SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeff Fasching
July 19th, 2015
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: Rom. 8: 12-17
Gospel: Lk. 16: 1-19
Mon 20--No Latin Mass
Tue 21—Saint Laurence of Brindisi, Confessor & Doctor
Wed 22—Saint Mary Magdalene, Penitent
Thu 23—Saint Apollinaris, Bishop & Martyr
Fri 24—Saint Christina, Virgin & Martyr
Effective Tuesday, June 30th 2015 the daily Mass in the Extraordinary Form will be at 6:30am. There will no longer be Mass in the Extraordinary Form at 12:15pm beginning on June 30th, 2015.
Father Fasching's schedule for the Sacrament of Penance effective Tuesday, June 30 2015 will be as follows:
Tuesday-11:30am-12:15pm
Thursday-11:30am-12:15pm
or by appointment
St. Thomas Aquinas teaches us that “man can never love God as much as He should be loved; neither can he believe and hope in Him as much as he ought.” Our hope and our confidence in God can never be excessive or exaggerated. If we really try to do everything we can to please God, we should not fear that our hope in Him can be too great. God wills good for us! God wills our sanctification! The more we hope in Him, the more He grants us favors! St. Thomas says: “The more the soul hopes, the more it attains.” St. Therese of the Child Jesus says: “We can never have too much confidence in the good God who is so powerful and so merciful. We obtain from Him as much as we hope for!”
The more weak and powerless we find ourselves, the more we should hope in God. Remember God loves “to exalt the humble and to fill the hungry with good things.” Lk. 1: 52.53. God's mercy is waiting to come to us. He wants to purify us and sanctify us. Open your heart to Him!
In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,
Father Jeff Fasching
Showing posts with label Sanctity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sanctity. Show all posts
Sunday, July 19, 2015
Saturday, June 27, 2015
Bulletin 262
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeff Fasching
June 28, 2015
Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: 1 Pet. 3: 8-15
Gospel: Mt. 5: 20-24
Mon 29--No Latin Mass
Tue 30--Requiem Mass + Thomas George
Wed 1---The Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ
The 2—Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Fri 3—Sacred Heart of Jesus
Effective Tuesday, June 30th 2015 the daily Mass in the Extraordinary Form will be at 6:30am. There will no longer be Mass in the Extraordinary Form at 12:15pm beginning on June 30th, 2015.
Father Fasching's schedule for the Sacrament of Penance effective Tuesday, June 30 2015 will be as follows:
Tuesday-11:30am-12:15pm
Thursday-11:30am-12:15pm
or by appointment
Congratulations to Father Joseph Kelly and his family! Father Kelly was ordained to the priesthood by His Excellency Bishop James V. Johnston on June 12th 2015. For priests who are young-impel them for Your glory, Lord...Continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood.
The Scriptures teach us that we are children of God. By virtue of our Baptism we have died to our old life of sin and risen to a new life in Jesus Christ! God has allowed us to participate in His own Divine nature! As children of God we are bound to live in union with one another. We must love God in our neighbor. St. Paul teaches us that we must have compassion for one another, living with all humility and mercy. If we are zealous in doing good we sanctify the Lord Jesus Christ in our hearts.
In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,
Father Jeff Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeff Fasching
June 28, 2015
Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: 1 Pet. 3: 8-15
Gospel: Mt. 5: 20-24
Mon 29--No Latin Mass
Tue 30--Requiem Mass + Thomas George
Wed 1---The Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ
The 2—Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Fri 3—Sacred Heart of Jesus
Effective Tuesday, June 30th 2015 the daily Mass in the Extraordinary Form will be at 6:30am. There will no longer be Mass in the Extraordinary Form at 12:15pm beginning on June 30th, 2015.
Father Fasching's schedule for the Sacrament of Penance effective Tuesday, June 30 2015 will be as follows:
Tuesday-11:30am-12:15pm
Thursday-11:30am-12:15pm
or by appointment
Congratulations to Father Joseph Kelly and his family! Father Kelly was ordained to the priesthood by His Excellency Bishop James V. Johnston on June 12th 2015. For priests who are young-impel them for Your glory, Lord...Continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood.
The Scriptures teach us that we are children of God. By virtue of our Baptism we have died to our old life of sin and risen to a new life in Jesus Christ! God has allowed us to participate in His own Divine nature! As children of God we are bound to live in union with one another. We must love God in our neighbor. St. Paul teaches us that we must have compassion for one another, living with all humility and mercy. If we are zealous in doing good we sanctify the Lord Jesus Christ in our hearts.
In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,
Father Jeff Fasching
Monday, March 2, 2015
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass
Zeal for my Father’s house has eaten my up, says Jesus Christ (psalm 69). Our Lord cannot tolerate disorder or anything unbecoming in His Holy Sanctuary. The Church is a House of Prayer and the palace of the King of Kings. We should have a jealous care of the cleanliness of the table of the altar. It is the throne on which the Divine Majesty descends! We must guard the purity of the holy vessels which will touch the Immaculate Lamb, and the decency of the vestments which must cover Christ in the person of His priest while the Holy Sacrifice is being offered. Those priests who truly love Jesus Christ perform with dignity and with great reverence the slightest ceremonies of the Sacred Liturgy. They do it with attention, with mind and heart united with Christ, the High Priest.
When a priest offers the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, heaven itself bends down toward him with reverence and gratitude. The angels and the Blessed surround Christ’s priests with veneration and urge them to offer the Divine Victim. They pray that we unite their adoration with that of the Sacred Host which the priest holds in his hands. The Blessed Virgin Mary herself, the Queen of all priests, is present each day at the Holy Sacrifice. She is happy to renew, thanks to her priests, the offering of her Son which she once made in tears at the foot of the Cross.
Your are invited to join myself and Father Justin Nolan, FSSP, associate pastor of Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne parish in Kansas City, who will be visiting St. Agnes on Friday, March 13. He will give a talk entitled, "The Liturgical Principles of the Mass: The Most Beautiful Thing This Side of Heaven". There will be a meet and greet with Fr. Nolan at 4 pm, followed by a potluck dinner at 5 pm. Fr. Nolan's talk begins at 6 pm. The event will be held in the school cafeteria. All are welcome!
In Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
When a priest offers the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, heaven itself bends down toward him with reverence and gratitude. The angels and the Blessed surround Christ’s priests with veneration and urge them to offer the Divine Victim. They pray that we unite their adoration with that of the Sacred Host which the priest holds in his hands. The Blessed Virgin Mary herself, the Queen of all priests, is present each day at the Holy Sacrifice. She is happy to renew, thanks to her priests, the offering of her Son which she once made in tears at the foot of the Cross.
Your are invited to join myself and Father Justin Nolan, FSSP, associate pastor of Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne parish in Kansas City, who will be visiting St. Agnes on Friday, March 13. He will give a talk entitled, "The Liturgical Principles of the Mass: The Most Beautiful Thing This Side of Heaven". There will be a meet and greet with Fr. Nolan at 4 pm, followed by a potluck dinner at 5 pm. Fr. Nolan's talk begins at 6 pm. The event will be held in the school cafeteria. All are welcome!
In Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
Friday, September 19, 2014
Bulletin 222
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching
September 21, 2014
15th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: Gal. 5:25,26; 6:1-10
Gospel: Lk. 7: 11-16
Mon 22 No Latin Mass
Tue 23 Saint Linus * Pope & Martyr
Wed 24 Ember Wednesday
Thu 25 Feria
Fri 26 Ember Friday
If we look to the New Testament, Christ is constantly exhorting us to observe His commandments. He promises great reward for those who do so. Jesus Christ promises us heaven. Nothing on this earth is capable of gratifying our hearts. We were created for God only. We can find happiness in God alone! Jesus Christ exhorts us to care little for the things of this world, but instead to look for our reward in heaven-a reward that can never come to an end. In the Gospel when Christ is surrounded by people who appeared to think only of their worldly necessities, He said to them: “Be not solicitous as to what you shall eat, and wherewith you shall be clothed. And desiring to make them understand that everything concerning the body was of little consequence, He said to them: “Consider the lilies of the field, they toil not, neither do they spin; and behold your heavenly Father clotheth them; for I say unto you that not even Solomon in all his glory was arrayed as one of these. Observe the birds of the air, they neither sow nor reap, nor do they gather into barns, yet behold how your heavenly Father cares for them. O, ye of little faith, are you not of more account than they? Seek first the kingdom of heaven; that is to say, keep My commandments faithfully, and all things else shall be added unto you over and above.”
