“Growing deeper in our relation with the Lord; and with Him, being strong and bold against the “storms” of the evil one!

(Based on Gen 21:5, 8-20a and Mt 8:28-34 – Wednesday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

Four boys were on an expedition – through the rivers and valleys and the mountain ranges.

At the end of the day, they camped – with supper by a campfire – in a lonely ravine.

However, at midnight a terrific thunderstorm encountered them.

The boys were forced to take refuge from the storm in the barn of a farmer.

They felt safe from the stormy rain and lay on the hay…
… when suddenly they heard loud noises…

This time not that of nature.. but of a human voice – loud and wild.

All through the night they heard that terrible shouting.
Somehow, in fear and trembling, they managed to through the night.

When dawn appeared, they come down from the barn, and realised the reason for the noise…

The farmer’s father was insane, a maniac…
… locked up in one of the rooms of the house!

The expedition of the boys ended up with a dual-storm-experience!
… the storm of nature’s fury – in the thunderstorm and heavy rainfall
… the storm of human anger – unleashed by that poor man who was insane

The Gospel of the Day along with yesterday’s Gospel passage, present two storms that are encountered by Jesus and His Disciples…
… the storm of nature’s fury – as They got caught in the heavy tempest while in the boat (Mt 8: 23-27)
… the storm of human anger – as They met the two demoniacs coming out of the tombs (Mt 8: 28-34)

In both the “stormy” and “turbulent” encounters, Jesus calms the “violence” and displays His supremacy as the Lord of all storms and turbulence.

The Gospel of the Day is the incident of the healing of the two demoniacs.

The word “demons” might immediately put off many a people…including perhaps some of us…

“Modern and learned” sceptics of the Bible dismiss demon-possession as rubbish!

Some might say that it was just a primitive manner that people had, to describe psychic or social disorders.
Some might say that it was just a superstitious belief and practice.

But when we consider the Bible in its totality and especially the ministry of Jesus, it is very evidently seen that there is not much accommodation to superstitious beliefs or practices.

Any false or fanciful superstitious stuff was in fact, corrected or rectified!

The Church teaches that the Devil is real, and not just a mythical personification of evil.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that Satan “acts in the world out of hatred for God and his kingdom in Christ Jesus, and … his action causes grave injuries” (CCC #395).

Pope Francis, in his first homily quoted: ‘He who does not pray to the Lord, prays to the Devil.’

This then is an important aspect that we see in today’s Gospel: Jesus performing this miracle of exorcism, showing His supreme power and authority over the satanic forces.

What is my understanding of Satan and the evil forces?

I need to realise that this real force opposes anything that is spiritual and holy.

This also means that wherever there is a spiritual action taking place, there is an opposition by the Devil and his evil power.

Do I arm myself with deeper faith, courage and conviction in God’s power?

Do I equip myself with greater holiness and sanctity to withstand evil influences?

The “Our Father” is a powerful prayer which invokes the power of God against the evil: “… and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from Evil”

Another important and interesting dimension that we see in today’s Gospel passage is the repulsion and disgust for Jesus…

This repulsion is displayed by two groups:

1. The two demoniacs
2. The people of the town

And this repulsion is characterised by a singular word – “begging”

The demoniacs BEGGED Him, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of swine” (Mt 8: 31)
Thereupon the whole town came to meet Jesus, and when they say Him, they BEGGED Him to leave their district” (Mt 8: 34)

The demoniacs couldn’t stand the Holiness and Power of the Lord and so they “begged” Him to cast them into the swine

The people of the town – we are not very sure, what exactly were their reasons – too had a repulsion to the Lord and “begged” Him to leave their district.

In both the cases, one thing is clear:
Holiness was opposed and was found repulsive by evil forces!

Where there is Holiness, evil cannot stand!

Where there is Sanctity, satan finds it unbearable!

This then, makes it imperative on our parts, as Christians, to embrace ourselves closer into holiness and immerse ourselves deeper into the power of God!

Evil is a reality…

But the power of God, is a much stronger force!

Jesus says, “Fear not, I have conquered the world”

Let us grow deeper in our relation with the Lord, and with Him, be strong and bold against the “storms” of the evil one!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS – Popular piety

Expressions of piety extend the liturgical life of the Church, but do not replace it.
They “should be so drawn up that they…
… harmonize with the liturgical seasons
… accord with the sacred liturgy
… are in some way derived from it
… and lead the people to it

… since in fact the liturgy by its very nature is far superior to any of them.” (CCC # 1675)

“Viewing life from the Providence of the Lord and experiencing great and wondrous moments of Blessings!”

(Based on Gen 19:15-29 and Mt 8:23-27 – Tuesday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

We live in a world of wonders…

For example…

Salt is a wonder.

• It is composed of two dangerous substances – Sodium which is explosive when exposed to moisture and Chlorine which is poisonous.

But salt is so very stable!

Alnico magnets are a wonder.

• It is composed of three non-magnetic substances: aluminium, nickel and cobalt.

But it is the strongest magnet in the world!

Water is a wonder.

• Its chemical formula is H2O – Oxygen is flammable and hydrogen readily burns.

But unite them, to get water and we put out fires with it!

But above all these things of nature and the natural phenomena…
… we have the greatest wonder in the Lord and Creator of every “object and situation” of wonder, Himself – God!

How often do we realize the wonder of His Being?
How often do we be thankful for the wonders He does in our lives?

The Gospel of the Day is a reminder and an eye-opener for us to realize the “wonderful” Person that we have…
… in the “boat” of our lives – Jesus – and to be grateful for Him for His “wondrous” presence!

We are with the familiar passage of the calming of the storms.

The Gospel of Matthew reports the fact that when Jesus and His disciples got into the boat, there was sudden violent “storm”… (Mt 8:23)

The Greek word that is used for “storm” is “seismos”…

Seismos means a “shaking” or a “commotion” or a “tempest” or an “earthquake”
(It is from this word “seismos” that we get the word “seismic” which refers to earthquakes)

The disciples were right in the midst of something like a “sea-earthquake”

And it came on “suddenly!”

