The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, April 9, 2005
Saturday of the Second week of Easter
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 6:1-7
Psalm 33:1-2,4-5,18-19
John 6:16-21
St. Luke, in today's readings, is correcting a severe problem in the early church--neglect of those Greek-speaking widows. Because they did not speak Aramaic, they were isolated from the other Jewish widows. The Apostles are so concerned that they consult the community, asking for the names of seven men of good reputation who could take over the care of these "Hellenists." These men are the first deacons in the new Church.
How fortunate that our modern church has revived the ancient practice of Deacons. With our priest shortage today, they have become quite indispensable in caring for the needs of parishes, not just in caring for physical needs, but so effectively assisting in the spiritual needs of the people. Let us pray for them, appreciate them, and thank them.
At the same time, the Gospel reminds of our responsibility to acknowledge Jesus as the master of wind and wave, that is, the Power Person who alone can free us and protect us from many dangers which threaten to overwhelm us. Perhaps it is the actual caring for victims of a tsunami. Perhaps it is giving encouragement and aid to victims of addictions, enslaved by uncontrollable appetites. Whatever the situation, and because of our Baptism, we share in the responsibility and the power of Jesus himself to be alert to needs of our brothers and sisters.
- Msgr. Paul E. Whitmore
(smartins at twcny dot rr dot com)
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posted by joachim at 5:07 AM