If we seek first and foremost to please God above all else and to save our souls, we will never be in want of worldly necessities. Everything we have comes from the goodness of God. When we observe exactly what God commands, we are amazed to find just how God cares for those who strive to please Him. There are many more examples in the Old Testament of how God rewards those who remain true to Him. But the New Testament has many as well. God fed the multitudes with five small loaves and two fishes because the people followed Jesus Christ and sought the sanctification of their souls. All the saints were cared for because they faithfully followed the commandments of God.
In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,
Father Jeff Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching
September 21, 2014
15th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: Gal. 5:25,26; 6:1-10
Gospel: Lk. 7: 11-16
Mon 22 No Latin Mass
Tue 23 Saint Linus * Pope & Martyr
Wed 24 Ember Wednesday
Thu 25 Feria
Fri 26 Ember Friday
If we look to the New Testament, Christ is constantly exhorting us to observe His commandments. He promises great reward for those who do so. Jesus Christ promises us heaven. Nothing on this earth is capable of gratifying our hearts. We were created for God only. We can find happiness in God alone! Jesus Christ exhorts us to care little for the things of this world, but instead to look for our reward in heaven-a reward that can never come to an end. In the Gospel when Christ is surrounded by people who appeared to think only of their worldly necessities, He said to them: “Be not solicitous as to what you shall eat, and wherewith you shall be clothed. And desiring to make them understand that everything concerning the body was of little consequence, He said to them: “Consider the lilies of the field, they toil not, neither do they spin; and behold your heavenly Father clotheth them; for I say unto you that not even Solomon in all his glory was arrayed as one of these. Observe the birds of the air, they neither sow nor reap, nor do they gather into barns, yet behold how your heavenly Father cares for them. O, ye of little faith, are you not of more account than they? Seek first the kingdom of heaven; that is to say, keep My commandments faithfully, and all things else shall be added unto you over and above.”
If we seek first and foremost to please God above all else and to save our souls, we will never be in want of worldly necessities. Everything we have comes from the goodness of God. When we observe exactly what God commands, we are amazed to find just how God cares for those who strive to please Him. There are many more examples in the Old Testament of how God rewards those who remain true to Him. But the New Testament has many as well. God fed the multitudes with five small loaves and two fishes because the people followed Jesus Christ and sought the sanctification of their souls. All the saints were cared for because they faithfully followed the commandments of God.
In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,
Father Jeff Fasching
Friday, July 11, 2014
Bulletin 212
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching
July 13, 2014
5th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: 1 Pet. 3: 8-15
Gospel: Mt. 5: 20-24
Mon 14 Saint Bonaventure; Bishop, Confessor & Doctor-No Latin Mass
Tue 15 Saint Henry the Emperor, Confessor
Wed 16 Feria
Thu 17 Feria
Fri 18 Saint Camillus de Lellis, Confessor
We are meant to be saints. Sanctification is a grace from God. We must strive to cooperate with that grace by being faithful to it. We must strive to be people of charity and follow God's great commandment of loving Him above all and then loving our neighbor as ourselves. Sins against charity are offenses against God!
In Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching
July 13, 2014
5th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: 1 Pet. 3: 8-15
Gospel: Mt. 5: 20-24
Mon 14 Saint Bonaventure; Bishop, Confessor & Doctor-No Latin Mass
Tue 15 Saint Henry the Emperor, Confessor
Wed 16 Feria
Thu 17 Feria
Fri 18 Saint Camillus de Lellis, Confessor
We are meant to be saints. Sanctification is a grace from God. We must strive to cooperate with that grace by being faithful to it. We must strive to be people of charity and follow God's great commandment of loving Him above all and then loving our neighbor as ourselves. Sins against charity are offenses against God!
In Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Bulletin 157
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching
June 23, 2013 5th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: 1 Pet. 3:8-15; Gospel: Mt. 5:20-24
Mass Schedule June 24 through June 28
Mon 24 Nativity of Saint John the Baptist * No Latin Mass
Tue 25 Saint William, Abbot
Wed 26 SS. John * & Paul * Martyrs
Thu 27 Feria
Fri 28 Vigil of SS. Peter * & Paul * Apostles
The next pot-luck dinner will be on Sunday, June 30 in the school cafeteria immediately following the 2:30pm Latin Mass. All are invited to attend.
We have been baptized into Christ and thus are children of God. Our duty is to show our love for God by love of our neighbor. Christian charity is the key to holiness of life. When we serve one another we serve God Himself! Saint Peter says that we should be zealous for good and sanctify the Lord Jesus Christ in our hearts.
In Christ,
Father Jeff Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching
June 23, 2013 5th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: 1 Pet. 3:8-15; Gospel: Mt. 5:20-24
Mass Schedule June 24 through June 28
Mon 24 Nativity of Saint John the Baptist * No Latin Mass
Tue 25 Saint William, Abbot
Wed 26 SS. John * & Paul * Martyrs
Thu 27 Feria
Fri 28 Vigil of SS. Peter * & Paul * Apostles
The next pot-luck dinner will be on Sunday, June 30 in the school cafeteria immediately following the 2:30pm Latin Mass. All are invited to attend.
We have been baptized into Christ and thus are children of God. Our duty is to show our love for God by love of our neighbor. Christian charity is the key to holiness of life. When we serve one another we serve God Himself! Saint Peter says that we should be zealous for good and sanctify the Lord Jesus Christ in our hearts.
In Christ,
Father Jeff Fasching
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Bulletin 131
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
December 16th, 2012; Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday)
Epistle: Phil. 4:4-7; Gospel: Jn. 1:19-28
Mass schedule December 17th through December 21st
Monday: Greater Feria of Advent--No Latin Mass
Tuesday: Greater Feria of Advent
Wednesday: Ember Wednesday of Advent
Thursday: Greater Feria of Advent
Friday: Saint Thomas * Apostle
The most powerful temptations we can possibly experience are those to ambition, pride and arrogance. Ambition is the worst of them because it caused Lucifer to be cast out of heaven into hell. Some theologians say it was because of a spiritual self-complacency combined with an awareness of their angelic nature’s grandeur and excellence, which caused such self-pride that he and the fallen angels arrogantly desired to be equal to God.
Contrast this attitude with that of Saint John the Baptist in today’s Gospel. Saint John played a significant role in the mystery of the Visitation. His humility thus appears to be the most excellent and the most perfect that has ever been, after only Our Lord Himself and the Blessed Virgin Mary. He was sanctified in the womb of his mother, Saint Anne, when Mary paid her a visit while pregnant with Our Savior. He went on to perform an outstanding, single-minded, public ministry in pointing the way to Christ. Saint John was so effective and well-liked that his followers were ready to name him the Messiah. Saint John was tempted with one of the most violent temptations imaginable to pride and ambition. It was even presented by his own friends, sent to him from Jerusalem by the hypocritical doctors of the Law. They wanted to find out if John was actually the Christ. If so, they wanted to give John his due honor.
The religious leaders were waiting for the Messiah. They knew that all the prophecies had been fulfilled. Jesus Christ came performing miracles and teaching His doctrine. However, instead of acknowledging Him, the religious leaders go looking for someone else. When asked, Saint John said I am not the Christ. He could have easily accepted the praise that his followers wished to bestow upon him, but he did not. John was so humble and truthful that he refused even to accept credit that he actually deserved!
We can learn humility from Saint John the Baptist. We can learn humility from the Blessed Virgin Mary. We should acknowledge the teaching of Christ who said “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart.”
In Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
December 16th, 2012; Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday)
Epistle: Phil. 4:4-7; Gospel: Jn. 1:19-28
Mass schedule December 17th through December 21st
Monday: Greater Feria of Advent--No Latin Mass
Tuesday: Greater Feria of Advent
Wednesday: Ember Wednesday of Advent
Thursday: Greater Feria of Advent
Friday: Saint Thomas * Apostle
The most powerful temptations we can possibly experience are those to ambition, pride and arrogance. Ambition is the worst of them because it caused Lucifer to be cast out of heaven into hell. Some theologians say it was because of a spiritual self-complacency combined with an awareness of their angelic nature’s grandeur and excellence, which caused such self-pride that he and the fallen angels arrogantly desired to be equal to God.