How often is our life too so similar…

We sail across calmly, enjoying the peace and serenity of life…
… when suddenly…… we are hit by a deadly storm…in the form of….

• a major crisis in the family or the community
• an unexpected sickness to us or to our loved one
• some unimaginable disaster arising in our work-place
• an inexpressible pain or an absolutely unforeseen problem

We find ourselves totally despairing in the thick of that “seismos”, that “storm”.

The waves hit the boat of our lives so badly and violently…
… that for a moment, our heart skips a beat and we think, “is it all going to be over?”
… that for a split-second, we let go of every hope and we feel, “is it really the end?”

But the Lord who was always with us, in our boat, relaxed and calm, “gets up, rebukes the winds and the sea, and there is great calm” (Mt 8: 26)

It is as if the whole world is His classroom, and the Master Teacher gets up and demonstrates His power to His students!
It is as if the waves and the winds are getting “too naughty” and Jesus, the Lord, gets up and “rebukes and chides” them!

And suddenly the disciples realized something spectacular…

All this while, in the midst of the storm, they were shocked and appalled at the “wonder” of the mighty wind and the raging tempest.

But now, right before them and with them…
… was a Person who was the Source, Creator and the Perfection of all Wonders – “Jesus”!

• The “wonder” of the Lord’s presence far outmatched those of the deadly side of nature!
• The “wonder” of the Mighty Creator greatly surpassed that of the crisis they faced!

The Gospel says that the disciples were “‘amazed’ and said “What sort of a man is this, whom even the winds and the seas obey?” (Mt 8:27)

How often do we realize the wonder of His Being?
How often do we be thankful for the wonders He does in our lives?

Let us also, like the Disciples, learn to experience deeper and mingle with the “wonder” of the Lord – especially in the Most Holy Eucharist, where He is truly and really present…
… so that we can sail through the storms of our life, in faith and hope!

Problems of life, when faced individually, can be volatile and dangerous…

But when they are viewed from the Providence of the Lord…
… they become great and wondrous moments of Blessings!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS – Popular piety

Besides sacramental liturgy and sacramentals, catechesis must take into account the forms of piety and popular devotions among the faithful.
The religious sense of the Christian people has always found expression in various forms of piety surrounding the Church’s sacramental lif…

… such as the veneration of relics, visits to sanctuaries, pilgrimages, processions, the stations of the cross, religious dances, the rosary, medals etc (CCC # 1674)

“Becoming Christians of conviction and certainty, and – like St Thomas – to firmly cry out, in joyful acclamation, ‘My Lord and My God!’”

(Based on the Solemnity of St Thomas, the Apostle of India)

An incident is told about the great English actor Charles Macready and an eminent preacher.

This preacher, once asked Macready a doubt:
“What is the reason for the difference between you and me?

You are appearing before crowds night after night with fiction…
… and the crowds come wherever you go.

I am preaching the essential and unchangeable truth…
… and I am not getting any crowd at all.”

Macready’s answer was this: “This is quite simple.

I can easily tell you the difference between us.

I present my fiction as though it were truth…
… whereas you present your truth, as though it were fiction.”

Thoughts and words that emerge from true conviction are contagious and impactful!

And true commitment and steadfast faithfulness in life requires the power of convictions and certainty!

Today we celebrate the Feast of St Thomas – who is popularly (or rather infamously) called as the “Doubting Apostle”.

He was probably considered by others as being “adamant” and “proud”…

• It was his search for convictions in life that made him seek for a proof for the Lord’s appearance
• It was his desire for certainty in life that caused him to doubt at the words of his companions over the Lord’s Resurrection.

The Lord realized the worth of this young man- as having a courageous character of convictions!

When we go through the life of St Thomas as seen in the Gospels, we encounter a person constantly displaying courage, expressing commitment and seeking for convictions.

St Thomas indeed stands out among the other apostles…

1. It was probably St Thomas who first expressed his desire to give up his life for the Lord and His Kingdom…
   “Let us also go, that we may die with Him” (Jn 11: 16)

St Thomas becomes a motivation for all those who follow Christ, to be bold and brave and even to give up one’s life for the Lord and His Kingdom

2. It was St Thomas who had the simplicity and the openness to ask Jesus when the Lord had declared that “Where I am going you know the way..” and the Lord had responded “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life”…
   “Master, we do not know where you are going, how can we know the way?” (Jn 14:5)

St Thomas becomes a consolation to all those who face genuine uncertainties in spiritual life and encourages to remain like a child – in openness, simplicity and frankness.

3. It was St Thomas who refused the trust the words of his companions on the issue of the Jesus’ Resurrection.

He knew that many of his companions had impulsive reactions and therefore, could not be believed for their words.

Therefore, he insisted that his belief in Christ’s Resurrection would depend only on His personal experience with the Lord
“Unless I see the mark of the nails in His Hands and put my finger into His side, I will not believe” (Jn 20:25)

St Thomas becomes a refuge for all those who grapple with spiritual anxieties – lack of consolation in prayer life, deep longing to experience God and many confusions regarding spiritual teachings and faith experiences

In St Thomas, we have a saint who is very human and with whom we – who are often prone to mistakes and frail in weaknesses – can easily connect.

• He was brave, but also had his moments of feeling lost
• He was courageous, but also had his moments of seeking answers for doubts
• He was enthusiastic, but also had his moments of staying away from the faith-community

St Thomas is a shining beacon of courage.

He had his doubts.
But once cleared, he became a person of immense conviction.

This conviction made him to travel across many lands to give witness to Jesus, His Lord and Master…
… and even to give up His life, in martyrdom!

As Christians, we need to truly examine our life: Am I able to attract people to the Love of Jesus?

If the answer is in the negative…
… then perhaps, we need to deepen our convictions of our Faith!

Yes, true commitment and steadfast faithfulness in life requires the power of convictions and certainty!

Thoughts and words that emerge from true conviction are contagious and impactful!

