St. Ignatius Loyola receives St. Francis Borgia as Duke of Gandia

SAINT FRANCIS BORGIA
Confessor

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Francis Borgia (1510-72), who has been called the "second founder of the Jesuits," began his public career as Duke of Gandia and Viceroy of Catalonia at the court of his friend and relative Emperor Charles V. He was the widowed father of eight before he entered the Society of Jesus at the age of 40. Always courteous, humble, and generous, he was given charge of all Jesuit missions abroad, and in 1565 he was elected General of the order. Working always in closest co-operation and friendship with Pope St. Pius V and St. Charles Borromeo, he shares their stature as a great figure of the Catholic Reform. Though he longed to go as an apostle to India, he wrote to another would-be missioner: "You will find your India wherever the Society needs you."

Mass of an ABBOT, except

COLLECT
O Lord Jesus Christ, You are the model of true humility and the reward of the humble. Let us share Your contempt for worldly honor, as Your blessed confessor Francis did, so that we may also share with this saint the glory of being Your follower; who lives and rules with God the Father . . .

SECRET
May the offerings we lay upon Your sacred altar, O Lord, bring us closer to our salvation through the intercession of the blessed Francis. Through our Lord . . .

POSTCOMMUNION
May the Sacrament we have received and the prayers of the blessed Francis protect us, O Lord. Grant also that we may imitate the virtues of this saint who is our intercessor with You in heaven. Through our Lord . . .

SAINT JOHN LEONARDI
Confessor

SAINTS DENIS, RUSTICUS, AND ELEUTHERIUS
Martyrs

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John Leonardi (1543-1609), a zealous Italian apostle, founded the congregation of the Mother of God, whose priest-members traveled throughout Tuscany urging the people to a stronger interest in their religion. Father John Leonardi longed to convert pagans, but his spiritual director, St. Philip Neri, told him to remain in Italy. So instead he founded in Rome a seminary to train for the priesthood young men from all the mission lands. This seminary developed into the Urban College of Propaganda, which has during succeeding centuries sent forth thousands of priests of all nationalities, to carry the Gospel to their own peoples.

INTROIT Eccli. 42:15-16
By His word the Lord has accomplished His works. The sun in giving light looks down upon all things; and the work of the Lord is full of His glory.
Ps. 95:1. Sing to the Lord a new canticle; sing to the Lord, all the earth.
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O God, You filled the blessed confessor John with a wondrous zeal to spread the faith among pagans, and through him You established in Your Church a new congregation to instruct the faithful. Grand that his teachings may lead us, Your servants, to the reward of eternal life. Through our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINTS DENIS, RUSTICUS, AND ELEUTHERIUS
Denis, a third-century apostle of God, and now one of the "auxiliary saints," became first bishop of Paris. He suffered martyrdom there, together with his priest Rusticus and his deacon Eleutherius.

O God, You sent Rusticus and Eleutherius to join blessed Denis in preaching Your glorious name to the pagans, and on this day You so strengthened this martyr bishop in virtue that he was able to endure martyrdom courageously. May we follow the example of Your saints for love of You and spurn the pleasures of the world, without fearing to face any of its trials. Through our Lord . . .

EPISTLE II Cor. 4:1-6, 15-18
Brethren: Therefore seeing we have this ministration, according as we have obtained mercy, we faint not. But we renounce the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness nor adulterating the word of God: but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience, in the sight of God. And if our gospel be also hid, it is hid to them that are lost,
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of unbelievers, that the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should not shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Jesus Christ our Lord: and ourselves your servants through Jesus. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of Christ Jesus.
For all things are for your sakes: that the grace, abounding through many, may abound in thanksgiving unto the glory of God. For which cause we faint not: but though our outward man is corrupted, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For that which is at present momentary and light of our tribulation worketh for us above measure, exceedingly an eternal weight of glory. While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporal: but the things which are not seen, are eternal.

GRADUAL Ps. 72:21; 68:10; Isa. 49:2
My heart was inflamed and my emotions were changed to excitement; the zeal for Your house has consumed me.
V. He has made my mouth as a sharp sword. Under the shadow of His hand He has protected me, and has made me a chosen arrow.

Alleluia, alleluia! Ps. 70:7. V.
I have become a matter of wonderment to many, but You are my strength and helper. Alleluia!

GOSPEL Luke 10:1-9
At that time, the Lord appointed also other seventy-two. And he sent them two and two before his face into every city and place whither he himself was to come. And he said to them: "The harvest indeed is great, but the labourers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that he send labourers into his harvest. Go: Behold I send you as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say: Peace be to this house. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon him: but if not, it shall return to you. And in the same house, remain, eating and drinking such things as they have: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Remove not from house to house. And into what city soever you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. And heal the sick that are therein and say to them: The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Col. 1:25
I have become a minister of Christ in virtue of the office that God has given me, that I may preach the word of God fully.

SECRET
Accept the offering of this pure host of salvation, O Lord. May this Sacrifice be presented to You unceasingly throughout the world through the intercession of Your blessed confessor John. Through our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINT DENIS AND HIS COMPANIONS
O Lord, graciously accept these gifts which Your people offer in honor of Your saints, that we may be sanctified through their intercession. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Philipp. 3:7
The things that were gain to me, these, for the sake of Christ, I have counted loss.

POSTCOMMUNION
We are refreshed, O Lord, by the Sacrament of Your precious Body and Blood. May we imitate Your blessed confessor John, and profess what he believed and practice what he taught, who lives and rules with God the Father . . .