Contrast this attitude with that of Saint John the Baptist in today’s Gospel. Saint John played a significant role in the mystery of the Visitation. His humility thus appears to be the most excellent and the most perfect that has ever been, after only Our Lord Himself and the Blessed Virgin Mary. He was sanctified in the womb of his mother, Saint Anne, when Mary paid her a visit while pregnant with Our Savior. He went on to perform an outstanding, single-minded, public ministry in pointing the way to Christ. Saint John was so effective and well-liked that his followers were ready to name him the Messiah. Saint John was tempted with one of the most violent temptations imaginable to pride and ambition. It was even presented by his own friends, sent to him from Jerusalem by the hypocritical doctors of the Law. They wanted to find out if John was actually the Christ. If so, they wanted to give John his due honor.
The religious leaders were waiting for the Messiah. They knew that all the prophecies had been fulfilled. Jesus Christ came performing miracles and teaching His doctrine. However, instead of acknowledging Him, the religious leaders go looking for someone else. When asked, Saint John said I am not the Christ. He could have easily accepted the praise that his followers wished to bestow upon him, but he did not. John was so humble and truthful that he refused even to accept credit that he actually deserved!
We can learn humility from Saint John the Baptist. We can learn humility from the Blessed Virgin Mary. We should acknowledge the teaching of Christ who said “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart.”
In Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
Monday, November 12, 2012
Bulletin 127
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
November 18, 2012; Sixth Resumed Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: 1 Thess. 1: 2-10; Gospel: Mt. 13: 31-35
Mass schedule November 19 through November 23
Monday: Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Widow-- No Latin Mass
Tuesday: Saint Felix of Valois, Confessor
Wednesday: Requiem Mass + Mario Machado
Thursday: Requiem Mass + June Baker MASS AT 10:00AM
Friday: Saint Clement I, Pope & Martyr
The month of November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. Indulgences, which remove temporal punishment due to forgiven sin, may be gained by the living for themselves or applied to the souls in purgatory but they cannot be applied to other living persons. Indulgences are called plenary if they remove all temporal punishment and partial if they remove only some of it. A plenary indulgence can be acquired only once in the course of a day but a partial indulgence may be acquired more than once a day. To gain an indulgence for oneself one must be baptized, in the state of grace at least at the completion of the prescribed work and subject to the one granting the indulgence. He must also have at least a general intention of gaining them and must perform the works enjoined at the time and in the manner prescribed.
Some works to which are attached plenary indulgences are: a visit to the Blessed Sacrament which lasts for a half hour, the Stations of the Cross, recitation of five decades of the Rosary while contemplating the mysteries, and reading of Scripture for one half hour.
Partial indulgences are granted to those who recite Lauds or Vespers of the Office of the Dead, and to those who recite the prayer “Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domini, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace” (“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace”).
All indulgences whatsoever may be applied to the Poor Souls at any time by way of suffrage. The simple intention to offer them for the Poor Souls is sufficient.
Many desire God, but fear death. They are afraid of the assaults of Hell upon their souls. Even the saints have trembled at the hour of death, so how much more should we be afraid! Although it is true that Satan attacks even the holy saints at their hour of death, it is also true that God always comes to their aid at that moment. When dangers increase God helps all the more. The powers of Hell will assault the dying Christian, but his guardian angel will also be present to offer consolation. Saint Michael will also come to his aid. He has been appointed by God to defend His faithful servants in their last fight against the powers of Hell. The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, will assist those who have been devoted to her during their lives. Jesus Christ Himself will give those souls for whom He died confidence and strength to resist the powers of the enemy.
We should therefore rejoice at death! Death delivers us from this valley of tears and labor. At death we are free from suffering. Death also delivers us from our actual sins and the danger of falling into Hell. Through death, paradise is opened up for us!
In Christ,
Fr. Jeffery A. Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
November 18, 2012; Sixth Resumed Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: 1 Thess. 1: 2-10; Gospel: Mt. 13: 31-35
Mass schedule November 19 through November 23
Monday: Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Widow-- No Latin Mass
Tuesday: Saint Felix of Valois, Confessor
Wednesday: Requiem Mass + Mario Machado
Thursday: Requiem Mass + June Baker MASS AT 10:00AM
Friday: Saint Clement I, Pope & Martyr
The month of November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. Indulgences, which remove temporal punishment due to forgiven sin, may be gained by the living for themselves or applied to the souls in purgatory but they cannot be applied to other living persons. Indulgences are called plenary if they remove all temporal punishment and partial if they remove only some of it. A plenary indulgence can be acquired only once in the course of a day but a partial indulgence may be acquired more than once a day. To gain an indulgence for oneself one must be baptized, in the state of grace at least at the completion of the prescribed work and subject to the one granting the indulgence. He must also have at least a general intention of gaining them and must perform the works enjoined at the time and in the manner prescribed.
Some works to which are attached plenary indulgences are: a visit to the Blessed Sacrament which lasts for a half hour, the Stations of the Cross, recitation of five decades of the Rosary while contemplating the mysteries, and reading of Scripture for one half hour.
Partial indulgences are granted to those who recite Lauds or Vespers of the Office of the Dead, and to those who recite the prayer “Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domini, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace” (“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace”).
All indulgences whatsoever may be applied to the Poor Souls at any time by way of suffrage. The simple intention to offer them for the Poor Souls is sufficient.
Many desire God, but fear death. They are afraid of the assaults of Hell upon their souls. Even the saints have trembled at the hour of death, so how much more should we be afraid! Although it is true that Satan attacks even the holy saints at their hour of death, it is also true that God always comes to their aid at that moment. When dangers increase God helps all the more. The powers of Hell will assault the dying Christian, but his guardian angel will also be present to offer consolation. Saint Michael will also come to his aid. He has been appointed by God to defend His faithful servants in their last fight against the powers of Hell. The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, will assist those who have been devoted to her during their lives. Jesus Christ Himself will give those souls for whom He died confidence and strength to resist the powers of the enemy.
We should therefore rejoice at death! Death delivers us from this valley of tears and labor. At death we are free from suffering. Death also delivers us from our actual sins and the danger of falling into Hell. Through death, paradise is opened up for us!
In Christ,
Fr. Jeffery A. Fasching
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Bulletin 126
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
November 11, 2012; Fifth Resumed Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: Col. 3: 12-17—Gospel: Mt. 13: 24-30
Mass schedule November 12 through November 16
Monday: Saint Martin I; Pope & Martyr-- No Latin Mass
Tuesday: Saint Didacus; Confessor
Wednesday: Requiem Mass + Antonio Garcia
Thursday: Saint Albert the Great; Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Friday: Saint Gertrude—No Latin Mass
The month of November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. Indulgences, which remove temporal punishment due to forgiven sin, may be gained by the living for themselves or applied to the souls in purgatory but they cannot be applied to other living persons. Indulgences are called plenary if they remove all temporal punishment and partial if they remove only some of it. A plenary indulgence can be acquired only once in the course of a day but a partial indulgence may be acquired more than once a day. To gain an indulgence for oneself one must be baptized, in the state of grace at least at the completion of the prescribed work and subject to the one granting the indulgence. He must also have at least a general intention of gaining them and must perform the works enjoined at the time and in the manner prescribed.
Some works to which are attached plenary indulgences are: a visit to the Blessed Sacrament which lasts for a half hour, the Stations of the Cross, recitation of five decades of the Rosary while contemplating the mysteries, and reading of Scripture for one half hour.
Partial indulgences are granted to those who recite Lauds or Vespers of the Office of the Dead, and to those who recite the prayer “Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domini, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace” (“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace”).
All indulgences whatsoever may be applied to the Poor Souls at any time by way of suffrage. The simple intention to offer them for the Poor Souls is sufficient.
Jesus Christ explicitly refers to Hell in the Gospels. In contrast to this life, where there is always some relief or interruption from the tribulations which we suffer, the damned must remain forever in the fires of hell. They are always in torture and always weeping without ever enjoying a moment’s rest. There is absolutely nobody to pity their sufferings. They burn forever in despair and have themselves been the cause of their own destruction. The saints, the Blessed Virgin Mary and even God Himself do not show compassion for their miseries. In fact, the saints even rejoice in the vengeance inflicted upon the injuries offered to their God! The Blessed Virgin cannot show pity because the damned hate her Son. Jesus Christ cannot pity them because they have rejected His love.
We must make it our aim in life to save our souls! We must never take for granted our salvation! We must toil and suffer to work out our redemption in cooperation with the grace of God.