May St Thomas help us, with his intercession and inspiration, to become Christians of conviction and certainty and to firmly cry out, in joyful acclamation, “My Lord and My God!”

Happy Feast of St Thomas, the Convinced Disciple of Christ!

Happy Feast of Faith and Belief, Boldness and Courage to all!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS

Exorcism is directed at the expulsion of demons or to the liberation from demonic possession through the spiritual authority which Jesus entrusted to his Church.
Illness, especially psychological illness, is a very different matter; treating this is the concern of medical science.

Therefore, before an exorcism is performed, it is important to ascertain that one is dealing with the presence of the Evil One, and not an illness. (CCC # 1673)

“May we be blessed with the Grace to lead a Christ-centric life, and thus, to “Have a heart for all – extending, our hands, in help, to all!”

(Based on 2 Kgs 4:8-11, 14-16a, Rom 6:3-4, 8-11 and Mt 10:37-42 – 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A)

A very well-respected and fine Christian gentleman, died in a particular village.

The entire village, mourned his death, and felt the grief, at the passing of this man…
…who exemplified charity and goodness and who always placed Christ at the centre of his life.

Among all the kind words that were spoken at the funeral, the most heart-touching, came from a man who was least expected to speak good.

This man, was a hard-core drug addict and given to a life of drunkenness and debauchery.

Tried as much as he could, he was still unable to fully overcome his bad tendencies.

The entire village had scorned him…
… abandoned his case.
(But this “all-forsaken” man had been greatly accepted and encouraged by the gentleman who died.

In fact, it was his constant reinforcement that had become a source of hope for the “abandoned” man to revive his life!)

Standing next to the grave, this man acclaimed the gentleman in these words:
“He had a heart for everybody – good or bad, lost or least!

Never for a moment, did he think about the unworthiness of the other!
But all he did was…”extend his hand, in help, to all!”

That was indeed a wonderful tribute to a Christian:
“Having a heart for all – Extending, his hand, in help, to all!”

The Christ-centric life had enabled the gentleman to “Have a heart for all – Extending, his hands, in help, to all!”

Are we ready, as followers of Christ, to do the same?

The Gospel of the Day is a reminder of the Great Call of Jesus to follow Him, in the “way of the Cross”…
… with a deep exhortation to translate this “following” into a “life of kindness!”

The Gospel passage very clearly enunciates the demand placed on a Christian:
Giving Christ, the first place in life!

Jesus says: “He who loves father or mother more than Me, is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me, is not worthy of Me…” (Mt 10: 37)

Undoubtedly – and rightly so – the society places “honouring of one’s own family members, especially parents,” with the highest sense of social obligation.

Jesus, in no way, negates this supreme duty of one’s familial responsibilities.
But He goes a step further, in the demand to be His disciple: Giving God, the top most priority!

What does this point to?

For a person, generally…
… One’s feelings are most tender and filial towards one’s family members…

Jesus demands: I deserve to be loved more tenderly!

… One’s duties are oriented towards the well-being and growth of one’s family…

Jesus demands: My Kingdom deserves greater attention and devotion.

… One’s concerns are centered on the future of one’s family…

Jesus demands: Your relationship with me and your salvation, is to be the prime concern of
importance.

These demands in no way, reduce our family commitments

Rather, it places a demand on us: That our Christian Families ought to become Christ-Centered!

This would make us to “seek for holiness, in perfectly carrying out our duties of the family, with Christ as the Head of the Family!”

As St Francis de Sales says in his classic book – The Introduction to Devout Life:
“When God created the world He commanded each tree to bear fruit after its kind;

And even so He bids Christians,—the living trees of His Church,—to bring forth fruits of devotion, each one according to his kind and vocation.

This then, is the meaning of those strong words of Jesus…
… which demand a greater affinity and loyalty to Him, than even to one’s closest family members.

It is thus, when we “Give Christ the first place in our life!” that our lives become epitomes of kindness!

It is here that the Lord assures to those, who are willing to have Him at the centre of their lives:
“And whoever, gives to one of these little ones, even a cup of cold water, because he is a disciple…
… truly I tell you, will not lose his reward!” (Mt 10: 42)

In this simple verse, the Lord highlights the magnanimity of doing “little acts of kindness”

1. Who can do these acts?
   “Whoever”

One can be a priest… a consecrated person… a family person… a single… a poor person… “an unlucky” one… a “nobody” in the society…

“Whoever” we be – We can, all, do these acts of kindness!

2. To whom can these acts be done?
   “To Little Ones”

These “little ones” include the unnoticed people… the rejected ones… the ones whom society scorns and frowns upon… the people who are abandoned… those who are not given a “second chance”

“Little Ones” – All, are “worthy” to receive these acts of kindness

3. What kind of acts of kindness are these?
   “Giving even a cup of cold water!”

Giving water in the thirsty and dry land of Israel, was not a very “famed” act.

It was considered simple, petty, common and ordinary.

Yet, for Jesus, this was an important act of kindness.

Also to be noted is that, giving “cold” water, would certainly, take some “extra effort” on the part of the provider.

Thus, though a simple act, it did involve the elements of “sacrifice and self-giving”
“Giving even a cup of cold water” for us can therefore, include…
… “a friendly hello or a smile to people around us, who might be looking for encouragement in life”
… “a whisper of prayer for a person in distress”
… “a gentle touch of concern to a worried family member or a friend in trouble”
… “a listening ear to a broken family, a shoulder to a depressed soul or an emphatic heart for a disturbed person”
… and many many more…..!