Commemoration of SAINT DENIS AND HIS COMPANIONS
O Lord, may the reception of Your Sacrament bring us ever nearer to our eternal redemption through the prayers of Your blessed martyrs Denis, Rusticus, and Eleutherius. Through our Lord . . .

SAINT BRIDGET
Widow

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Patron saint of Sweden, Bridget (1302-73) married a young prince and lived happily with him for 28 years, bearing him eight children. St. Catherine of Sweden was their daughter. After her husband died, Bridget founded the Order of the Most Holy Savior, erecting at Vadstena a double monastery for monks and nuns. Following the guidance of the Holy Spirit, she later went to Rome, where she worked for the return of the Popes from Avignon. This Scandinavian mystic is famous for her Revelations concerning the sufferings of our Redeemer.

Mass of a HOLY WOMAN, except

COLLECT
O Lord our God, Your only-begotten Son revealed the secrets of heaven to blessed Bridget. May the prayers of this saint bring Your servants the joy of one day beholding the revelation of Your eternal glory. Through our Lord . . .

EPISTLE I Tim. 5:3-10
Brethren: Honour widows that are widows indeed. But if any widow have children or grandchildren, let her learn first to govern her own house and to make a return of duty to her parents; for this is acceptable before God. But she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, let her trust in God and continue in supplications and prayers night and day. For she that liveth in pleasures is dead while she is living. And this give in charge, that they may be blameless. But if any man have not care of his own and especially of those of his house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel. Let a widow be chosen of no less than threescore years of age, who hath been the wife of one husband. Having testimony for her good works, if she have brought up children, if she have received to harbour, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have ministered to them that suffer tribulation, if she have diligently followed every good work.

THE MOST HOLY ROSARY OF THE
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY


SAINT MARK
Pope and Confessor

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The feast of the Holy Rosary was instituted to honor Mary for the Christian victory over the Turks at Lepanto on October 7, 1571. Pope St. Pius V and all Christians had prayed the Rosary for victory.
The Rosary is a powerful means of uniting families, communities, and nations in the Mystical Body of Christ. In reciting the Rosary we say, "pray for us sinners," not "pray for me." The prayers of the Rosary take us out of ourselves by adoring and thanking God, and particularly by meditating on the doctrinal truths of the 15 Mysteries. Moreover, as Pope Leo XIII wrote, ". . . the Rosary is by far the best prayer by which to plead before her (Mary) the cause of our separated brethren."

INTROIT
Let us all rejoice in the Lord as we celebrate the feast in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, upon which the angels rejoice and praise the Son of God.
Ps. 44:2. My heart overflows with good tidings; I sing my song to the king.
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O God, Your only-begotten Son has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life by His life, death, and resurrection. May we who meditate on those mysteries in the most holy rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary imitate the virtues they proclaim and obtain the promises they offer. Through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINT MARK
During his short reign (eight months of the year 336) Pope Mark I set a pattern of personal holiness for the Church.

O Eternal Shepherd, who appointed blessed Mark shepherd of the whole Church, let the prayers of this martyr and supreme pontiff move You to look with favor upon Your flock and to keep it under Your continual protection. Through our Lord . . .

READING Prov. 8:22-24, 32-35
The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his ways, before he made any thing from the beginning. I was set up from eternity, and of old, before the earth was made. The depths were not as yet, and I was already conceived. Now, therefore, ye children, hear me: blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, and that watcheth daily at my gates, and waiteth at the posts of my doors. He that shall find me, shall find life, and shall have salvation from the Lord.

GRADUAL Ps. 44:5, 11, 12
For the sake of truth and meekness and justice, may your right hand lead you on wonderfully.
V. Hear, O daughter, and see; turn your ear, for the king greatly desires your beauty.

Alleluia, alleluia! V.
This is the solemn feast of the glorious Virgin Mary, descendant of Abraham from the tribe of Juda, of the royal race of David. Alleluia!

GOSPEL Luke 1:26-38
At that time, the angel Gabriel was sent from God into a city of Galilee, called Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David: and the virgin's name was Mary. And the angel being come in, said unto her: "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women." Who having heard, was troubled at his saying and thought with herself what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said to her: "Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found grace with God. Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and shalt bring forth a son: and thou shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of David his father: and he shall reign in the house of Jacob for ever. And of his kingdom there shall be no end."
And Mary said to the angel: "How shall this be done, because I know not man?" And the angel answering, said to her: "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee. And therefore also the Holy which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And behold thy cousin Elizabeth, she also hath conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her that is called barren. Because no word shall be impossible with God." And Mary said: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord: be it done to me according to thy word."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Eccli. 24:25; 39:17
In me is all grace of the way and the truth; in me is all hope of life and virtue. Like a rose planted by the flowing stream I have budded forth.

SECRET
Make us worthy to offer You these gifts, O Lord. May the mysteries of the holy rosary recall to our minds the life, passion, and triumph of Your only-begotten Son so that we may also reap the rewards which He has promised; who lives and rules with You . . .

Commemoration of SAINT MARK
We have offered our gifts to You, O Lord. Let Your light graciously shine upon Your Church, so that this flock may everywhere prosper, and its pastors under Your guidance, may be truly pleasing to You. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Eccli. 39:19
Send forth flowers as the lily, and be fragrant; bring forth leaves in beauty, and with songs of praise bless the Lord in His works!