In Christ,
Fr. Jeffery Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
November 11, 2012; Fifth Resumed Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: Col. 3: 12-17—Gospel: Mt. 13: 24-30
Mass schedule November 12 through November 16
Monday: Saint Martin I; Pope & Martyr-- No Latin Mass
Tuesday: Saint Didacus; Confessor
Wednesday: Requiem Mass + Antonio Garcia
Thursday: Saint Albert the Great; Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Friday: Saint Gertrude—No Latin Mass
The month of November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. Indulgences, which remove temporal punishment due to forgiven sin, may be gained by the living for themselves or applied to the souls in purgatory but they cannot be applied to other living persons. Indulgences are called plenary if they remove all temporal punishment and partial if they remove only some of it. A plenary indulgence can be acquired only once in the course of a day but a partial indulgence may be acquired more than once a day. To gain an indulgence for oneself one must be baptized, in the state of grace at least at the completion of the prescribed work and subject to the one granting the indulgence. He must also have at least a general intention of gaining them and must perform the works enjoined at the time and in the manner prescribed.
Some works to which are attached plenary indulgences are: a visit to the Blessed Sacrament which lasts for a half hour, the Stations of the Cross, recitation of five decades of the Rosary while contemplating the mysteries, and reading of Scripture for one half hour.
Partial indulgences are granted to those who recite Lauds or Vespers of the Office of the Dead, and to those who recite the prayer “Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domini, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace” (“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace”).
All indulgences whatsoever may be applied to the Poor Souls at any time by way of suffrage. The simple intention to offer them for the Poor Souls is sufficient.
Jesus Christ explicitly refers to Hell in the Gospels. In contrast to this life, where there is always some relief or interruption from the tribulations which we suffer, the damned must remain forever in the fires of hell. They are always in torture and always weeping without ever enjoying a moment’s rest. There is absolutely nobody to pity their sufferings. They burn forever in despair and have themselves been the cause of their own destruction. The saints, the Blessed Virgin Mary and even God Himself do not show compassion for their miseries. In fact, the saints even rejoice in the vengeance inflicted upon the injuries offered to their God! The Blessed Virgin cannot show pity because the damned hate her Son. Jesus Christ cannot pity them because they have rejected His love.
We must make it our aim in life to save our souls! We must never take for granted our salvation! We must toil and suffer to work out our redemption in cooperation with the grace of God.
In Christ,
Fr. Jeffery Fasching
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Bulletin 121
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
October 7th, 2012; External Solemnity of Our Lady of the Rosary
Epistle: Prov. 8:22-24, 32-35—Gospel: Lk. 1:26-38
Mass Schedule October 8th through October 12th
Monday –Saint Bridget of Sweden, Widow-- NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Requiem Mass + Joyce Spencer
Wednesday-Saint Francis Borgia, Confessor
Thursday-Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Friday-Feria
There will be a potluck dinner on Sunday, October 7 immediately following the 2:30pm Mass in the school cafeteria. All are invited.
Jesus Christ loves pure souls. His Mother Mary was immaculate. His foster-father was the just and chaste Joseph. His well-beloved disciple was the virgin apostle. Over the course of centuries Christ has surrounded Himself with a legion of chaste priests. Nothing soiled can approach his altar. Pure souls are the crown of Christ’s glory, the strength and beauty of the Church, the confusion and terror of demons!
Priestly chastity is a precious pearl, but we are all called to live chaste lives! God has left our human nature with a tendency toward evil, its passions, and its secret connivance at sin. But at the same time He has poured out prodigally upon us His divine strength through the indwelling of the Holy Ghost. We have been given mortal bodies with frailties, inconstancies and revolts, but Christ has prepared us for heavenly food, the bread of angels, His Body and Blood, to extinguish within us the fire of sin, to renew our strength and to sustain our courage!
God permits the angel of Satan to lay snares for us, to subject us to incessant combats, but Christ has confided us at the same time to His Mother. She has crushed the head of the serpent! She will always fight for you if you are faithful in appealing to her for aid. With her help you are sure to triumph. But know well that it is necessary to watch and to pray even to old age, even until death. Be courageous! No one is tried beyond his strength! No one will receive a crown unless he fights manfully!
Be chaste. How miserable your heart will be if you simulate virtue when your conscience accuses you of wickedness! In today’s culture we are in almost constant contact with the slime of sin. Vice speaks to us, looks at us, surrounds us and pursues us wherever we go! How can we avoid filth unless we are vigilant? We must keep a firm and constant hold on the divine hand of God!
Chastise your body and bring it into subjection. Flee from the occasion of sin. If to avoid sin it is necessary to sacrifice your eye or your right hand or your very life, do not hesitate. Otherwise you will fall, you will perish. Confess your faults humbly. Have recourse to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Virgin Most Pure, that you may fight your battle with strength and confidence!
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
October 7th, 2012; External Solemnity of Our Lady of the Rosary
Epistle: Prov. 8:22-24, 32-35—Gospel: Lk. 1:26-38
Mass Schedule October 8th through October 12th
Monday –Saint Bridget of Sweden, Widow-- NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Requiem Mass + Joyce Spencer
Wednesday-Saint Francis Borgia, Confessor
Thursday-Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Friday-Feria
There will be a potluck dinner on Sunday, October 7 immediately following the 2:30pm Mass in the school cafeteria. All are invited.
Jesus Christ loves pure souls. His Mother Mary was immaculate. His foster-father was the just and chaste Joseph. His well-beloved disciple was the virgin apostle. Over the course of centuries Christ has surrounded Himself with a legion of chaste priests. Nothing soiled can approach his altar. Pure souls are the crown of Christ’s glory, the strength and beauty of the Church, the confusion and terror of demons!
Priestly chastity is a precious pearl, but we are all called to live chaste lives! God has left our human nature with a tendency toward evil, its passions, and its secret connivance at sin. But at the same time He has poured out prodigally upon us His divine strength through the indwelling of the Holy Ghost. We have been given mortal bodies with frailties, inconstancies and revolts, but Christ has prepared us for heavenly food, the bread of angels, His Body and Blood, to extinguish within us the fire of sin, to renew our strength and to sustain our courage!
God permits the angel of Satan to lay snares for us, to subject us to incessant combats, but Christ has confided us at the same time to His Mother. She has crushed the head of the serpent! She will always fight for you if you are faithful in appealing to her for aid. With her help you are sure to triumph. But know well that it is necessary to watch and to pray even to old age, even until death. Be courageous! No one is tried beyond his strength! No one will receive a crown unless he fights manfully!
Be chaste. How miserable your heart will be if you simulate virtue when your conscience accuses you of wickedness! In today’s culture we are in almost constant contact with the slime of sin. Vice speaks to us, looks at us, surrounds us and pursues us wherever we go! How can we avoid filth unless we are vigilant? We must keep a firm and constant hold on the divine hand of God!
Chastise your body and bring it into subjection. Flee from the occasion of sin. If to avoid sin it is necessary to sacrifice your eye or your right hand or your very life, do not hesitate. Otherwise you will fall, you will perish. Confess your faults humbly. Have recourse to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Virgin Most Pure, that you may fight your battle with strength and confidence!
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Jeff Fasching
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Bulletin 107
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
June 17th, 2012 External Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Epistle: Eph. 3:8-12, 14-19; Gospel: Jn. 19:31-37
Mass Schedule June 18th through June 22nd
Monday –Saint Ephrem of Syria; Deacon, Confessor and Doctor-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Juliana of Falconieri; Virgin
Wednesday-Saint Silverius; Pope and Martyr
Thursday-Saint Aloysius Gonzaga; Confessor
Friday-Saint Paulinus of Nola
Thank you to Jim Gillett who planned and organized the Procession of the Blessed Sacrament through the streets of Springfield! Thanks to all of you who participated and were involved in making this event with the Bishop a great success!
The Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus should prompt us to remember the infinite love which Jesus Christ shows us in the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar. When we consider the life of Christ-- His suffering, passion and death, we must realize He didn’t stop giving of Himself after He wrought our redemption. He instituted the Eucharist before He died so that He could be with us until the end of time.
Christ gave His life for us on the cross. He continues always to give of Himself in the Blessed Eucharist. In so doing He shares with us all of His blessings! “Come to me all you that labor and are burdened, and I will refresh you.” (Matt. 11:28). Christ gives Himself to us to be our strength and nourishment! When we possess Jesus Christ we possess all things!