The Second Book of Kings records the beautiful example of the Shunammite woman being blessed by God with a son, for her deed of kindness to Elisha, the Prophet (2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16)

It is when we have Christ at the centre of our lives, that all our “simple acts of kindness” also become “salvific” in nature…
… which will prompt the Lord, on Judgment Day to declare:
“Whatever you did, for one of the least of My brothers, you did it for Me” (Mt 25:40)

Let us give heed to the appeal of St Paul: “So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus!” (Rom 6:11)

Yes, the Lord exhorts us, as His followers to “take up our Cross and follow Him” (Mt 10:38)

May we be blessed with the Grace to lead a Christ-centric life …
… and thus, to “Have a heart for all – Extending, our hands, in help, to all!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS

When the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that a person or object be protected against the power of the Evil One and withdrawn from his dominion, it is called exorcism.
Jesus performed exorcisms and from him the Church has received the power and office of exorcizing.
In a simple form, exorcism is performed at the celebration of Baptism.
The solemn exorcism, called “a major exorcism,” can be performed only by a priest and with the permission of the bishop.

The priest must proceed with prudence, strictly observing the rules established by the Church. (CCC # 1673)

“May we be blessed with the Grace to lead a Christ-centric life, and thus, to “Have a heart for all – extending, our hands, in help, to all!”

(Based on 2 Kgs 4:8-11, 14-16a, Rom 6:3-4, 8-11 and Mt 10:37-42 – 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A)

A very well-respected and fine Christian gentleman, died in a particular village.

The entire village, mourned his death, and felt the grief, at the passing of this man…
…who exemplified charity and goodness and who always placed Christ at the centre of his life.

Among all the kind words that were spoken at the funeral, the most heart-touching, came from a man who was least expected to speak good.

This man, was a hard-core drug addict and given to a life of drunkenness and debauchery.

Tried as much as he could, he was still unable to fully overcome his bad tendencies.

The entire village had scorned him…
… abandoned his case.
(But this “all-forsaken” man had been greatly accepted and encouraged by the gentleman who died.

In fact, it was his constant reinforcement that had become a source of hope for the “abandoned” man to revive his life!)

Standing next to the grave, this man acclaimed the gentleman in these words:
“He had a heart for everybody – good or bad, lost or least!

Never for a moment, did he think about the unworthiness of the other!
But all he did was…”extend his hand, in help, to all!”

That was indeed a wonderful tribute to a Christian:
“Having a heart for all – Extending, his hand, in help, to all!”

The Christ-centric life had enabled the gentleman to “Have a heart for all – Extending, his hands, in help, to all!”

Are we ready, as followers of Christ, to do the same?

The Gospel of the Day is a reminder of the Great Call of Jesus to follow Him, in the “way of the Cross”…
… with a deep exhortation to translate this “following” into a “life of kindness!”

The Gospel passage very clearly enunciates the demand placed on a Christian:
Giving Christ, the first place in life!

Jesus says: “He who loves father or mother more than Me, is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me, is not worthy of Me…” (Mt 10: 37)

Undoubtedly – and rightly so – the society places “honouring of one’s own family members, especially parents,” with the highest sense of social obligation.

Jesus, in no way, negates this supreme duty of one’s familial responsibilities.
But He goes a step further, in the demand to be His disciple: Giving God, the top most priority!

What does this point to?

For a person, generally…
… One’s feelings are most tender and filial towards one’s family members…

Jesus demands: I deserve to be loved more tenderly!

… One’s duties are oriented towards the well-being and growth of one’s family…

Jesus demands: My Kingdom deserves greater attention and devotion.

… One’s concerns are centered on the future of one’s family…

Jesus demands: Your relationship with me and your salvation, is to be the prime concern of
importance.

These demands in no way, reduce our family commitments

Rather, it places a demand on us: That our Christian Families ought to become Christ-Centered!

This would make us to “seek for holiness, in perfectly carrying out our duties of the family, with Christ as the Head of the Family!”

As St Francis de Sales says in his classic book – The Introduction to Devout Life:
“When God created the world He commanded each tree to bear fruit after its kind;

And even so He bids Christians,—the living trees of His Church,—to bring forth fruits of devotion, each one according to his kind and vocation.

This then, is the meaning of those strong words of Jesus…
… which demand a greater affinity and loyalty to Him, than even to one’s closest family members.

It is thus, when we “Give Christ the first place in our life!” that our lives become epitomes of kindness!

It is here that the Lord assures to those, who are willing to have Him at the centre of their lives:
“And whoever, gives to one of these little ones, even a cup of cold water, because he is a disciple…
… truly I tell you, will not lose his reward!” (Mt 10: 42)

In this simple verse, the Lord highlights the magnanimity of doing “little acts of kindness”

1. Who can do these acts?
   “Whoever”

One can be a priest… a consecrated person… a family person… a single… a poor person… “an unlucky” one… a “nobody” in the society…

“Whoever” we be – We can, all, do these acts of kindness!

2. To whom can these acts be done?
   “To Little Ones”

These “little ones” include the unnoticed people… the rejected ones… the ones whom society scorns and frowns upon… the people who are abandoned… those who are not given a “second chance”

“Little Ones” – All, are “worthy” to receive these acts of kindness

3. What kind of acts of kindness are these?
   “Giving even a cup of cold water!”

Giving water in the thirsty and dry land of Israel, was not a very “famed” act.

It was considered simple, petty, common and ordinary.

Yet, for Jesus, this was an important act of kindness.

Also to be noted is that, giving “cold” water, would certainly, take some “extra effort” on the part of the provider.

Thus, though a simple act, it did involve the elements of “sacrifice and self-giving”
“Giving even a cup of cold water” for us can therefore, include…
… “a friendly hello or a smile to people around us, who might be looking for encouragement in life”
… “a whisper of prayer for a person in distress”
… “a gentle touch of concern to a worried family member or a friend in trouble”
… “a listening ear to a broken family, a shoulder to a depressed soul or an emphatic heart for a disturbed person”
… and many many more…..!

