Enjoy today's newsletter!
Dear Friends in Christ, Today we are beginning a nine-day spiritual reflection—a journey through the core themes of Pope Francis’s life and ministry. Each message is paired with a prayer, honoring the soul of Pope Francis and asking God to carry on his legacy of peace, justice, and compassion through us. May these reflections be a source of comfort, inspiration, and renewed commitment to the Gospel values he so beautifully lived. Day 1 Pope Francis: The Good Shepherd
Pope Francis exemplified the role of the Good Shepherd, guiding his flock with humility and compassion. His leadership was marked by a deep commitment to mercy, inclusivity, and a profound connection with people from all walks of life. He consistently emphasized the importance of understanding and caring for others, embodying the pastoral spirit of Christ.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the shepherd's heart of Pope Francis. May his soul rest in the eternal embrace of Your mercy. Inspire all leaders of Your Church to follow his example of humble service.
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Saint of the Day for April 23:
George (c. 280 – April 23, 303) Listen to Saint George’s Story Here Saint George is the object of a vast amount of imagination. There is every reason to believe that he was a real martyr who suffered at Lydda in Palestine, probably before the time of Constantine. The Church adheres to his memory, but not to the legends surrounding his life. That he was willing to pay the supreme price to follow Christ is what the Church believes. And it is enough. The story of George’s slaying the dragon, rescuing the king’s daughter, and converting Libya is a 12th-century Italian fable. George was a favorite patron saint of crusaders, as well as of Eastern soldiers in earlier times. He is a patron saint of England, Portugal, Germany, Aragon, Catalonia, Genoa, Milan, and Bologna. Reflection Human nature seems to crave more than cold historical data. Americans have Washington and Lincoln, but we somehow need Paul Bunyan too. The life of Saint Francis of Assisi is inspiring enough, but for centuries the Italians have found his spirit in the legends of the Fioretti too. Santa Claus is the popular extension of the spirit of Saint Nicholas. The legends about Saint George are part of this yearning. Both fact and legend are human ways of illumining the mysterious truth about the One who alone is holy. Saint George is the Patron Saint of: Boy Scouts
England
Germany
Portugal
Soldiers
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Intimacy with God
There is a mysticism for everyone. The mysticism Francis offers is for all believers, a mysticism that he illustrates through the gestures of his own life. The Franciscan mystic is the ordinary Christian mystic who is brother, sister, bride and mother of Christ by means of a fidelity, made possible by the Holy Spirit, in doing God’s will, in carrying Christ within and through love and a pure and sincere conscience and in giving birth to Christ by the charity of good works. In all of this is intimacy with God, and an intimacy with God that results in charity is practical mysticism. —from the book Mystics: Twelve Who Reveal God’s Love
by Murray Bodo, OFM |
Seeking Help in Times of Need
Reflect The poem “Footprints in the Sand” conveys a message that during our troubled times or when we’re feeling overwhelmed, God is there to carry us. It is a poem that may resonate with a lot of people, especially these days. That is because anxiety seems to be at an all-time high. It could be because of things going on in the world or things happening in our own lives. Whatever the reason, it can be overwhelming. And while God is a steadfast companion during the difficult times of our lives, we should remember that there are also people who can help us face our challenges on a daily basis. Saying that we need help is a sign of great strength. Pray Lord, give me the courage
and strength to reach out for help
when I need it.
Help me to remember
that you are walking with me
during this difficult time.
I put my trust in you,
knowing that you are always with me. Act If you are struggling with your mental health, reach out for help. Today's Pause+Pray was written by Susan Hines-Brigger. Learn more here! |
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