Sincerely in Christ,
Father Jeff Fasching
EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)
CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
June 17th, 2012 External Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Epistle: Eph. 3:8-12, 14-19; Gospel: Jn. 19:31-37
Mass Schedule June 18th through June 22nd
Monday –Saint Ephrem of Syria; Deacon, Confessor and Doctor-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Juliana of Falconieri; Virgin
Wednesday-Saint Silverius; Pope and Martyr
Thursday-Saint Aloysius Gonzaga; Confessor
Friday-Saint Paulinus of Nola
Thank you to Jim Gillett who planned and organized the Procession of the Blessed Sacrament through the streets of Springfield! Thanks to all of you who participated and were involved in making this event with the Bishop a great success!
The Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus should prompt us to remember the infinite love which Jesus Christ shows us in the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar. When we consider the life of Christ-- His suffering, passion and death, we must realize He didn’t stop giving of Himself after He wrought our redemption. He instituted the Eucharist before He died so that He could be with us until the end of time.
Christ gave His life for us on the cross. He continues always to give of Himself in the Blessed Eucharist. In so doing He shares with us all of His blessings! “Come to me all you that labor and are burdened, and I will refresh you.” (Matt. 11:28). Christ gives Himself to us to be our strength and nourishment! When we possess Jesus Christ we possess all things!
Sincerely in Christ,
Father Jeff Fasching
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Bulletin 69
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
September 25th, 2011 15th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: Gal. 5: 25-26; 6, 1-10
Gospel: Luc. 7, 11-16
Mass schedule September 26th through September 30th
Monday-Feria-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-SS. Cosmas & Damian, Martyrs
Wednesday-Saint Wenceslaus, Duke & Martyr
Thursday-Dedication of Saint Michael the Archangel
Friday-Saint Jerome, Confessor & Doctor
The Latin Mass Community Confirmation date is October 23rd, 2011 at 7:00pm in Saint Agnes Cathedral. His Excellency Bishop James V. Johnston will officiate.
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” “Bear one another’s burdens; and so fulfill the law of Christ.” We have many brothers in Christ we must assist in time of need, by doing so we show our love for Christ Himself. We must also be willing to offer fraternal correction when necessary. This must be done with all humility and with an awareness of our own weaknesses and personal shortcomings. We can never take issue with another person’s sin without first acknowledging our own.
If we are not in the habit of asking God for Charity we must begin today. If we are not asking God for Charity we shouldn’t be surprised that we are so worldly. We must love our neighbor as ourselves if we want to show our love for God. Who is our neighbor? Absolutely everybody! Those who have wronged us, those who have injured our good name and even those who wish to do harm to us. We must love all of them as ourselves. We must rejoice when our enemies are successful. We must be sad when they suffer loss. If we do not do this and we do not believe it we are bad Christians!
So how do we know if we have Charity? Well, if we are not proud; if we are not controlling; if we refuse to judge other people’s behavior; if we don’t gossip. We have charity if we don’t question the motives of other people’s actions. We must never think that we are better than others. In fact, we must truly believe everyone else is better than us. We must not become disappointed when others have a poor opinion of us. A person who is charitable avoids hurting the feelings of others. He accepts the will of God in everything that happens to him, be it sickness or adversity. These things remind us we are sinners and that our lives here on earth are temporary.
We cannot work out our salvation without charity! When we have charity all the other virtues come with it. Charity purifies and sanctifies our actions. Charity perfects the soul. Saint Paul says in his epistle: “Brethren, If I speak with the tongues of men and of Angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. And if I should have prophecy, and should know all mysteries and all knowledge: and if I should have all faith so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And if I should distribute all my goods to feed the poor, and if I should deliver my body to be burned and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.”
Without Charity all other virtues are of no avail! Look at Jesus Christ Himself as our model. Look at what He did for all men, and even for those who killed Him. He prayed for mercy and forgiveness for them. He loved them. He offered up the merits and the sufferings of His death for them. He promised them pardon. If we do not have this kind of Charity we are only mock Christians!
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
September 25th, 2011 15th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: Gal. 5: 25-26; 6, 1-10
Gospel: Luc. 7, 11-16
Mass schedule September 26th through September 30th
Monday-Feria-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-SS. Cosmas & Damian, Martyrs
Wednesday-Saint Wenceslaus, Duke & Martyr
Thursday-Dedication of Saint Michael the Archangel
Friday-Saint Jerome, Confessor & Doctor
The Latin Mass Community Confirmation date is October 23rd, 2011 at 7:00pm in Saint Agnes Cathedral. His Excellency Bishop James V. Johnston will officiate.
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” “Bear one another’s burdens; and so fulfill the law of Christ.” We have many brothers in Christ we must assist in time of need, by doing so we show our love for Christ Himself. We must also be willing to offer fraternal correction when necessary. This must be done with all humility and with an awareness of our own weaknesses and personal shortcomings. We can never take issue with another person’s sin without first acknowledging our own.
If we are not in the habit of asking God for Charity we must begin today. If we are not asking God for Charity we shouldn’t be surprised that we are so worldly. We must love our neighbor as ourselves if we want to show our love for God. Who is our neighbor? Absolutely everybody! Those who have wronged us, those who have injured our good name and even those who wish to do harm to us. We must love all of them as ourselves. We must rejoice when our enemies are successful. We must be sad when they suffer loss. If we do not do this and we do not believe it we are bad Christians!
So how do we know if we have Charity? Well, if we are not proud; if we are not controlling; if we refuse to judge other people’s behavior; if we don’t gossip. We have charity if we don’t question the motives of other people’s actions. We must never think that we are better than others. In fact, we must truly believe everyone else is better than us. We must not become disappointed when others have a poor opinion of us. A person who is charitable avoids hurting the feelings of others. He accepts the will of God in everything that happens to him, be it sickness or adversity. These things remind us we are sinners and that our lives here on earth are temporary.
We cannot work out our salvation without charity! When we have charity all the other virtues come with it. Charity purifies and sanctifies our actions. Charity perfects the soul. Saint Paul says in his epistle: “Brethren, If I speak with the tongues of men and of Angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. And if I should have prophecy, and should know all mysteries and all knowledge: and if I should have all faith so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And if I should distribute all my goods to feed the poor, and if I should deliver my body to be burned and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.”
Without Charity all other virtues are of no avail! Look at Jesus Christ Himself as our model. Look at what He did for all men, and even for those who killed Him. He prayed for mercy and forgiveness for them. He loved them. He offered up the merits and the sufferings of His death for them. He promised them pardon. If we do not have this kind of Charity we are only mock Christians!
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Bulletin 63
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
August 14th, 2011 9th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: I Cor. 10: 6-13
Gospel: Lk. 19: 41-47
Mass schedule August 15th through August 19th
Monday-Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Joachim, Father of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Wednesday-Saint Hyacinth, Confessor
Thursday-Saint Agapitus, Martyr
Friday-Saint John Eudes, Confessor
If you wish to have a Mass offered for a particular intention or person you must see me first.
The website for the Latin Mass Community has been upgraded to include a mobile version for iPhones, BlackBerrys and other smart phones. Information, bulletins and updates for the Latin Mass Community will now be easily accessible and easily readable on these devices. The website remains the same.
While the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a holy day of obligation, in the United States the obligation to attend Mass is abrogated this year because the Feast falls on a Monday. I encourage all who are able to attend Mass, however, THERE WILL BE NO LATIN MASS ON THE FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION.
We will have a pot-luck dinner immediately following Mass in the Saint Agnes school cafeteria on Sunday, August 14th. All are invited to attend.
In the Gospel Jesus Christ says My house will be a house of prayer! You, who are faithful to Christ, welcome Him into your soul. Let Christ rest in you and find comfort for the many deceits that are practiced on His Heart. You are always with Christ and all that He has is yours. He takes delight in you; you are His home, His temple. Meditate often upon the mystery of love which envelops you and penetrates your every faculty.
Blessed is he who walks in truth. Blessed is he who understands that the kingdom of God is within himself, and who participates in everlasting life. Man does not understand the things of God. He is absorbed in the world of the senses, which is only a deceitful sham, a veil concealing the realities beyond. But you at least, a faithful son of Christ, should keep Him as your guest in your inmost soul. Be united with Him as the members are united together in the body, as the branches are united to the vine.
You live, no, not you, it is Christ Who lives in you by His grace. That grace is a participation in the Divine Nature. It has sanctified His humanity and He shares it with all those who love Him. Christ’s grace penetrates to the very essence of your soul, ennobling it and making it divine. Christ is thus with you as a new being, the Christian man, together you have one and same principle twofold activity, namely to pray and to love.