The Second Book of Kings records the beautiful example of the Shunammite woman being blessed by God with a son, for her deed of kindness to Elisha, the Prophet (2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16)

It is when we have Christ at the centre of our lives, that all our “simple acts of kindness” also become “salvific” in nature…
… which will prompt the Lord, on Judgment Day to declare:
“Whatever you did, for one of the least of My brothers, you did it for Me” (Mt 25:40)

Let us give heed to the appeal of St Paul: “So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus!” (Rom 6:11)

Yes, the Lord exhorts us, as His followers to “take up our Cross and follow Him” (Mt 10:38)

May we be blessed with the Grace to lead a Christ-centric life …
… and thus, to “Have a heart for all – Extending, our hands, in help, to all!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS

When the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that a person or object be protected against the power of the Evil One and withdrawn from his dominion, it is called exorcism.
Jesus performed exorcisms and from him the Church has received the power and office of exorcizing.
In a simple form, exorcism is performed at the celebration of Baptism.
The solemn exorcism, called “a major exorcism,” can be performed only by a priest and with the permission of the bishop.

The priest must proceed with prudence, strictly observing the rules established by the Church. (CCC # 1673)

“Having a deep humility that causes us to reach out to others in concern and care, and to have a strong faith that prevents any blocks in the ‘horizon of our faith!’”

(Based on Gen 18:1-15 and Mt 8:5-17 – Saturday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

Robert Louis Stevenson (1850 -1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet, essayist, and travel writer.

He was a literary celebrity during his lifetime.
He ranks among the 26 most translated authors in the world!

He was also a great optimist and had a very strong positive outlook towards life.

But he was also often sick and would not keep well.

Once he was bedridden with tuberculosis.

His wife, sick of his extreme positivity, made fun of him and said: “I expect you still believe that it is a wonderful day!”

Lying on the bed, with a series of medicine bottles on his table, Stevenson looked out of the window, with the sunshine blazing down, and said: “Oh yes, I do!
I will never let a row of medicine bottles block my horizon!”

What about us?

Do the problems of life block the horizon of our faith?

The Gospel of the Day is a wonderful exhibition of a powerful faith, which refused to get limited by the problems of life.

The passage begins with a centurion approaching Jesus with a request:
“Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress” (Mt 8:6)

Here is a beautiful example worth admiring and imitating…

A high placed military officer approaches Jesus for a healing of his servant
A wonderful illustration of humility – a striking example of concern for people in the lower position.

We need to ask ourselves…
… What is my attitude to those who are inferior to me?
… How do I treat and behave with those who work for us, in our houses, institutions etc – our servants, our cooks, our drivers, our watchmen etc…?

All of them deserve…
… an act of concern!
… a word of appreciation
… a push of encouragement

When Jesus expresses His willingness to come to his house, the Centurion manifests yet another admiring act…
… a Faith that dares the challenges all problems
… A Faith that defies the shocks of troubles!

He responds to Jesus saying: “Lord, I am not worthy to have you under my roof; only say the Word and my servant will be healed” (Mt 8:8)

Who is a centurion?

A centurion was a professional officer of the powerful army of the Roman Empire.

Although, theoretically, this word has its roots in the Latin word ‘centum’ which means one hundred…
… a Centurion in the Roman Army was one who commanded 80 men.

What was the position of the Centurion in the Roman Army?

Above the centurion was a senior centurion… (a total of 80 men for a Centurion)
Above this senior centurion were sixty centurions… (a total of 4800 men)
Above the sixty centurions were six tribunes… (each tribune had 3000 men.. so total 18, 000)

Above the six tribunes were the two consuls.
Above the consuls was the Emperor!

It was such a “man of immense authority” who stood before Jesus…
… and requested for a healing for his servant.

This mighty centurion looked at Jesus the Commanding Emperor of a mighty army!

In Jesus, he saw a man…
… of immense authority!
… of mighty strength!
… of great power!

And so He tells Jesus, “… only say a word, and my servant will be healed” (Mt 8: 8b)

The man had a deep concern for his servant

He had a tenderness that caused him to identify with the sufferings of his slave

But he also had a deep faith that refused to be limited by problems and difficulties

His faith was strong and refused the challenges of life to hamper his belief in Jesus!

The centurion did not allow the problems of life to block the “horizon of his faith!”

What about us?

Do our hardships in life, sometimes cause a mist in the horizon of our faith?
Do the concerns of our family and community, sometimes hinder our horizon of our faith?
Do the problems of our future, our plans and our works, cause blocks in the horizon of our faith?

Let us respond positively to the challenge and invitation of the Centurion in today’s Gospel …
… to have a deeper humility that causes us to reach out to others in concern and care
… to have a stronger faith that prevents any blocks in the “horizon of our faith”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS

Certain blessings have a lasting importance because they consecrate persons to God, or reserve objects and places for liturgical use.

Among those blessings which are intended for persons – not to be confused with sacramental ordination – are the blessing of the abbot or abbess of a monastery, the consecration of virgins and widows, the rite of religious profession and the blessing of certain ministries of the Church (readers, acolytes, catechists, etc.) (CCC # 1672)

“Showing the world that we are redeemed, so that they will believe in our Redeemer!”

(Based on Gen 17:1, 9-10, 15-22 and Mt 8:1-4 – Friday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

A missionary who stepped into a village for the first time had an interaction with the village headman.

After knowing that the missionary was there to speak about the Gospel, the village headman, who was open to the truth, stood up…
… and asked the missionary: “Do you want us to know about Jesus Christ?
Then prove it also by your life!”

He went on to say, “As I welcome you to this village, I also appeal to you:
Not only tell us about Christ, but show us Christ!

Show us that you are redeemed, and we will believe in your Redeemer!”

Yes, so true is the saying: “Christianity refuses to be proved first and practiced afterwards…
… its practice and its proof go hand in hand!”

• Theoretical knowledge shows the whole forest – builds the context and helps to set strategy.
• Practical knowledge shows a single tree – puts forth the situation and challenges to act.

The Gospel of the Day is the narrative of the ‘first in the series’ of practical applications of the theoretical knowledge that Jesus has expounded through the Sermon on the Mount

The Gospel is a great challenge to all of us who are expected to “Not only tell about Christ, but also show Christ!”