POSTCOMMUNION
May Your most Blessed Mother, whose rosary we honor this day, o Lord, help us by her intercession so that we may be strengthened in virtue through the contemplation of these mysteries and the reception of Your Sacrament; who lives and rules with God the Father . . .

Commemoration of SAINT MARK
O Lord, govern the Church, which You have been pleased to nourish with Your heavenly food. Guide her by your powerful direction, so that she may enjoy greater freedom and remain unshaken in the fullness of faith. Through our Lord . . .

Here's an interesting article that helps explain the confusion in the Church these days of equating the Gospel Book with the True Presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. Sadly, less and less importance and adoration is given to the Christ's Real Presence in the Tabernacles because of this misunderstanding explained below.
Deacon John

VATICAN - WORDS OF DOCTRINE by Rev Nicola Bux and Rev Salvatore Vitiello -

Two theories born of Biblicism

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - Some say the post-Council Mass is richer in Readings and Eucharistic Prayers, compared with the Pius V Missal poorer and less accurate. The theory is anachronistic since it fails to consider four centuries of distance; it is as if we were to say the same about Sacramentaries some centuries earlier than the sacramentary of Pius V. What is more there is a tendency to forget that the pericopes of the Pius V Missal were formed on the basis of old capitularies with epistles, such as St Jerome's Liber comitis– dated 471 - or with Gospel pericopes ; a tradition in common with the Church of the East, as the Byzantine liturgy still shows today.

Secondly, the brief readings help memorise the essential and express the sobriety of the Roman Rite. Some even go as far as to say that in its exceptional form the Latin Rite gives too little emphasis to the presence of Christ in the Word, when the latter is proclaimed in the assembly; in this case the liturgy loses its very essence, the 'two tables' ( in Dei Verbum n. 21 it would appear to be “one” ) forming one act of worship!

It is said that the Missal of the Council of Trent moves in a vision far from the tradition of the Church Fathers; that the Missal was planned for the priest only, not for the participation of the assembly because the congregation is merely pleonastic. In fact it is said that the priest celebrates on his own and so does the congregation; they say the Mass of Paul VI is quite different because it is not the priest who celebrates but the Church present sacramentally in the assembly of which the priest, by reason of order, is the natural president.

This discourse in a problematic manner, reduces everything to Word and Assembly. However “Jesus is not just the teacher, but also the redeemer of the whole person. The Jesus who teaches is at the same time, Jesus who saves ” (J.Ratzinger-Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth, p. 65) and this comes about effectively only through the Eucharistic Sacrament.

Another theory, widespread due to the customary phenomenon of substitution and exchanging one thing with another, is to equal the presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament with the presence of the Word in the Book of the Scriptures: this is true only “ when the holy scriptures are read in the Church” (Sacrosanctum Concilium n. 7). It is necessary to reaffirm that Christ's presence in the Word exists on two conditions: when it is read out “in the Church assembly ”, not privately, and when Sacred Scripture is 'read'. Therefore the holy book placed on the lecturn or the altar is not sufficient for this presence. (Cf. Words of Doctrine: “The presence of the Lord Jesus, precedes the liturgical assembly and remains after it”, 10/07/08).

To conclude, it is more than ever urgent for preaching and catechesis to return to making the proper distinction between Revelation, Word of God and Sacred Scripture which, although closely connected, are not equivalent. At times in fact, not without surprise, we see in this regard considerable confusion and not only among the lay faithful. Some even think that the Bible is to be interpreted with the Bible and not, as the Catholic Church has always held, with Tradition and faithful listening to the Magisterium.

(Agenzia Fides 2/10/2008)

Fillipo Lauri, Ecstasy of Saint Bruno,
Second half of the 17th century., oil on canvas

SAINT BRUNO
Confessor

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As a young priest, Bruno (1030-1101) was a brilliant teacher at the cathedral school of Rheims. He became rector of that school and later chancellor of the diocese. In 1084 he withdrew to the wilderness of Chartreuse and founded there a monastery of monk-hermits which grew into the Carthusian Institute, the most penitential of all contemplative communities. His character, far from being harsh, was marked by serene gaiety and tender charity.

Mass of a CONFESSOR OF THE FAITH, except

COLLECT
May the prayers of the holy confessor Bruno assist us, O Lord, so that we, who have deeply offended Your majesty by our sins, may be pardoned through his merits and intercession. Through our Lord . . .

SECRET
We offer You, O Lord, this sacrifice of praise in memory of Your saints. Free us from evil now and in the future through their intercession. Through our Lord . . .

POSTCOMMUNION
Almighty God, we pray that the reception of this Bread of Heaven may strengthen us against all adversity through the intercession of Your blessed confessor Bruno. Through our Lord . . .

Pontifical Commission "Ecclesia Dei"
now has their own website. Deo gratias.

http://www.ecclesiadei-pontcommissio.org/

Saint Francis in ecstasy.

SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI
Confessor

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Born at Assisi, Italy, and Christened John (Giovanni) di Bernadone, Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) was a serviceman in his youth. His vocation -- that of counteracting the growing spirit of riches infecting Europe -- made itself known almost simultaneously with the young Spanish priest Dominic's call to combat the doctrinal ignorance and heretical evil of that day. Each in his own way, they revolutionized the Christian life with the creation of their two orders of mendicant friars. In 1207 Francis founded the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans), a group of laymen dedicated to poverty of life and Christlike charity toward all men. Two years later, with the blessing of Pope Innocent III, he and his band set out to preach. During a crusade he penetrated to the camp of the Egyptian sultan. Following his return from the Holy land, Francis relinquished the rule of his by now immensely expanded order, and received the Stigmata in its stead. His love for poverty, for the cross, and for all creation, brought new vitality and holiness to the whole Church.