All that you do in union with Christ proceeds from you and from Him as from one and the same cause. Thus He continues to live on earth, and to work and to extend His kingdom to the end of time, through each of His faithful sons. All your trials borne with Christ’s help are yours together, for you two are but one. Thus Christ continues His Passion on earth. Every soul that suffers in patience helps Christ to fill up that which is still wanting in His life as victim.
Together you glorify the Father, you thank Him, you love Him; together in heaven you will sit at His right hand and you will enjoy the same happiness. Christ’s son, He has been with you a long time and yet you scarcely know Him. He invites you again today to rejoice lovingly at your union with Him by grace and through Him with the most Holy Trinity. Enter into yourself by a simple movement of your intelligence and of your will. You need not force your imagination or your feelings.
God is Spirit and He wishes to be adored in spirit and in truth. What happy hours you will spend together if you will but learn to do His will; what secrets He will whisper to you to make you holy and successful in all your endeavors! The three Divine Persons will dwell in you, for He has given you His grace. They have made heaven within you and They live in you Their infinitely happy life.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
August 14th, 2011 9th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: I Cor. 10: 6-13
Gospel: Lk. 19: 41-47
Mass schedule August 15th through August 19th
Monday-Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Joachim, Father of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Wednesday-Saint Hyacinth, Confessor
Thursday-Saint Agapitus, Martyr
Friday-Saint John Eudes, Confessor
If you wish to have a Mass offered for a particular intention or person you must see me first.
The website for the Latin Mass Community has been upgraded to include a mobile version for iPhones, BlackBerrys and other smart phones. Information, bulletins and updates for the Latin Mass Community will now be easily accessible and easily readable on these devices. The website remains the same.
While the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a holy day of obligation, in the United States the obligation to attend Mass is abrogated this year because the Feast falls on a Monday. I encourage all who are able to attend Mass, however, THERE WILL BE NO LATIN MASS ON THE FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION.
We will have a pot-luck dinner immediately following Mass in the Saint Agnes school cafeteria on Sunday, August 14th. All are invited to attend.
In the Gospel Jesus Christ says My house will be a house of prayer! You, who are faithful to Christ, welcome Him into your soul. Let Christ rest in you and find comfort for the many deceits that are practiced on His Heart. You are always with Christ and all that He has is yours. He takes delight in you; you are His home, His temple. Meditate often upon the mystery of love which envelops you and penetrates your every faculty.
Blessed is he who walks in truth. Blessed is he who understands that the kingdom of God is within himself, and who participates in everlasting life. Man does not understand the things of God. He is absorbed in the world of the senses, which is only a deceitful sham, a veil concealing the realities beyond. But you at least, a faithful son of Christ, should keep Him as your guest in your inmost soul. Be united with Him as the members are united together in the body, as the branches are united to the vine.
You live, no, not you, it is Christ Who lives in you by His grace. That grace is a participation in the Divine Nature. It has sanctified His humanity and He shares it with all those who love Him. Christ’s grace penetrates to the very essence of your soul, ennobling it and making it divine. Christ is thus with you as a new being, the Christian man, together you have one and same principle twofold activity, namely to pray and to love.
All that you do in union with Christ proceeds from you and from Him as from one and the same cause. Thus He continues to live on earth, and to work and to extend His kingdom to the end of time, through each of His faithful sons. All your trials borne with Christ’s help are yours together, for you two are but one. Thus Christ continues His Passion on earth. Every soul that suffers in patience helps Christ to fill up that which is still wanting in His life as victim.
Together you glorify the Father, you thank Him, you love Him; together in heaven you will sit at His right hand and you will enjoy the same happiness. Christ’s son, He has been with you a long time and yet you scarcely know Him. He invites you again today to rejoice lovingly at your union with Him by grace and through Him with the most Holy Trinity. Enter into yourself by a simple movement of your intelligence and of your will. You need not force your imagination or your feelings.
God is Spirit and He wishes to be adored in spirit and in truth. What happy hours you will spend together if you will but learn to do His will; what secrets He will whisper to you to make you holy and successful in all your endeavors! The three Divine Persons will dwell in you, for He has given you His grace. They have made heaven within you and They live in you Their infinitely happy life.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Bulletin 59
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
July 17th, 2011 5th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: I Petri 3, 8-15
Gospel: Matth. 5, 20-24
Mass schedule July 18th through July 22nd
Monday-Saint Camillus de Lellis; Confessor-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Vincent de Paul; Confessor
Wednesday-Saint Jerome Emiliani; Confessor
Thursday-Saint Laurence of Brindisi; Confessor & Doctor
Friday-Saint Mary Magdalene; Penitent
If you wish to have a Mass offered for a particular intention or person you must see me first.
The website for the Latin Mass Community has been upgraded to include a mobile version for iPhones, BlackBerrys and other smart phones. Information, bulletins and updates for the Latin Mass Community will now be easily accessible and easily readable on these devices. The website remains the same.
Every baptized Christian is called to share in the paschal mystery of Christ. This includes both suffering and glory. Trials in our lives should therefore not come as a surprise. We should expect them. They are meant to fill us with joy when we unite them with the sufferings of Jesus Christ. The only way we can share in Christ’s glory is by first embracing suffering when it happens to come our way.
Suffering can be a tremendous opportunity for us to grow closer to Jesus Christ. Since Christ was a suffering servant He expects us, in turn, to learn patience through our trials in life. Many Christians claim allegiance to Christ, but only do so by lip service. They are not true friends of Christ because they are not willing to embrace suffering.
If, as Saint Paul says, we must rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep, we must in our own lives always be prepared to take the good with the bad. Furthermore, we must learn to always remain on an even keel. We should never allow ourselves to be over joyful in times of prosperity or too dejected in times of adversity.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
July 17th, 2011 5th Sunday after Pentecost
Epistle: I Petri 3, 8-15
Gospel: Matth. 5, 20-24
Mass schedule July 18th through July 22nd
Monday-Saint Camillus de Lellis; Confessor-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Vincent de Paul; Confessor
Wednesday-Saint Jerome Emiliani; Confessor
Thursday-Saint Laurence of Brindisi; Confessor & Doctor
Friday-Saint Mary Magdalene; Penitent
If you wish to have a Mass offered for a particular intention or person you must see me first.
The website for the Latin Mass Community has been upgraded to include a mobile version for iPhones, BlackBerrys and other smart phones. Information, bulletins and updates for the Latin Mass Community will now be easily accessible and easily readable on these devices. The website remains the same.
Every baptized Christian is called to share in the paschal mystery of Christ. This includes both suffering and glory. Trials in our lives should therefore not come as a surprise. We should expect them. They are meant to fill us with joy when we unite them with the sufferings of Jesus Christ. The only way we can share in Christ’s glory is by first embracing suffering when it happens to come our way.
Suffering can be a tremendous opportunity for us to grow closer to Jesus Christ. Since Christ was a suffering servant He expects us, in turn, to learn patience through our trials in life. Many Christians claim allegiance to Christ, but only do so by lip service. They are not true friends of Christ because they are not willing to embrace suffering.
If, as Saint Paul says, we must rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep, we must in our own lives always be prepared to take the good with the bad. Furthermore, we must learn to always remain on an even keel. We should never allow ourselves to be over joyful in times of prosperity or too dejected in times of adversity.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Bulletin 56
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
June 26th, 2011 External Solemnity of Corpus Christi
Epistle: 1 Cor. 11: 23-29
Gospel: Jn. 6: 56-59
Mass schedule June 27th through July 1st
Monday-Feria-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Vigil of SS. Peter & Paul-NO LATIN MASS
Wednesday-SS. Peter & Paul, Apostles
Thursday-Commemoration of Saint Paul, Apostle
Friday-Sacred Heart of Jesus
If you wish to have a Mass offered for a particular intention or person you must see me first.
The website for the Latin Mass Community has been upgraded to include a mobile version for iPhones, BlackBerrys and other smart phones. Information, bulletins and updates for the Latin Mass Community will now be easily accessible and easily readable on these devices. The website remains the same.
THIS SUNDAY ON THE FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI MASS WILL BE OFFERED BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT EXPOSED. THERE WILL BE A PROCESSION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING MASS.