The incident of the cleansing of the Leper in Mt 8: 1-4 is placed immediately after the Great Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5:1- 7:29)

• The Sermon on the Mount was the theoretical knowledge that Jesus expounded
• The cleansing of the leper was the theoretical application of some of those principles

At the start of the Sermon on the Mount, we read “When Jesus saw the CROWDS, He went up to the mountain…..” (Mt 5:1)

At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, we read, “When Jesus came down from the mountain, great CROWDS followed Him” (Mt 8:1)

• Many people in the crowd have listened and marvelled at the teachings of Jesus.
• Many of them now follow Him…

Perhaps to see how He would apply those lofty teachings in real life
Perhaps to see whether all those high ideas were really liveable in actual life

And what is the scene that they encounter?

A leper who approaches Jesus!

“A leper!!”… Ooops!!

“Stay away, all” would have been the united chorus of that multitude of crowd!

Leprosy was one of the most feared and dreaded disease of the ancient world.

The Hebrew word for leprosy (Tsara’ath) comes from a root word which means “to scourge or to strike.”

Leprosy was very often, considered a curse.

It was incurable and highly deadly – blatantly evident on the body and an ugly sight!

Leprosy was almost a ‘living death’, with many sweeping implications.

A person would be declared a leper after tests were performed (Lev. 13).

Once declared a leper by the priest, the leper had to be cut-off from contact with society.

• He had to display marks of mourning, as if for the dead (thus, to touch him would defile oneself)
• When someone drew near, he had to call out, “Unclean! Unclean!”
• He had to remain outside the camp with no access to the temple or perform any worship.

Leprosy was, indeed, a living death!

The crowd who saw this leper approach and worship Jesus would have had mixed feelings – shock… anger… unpleasantness…

They would have been also very curious what would Jesus do…
“He preached so much… let’s see what He does now”

“Is He really going to touch and get defiled by that dirty leper?”

But the Lord was not just well-versed in theoretical knowledge; He was also the perfect executioner of applied knowledge!

Theoretically He had said…
“Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees and the Scribes, you shall not enter the Kingdom of heaven” (Mt 5:20)

Practically…
He now goes beyond the ceremonial stipulations of the Law and ‘touches’ and heals the leper (Mt 8:3)

Theoretically He had said…
“… take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them” (Mt 6:1)

Practically…
He tells the leper not to make a publicized show of his cure; instead to ‘show himself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded’ (Mt 8:4)

Theoretically He had said…
“Judge not, that, you may not be judged” (Mt 7:1)

Practically…
He doesn’t condemn or despise or mock the leper who comes close to him and instead expresses his whole-hearted willingness to shower mercy on him by saying, “I am willing; be clean” (Mt 8:3)

Theoretically He had said…
“Not everyone who says Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the Will of the Father in heaven” (7:21)

Practically…
He puts into effect His teachings, ‘walking the talk’ and fulfilling the Will of the Father to be a Healer and Saviour to people.

The Lord was not just an eloquent and effective preacher but also a committed and convinced practiser of what He spoke.

• His deeds matched His wonderful words!
• His words produced dazzling deeds!

This then is the invitation to us too:
To have an integral Christian Life by being…
.. a Preacher of the Word (in whichever little or insignificant way possible)
… and a Practiser of the Word (through a witnessing and charitable life)

May the touch of the Lord take away any ‘leprous’ tendencies in our mind and life and free us from any bondage in order to live a firm and committed Christian Life!

Let us all become a zealous missionary with a clear awareness that we “not only need tell about Christ, but we also need to show Christ to the world!”

Yes, “let us show the world that we are redeemed, so that they will believe in our Redeemer!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS

Among sacramentals, blessings (of persons, meals, objects, and places) come first.
Every blessing praises God and prays for his gifts.
In Christ, Christians are blessed by God the Father “with every spiritual blessing.”

This is why the Church imparts blessings by invoking the name of Jesus, usually while making the holy sign of the cross of Christ. (CCC # 1671)

“Looking to the Lord, Who is ever merciful and compassionate, and receiving the Grace of repentance, which can help us to also become saints!”

(Based on Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles)

There were two brothers were convicted of stealing sheep in a particular place.

In accordance with the brutal punishment of that society…
… both were branded on their forehead with the letters S T, which stood for “Sheep Thief.”

One of them, unable to bear the stigma, ran away to a foreign place.

But people would ask him about the letters on his brow, and what they meant.

Thus he wandered from land to land.

Finally, full of bitterness, he ended his life and was buried in a forgotten grave.

But the other brother, repented of his misdeed and did not go away from his home.

He said to himself: “I can’t escape from the fact that I stole sheep.

So I will remain here, until I win back the respect of my neighbours and myself.”

As the years passed by, he established a reputation for respectability and integrity.

One day a stranger in this town saw this man (by now, old) with the letters S T branded on his forehead.

He asked a native what they signified.

After a little thought, the villager said: “It all happened a great while ago, and I have forgotten the particulars; but I think the letters are an abbreviation of SAINT.”

The man whose forehead was branded with ‘S T’ to signify SHEEP-THIEF, had repented and revived his life so much…
… that other people, by now, experienced him as a SAINT

Yes… The marvellous grace of God in the penitent and a believing heart is able to transform the ‘detestable scars and branding of sin’ into an ’emblem of honour and beauty!’

It is this transformative power and grace of the Lord that we thank and celebrate on this Solemnity of St Peter and St Paul.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Love of God is that it brings people of contrasting characters and temperaments to come together in the Church.

The love of God respects individuality, but forges together beautiful relationships.
The love of God maintains personal traits, but mingles together wonderful team-efforts.

Such is the power and beauty of God’s Love!

St Peter and St Paul were certainly quite different – in their upbringing, in their temperament and in their nature…

St Peter probably just had, what is called in our days ‘elementary education’.

He was a fisherman, married with a family, and had the enormous privilege of having known and worked alongside Jesus during his ministry.
He was chosen by Jesus as the leader of the apostles
He was impulsive by nature and often said and did things without a prior second thought!