INTROIT Gal. 6:14
But as for me, God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.
Ps. 141:2. With a loud voice I cried out to the Lord, with a loud voice I pleaded with the Lord.
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O God, You increased the membership of the Church through the merits of blessed Francis. Grant that we may follow his example and spurn the things of earth to find our continual happiness in Your gifts from heaven. Through our Lord . . .

EPISTLE Gal. 6:14-18
Brethren: But as for me, God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision: but a new creature. And whosoever shall follow this rule, peace on them and mercy: and upon the Israel of God. From henceforth let no man be troublesome to me: for I bear the marks of the Lord Jesus in my body. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.

GRADUAL Ps. 36:30-31
The mouth of the just man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justly.
V. The law of God is in his heart, and his steps do not falter.

Alleluia, alleluia! V.
The poor and humble Francis enters heaven a rich man, and is welcomed with heavenly music. Alleluia!

GOSPEL Matt. 11:25-30
At that time Jesus answered and said: "I confess to thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them to little ones. Yea, Father: for so hath it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me by my Father. And no one knoweth the Son but the Father: neither doth any one know the Father, but the Son, and he to whom it shall please the Son to reveal him. Come to me all you that labor and are burdened, and I will refresh you. Take up my yoke upon you, and learn of me, because I am meek, and humble of heart: And you shall find rest to your souls. For my yoke is sweet and my burden light."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Ps. 88:25
My truth and My mercy shall be with him; and in My name shall his power be exalted.

SECRET
Bless the gifts we offer to You, O Lord, and cleanse us from all stain of sin through the intercession of blessed Francis. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Luke 12:42
This is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master has set over his household to give them their ration of grain in due time.

POSTCOMMUNION
O Lord, the merits and teachings of the blessed confessor Francis reflected glory on Your Church. May she flourish and increase through Your divine grace. Through our Lord . . .

SAINT TERESA OF THE CHILD JESUS
Virgin, Doctor of the Church

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Therese Martin (1873-97) entered the Carmelite convent in Lisieux, France, at the age of 15. Her simple but heroic religious life of nine years was dedicated to saving souls and to praying for priests. The young Carmelite longed to lead her hidden life of prayer in a pagan land, but illness kept her in France. Yet so well did she fulfill the essential vocation of a missioner that in 1927, two years after her canonization, Pope Pius XI declared her the patron of all missions, together with St. Francis Xavier, Apostle of the Orient.

INTROIT Cant. 4:8-9
Come forth from Lebanon, my spouse, come forth from Lebanon. Come! You have pierced my heart, my sister, my spouse, you have wounded my heart!
Ps. 112:1. Praise the Lord, you His children, praise the name of the Lord!
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O Lord, You have said, "Unless you become as little children, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven." May we imitate the humility and the simplicity of heart of the blessed virgin Teresa, so that we too may win an eternal reward; who lives and rules with God the Father . . .

LESSON Isa. 66:12-14
For thus saith the Lord: "Behold I will bring upon her as it were a river of peace, and as an overflowing torrent the glory of the Gentiles, which you shall suck; you shall be carried at the breasts, and upon the knees they shall caress you. As one whom the mother caresseth, so will I comfort you, and you shall be comforted in Jerusalem. You shall see and your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb, and the hand of the Lord shall be known to his servants, and he shall be angry with his enemies."

GRADUAL Matt. 11:25; Ps. 70:5
I praise Thee, Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, that thou didst hide these things from the wise and prudent, and didst reveal them to little ones.
V. O Lord, you are my hope from my youth!

Alleluia, alleluia! V. Eccli. 39:17-19
Bud forth as the rose planted by the flowing stream! Give forth a sweet odor as frankincense! Send forth flowers as the lily, and be fragrant; bring forth leaves in beauty, and with songs of praise bless the Lord in His works! Alleluia!

GOSPEL Matt. 18:1-4
At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying: "Who, thinkest thou, is the greater in the kingdom of heaven?" And Jesus, calling unto him a little child, set him in the midst of them. And said: "Amen I say to you, unless you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, he is the greater in the kingdom of heaven."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Luke 1:46-48, 49
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; because He has regarded the lowliness of His handmaid. He who is mighty has done great things for me.

SECRET
May the prayers of the blessed virgin Teresa accompany our Sacrifice, O Lord, so that her merits, which we commemorate by these offerings, may make it acceptable to You. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Deut. 32:10-12
He led her about and instructed her, and guarded her as the apple of His eye. Like an eagle He spread His wings and took her upon His shoulders and carried her. The Lord alone was her leader.

POSTCOMMUNION
O Lord, let this sacred rite of heaven inflame us with the same fire of love that inspired Your blessed virgin Teresa to offer herself to You as a victim of love for all men. Through our Lord . . .

Tribulation Times
October 2, 2008

(2Th 2:15) Therefore, brethren, stand fast: and hold the traditions, which you have learned, whether by word or by our epistle.