NOTE THAT ON TUESDAY, JUNE 28th THERE WILL BE NO LATIN MASS AT 12:15pm.
Saint Augustine asks: “Could God have been able to give us anything more precious than what He has given us in the Blessed Sacrament? Do you know, dear brethren, what induced Jesus Christ to condescend to be present in our churches day and night? It was that we might be able to come to Him whenever we wanted to…What, dear brethren, is more consoling for a Christian than to feel he adores a God who is really and truly present body and soul? What is it that makes our churches so sacred and so venerable? Is it not the presence of Jesus Christ? What an immense privilege we Christians enjoy!”
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
June 26th, 2011 External Solemnity of Corpus Christi
Epistle: 1 Cor. 11: 23-29
Gospel: Jn. 6: 56-59
Mass schedule June 27th through July 1st
Monday-Feria-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Vigil of SS. Peter & Paul-NO LATIN MASS
Wednesday-SS. Peter & Paul, Apostles
Thursday-Commemoration of Saint Paul, Apostle
Friday-Sacred Heart of Jesus
If you wish to have a Mass offered for a particular intention or person you must see me first.
The website for the Latin Mass Community has been upgraded to include a mobile version for iPhones, BlackBerrys and other smart phones. Information, bulletins and updates for the Latin Mass Community will now be easily accessible and easily readable on these devices. The website remains the same.
THIS SUNDAY ON THE FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI MASS WILL BE OFFERED BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT EXPOSED. THERE WILL BE A PROCESSION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING MASS.
NOTE THAT ON TUESDAY, JUNE 28th THERE WILL BE NO LATIN MASS AT 12:15pm.
Saint Augustine asks: “Could God have been able to give us anything more precious than what He has given us in the Blessed Sacrament? Do you know, dear brethren, what induced Jesus Christ to condescend to be present in our churches day and night? It was that we might be able to come to Him whenever we wanted to…What, dear brethren, is more consoling for a Christian than to feel he adores a God who is really and truly present body and soul? What is it that makes our churches so sacred and so venerable? Is it not the presence of Jesus Christ? What an immense privilege we Christians enjoy!”
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Bulletin 50
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
May 15, 2011 Third Sunday after Easter
Epistle: I Pet. 2: 11-19
Gospel: Jn. 16: 16-22
Mass schedule May 16 through May 20
Monday-Saint Ubald, Bishop and Confessor-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Paschal Baylon, Confessor
Wednesday-Saint Venantius, Martyr
Thursday-Saint Peter Celestine, Pope & Confessor
Friday-Saint Bernardine of Siena, Confessor
THERE IS NO LATIN MASS THIS SUNDAY, MAY 15 AT 2:30pm. A FIRST COMMUNION MASS HAS BEEN SCHEDULED IN PLACE OF THE LATIN MASS.
In the Gospel Christ reminds His disciples that He is not leaving them for good. He reassures them that He will come back to stay with them. Christ reminds His disciples that even though they are sad that He is leaving, later they will rejoice.
We must remember even in the midst of the joy of the Easter season that Christ came to suffer for our redemption. In fact, there can be no true rejoicing and glory without suffering first. Our life in this valley of tears involves much suffering. However, we must hold fast to our faith in the Resurrection. We must truly believe there will be a speedy end to our suffering. We must embrace our suffering and focus on the Resurrected Christ.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
May 15, 2011 Third Sunday after Easter
Epistle: I Pet. 2: 11-19
Gospel: Jn. 16: 16-22
Mass schedule May 16 through May 20
Monday-Saint Ubald, Bishop and Confessor-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Saint Paschal Baylon, Confessor
Wednesday-Saint Venantius, Martyr
Thursday-Saint Peter Celestine, Pope & Confessor
Friday-Saint Bernardine of Siena, Confessor
THERE IS NO LATIN MASS THIS SUNDAY, MAY 15 AT 2:30pm. A FIRST COMMUNION MASS HAS BEEN SCHEDULED IN PLACE OF THE LATIN MASS.
In the Gospel Christ reminds His disciples that He is not leaving them for good. He reassures them that He will come back to stay with them. Christ reminds His disciples that even though they are sad that He is leaving, later they will rejoice.
We must remember even in the midst of the joy of the Easter season that Christ came to suffer for our redemption. In fact, there can be no true rejoicing and glory without suffering first. Our life in this valley of tears involves much suffering. However, we must hold fast to our faith in the Resurrection. We must truly believe there will be a speedy end to our suffering. We must embrace our suffering and focus on the Resurrected Christ.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Bulletin 43
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
March 27, 2011 Third Sunday of Lent
Epistle: Ephes. 5, 1-9
Gospel: Luc. 11, 14-28
Mass schedule March 28 through April 1
Monday-Feria of Lent-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Feria of Lent
Wednesday-Feria of Lent
Thursday-Feria of Lent
Friday-Feria of Lent
Saint Paul reminds us that we are temples of the Holy Spirit and members of Christ’s body. We therefore have a grave responsibility to resist immoral practices in all forms.
Saint Paul in fact warns us that “immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you.” We must practice chastity out of love for God and respect for one’s own body.
Along with chastity comes both modesty and refinement. We must keep guard over our senses and our heart. We must avoid the occasions to sin. We must strive to frequent the sacraments, particularly the sacrament of Confession. We must foster devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. All these help us to live a holy life.
Saint Paul also reminds us of the importance of fighting against greed. We cannot become attached to things of this world. We must first seek the Kingdom of God. When we do this we soon realize our obligation to be lights for Christ. We realize our obligation to help those around us. The salvation of souls is at stake. If we want to be faithful Christians we do all we can to bring others to Christ, especially by the witness of our lives.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
March 27, 2011 Third Sunday of Lent
Epistle: Ephes. 5, 1-9
Gospel: Luc. 11, 14-28
Mass schedule March 28 through April 1
Monday-Feria of Lent-NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday-Feria of Lent
Wednesday-Feria of Lent
Thursday-Feria of Lent
Friday-Feria of Lent
Saint Paul reminds us that we are temples of the Holy Spirit and members of Christ’s body. We therefore have a grave responsibility to resist immoral practices in all forms.
Saint Paul in fact warns us that “immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you.” We must practice chastity out of love for God and respect for one’s own body.
Along with chastity comes both modesty and refinement. We must keep guard over our senses and our heart. We must avoid the occasions to sin. We must strive to frequent the sacraments, particularly the sacrament of Confession. We must foster devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. All these help us to live a holy life.
Saint Paul also reminds us of the importance of fighting against greed. We cannot become attached to things of this world. We must first seek the Kingdom of God. When we do this we soon realize our obligation to be lights for Christ. We realize our obligation to help those around us. The salvation of souls is at stake. If we want to be faithful Christians we do all we can to bring others to Christ, especially by the witness of our lives.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Bulletin 38
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
February 20, 2011 Septuagesima Sunday
Epistle: I Cor. 9:24-27; 10:1-5
Gospel: Matth. 20: 1-16
Mass schedule February 21 through February 25
Monday----Feria----NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday----Chair of Saint Peter
Wednesday----Saint Peter Damian; Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Thursday----Saint Matthias; Apostle
Friday----Feria
The nature of the Christian’s life must involve a certain “interior” striving. We should really approach our spiritual life with a competitive spirit. We should also learn to guard our spirituality with a certain jealousy. In other words, we should foster a healthy striving toward becoming the saints that Christ is asking us to become. We must learn to face all sacrifices that our Lord asks of us head-on. As followers of Christ we cannot allow any obstacles, failures, limitations or temptations of any sort to discourage us. It should come as no surprise when we discover that pride, envy, jealousy, laziness, hatred and all other sins rise up from the depths of our own hearts. Listen to the words of Saint Paul: “I do not run aimlessly, I do not box as one beating the air, but I pommel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” The point is we cannot become depressed by our failures, even if they are serious. We must have recourse to Christ is the Sacrament of Penance and begin again with a desire to improve. Christ understands our weakness and constantly calls us to Himself.
Saint Paul emphasizes the importance of perseverance. He points out the importance of the ascetical effort we have a responsibility to embrace. We must physically mortify our bodies to gain self-control of our sinful nature. As we begin today to prepare for the Lenten season, we must ask our Lord for the grace to deny ourselves. In this way we learn to bring Christ’s good work He has begun in us to perfection.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
February 20, 2011 Septuagesima Sunday
Epistle: I Cor. 9:24-27; 10:1-5
Gospel: Matth. 20: 1-16
Mass schedule February 21 through February 25
Monday----Feria----NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday----Chair of Saint Peter
Wednesday----Saint Peter Damian; Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Thursday----Saint Matthias; Apostle
Friday----Feria
The nature of the Christian’s life must involve a certain “interior” striving. We should really approach our spiritual life with a competitive spirit. We should also learn to guard our spirituality with a certain jealousy. In other words, we should foster a healthy striving toward becoming the saints that Christ is asking us to become. We must learn to face all sacrifices that our Lord asks of us head-on. As followers of Christ we cannot allow any obstacles, failures, limitations or temptations of any sort to discourage us. It should come as no surprise when we discover that pride, envy, jealousy, laziness, hatred and all other sins rise up from the depths of our own hearts. Listen to the words of Saint Paul: “I do not run aimlessly, I do not box as one beating the air, but I pommel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” The point is we cannot become depressed by our failures, even if they are serious. We must have recourse to Christ is the Sacrament of Penance and begin again with a desire to improve. Christ understands our weakness and constantly calls us to Himself.
Saint Paul emphasizes the importance of perseverance. He points out the importance of the ascetical effort we have a responsibility to embrace. We must physically mortify our bodies to gain self-control of our sinful nature. As we begin today to prepare for the Lenten season, we must ask our Lord for the grace to deny ourselves. In this way we learn to bring Christ’s good work He has begun in us to perfection.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Friday, February 4, 2011
Bulletin 36
AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
February 6, 2011 Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: Col. 3, 12-17
Gospel: Matth. 13, 24-30
Mass schedule February 7 through February 11
Monday----Saint Romuald, Abbot----NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday----Saint John of Matha, Confessor
Wednesday----Saint Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Thursday----Saint Scholastica, Virgin
Friday----Our Lady of Lourdes
No Pot Luck Dinner this month.
MASS ON SUNDAY FEBRUARY 13 WILL BE AT 7:00 PM AT SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL
What a miracle of love it is when the Son of God, who is Almighty and Infinite, and whom the angels and saints reverently adore day and night, becomes our food in the Eucharist! To receive God within us and to unite our unworthy flesh and blood with His most sacred flesh and blood is a tremendous grace! God comes to dwell within us! How can we not feel the most profound reverence and adoration?
Our God is in the Holy Eucharist. He is present in the form of bread out of His infinite love for us. He does this so that He may unite Himself to us. He does not reveal His infinite glory while present in the sacred host so that we will not be frightened by the splendor of His divinity. In other words, God foregoes His own splendor and glory so that He may save sinners and be present in the sacred host.
What then do we owe God in return? Do we acknowledge His love and show our gratitude? Sadly, many do not. God manifests His greatest love, and yet here He often receives His greatest abuse. He often receives the utmost ingratitude. During the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass Christ offers Himself up for our sins to God the Father and begs God’s grace and mercy. What do we do in return? Many do not even think it worth while to attend this Sacrifice even if they easily can. Others attend, but without thinking what it is that is being done for them. Others act inappropriately during the Mass. They talk or find some excuse to get up and leave as soon as Mass begins. Others even make fun of the Mass. Christ sees all and yet He continues to make Himself present to appease the just wrath of God the Father.
Let us attend Mass with the utmost reverence and respect. Let us thank our God for the sacrifice of His Son.
In Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
February 6, 2011 Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: Col. 3, 12-17
Gospel: Matth. 13, 24-30
Mass schedule February 7 through February 11
Monday----Saint Romuald, Abbot----NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday----Saint John of Matha, Confessor
Wednesday----Saint Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Thursday----Saint Scholastica, Virgin
Friday----Our Lady of Lourdes
No Pot Luck Dinner this month.
MASS ON SUNDAY FEBRUARY 13 WILL BE AT 7:00 PM AT SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL
What a miracle of love it is when the Son of God, who is Almighty and Infinite, and whom the angels and saints reverently adore day and night, becomes our food in the Eucharist! To receive God within us and to unite our unworthy flesh and blood with His most sacred flesh and blood is a tremendous grace! God comes to dwell within us! How can we not feel the most profound reverence and adoration?
Our God is in the Holy Eucharist. He is present in the form of bread out of His infinite love for us. He does this so that He may unite Himself to us. He does not reveal His infinite glory while present in the sacred host so that we will not be frightened by the splendor of His divinity. In other words, God foregoes His own splendor and glory so that He may save sinners and be present in the sacred host.
What then do we owe God in return? Do we acknowledge His love and show our gratitude? Sadly, many do not. God manifests His greatest love, and yet here He often receives His greatest abuse. He often receives the utmost ingratitude. During the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass Christ offers Himself up for our sins to God the Father and begs God’s grace and mercy. What do we do in return? Many do not even think it worth while to attend this Sacrifice even if they easily can. Others attend, but without thinking what it is that is being done for them. Others act inappropriately during the Mass. They talk or find some excuse to get up and leave as soon as Mass begins. Others even make fun of the Mass. Christ sees all and yet He continues to make Himself present to appease the just wrath of God the Father.
Let us attend Mass with the utmost reverence and respect. Let us thank our God for the sacrifice of His Son.
In Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Bulletin 34
SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806 EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS: Celebrant Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
January 23, 2011 Third Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: Rom. 12, 16-21
Gospel: Matth. 8, 1-13
Mass schedule January 24 through January 28
Monday--Saint Timothy, Bishop & Martyr—NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday—Conversion of Saint Paul
Wednesday—Saint Polycarp, Bishop & Martyr
Thursday—Saint John Chrysostom, Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Friday--Saint Peter Nolasco, Confessor
The presence of evil is always a reality on this earth. If we are honest, there is sometimes an evil that rises up from the depths of our own hearts. How do we fight against this evil? The lesson that our Lord gives us is simple, yet often very difficult to carry out. Christ invites us to be gentle in the face of evil. We must strive to live in peace with everyone. We must strive to forgive everyone. When we experience injustice in the world we must name it for what it is. When we experience an offense against God we must name it for what it is as well. We cannot reply with evil when we are confronted with evil. Saint Paul reminds us that we must bless our persecutors and pray for those who would harm us.
In today’s Gospel we see illustrated the great popularity of Jesus. Huge crowds gathered around to listen to Him. The Jewish leaders dared not arrest Christ for fear of what the crowds might do. However, the elders opposed Christ and called for His execution.
Christ cures the man with leprosy. The Church Fathers have pointed out that leprosy is a vivid image of the reality of sin. Sin is ugly, disgusting, contagious and difficult to cure. We are all sinners and in need of God’s forgiveness and grace. The leper in the Gospel knelt down before Christ and begged to be made clean. He begged with humility and confidence. Christ thus answered the leper’s plea. If we turn to Christ with this same faith, He will always sanctify our souls.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
January 23, 2011 Third Sunday after Epiphany
Epistle: Rom. 12, 16-21
Gospel: Matth. 8, 1-13
Mass schedule January 24 through January 28
Monday--Saint Timothy, Bishop & Martyr—NO LATIN MASS
Tuesday—Conversion of Saint Paul
Wednesday—Saint Polycarp, Bishop & Martyr
Thursday—Saint John Chrysostom, Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Friday--Saint Peter Nolasco, Confessor
The presence of evil is always a reality on this earth. If we are honest, there is sometimes an evil that rises up from the depths of our own hearts. How do we fight against this evil? The lesson that our Lord gives us is simple, yet often very difficult to carry out. Christ invites us to be gentle in the face of evil. We must strive to live in peace with everyone. We must strive to forgive everyone. When we experience injustice in the world we must name it for what it is. When we experience an offense against God we must name it for what it is as well. We cannot reply with evil when we are confronted with evil. Saint Paul reminds us that we must bless our persecutors and pray for those who would harm us.
In today’s Gospel we see illustrated the great popularity of Jesus. Huge crowds gathered around to listen to Him. The Jewish leaders dared not arrest Christ for fear of what the crowds might do. However, the elders opposed Christ and called for His execution.
Christ cures the man with leprosy. The Church Fathers have pointed out that leprosy is a vivid image of the reality of sin. Sin is ugly, disgusting, contagious and difficult to cure. We are all sinners and in need of God’s forgiveness and grace. The leper in the Gospel knelt down before Christ and begged to be made clean. He begged with humility and confidence. Christ thus answered the leper’s plea. If we turn to Christ with this same faith, He will always sanctify our souls.
Sincerely in Christ,
Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)