On the other hand…

St Paul was a graduate from one of the prestigious universities of his day (perhaps, like the Oxford or Cambridge in our days) and had been tutored by the famous leader of the Hillel School of Rabbis called Gamaliel.
He was very well-versed in the Scriptures and lived passionately by the Jewish Law
He spent his early years persecuting Christians and seeking to end the movement called “Christianity”
He was converted after the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ.

There is more…

The real name of Peter was ‘Simon’, meaning: ‘he who hears’ (from Hebrew) or ‘flat-nosed’ (from Greek)

His nickname was ‘Cephas’ in Aramaic or Petros in Greek, meaning ‘the rock’.

The real name of Paul was ‘Saul’, meaning: ‘asked for’ or ‘prayed for’ (from Hebrew)

His nickname was “Paul’, meaning ‘short in height’ or ‘small’

St Peter denied Jesus three times before His Crucifixion; later, after the Resurrection, he would be asked to affirm three times to the question, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?”

St Paul persecuted the Church and affirmed the stoning of the first martyr, St Stephen; later, he would be asked the pertinent question on the road to Damascus, “Paul, Paul, why are you persecuting Me?”

Despite all these differences, the two apostles had an important aspect in common: They both took part in the mighty miracle of “repentance”

Ordinarily, both these persons would have perhaps drowned themselves in the sea of sorrow and misery, if they got stuck to their past life and depended only themselves…

Peter could have felt…
“I was given so many special privileges by the Lord.

I was to be a model for others to follow.
I had even boasted that I would give up my life for the Lord!

But now I have failed…
I can never ever be credible in life!

What would others think of me?
I would be branded forever by others… An imposter… A traitor… A boaster… A betrayer!

It’s the end of my life… It’s all over for me!”

Paul could have felt…
“I have been such a dreadful persecutor
My name and presence would cause such terror to the innocent followers of Christ

I have made my life an absolute wreck…
I can never be credible in life!

What would others think of me?
I would be branded forever by others… A persecutor… A tormentor.. A tyrant… A Cheater!

It’s the end of my life.. It’s all over for me!”

But they did not look into themselves… rather looked onto to Christ!

And they found strength…
… they found hope!
… they found the Grace to Repent!

Yes…. The marvelous grace of God in the penitent and a believing heart is able to change and transform the ‘detestable scars and branding of sin’ into an ’emblem of honour and beauty!’

Today they are remembered with honour and admired with great respect…

St Peter and St Paul are the pillars of the Church!

Their names today stand for mighty courage, passionate love for the Lord and faithful submission to God’s Will

Is my life also being “branded” with guilt or shame or misery or unfaithfulness or sin?

Let’s not get discouraged and drown ourselves into misery!

Instead, may we look to the Lord, who is ever merciful and compassionate, and receive the grace of repentance, which can help us to also become saints!

Happy Feast of St Peter and St Paul – the mighty and valiant warriors of our Faith!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS

Sacramentals do not confer the grace of the Holy Spirit in the way that the sacraments do, but by the Church’s prayer, they prepare us to receive grace and dispose us to cooperate with it.
“For well-disposed members of the faithful, the liturgy of the sacraments and sacramentals sanctifies almost every event of their lives with the divine grace which flows from the Paschal mystery of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ. From this source all sacraments and sacramentals draw their power.

There is scarcely any proper use of material things which cannot be thus directed toward the sanctification of men and the praise of God. (CCC # 1670)

“Giving heed to the Cry of the Lord: BEWARE!”

(Based on Gen 15:1-12, 17-18 and Mt 7:15-20 – Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

Joseph Grimaldi was an English actor, comedian and dancer, who became a very popular English entertainer in the 18th century.

This celebrated clown, used to go through phases of depression.

Once he went to a physician to obtain a cure for his depressed spirit.

The physician however, did not know who the patient was…
… and thought, he only needed a little amusement
He failed to realise that this man was a comedian himself.

So the physician said to him, “I think one of the best solutions for you is…
… go down the town, and there is a person named Grimaldi.
Hear his amusements… and am sure, you will be out of your depression!”

“But, doctor,” was the grim answer that came back, “I am Grimaldi!”

Even though he was a person who was able to make all others happy…
… within himself, Grimaldi failed to experience inner joy and peace of mind.

Does it happen with us as well…?

Externally things seem to be good and fine…
… but perhaps, internally we are experiencing pain and brokenness!

Exteriorly, maybe we have fair amount of money, luxuries and comfort…
… but perhaps, interiorly, we fail to have a sense of true joy and peace of mind

We are invited today to shun off every external “mask or façade” and truly bear fruits of peace, joy and love!

The Gospel of the Day is a stern admonition by Jesus on the need “to become aware of any such spiritual deception and pretence” that can ruin our Christian Faith.

The world is fraught with a lot of dangers.

There are physical, social, emotional, environmental, intellectual, occupational dangers etc.

Most of the time, we are aware of these dangers…
And we take means and measures…
… to be protected from them
… and to keep ourselves free from harm.

But there is also another very important area to which, many of us…
… either remain ignorant
… or don’t pay much attention
… or take it very lightly

They are “Spiritual Dangers”

Today, the Gospel discusses one of the most powerful Spiritual Dangers: DECEPTION!

The power of this danger lies in the fact that it is…
… very “subtle”
… very “tricky”
… and apparently appears to be highly “good!”

Jesus cautions: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Mt 7:15)

The Lord begins today’s Gospel with the word, “BEWARE!”

This is a strong word that is used in Greek – “prosecho”

“pros” means ‘before’
“echo” means ‘hold’

Thus, “prosecho” means “hold before!”

BEWARE – Prosecho – means…
… to hold one’s mind back from
… never to expose one’s mind

Jesus in the previous verses had given an invitation to walk along the narrow gate…
“Enter through the narrow gate…” (Mt 7:13)

In this striving to “enter through” to the gate of life…
… Jesus issues a strict warning to be aware of the false prophets who would misguide and lead astray

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing…” (Mt 7: 15)

In Palestine, the most dangerous enemy of the sheep was the wolf!