FOR PRAYERFUL CONSIDERATION: Rediscovering Traditionalism

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Collect: God our Father, in your loving providence you send your holy angels to watch over us. Hear our prayers, defend us always by their protection and let us share your life with them for ever. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Ladder of Divine Ascent excerpt: Step 8- "On Freedom from Anger and on Meekness"

13. It is a mark of extreme meekness, even in the presence of one's offender, to be peacefully and lovingly disposed towards him in one's heart, then it is certainly a mark of hot temper when a person continues to quarrel and rage against his offender, both by words and gestures, even when by himself.

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Prayer request? Send an email to: PrayerRequest3@aol.com

This month's archive can be found at: http://www.catholicprophecy.info/news2.html.

THE HOLY GUARDIAN ANGELS

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Because each individual soul is priceless, God has appointed an angel of heaven to be its guide and protector. Today we give special honor to these guardians, whose duty it is to defend us from evil, help us in prayer, and inspire us to live according to our Christian ideals. But we should remember to ask their intercession every day of the year.

INTROIT Ps. 102:20
Bless the Lord, all you His angels, you mighty in strength who do His bidding, obeying the voice of His commands.
Ps. 102:1. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and let all my being bless His holy name.
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O God, we cannot express in words the mercy of Your providence that has given Your angels care over us. May we always be safe under their protection and happy for all eternity in their company. Through our Lord . . .

LESSON Ex. 23:20-23
Thus says the Lord God: "Behold I will send my angel, who shall go before thee, and keep thee in thy journey, and bring thee into the place that I have prepared. Take notice of him, and hear his voice, and do not think him one to be contemned: for he will not forgive when thou hast sinned, and my name is in him. But if thou wilt hear hi voice, and do all that I speak, I will be an enemy to thy enemies, and will afflict them that afflict thee. And my angel shall go before thee."

GRADUAL Ps. 90:11-12
God has given His angels charge over you, that they may guard you in all your ways.
V. Upon their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.

Alleluia, alleluia! V. Ps. 102:21
Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, His ministers who do His will. Alleluia!

GOSPEL Matt. 18:1-10
At that time, the disciples came to Jesus, saying: "Who, thinkest thou, is the greater in the kingdom of heaven?" And Jesus, calling unto him a little child, set him in the midst of them. And said: "Amen I say to you, unless you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, he is the greater in the kingdom of heaven. And he that shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me. But he that shall scandalize one of these little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of scandals. For it must needs be that scandals come: but nevertheless woe to that man by whom the scandal cometh. And if thy hand, or thy foot, scandalize thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to go into life maimed or lame, than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thy eye scandalize thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee having one eye to enter into life, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. See that you despise not one of these little ones: for I say to you, that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father who is in heaven."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Ps. 102:20, 21
Bless the Lord, all you His angels, His ministers who do His bidding and obey His spoken word.

SECRET
Accept, O Lord, the gifts we offer in veneration of Your holy angels. May Your mercy free us, under their unceasing guardianship, from our present dangers and lead us to eternal life. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Dan. 3:58
All you angels of the Lord, bless the Lord; sing a hymn of praise and exalt Him above all forever.

POSTCOMMUNION
We have received Your divine Sacrament, O Lord, in joyful celebration of the feast of Your holy angels. May their protection guard us against the deception of our enemies and keep us from all harm. Through our Lord . .

SAINT REMIGIUS
Bishop and Confessor

SIMPLE / WHITE
Remigius became bishop of Rheims by popular acclaim in 459, the period when the Franks from Germany were overrunning Roman Gaul. Bishop Remigius brought about the marriage of the pagan Clovis, the most powerful of the Frankish chieftains in Gaul, with Clotilda, a saintly Catholic princess. Clovis defeated invading Alammani hordes by invoking the God of his Christian wife, and then himself turned to Christ. On Christmas day in 496 Bishop Remigius baptized Clovis, and with him won to the Faith the future nation of France.

Mass of a CONFESSOR BISHOP

COLLECT
O Almighty God, grant that our solemn celebration of the feast of Your confessor bishop Remigius may increase our devotion and bring us closer to our salvation. Through our Lord . . .

SAINT JEROME
Confessor and Doctor of the Church

DOUBLE/WHITE
Born in Dalmatia of a Christian family, Jerome (c. 342-420) was baptized in Rome, while taking his classical courses. He then studied under the best masters in foreign cities. But the Church had need of this extraordinarily gifted man. Jerome heard and obeyed the divine call, made a vow of celibacy, and withdrew for four years to a hermitage in the Syrian desert. The Holy Father soon summoned Jerome to Rome and entrusted him with the enormous task of revising the Latin Bible. This work, which took 30 years to complete, is our official Vulgate version of the Scriptures. In 1920, Pope Benedict XV stated: "The Church venerates in Jerome the greatest doctor given her by heaven for the interpretation of the Holy Scriptures."

COLLECT
O God, in the person of Your blessed confessor Jerome You provided Your Church with her greatest scholar in the interpretation of Holy Scripture. may the merits of this saint help us to practice his teachings in our words and deeds. Through our Lord . . .

SECRET
Grant us Your heavenly grace, O Lord, that we may serve You in perfect freedom. Let the offerings, which we bring You through the intercession of Your blessed confessor Jerome, heal us and lead us to everlasting glory. Through our Lord . . .

POSTCOMMUNION
We are refreshed with the Bread of Heaven, O Lord. May the prayers of Your blessed confessor Jerome make us worthy of Your mercy. Through our Lord . . .

