Saturday in the Octave of Easter It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard. (Acts 4:20) The apostles’ preaching of Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God quickly brought them into conflict with the religious authorities of Judaism, the teachers and interpreters of the law, and the priests of the temple. It is […]

Holy Saturday “What can bring us happiness?” many say. Lift up the light of your face on us, O Lord. (Psalm 4:7) Holy Saturday ends with the exuberant joy of the Easter Vigil, but it begins with silence — the silence that enveloped all creation following the death of the Savior. Silence flooded the minds and hearts of the disciples of Jesus, too, as they hurriedly washed and anointed his tortured body, wrapped it […]

We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help. (Hebrews 4:15-16) One of the great needs of our day is for compassion. […]

You yourselves can testify that I said that I am not the Christ, but that I was sent before him. The one who has the bride is the bridegroom; the best man, who stands and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine has been made complete. He must increase; I must decrease. (John 3:28-30) […]

Saints Basil the Gregory and Gregory Nazianzen Let what you heard from the beginning remain in you. If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, then you will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise that he made us: eternal life. (1 John 2:24-25) The letters of Saint John are […]

The Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas Lord, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled: my own eyes have seen the salvation which you prepared in the sight of every people, a light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel. (Luke 2:29-32) The Church gives […]

From this day, all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. (Luke 1:49-50) Today’s readings celebrate the fulfillment of deep hopes. Hannah rejoices in the birth of her son Samuel in answer to supplications offered over years. God’s […]

I will leave as a remnant in your midst a people humble and lowly, who shall take refuge in the name of the LORD: the remnant of Israel. They shall do no wrong and speak no lies; nor shall there be found in their mouths a deceitful tongue. (Zephaniah 3:12-13) The prophets frequently took issue with the faith and religious observance of God’s people. […]