The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 12, 2004
Friday of the Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Josaphat, bishop and martyr

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 John 4-9
Psalm 119:1-2,10-11,17-18
Luke 17:26-37

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

As we approach Thanksgiving, we begin to dialogue with other Christian Churches in the planning of joint services. As we plan, there is often a wariness and guardedness. After all, we don't want to give up anything of our own customs and rituals. With dismay, we realize how far we have drifted apart.

St. Josaphat, today's saint, suffered martyrdom because of such disagreements. His loyalty to Rome cost him his life. Just fifteen years ago, a similar situation developed in Communist countries as both Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox emerged from hiding into the full light of day. Jealousy and mistrust, resentment and fear spoiled what could have been a wonderful reunion and witness to the unity of the Body of Christ.

Do I pray for Christian unity? Do I harbor kind thoughts and yearnings for understanding with my Protestant and Jewish brothers and sisters? If I do, our Thanksgiving will be a fuller expression of gratitude to God for His gifts.

- Msgr. Paul E. Whitmore
(smartins at twcny dot rr dot com)

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posted by joachim at 5:22 AM