DEDICATION OF SAINT MICHAEL
THE ARCHANGEL BASILICA

DOUBLE, FIRST CLASS / WHITE
This feast commemorates the dedication to St. Michael of an ancient church at Rome at a date earlier than the sixth century. St. Michael the Archangel is honored as the supreme guardian spirit of the universal Church. In heaven Michael led the good angels against Lucifer and his rebel angels. The fallen angels pursue on earth that same war against the Man-God Christ which they began in heaven. Therefore Michael continues to direct the battle against them here on earth. The standard-bearer of the Church, he introduces the departed souls of her children into God's holy light (Offertory Hymn of Requiem Mass). He also presents our prayers to God (Incensation at High Mass), conquers demons (Prayers after Low Mass), and pleads for us sinners (Confiteor).

INTROIT Ps. 102:20
Bless the Lord, all you His angels, you mighty in strength who do His bidding, obeying the voice of His commands.
Ps. 102:1. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and let all my being bless His holy name.
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O God, who wondrously directs the services of angels and men, grant that our lives on earth may be guarded by the angels who stand ever before Your face ministering to You in heaven. Through our Lord . . .

LESSON Apoc. 1:1-5
In those days, God gave unto him, to make known to his servants the things which must shortly come to pass: and signified, sending by his angel to his servant John, Who hath given testimony to the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, what things soever he hath seen. Blessed is he that readeth and heareth the words of this prophecy: and keepeth those things which are written in it. For the time is at hand. John to the seven churches which are in Asia. Grace be unto you and peace, from him that is and that was and that is to come: and from the seven spirits which are before his throne: And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead and the prince of the kings of the earth, who hath loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood.

GRADUAL Ps. 102:20, 1
Bless the Lord, all you His angels, you mighty in strength who do His bidding.
V. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and let all my being bless His holy name.

Alleluia, alleluia! V.
Holy archangel Michael, defend us in battle, that we may not perish in the dreaded judgment. Alleluia!

GOSPEL Matt. 18:1-10
At that time, the disciples came to Jesus, saying: "Who, thinkest thou, is the greater in the kingdom of heaven?" And Jesus, calling unto him a little child, set him in the midst of them. And said: "Amen I say to you, unless you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, he is the greater in the kingdom of heaven. And he that shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me. But he that shall scandalize one of these little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of scandals. For it must needs be that scandals come: but nevertheless woe to that man by whom the scandal cometh. And if thy hand, or thy foot, scandalize thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to go into life maimed or lame, than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thy eye scandalize thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee having one eye to enter into life, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. See that you despise not one of these little ones: for I say to you, that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father who is in heaven."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Apoc. 8:3, 4
An angel stood before the altar, having a golden censer in his hand; and there was given to him much incense, and the smoke of the incense went up before God, alleluia!

SECRET
O Lord, graciously accept the Sacrifice of praise we offer You. May it bring us closer to our salvation through the angels' prayers of intercession. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Dan. 3:58
All you angels of the Lord, bless the Lord, sing a hymn of praise and exalt Him above all forever.

POSTCOMMUNION
We rely on the prayers of the blessed archangel Michael, O Lord, that the Sacrament which we have received upon our lips may always remain in our hearts. Through our Lord . . .

Young prince Wenceslas

TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

SAINT WENCESLAS
Duke and Martyr

DOUBLE / GREEN
INTROIT (Dan 3:31, 29, 33)
All that you have done to us, O Lord, you have done in just judgment, because we have disobeyed Your Commandments; but give glory to Your own name and deal with us in accord with Your bounteous mercy.
Ps. 118:1. Blessed are they who are undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord.
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
Forget Your anger, O Lord, and grant Your faithful pardon and peace, that they may be cleansed from their sins and serve You without fear. Through our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINT WENCESLAS
Son of a Christian duke of tenth-century Bohemia, Wenceslas received a pious upbringing from his grandmother St. Ludmilla, who later died a martyr. Taking over the government at the time of a strong pagan reaction among his people, Wenceslas labored with Christlike patience and mildness to stem this regression. He rebuilt churches, recalled exiled priests, and invited missioners from Germany. But Boleslas, the duke's heathen brother, had Wenceslas assassinated while he was on his way to Mass. The 22-year old martyr died uttering the words, "May God forgive you."

O God, You raised blessed Wenceslas from his earthly honors to the glory of heaven by granting him the victory of martyrdom. May his prayers shield us from all harm and bring us to share his heavenly happiness. Through our Lord . . .

EPISTLE (Eph. 5:15-21)
See therefore, brethren, how you walk circumspectly: not as unwise, But as wise: redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore, become not unwise: but understanding what is the will of God. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is luxury: but be ye filled with the Holy Spirit, Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual canticles, singing and making melody in your hearts to the Lord: Giving thanks always for all things, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to God and the Father: Being subject one to another, in the fear of Christ.

GRADUAL (Ps. 144:15-16)
The eyes of all look hopefully to You, O Lord, and You give them food in due season.
V. You open Your hand, and fill every living creature with blessing.

Alleluia, alleluia! V. Ps. 107:2
My heart is ready, O God, my heart is ready; I will sing and praise You, my glory. Alleluia!

