. He found here the unfortunate fruits of this unfruitful earth and gave us, in exchange, the possessions of His Heavenly Kingdom!” – St Augustine (354-430) Father and Doctor of Grace (Sermon 124).
PRAYER – From all perils of soul and body defend us, O Lord, we beseech Thee and by the intercession of blessed and gloriosus ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God, of blessed Joseph, of Thy blessed apostles Peter and Paul and all the Saints, graciously grant us safety and peace that all adversities and errors, being overcome, Thy Church may serve Thee in security and freedom. 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).Through the same 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).
Our Morning Offering – 14 March – The Feast of the Sacred Lance and Nails
Salvete Christi Vulnera Hail, Holy Wounds of Jesus, Hail! Anonymous Latin Hymn, 17th Century
Hail, holy Wounds of Jesus, hail, Sweet pledges of the saving Rood, Whence flow the streams that never fail, The purple streams of His dear Blood.
Brighter than brightest stars ye show, Than sweetest rose Thy scent more rare, No Indian gem may match Thy glow, No honeys’ taste with Thine compare.
Portals ye are to that dear home Wherein our wearied souls may hide, Whereto no angry foe can come, The Heart of Jesus Crucified.
What countless stripes our Jesus bore, All naked left in Pilate’s hall! From His torn flesh flow red a shower Did round His sacred person fall!
His beauteous brow, oh, shame and grief, By the sharp Thorny Crown is riven; Through Hands and Feet, without relief, The cruel nails are rudely driven.
But when for our poor sakes He Died, A willing Priest by love subdued, The soldier’s Lance transfixed His side, Forth flowed the Water and the Blood.
In full atonement of our guilt, Careless of self, the Saviour trod Even till His Heart’s best Blood was spilled The wine-press of the wrath of God.
Come, bathe you in the healing flood, All ye who mourn, by sin opprest; Your only hope is Jesus’ Blood, His Sacred Heart your only rest.
All praise to Him, the Eternal Son, At God’s right hand enthroned above, Whose Blood our full redemption won, Whose Spirit seals the gift of love.
Office Hymn at Lauds on the Feast of the Most Precious Bloodand for the Fridays of Lent. Translated by – Henry Nutcombe Oxenham (1829-1888) for whom I find little information.
AnaStpaul 
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