It was a natural enemy, roaming the hills…
It would wait for a flock of sheep
At the precise moment, it would come out of its place of hiding
And snatch the sheep and rip it to shreds!

The sheep would be totally defenceless against such prowling wolves!

The Lord presents this imagery to His followers – His sheep: Of being aware of such “sheep-clothed” wolves!

We have in the world, today…
Many religious philosophies
Varied spiritual methods
A number of attractive theological views
… which present religion in a very alluring, charming and pleasant way!
… which presents Christianity as a bed of roses – cosy, comfy and casual!

But let us give heed to the Cry of the Lord: BEWARE!

Let us not bleed away our precious spiritual life and our Christian Faith!

Are we a seeking a Life…
… without the Cross and the Crucified Lord?

Are we fascinated to a Prosperity Gospel which glorifies richness & success & good social life…
… but nothing on repentance, virtuous life & inner holiness?

Are we attracted to “fiery preachers” and “awesome praise and worship” which appears good…
… but are deprived of the Real Sacramental Presence found only in the Catholic Church?

Let us also BEWARE and examine…
The books we read…
The talks we engage in…
The jokes we indulge in…
The habits we occupy ourselves with…
The music and the songs we delight in…

Are they all worthy of being “Christian”…
… or are they deceptively and subtly leading us away from the innocence and honesty of Christian Life?

Are they in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves?

Yes, we need to Beware!!

Jesus said: “By their fruits, you will know them…” (Mt 7:16)

Gal 5:22 says “The fruit of the Holy Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control!”

In all our actions… and with respect to all peoples…
… let us weigh their truthfulness in the light of these “Fruits of the Holy Spirit”
… let us check their reliability by the yardstick of these “Fruits of the Holy Spirit”

The world will often take recourse to “deception and pretence” to rob spiritual resources…

But, as Christians, we need to be aware, as well as be on our guard, constantly…
… preserving our innocence
… and keeping alight our light of faith!

Let us realise that no amount of external goodness, money, luxuries or comfort…
… can “vaccinate” us from pain and brokenness!

It’s only when we allow the Presence of the Lord to heal us…
… that we can experience true peace and joy!

Let’s pray therefore: “O Lord, may Your Tender Mercy heal, strengthen and renew me…
… so that I truly become an Icon of Love and Peace in the world, Amen!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – SACRAMENTALS

“Holy Mother Church has, moreover, instituted sacramentals.
These are sacred signs which bear a resemblance to the sacraments.
They signify effects, particularly of a spiritual nature, which are obtained through the intercession of the Church.

By them, men are disposed to receive the chief effect of the sacraments, and various occasions in life are rendered holy.” (CCC # 1659)

“Making the right choice – the choice for Jesus and His Kingdom!”

(Based on Gen 13:2,5-8 and Mt 7:6,12-14 – Tuesday of the Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

Nine year old Bobby arrived late for the football match.

The game had already started.

The coach, obviously upset as Bobby was a key player, shouted at him: “Why are you so late?”

“I had to decide”, replied Bobby, “Today is a Sunday. And I had to decide between going to Church and going for this football game”

“Then what did you do” asked the coach curiously

“I tossed a coin to decide” said Bobby.

“Tossed a coin?” asked the surprised coach, “But that shouldn’t have taken too long.”

“Hmmm…” continued Bobby, “Well… I had to toss the coin 35 times!”

(Little Bobby kept on tossing the coin…till he got what he wanted – i.e. to go for the football match!!)

How often are we too like Li’l Bobby, when it comes to making choices and priorities, especially in our spiritual life…

We get confused in choosing the correct choices

We get puzzled in preferring the proper priorities

We sometimes even seek to justify our choices and argue to validate our priorities

As a result, we often end up….
… in complaining and cribbing
… in back biting and bickering
… in criticism and calumny

The Gospel of the Day is a lesson in making the proper priorities and the correct choices in life.

Christian life is a warfare…
… with a constant question posing us: “Are you ready to make the right choice – the choice for Jesus and His Kingdom?”

The Gospel of Day is an invitation by Jesus to follow Him – by the “narrow gate”…
… and to always make a choice for Him!

Jesus says, “Enter by the narrow gate… for the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Mt 7: 13-14)

The Sermon on the Mount continues with Jesus presenting the wonderful message of the Kingdom of God and its radical requirements.

One of the key aspects in the Sermon on the Mount is the demand made on the part of the disciple to “make a choice”

• One has to radically “make a choice” for the Kingdom of God.
• One has to stay committed to this “choice” that is taken and live it to the fullness.

The discipleship to which Jesus calls is radical…
… it requires an honest and wholehearted surrender of oneself to God’s Will
… it demands a complete and undivided focus on Him and His Mission

A Christian either walks on the road to life…
… or walks on the road to destruction!

There is no third alternative!

It is this “choice” that will determine whether our entry to eternity…

Eternal condemnation – is through the “wide gate” or
Eternal life – is through the “narrow gate”.

Jesus says that it is easy to pass through the wide gate…

• All those who take life very casually and without any responsibility
• All those who are content to make life “merry” and just “live life to the max”
• All those who fail to respond to God’s Grace and deny having a life in Him

But this will lead to doom and condemnation!

To pass through the narrow gate is hard…

• All those who make a choice to live according to the teachings of the Lord
• All those who boldly seek to proclaim the Kingdom by their faithful and holy lives
• All those who constantly hold on to the Lord despite hardships and difficulties in life

But this will lead to joy and eternal life!

Christian life is indeed a warfare…
… with a constant question posing us: “Are you ready to make the right choice – the choice for Jesus and His Kingdom?”

What is our answer?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY – THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY – THE EFFECTS OF THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY – THE DOMESTIC CHURCH

We must also remember the great number of single persons who, because of the particular circumstances in which they have to live – often not of their choosing…
… are especially close to Jesus’ heart

… and therefore deserve the special affection and active solicitude of the Church, especially of pastors. (CCC # 1658)