GOSPEL (St. John 4:46-53)
He came again therefore into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain ruler, whose son was sick at Capharnaum. He having heard that Jesus was come from Judea into Galilee, sent to him and prayed him to come down and heal his son: for he was at the point of death.
Jesus therefore said to him: "Unless you see signs and wonders, you believe not." The ruler saith to him: Lord, come down before that my son die. Jesus saith to him: "Go thy way. Thy son liveth."
The man believed the word which Jesus said to him and went his way. And as he was going down, his servants met him: and they brought word, saying, that his son lived. He asked therefore of them the hour wherein he grew better. And they said to him: "Yesterday at the seventh hour, the fever left him." The father therefore knew that it was at the same hour that Jesus said to him: "Thy son liveth." And himself believed, and his whole house.

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON (Ps. 136:1)
By the streams of Babylon we sat and wept, when we remembered you, O Sion.

SECRET
O Lord, let this sacred rite bring us healing from heaven and cleanse our hearts of all sinfulness. Through our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINT WENCESLAS
Receive our gifts and our prayers, we beseech Thee, O Lord; cleanse us by the heavenly Mysteries and mercifully hear us. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON (Ps. 118:49-50)
Remember Your promise to Your servant, O Lord, by which You have given me hope. This is my solace in my affliction.

POSTCOMMUNION
O Lord, make us ever obedient to Your Commandments, that we may be deserving of Your heavenly Gifts. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and rules with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

Commemoration of SAINT WENCESLAUS
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord, our God, that as we rejoice on earth in keeping the memory of Thy saints, so also we may enjoy their company for evermore. Through our Lord . . .

Saints Cosmas and Damian performing transplant surgery.
Attributed to Alonso De Sedano, Burgos, Spain, ca. 1495.

SAINTS COSMAS AND DAMIAN
Martyrs

SIMPLE / RED
Doctors and mission dispensaries have special patrons in Cosmas and Damian, brothers who practiced medicine in Syria in the closing years of the third century. They were called in the East "the moneyless ones," because they cared for their patients free of charge. Devout lovers of Jesus, they were even more solicitous for the souls than for the bodies of those they tended. The apostolic brother-physicians converted many sinners and exorcised the possessed. They were given the grace of martyrdom during the persecution of Emperor Diocletian.

INTROIT Eccli. 44:15, 14
Let the people show forth the wisdom of the saints, and let the Church declare their praise; and their names shall live for all generations.
Ps. 32:1. Rejoice in the Lord, you just; praise befits the upright.
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O Almighty God, today we are celebrating the birthday of Your blessed martyrs Cosmas and Damian. Hear their prayers and rescue us from all the dangers that threaten us. Through our Lord . . .

READING Wisdom 5:16-20
But the just shall live for evermore: and their reward is with the Lord, and the care of them with the most High. Therefore shall they receive a kingdom of glory, and a crown of beauty at the hand of the Lord: for with his right hand he will cover them, and with his holy arm he will defend them. And his zeal will take armour, and he will arm the creature for the revenge of his enemies.
He will put on justice as a breastplate, and will take true judgment instead of a helmet: He will take equity for an invincible shield.

GRADUAL Ps. 33:18-19
The just have cried out, and the Lord answered them and rescued them from all their distress.
V. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and He will save those who are humble in spirit.

Alleluia, alleluia! V.
Here was true brotherliness which overcame the sinfulness of the world and followed Christ to attain the glorious kingdom of heaven. Alleluia!

GOSPEL Luke 6:17-23
At that time, Jesus, coming down from the mountain, stood in a plain place: and the company of his disciples and a very great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the sea coast, both of Tyre and Sidon, Who were come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. And they that were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all the multitude sought to touch him: for virtue went out from him and healed all.
And he, lifting up his eyes on his disciples, said: "Blessed are ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are ye that hunger now: for you shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for you shall laugh. Blessed shall you be when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you and shall reproach you and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Be glad in that day and rejoice: for behold, your reward is great in heaven."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Ps. 5:12-13
All those who love your name shall glory in You, for You, O Lord, will bless the just man. O Lord, You surround us with Your good will, as with a shield.

SECRET
O Lord, may Your saints' unfailing prayer of honor render our offerings acceptable to You and obtain Your pardon for us. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Ps. 78:2, 11
They have given the dead bodies of Your servants, O Lord, as food to the birds of the air, and the flesh of Your saints to the beasts of the earth. With Your great power, save the sons of those who have been put to death.

POSTCOMMUNION
O Lord, let Your people find protection in this banquet at which You have generously fed them, and in the prayers of all Your saints. Through our Lord . . .

SAINTS ISAAC JOGUES, JOHN DE BREBEUF,
AND THEIR COMPANIONS
Martyrs

IN ALL DIOCESES OF THE UNITED STATES

SAINTS CYPRIAN AND JUSTINA
Martyrs

DOUBLE, SECOND CLASS / RED
These eight French Jesuit missioners, the first canonized saints of the North American continent, labored and died among the most barbaric of red men in the most impenetrable fastnesses of the 17th-century New World. After struggling with unbelievable privations and hardships, they were severely tortured and martyred by the Iroquois Indians between the years 1642 and 1649. Fathers Isaac Jogues and Anthony Daniel and the two lay oblates, John Lalande and Rene Goupil, gave their lives in what is now New York State; Fathers John de Brebeuf, Gabriel Lalemant, Charles Garnier, and Noel Chabanel in central Canada.

INTROIT Apoc. 7:14
These are they who have come out of the great tribulation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb.
Ps. 116:1. Praise the Lord, all you nations; praise Him, all you peoples!
V. Glory be . . .

COLLECT
O God, You blessed the first fruits of the faith in the vast expanse of North America by the missionary labors and martyrdom of blessed Isaac, John, and their companions. May the harvest for Christ grow daily more abundant in the whole world through the intercession of these saints. Through our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINTS CYPRIAN AND JUSTINA
At Antioch the virtue of the virgin Justina converted Cyprian, a magician, to Christianity. Cyprian later became a priest and then a bishop. Both suffered martyrdom under Diocletian in the year 304, and their bodies were brought to Rome by some Christian mariners.

Comfort us, O Lord, with the unfailing protection of Your holy martyrs Cyprian and Justina, for You are always merciful to those who are helped by Your saints. Through our Lord . . .

READING II Cor. 12:11-15
Brethren: I ought to have been commended by you, For I have no way come short of them that are above measure apostles, although I be nothing. Yet the signs of my apostleship have been wrought on you, in all patience, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds. For what is there that you have had less than the other churches but that I myself was not burthensome to you? Pardon me this injury. Behold now the third time I am ready to come to you and I will not be burthensome unto you. For I seek not the things that are yours, but you. For neither ought the children to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. But I most gladly will spend and be spent myself for your souls: although loving you more, I be loved less.

GRADUAL Ps. 123:7-8
Our soul has been rescued as a bird from the snare of the hunters.
V. The snare has been broken and we are free. Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Alleluia, alleluia! V. II Cor. 1:5
For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so also through Christ does our comfort abound. Alleluia!

GOSPEL Luke 6:17-23
At that time, Jesus coming down from the mountain, stood in a plain place: and the company of his disciples and a very great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the sea coast, both of Tyre and Sidon, Who were come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. And they that were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all the multitude sought to touch him: for virtue went out from him and healed all.
And he, lifting up his eyes on his disciples, said: "Blessed are ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are ye that hunger now: for you shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for you shall laugh. Blessed shall you be when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you and shall reproach you and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Be glad in that day and rejoice: for behold, your reward is great in heaven."

OFFERTORY ANTIPHON Sap. 3:6
As gold in the furnace the Lord has proved them, and as a victim of a holocaust He received them.

SECRET
O Lord, let us offer You with pure hearts this spotless Victim, in which Your holy martyrs found a food of unutterable sweetness, because of their own unsullied purity and their tireless zeal for mortification. Through our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINTS CYPRIAN AND JUSTINA

We offer these gifts to You in sacrifice, O Lord. May the honor we pay to Your saints please You, and may these offerings, through Your mercy, bring us closer to our salvation. Through our Lord . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Philipp. 1:20-21
Christ will be glorified in my body whether through life or death. For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain.

POSTCOMMUNION
Almighty God, we are refreshed by the food of the valiant. When Your holy martyrs Isaac, John, and their companions were strengthened by this same Bread, they were able to lay down their own lives for their brothers; may we also bear one another's burdens and love our neighbors with an effective and sincere charity. Through our Lord . . .

Commemoration of SAINTS CYPRIAN AND JUSTINA

May the intercession of Your holy martyrs Cyprian and Justina help us to cherish with pure hearts the Sacrament we have received upon our lips. Through our Lord . . .

FERIAL DAY

(Mass of preceding Sunday)

[Requiem or Votive Mass allowed]

BLESSED HERMAN THE CRIPPLE
[1054 A.D. Religious]
(Historical)

Blessed Herman the Cripple, also called Herman of Reichenau, (1013-1054) is a blessed of the Roman Catholic Church. This means that the Church acknowledges that he lived a live of heroic virtue worthy of imitation and that he now lives forever with God in heaven and can therefore intercede on behalf of the faithful still living on Earth. He was a Benedictine monk who wrote poetry, hymns and academic literature. He also made musical and astronomical instruments. In Latin, his name is Herman Contractus.

Childhood

Bl. Herman was born in 1013 with a cleft palate, cerebral palsy and spina bifida.^[1] As a result he had great difficulty moving and could hardly speak. At the age of seven he was placed in a Benedictine monastery by his parents who could no longer look after him. He grew up in the monastery, learning from the monks and developing a keen interest in both theology and the world around him.

Adulthood

At the age of twenty Bl. Herman was professed as a Benedictine monk; he would spend the rest of his life in the monastery.^[2] He was literate in several languages, including Arabic, Greek and Latin^[3] and wrote about mathematics, astronomy and Christianity. He built musical and astronomical instruments and was also a famed religious poet. When he went blind in later life he began writing hymns. His most famous is Salve Regina (Hail Holy Queen).

Bl. Herman died at the age of forty in the monastery in 1054. The Church beatified him in 1863.

OUR LADY OF RANSOM

GREATER DOUBLE / WHITE
This feast was extended to the whole Church in thanksgiving to the Blessed Virgin, for having in the thirteenth century inspired St. Peter Nolasco and St. Raymond of Pennafort to found a religious order for the release of Christians captured by the Saracens. The Mercedarians vowed to give themselves up as hostages for the imprisoned Christians when ransom and military means failed. Their heroism saved countless souls from apostasy and despair.

Mass of the BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, except

COLLECT
O God, through the glorious Mother of Your Son You enriched the Church with a new religious congregation dedicated to freeing Christians from slavery among the heathens. We venerate Mary as the foundress of this institution and pray that she may also deliver us from our sins and the slavery of the devil through her own merits and intercession. Through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord . . .