Tuesday in the Octave of Easter

“For greater things you were born.” (Ven. Mother Luisita)

TUESDAY, April 19th   Jn. 20: 11-18  Jesus said:  “Go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”

^“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” (Jn 3:16-17)

HOPE AND TRUST IN OUR LOVING FATHER by Fr. Ed Broom, OMV

We must have a firm, solid, staunch faith and trust in God in all times, places and circumstances. However, if our faith and trust in God is never put to the test by the fire of trials and tribulations, then it usually does not grow. In nature, plants and trees that have weathered the inclement climate of strong winds, raging tempests, rain, sleet and snow will be the most robust when future inclement weather descends.

Similarly with the followers of Christ—trials, tribulations, afflictions, contradictions, sufferings, and setbacks can serve to fortify and make robust our interior life.   

In the midst of the turmoil and tempests that we all experience, we must fervently beg for hope and trust in God, now more than ever. It is proven in nature that in a tornado there is actually calm in the eye of the tornado. Likewise with a hurricane—there is calm in the eye of the hurricane. In a storm raging out on the ocean, in the depths and bottom of the ocean, there is a real calmness and tranquility. Likewise it should be in our personal spiritual lives. A tendency towards laziness, complacency, and even lukewarmness can visit all of us in our spiritual life. God does not want tepid and mediocre followers. Quite the contrary, God most ardently desires fire, fervor, and passion in our heart towards Him. This will only happen when we truly believe that God is our calm in the midst of life’s trials. He is our tranquility in the depths of our heart and soul when the storms of life threaten to overtake us.

This being the scenario, what are some potent reasons for our depositing our hope and trust in God?

1. GOD’S OMNIPRESENT, PROVIDENTIAL CARE.

Even in the midst of the most difficult situations that can exist in the world, God is always present, God never ceases to exist. In truth, God can never fail to exist and be present to us. Quite the contrary! Saint Paul quoting the Greek poet states: “In God we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28) Jesus says that our Heavenly Father loves us so much, that He actually has you and me in His loving hand, and nobody can snatch us from the loving hand of our Eternal Father. (Jn 10:19)

2. GOD LOVES US AND PUTS US TO THE TEST.

If God really loves us, which He certainly does always, He puts us to the test, like Abram who was tested to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. (Gen 22:1-19) Also, Jesus tested Peter by sending him out with the other Apostles in the boat to cross the lake, even against their will. (Mt 14:22-33) Then Jesus came walking on the waters and challenged Peter to come to Him walking on the waters, saying “Come.” Leaving the comfort of the boat, Peter actually did walk on the waters of Lake Galilee, at least for a short time, until he began to lose heart and sink. Why did Peter sink? The response to that question is the response to our own many questions, doubts, and fears: Peter lifted his eyes, his gaze from the Person and the eyes of Jesus, to the waves surrounding him. That is our problem. Instead of focusing our eyes on the Problem-solver—that is, Jesus our Lord, God and Savior—we focus more on the problem in front of us. When we focus more on the problem than on the Problem-solver, we sink in the tumultuous waves of our own fears, doubts and insecurities. Therefore, in the midst of the many tempestuous storms that we experience—and there are often more than one—let us focus less on the problem and more on the Problem-solver: Jesus our Lord, God and Savior!

3. LORD, SAVE ME!

As Peter was quickly sinking beneath the waves, he cried out: “Lord, save me!” Jesus stretched out his hand, gently rebuking Peter for his lack of faith, and lifted Peter out from the surging waves. Then Peter again walked on the water beside Jesus, entered the boat with Jesus, and the boat arrived safely and securely at the shore with speed and graceful ease! Like Peter, when it seems as if the world is caving in on us from all different sides and situations, we must cry out with all of our heart and with dauntless faith: LORD, SAVE ME!!! The gentle voice of Jesus will be heard in your heart, and His gentle but firm and loving Hand will save you from drowning in the surging waves of your many doubts, fears, and insecurities. What a short but powerful prayer: LORD, SAVE ME!

4. THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD, THERE IS NOTHING I SHALL LACK. (PSALM 23)

Another enormous lifesaver in the midst of the storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes of the human drama is the beautiful, consoling, comforting prayer Psalm 23—the Psalm of the Good Shepherd. Probably the most known and loved of all of the 150 Psalms, the Psalm of the Good Shepherd can prove to be a real Lifesaver! When you are cast into a deep state of desolation, and it seems your life can be compared to a dark, damp, dreary, endless and depressing tunnel, why not leave the tunnel and open your Bible to the passage of the Good Shepherd—Psalm 23. Very calmly, very slowly, very prayerfully read this passage, once, twice, even three times. Allow this beautiful Psalm, through a real spiritual osmosis, to penetrate, permeate and absorb your whole being. Allow one of the words or concepts to captivate and enthrall your heart; relish that word or phrase; repeat it and allow it to fill you with a peace and joy that surpasses all understanding. “The Lord is my Shepherd; there is nothing I shall lack.” Maybe these are the words that touch you most. With these words there is no need to fear because the Good Shepherd takes me to green pastures and nourishes my soul.

5. MOTHER OF DIVINE PROVIDENCE.

When surrounded by an atmosphere of gloom and doom, we must also lift up our eyes, our mind, and our heart to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Many are the encouraging titles for Mary, titles that can really lift our spirits: Mary is our life, our sweetness, and our hope; the Star of the Sea, amidst the storms of life; the Cause of our Joy; the Gateway to Heaven; Our Mother of Consolation; Our Mother of Perpetual Help! Many more are the titles of Mary, Our Mother.

However, why not turn to Mary in her loving, motherly presence at the Wedding Feast of Cana. (Jn 2:1-12) The couple run out of wine. Being the first to notice this embarrassing situation, Mary turns to Jesus and says: “They have no more wine.” In this unfortunate circumstance, the festivities would be over. Then Mary says to the servants, “Do whatever He tells you!” Miracle! Water transformed into wine, and the best of all wines, through the power of Jesus, and the maternal presence of Mary and the power of her intercession. Therefore, in the midst of your fears, doubts, insecurities, sadness, and many questions, lift up your mind, heart, and soul to Mary. Beg her to turn to Jesus and ask Him to transform your water into the most splendid and exquisite wine. If you trust in Mary, it will indeed happen!

Monday in the Octave of Easter

“For greater things you were born.” (Ven. Mother Luisita)

MONDAY, April 18th    Mt. 28:8-15   “Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.’”  

True Joy is found in Christ alone!

REJOICE IN THE LORD: I SAY IT AGAIN: REJOICE… by Fr. Ed Broom, OMV

In the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians, the Apostle to the Gentiles fervently exhorts us and the whole of created humanity to rejoice, but with the qualifier—“Rejoice in the Lord!” (Philippians 4:4)

True, authentic, unveneered and unadulterated joy can only be discovered in getting to know, love, follow and imitate Jesus, the source of all joy. Any other attempt to attain joy unrelated to Jesus, the ultimate source of joy, will be an exercise in futility and will terminate in collapse and disaster.

All too many confuse these two separate realities: that of pleasure with that of joy. It is true that pleasure can be acquired and purchased with money. But even the Beatles used to sing: “Money can’t buy me love.” Pleasure depends on external stimuli—a good drink and a succulent steak satisfies the palate and the belly, but does not satisfy the deepest yearnings of the heart. Interesting to note: the more one pursues pleasure as an end in itself, the less one experiences true and authentic joy.

Joy is one of the many fruits of the Holy Spirit. Once we open our hearts to the workings of grace and collaborate with the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit, then the fruits of the Holy Spirit blossom within our souls and become manifest in our exterior actions. Jesus expressed it clearly: “You can know the tree by its fruits.” (Mt 7:16)

One of the principal reasons why joy should be our constant friend and companion is the reality of the meaning of the Paschal Mystery. By this term Paschal Mystery is meant that Jesus truly died, was buried, but on the third day He rose from the dead. After the Consecration in the Mass we acclaim: “Christ has died; Christ has risen; Christ will come again.”

What then are some of the primary reasons for rejoicing with the reality of the Risen Lord Jesus? The following reasons can fill us with overflowing joy.

1. SAINT IGNATIUS AND THE SPIRITUAL EXERCISES.  

In the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola when we arrive at the Contemplation of the Risen Lord Jesus, the saint insists that we should beg for a special grace. The grace?  The most intense joy because Jesus truly rose from the dead! It is not just a drop of joy, but rather an ocean of joy. Often we receive little from the Lord because we ask for or expect the minimum. Why not beg with the arrival of the Easter Season that we be inundated by a deluge of grace, a deluge of overflowing joy that will flood the lives of others?

2. JESUS IS TRULY RISEN FROM THE DEAD.  

The fact that Jesus died on the cross, but on the third day He truly rose from the dead, never to experience death again, should most definitely flood us with a tidal wave of joy. Indeed, Jesus describes Himself in these three key words: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” (Jn 14:6)

3. HIS LIFE MEANS OUR LIFE IN THE FULLNESS.  

Jesus also said: “I have come that they may have life, and life in abundance.” (Jn 10:10)  Indeed, the more that Jesus lives in us and we live in Jesus, the more we are truly alive in this life, as well as in the life to come. Sin can be compared to a dry, withered and dead branch. Life can be compared to the fresh blossoming of roses after the winter storms.

4. OUR DEATH IN THE LORD IS THE GATEWAY TO ETERNAL LIFE.  

Life on earth is ephemeral, transitory, precarious and temporal. However, if we have lived in union with Jesus in this short earthly pilgrimage, in this valley of tears, then our death is not really death at all but the gateway to eternal life. For that reason the Church teaches that the death of a saint is their birthday into eternal life.

5. THE RISEN JESUS AND HEAVEN. 

Saint Teresa of Avila and many of the saints insist on meditating and contemplating the reality of Heaven. This Carmelite Doctor of the Church compares our life on earth to spending a night in a lousy Inn or Hotel! With the accomplishment of the Paschal Mystery—the Passion, death and Resurrection of Jesus, the gates of Heaven were opened in full splendor and glory. Indeed, if we truly meditate often upon the reality of Heaven that awaits us as a result of Jesus’ Resurrection, the sufferings, setbacks, contradictions, and crosses of life become not only bearable but can be accepted with joy and great hope.

6. WHAT THEN IS HEAVEN LIKE? 

Saint Paul does his best in trying to explain what we will experience in these poignant words: “Eye has not seen, nor ear has heard, nor has it entered the mind of man what God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1Cor 2:9) Attempt this exercise of imagination (contemplation). Call to mind the happiest day, the happiest hour, the happiest, most joyful moment of your life! Now, multiply that joy a thousand times; then add to it eternity. That is to say, the happiness and inexpressible joy of that moment will never end, but will last forever and ever and ever!!!!

7. SUFFERING HAS TRUE MEANING AND VALUE IF INSERTED AND UNITED WITH THE PASCHAL MYSTERY.    

Then, of paramount importance, all of our sufferings be they physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, cultural, familial, when united to the Passion, death and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus have infinite value. Venerable Fulton Sheen quips, “If there is no Good Friday, then there is no Easter Sunday.” In the light of our own future Resurrection, let us strive to never waste our sufferings but unite them to the sufferings of Jesus which culminate in His Resurrection from the dead, and one day our own Resurrection!

8. HOLY SACRIFICE OF THE MASS AND THE RISEN LORD JESUS.

As difficult as this might be for our intellect darkened as a result of Original Sin, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the bridge between Heaven and earth. It is God’s OPUS DEI—GOD’S GREAT WORK! In every Mass celebrated by an ordained Catholic priest really and truly the Paschal Mystery becomes a reality. Once the bread and wine are consecrated they are truly transformed into the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of the Lord Jesus. In the Consecrated Host is present the fullness of the Paschal Mystery. In the Consecrated Host the Crucified Lord Jesus is truly present as He hangs on the cross, at the same time, the Risen Lord Jesus is truly Present. This Mystery indeed transcends our limited human intellect. Let us bow humbly before the sublime and august Majesty of our Triune God!

9. HOLINESS, HAPPINESS, HOPEFULNESS, HEAVEN…

These four words that all start with “H” characterize the abundant fruits of Easter in the Risen Lord Jesus. Jesus is the Holy One sent from God to free us from the sadness of sin. Happiness is related to the virtue of Hope in which we patiently await our future reward. That reward? Heaven our true, permanent and eternal abode.

10. OUR LADY AND THE JOY OF THE RESURRECTION. 

After Jesus there was nobody that suffered more intense pains then His Mother, known as Our Lady of Sorrows.  She is often depicted with seven swords piercing her Heart. At the same time, never did any person, with the exception of Jesus Himself, ever experience such abounding and overflowing joy as did Mary. Such is the case, that the Church traditionally believes that the first Appearance of Jesus in His Resurrection was to His own Mother. She who shared intimately in His most intense sorrows would also share in His immense and overflowing joy.

IN CONCLUSION, we are all called to live out our lives in joy, overflowing joy, a most intense joy, a joy that must be shared abundantly with the many who live in sadness and the shadows of death. Such true, authentic joy can only be experienced in union with Jesus. Once we have firmly determined to establish our life’s goal and purpose in getting to know Jesus, love Jesus, follow Jesus, imitate Jesus, and die with Jesus so as to rise with Him, then the fruit of joy will be in the depths of our hearts, minds and souls. Finally, the mature fruit of joy will blossom fully and completely upon our arrival in Heaven!

Easter Sunday The Resurrection of the Lord 
The Mass of Easter Day

“For greater things you were born.” (Ven. Mother Luisita)

SUNDAY, April 17th    Jn. 20:1-9   Psalm: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.”  

PART 1 OF 2:  EASTER GIVES TRUE MEANING TO LIFE by Fr. Ed Broom, OMV

The winter snows melt and spring flowers blossom and emanate their beautiful fragrance. The sharp thorns fade as the red rose opens to crown spring’s colorful array and perfume.

These are merely analogies in nature of the greatest of all events: the Resurrection of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!  

A hardened sinner moved by grace, renouncing sin, reforming his life, and falling in love with the Person of Jesus the Lord becomes a great saint. This is only possible through the power of grace communicated through the Paschal mystery—the Passion, death and Resurrection of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The saints knew that Jesus indeed died but He rose from the dead on the third day. He rose never to die again. This reality of the Resurrection has a huge impact on the whole of humanity, and on each and every one of us in particular.

We shall look at ten of the graces that flow from the Resurrection of Christ.

1. LIFE IN ABUNDANCE… Death is not the last word; beyond the grave there is life and life in abundance. The atheist, or agnostic lives a life of hopeless despair. Not the believer—Eternal life, life to the fullest awaits the true followers of Christ.

2. HOPE… Despite all the trials, afflictions, tribulations, contradictions in life, the belief in Jesus’ Risen to new life fills us with hope!

3. HEAVEN… The reason for our abounding hope is the firm belief in heaven that is right around the corner. Jesus promised heaven to all believers and doers of His word. “I go now to prepare a place for you so that where I am you might also be. In my Fathers’ home there are many mansions. If it were not so, I would not tell you so.” (Jn 14:2-3)

4. JOY… St. Ignatius, in the fourth week of the Spiritual Exercises, brings us into contact with the Risen Jesus and Ignatius insists that we beg not only for joy, but for the most intense joy! Joy is a powerful motivation to carry out great apostolic endeavors for the Lord!

5. A FAMILY REUNION… The Risen Lord promises His faithful followers heaven and that means that not only will we will be with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and Our Blessed Mother, but we will also be united with the saints and reunited with our loved ones who have preceded us. It will be an endless banquet of family and friends meeting and enjoying each other’s company for all eternity!

6. SUFFERING… Human nature recoils from suffering! However, in the light of the Risen Lord, not only does our suffering have meaning, it has eternal value inasmuch as it is united to the suffering, Passion, death and Resurrection of Jesus.

When we unite our suffering to Christ’s suffering, our suffering purifies, humbles, exalts, sanctifies, and prepares us for eternal glory. As Christians we must follow Christ the whole way up the hill of Calvary to the cross, followed by the glory of the Risen Lord! 

Jesus revealed to St. Faustina that the angels experience a holy envy of human persons for two reasons: 1) We can receive Holy Communion—the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and 2) We can suffer—meaning we can reap abundant fruit for the salvation of souls by uniting our suffering with the sufferings of Jesus.

7. LIFE AND ETERNAL LIFE… The impact of the Lord’s Resurrection shows us how ephemeral, transitory and fleeting our human condition and life truly is. It also shows us the eternity of Heaven and eternal life with Our Risen Lord.  Even our greatest and longest sufferings cannot be compared to eternal bliss with Our Lord. St. Paul expresses this beautifully: “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it entered into the mind of man the wonderful things that God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1Cor 2:9)   

8. SELF-CONTROL IN DIGNITY… Life seen in the light of eternity challenges us to live a life of sobriety, self-restraint, and self-control. Why? Our bodies are destined to be united with the Lord and the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the angels and the saints forever in heaven. Therefore, we must live according to our dignity, our destiny, and our definition as persons — temples of the Holy Trinity by the grace of the Resurrection and our baptism.

9. THE EUCHARIST AND THE BREAD OF LIFE DISCOURSE (JOHN 6:22-71)… Never can we separate the meaning of the Risen Lord Jesus from the reality of Jesus truly and substantially present in every Holy Mass, in every Consecration, and in every Holy Communion. In this sacrifice we remember Jesus’ promise of heaven related to Holy Communion, the Bread of life.  Listen and meditate upon Jesus’ sublime and awesome words and promise: “I am the Bread of Life, whoever eats my body and drinks my blood, will have eternal life and I will raise him up on the last day.”

10. MARY & THE RISEN CHRIST… The Blessed Virgin Mary, through her prayers and intercession illuminates the Mystery of Easter.

Crestfallen, crushed, overwhelmed by sorrow, forlorn and despairing— these words serve to express the interior attitude of the Apostles and disciples of Jesus when confronted with the reality of the Crucifixion on that first Good Friday. In other words, their hopes in Jesus were totally shattered!  

In spite of all of this, there was one who did not give into despair: it was the Blessed Virgin Mary. Beyond doubt, hers was suffering incomparable to any others—save that of Jesus the Lord. However, hope reigned supreme in the sorrowful yet trusting Immaculate Heart of Mary. For this reason, St. Ignatius of Loyola in the Spiritual Exercises has Jesus after the Resurrection first appearing to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Indeed, Mary, the Mother of Jesus, was the first to contemplate the Risen Lord Jesus! 

Therefore, in our contemplation of the mystery of the Risen Lord Jesus, we must lift up our eyes to Mary and beg her for the grace to penetrate with greater depth the reality of this supreme and sublime mystery.

PART 2 OF 2:  CONTEMPLATION OF JESUS APPEARING TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY by Fr. Ed Broom, OMV

BEG FOR THE GRACE. Let us now beg for the grace to imagine and contemplate that first early Easter morning and the first of Jesus’s apparitions—to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Let us beg most fervently that we will attain, through the intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, most intense joy, a joy that will overflow into our relations with others! Our joy is not meant to be kept to ourselves but to be shared with the whole world.

1. THE FAITH OF MARY.  Though the others fell into confusion, sadness, and even doubt, Our Lady never doubted for an instant that Jesus would rise from the dead. Even in the midst of her most intense sorrow at the foot of the cross and at the tomb, there was always a glimmer of hope burning in the depths of her heart. So it should be with us. In the midst of our sorrows, there should always be flickering a glimmer of hope because we believe in the purpose and meaning of the Glorious Resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Talk to Mary and beg her for a deep, dynamic, and vibrant faith and hope in the Risen Lord Jesus!

2. IMAGINE MARY DEEPLY ABSORBED IN PRAYER AND HOPEFUL WAITING. Our Lady is deeply absorbed in prayer, in contemplation, and in hopeful waiting for the coming and appearance of Jesus. Unite your prayer with the prayer of Mary. Accompany Mary in these moments preceding the Apparition of the Risen Lord Jesus. Contemplate the poise, the dignity, the humility, the purity, the nobility of Mary the Mother of the Risen Lord. Enter into her Heart and pray with her as she awaits the coming of the Risen Jesus.

3. THE SUN RISING AND JESUS THE SUN OF GOD APPEARS TO MARY.  As the first streaks of the Sunday morning sun break through the windows, so Jesus appears to Mary. Strive to contemplate His appearance and the overflowing joy of Mary. As the sun rises so does Jesus the Sun of God rise and appear to Mary, who is also known as the Morning Star. Saint Ignatius highlights that one of the chief actions of the Risen Lord Jesus is that He comes to console. Now contemplate Jesus consoling Mary, the Sorrowful Mother who is now overflowing with joy as she contemplates her Risen Son. Be present with Mary and derive much fruit, great fruits of Joy at this Glorious Easter scene!

4. TEARS OF JOY.  Contemplate the beautiful countenance of Mary, the Mother of Jesus and your Mother too. Her intense sorrow has been transformed into a superabundant joy. Jesus told the Apostles that nobody would be able to take this joy from them. Contemplate Mary as the tears well up in her eyes and trickle down her cheeks. These are tears of consolation; these are tears of joy! Mary turns and looks at you with great love as you share this moment with her. Now talk to Mary and offer her all that you are: your joys and sorrows, failures and successes, fears and doubts, plans and projects, your dreams, your past, your present, and your future. Mary is never too busy to listen to you, to speak to you, to advise you, to console you, to bring you closer to Jesus, the Risen Lord.

5. SHALOM!!!  The word of greeting traditionally was SHALOM—which means Peace be to you! You can imagine this word issuing from the mouth and Heart of Jesus—Shalom, peace be with you. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and Mary, the Queen of Peace.

6. HIS WOUNDS.  Jesus shows Mary His wounds—in His hands, His feet, and His open side revealing His Sacred Heart. This was the Heart that Mary, His Mother, formed within her most pure womb for nine months. Mary heard the Sacred Heart of Jesus beating within her inmost being. With Mary, you are invited to contemplate these wounds of Jesus. These wounds caused by the hammer blows in His hands and feet, and the lance piercing His side and Sacred Heart, are clear signs of Jesus’ infinite love for all of humanity and His love for you and me. Both the Prophet Isaiah and Saint Peter refer to the wounds of Jesus: “He was wounded for our offenses… like a lamb led to the slaughter He opened not His mouth… and by His wounds we are healed.” (Is 53:5,7) Have no fears nor inhibitions; bring your wounds to Mary and Jesus. Beg both Jesus and Mary to heal your wounds. Either we will be wounded wounders or we will be wounded healers. Let us bring our wounds to Jesus and Mary so that we will be wounded healers in the midst of a wounded and broken world.

7. REDEEMER AND CO-REDEMPTRIX.  Jesus is the Redeemer of all of humanity. His Incarnation, life, suffering and death on the cross and Resurrection were precisely for this purpose: to save as many as want to be saved. That being said, Jesus purposely chose Mary His Mother to collaborate with Him in the redemption of the world. Contemplate your Redeemer, now risen in Glory bearing the wounds of our Redemption and next to Him is Mary, the Co-Redemptrix. Beg both Jesus and Mary for the grace of your own salvation and to work with them for the salvation of a multitude of souls. Pray for the grace to love what Jesus and Mary love most in the whole created universe—the conversion and salvation of souls.

8. LISTEN ATTENTIVELY TO THEIR CONVERSATION. Imagine now that you are seated at table next to Jesus and Mary. What do you think the Risen Lord and His Mother are talking about? What might Jesus say to His Mother? What might Mary say to her Son? Imagine their conversation. Listen to the tone of their voices. Contemplate their faces. Behold the two best communicators the world has ever known! Enter into their hearts. Draw close to them as your Best Friends.

9. WHAT ABOUT YOU? The Risen Lord Jesus looks kindly and attentively at His Mother, whose eyes are overflowing with joy, and now they both turn to you and ask you to open up your heart to them. These are three questions they might ask you and you can respond to them now. Never forget, they are the best of listeners. 1) Do you love God with all of your heart, mind, and soul? If not, would you like to? 2) Jesus and Mary look at you with love and comment: “We both suffered much for the salvation of souls, as this was the will of the Heavenly Father. Tell us about your sufferings… 3) Tell us what is most heavy on your heart right now… “Come to us all you who are weary and heavy of heart and we will give you rest. We are meek and humble of heart. You will find rest for your soul… our yoke is easy and our burden is light.” Contemplate the Risen Lord Jesus and Mary, Mother of Jesus, Mother of the Church, and your Mother—talk to them in your own words. Fear nothing! Speak to them with trust and confidence!

10. JESUS’ MESSAGE TO MARY AND TO US.  In a relatively short time Jesus will ascend to be seated at the right hand of God the Father. He will not leave the Apostles nor the nascent Church alone as orphans. He promises that He will be with us until the end of time. He promises to send the Paraclete—the Holy Spirit, the Sanctifier, the Sweet Guest of our soul. However, Mary will also have an essential role in the Church. Among the many titles of Mary are the following in her relationship to the Church: Mother of the Church; First disciple of Christ; Queen of the Apostles; Mother of Consolation; Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope! We can imagine Jesus talking to Mary and encouraging her in her role as Mother, as Consoler, as Teacher, as Contemplative, as an anchor of hope for the early nascent Church. As you listen to the words of comfort, light, and instruction that Jesus gives to His Mother, beg both Jesus and Mary to enlighten you as to how you can be a source of light, energy, and strength to build up the Church, the Mystical Body of Christ.

Beg for the fruit of this most-consoling contemplation of the Risen Lord Jesus appearing to Mary the Mother of God, the Mother of the Church, and your Mother. The fruit of this contemplation is that of JOY! Not a simple joy, rather a most intense joy! Never forget that true joy can only be attained in an authentic relationship of Friendship with Jesus, Mary, the angels and the saints. A joy that no one can take from us. Saint Paul warmly exhorts us: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I say it again: Rejoice in the Lord!” (Phil 4:4) Mary teaches us: “My soul rejoices in God my Savior.” 

Holy Saturday At the Easter Vigil in the Holy Night of Easter

“For greater things you were born.” (Ven. Mother Luisita)

SATURDAY, April 16th    Job 33:21-22   Word of God: “His flesh is wasted so that it cannot be seen, and his bones, once invisible, appear; His soul draws near to the pit, his life to the place of the dead.”  

The Mystics tell us that Mary relived the Passion of Christ on Holy Saturday. Let us walk the Via Dolorosa with Mary and meditate on the fifth of the Seven Sorrows of Mary.

FIFTH SORROW OF MARY – JESUS IS CRUCIFIED by Fr. Ed Broom, OMV

BIBLICAL PASSAGE:  Jn 19:16-37. (READ SLOWLY AND MEDITATE)  

This Fifth Sorrow of Mary is witnessing with her own eyes and her own Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart the death of her beloved Son. His death which Mary witnessed with her eyes and in the depths of her heart was the most cruel. Jesus was crucified, nailed to the cross.

1. BE THERE WITH MARY.  In your prayerful meditation be present with Mary as she witnesses Jesus’ torment. Our Lady sees the soldiers roughly thrust His Sacred Body to the ground. Mary sees them extend the hand of Jesus, that He used to bless children and heal the sick, and nail it to the wood of the cross. Blood comes trickling forth—the Precious Blood that Mary gave to Jesus. Then they extend His other hand. Gibson’s film shows His shoulder brutally and mercilessly pulled out of the joint as Jesus writhes in pain. Our Lady witnesses this and a sword of sorrow pierces her heart.

2. JESUS’ FEET.  Then they nail the feet of the man who went about bringing Good Tidings to the poor, the sick, the abandoned, the lepers and the rejected of society. The feet that Mary watched taking their first steps when Jesus was a little Babe are now fastened tightly to the cross with nails as He is crucified. His Sacred Blood comes gushing forth to forgive our sins and attain for us eternal salvation. Thank Mary for giving to Jesus His Sacred Humanity that He now offers as a holocaust for our salvation!

3. THE CROSS LIFTED UP.  Be with Our Lady as the cross is elevated on high and then roughly thrust into the ground, racking Jesus Body with more pain. All this time Our Lady watches with her eyes and contemplates in her Immaculate and Sorrowful Heart Jesus’ redemptive suffering and death.

4. JESUS’ WORDS: MARY LISTENS ATTENTIVELY TO JESUS’ LAST WORDS.  With Our Lady, let us stand underneath the cross and contemplate Jesus with our eyes and heart. Furthermore, let us listen to the words that Jesus pronounces as He ends His earthly life. Jesus ascends the pulpit for the last time and delivers His most eloquent sermon. With Mary, we are there to listen to His words attentively. The Gospel highlights the attitude of Mary: “For her part, Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.” (Lk 2:19). Our Lady can teach us to pray and to ponder the Word of God in our hearts as well. Jesus reminds us: “Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.” (Mt 4:4)

5. THE SEVEN LAST WORDS OF JESUS: Now with Mary, let us listen to the last words of Jesus and derive much spiritual fruit. 

“Father forgive them, for they know not what they are doing.”

“I thirst.”

“‘Woman behold thy son; son behold thy Mother.’ From that moment the beloved disciple received Mary into his home.”

“My God, My God, why have you abandoned me?”

“Amen, amen I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

“Into your hands I commend my spirit.”

“It is finished.”

6. THREE PATHS OF LIFE—UNDERNEATH THE CROSS.  Venerable Fulton J. Sheen states that beneath the cross we encounter three PATHS of life. SAINT MARY MAGDALENE. Once a public sinner, she was converted by the love of Jesus and the loving presence of Mary. Jesus actually cast seven devils from her. The Magdalene is symbolic of PENITENCE—a truly penitent sinner, with tears of sorrow and firm purpose of amendment of life.

7. SAINT JOHN.  He was the Beloved disciple who laid his head on the most Sacred Heart of Jesus at the Last Supper. Saint John represents PRIESTHOOD. Furthermore, in the person of Saint John we have all of humanity. Why? Because when Jesus was giving Our Lady as Mother to Saint John, He was giving Mary to all of humanity and to each one of us individually as our universal Mother! John took Mary into his home. The spiritual meaning of this is that Saint John was also taking Our Lady into the very depths of his heart. We are invited to do the same.

8. SPIRITUAL CHILDHOOD.  You are present there in the person of the Beloved Disciple Saint John. In Mary given to John, Jesus was also giving Mary to you as your Spiritual Mother for all eternity. In the midst of these great sorrows we are called to rejoice because we are not orphans, and we will never be orphans, because Our Lady, the Mother of God, the Mother of the Church, the Mother of all of humanity, is truly our Mother too! See yourself as a little child in the arms of Mary. Jesus Himself reminds us: “Unless you become like a little child you cannot enter the Kingdom of heaven.” (Mt 18:3) Our Lady will teach us as she taught Saint Therese and Saint Faustina the importance of spiritual childhood. Indeed Our Lady’s love for all of us, and each and every one of us individually, far transcends what we could ever imagine! Saint Augustine expresses the reality of Mary’s spiritual maternity in these words: “If you were to put all the love, of all of the mothers, of all times and places together, then the love that Mary has for you is much greater!” Indeed how great is Our Lady’s love for God, and for you and me! Stop to reflect on this truth and talk to Mary about your great desire to be her son/daughter.

9. OUR LADY.  Magdalene represents Penitence. John represents the Priesthood and Spiritual Childhood as Mary is our spiritual Mother. Finally, Our Lady represents INNOCENCE. Our Lady was conceived without the stain of Original Sin, and she lived a sinless life, never giving in to even the slightest sin during the whole course of her earthly life! As the poet Wordsworth expressed about Our Lady: “Woman! Above all women glorified, our tainted nature’s solitary boast.” Therefore, as we stand with the most pure, innocent, and sorrowful Mother at the foot of the cross, we want to sincerely beg her for the grace to recognize our sinfulness, as well as beg the most holy Mary for the grace to renounce all sin in our lives! “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”

10. MORAL STRUGGLES.  In our temptations let us turn to Our Lady and beg for strength. In our falls and failures let us turn to Our Lady and beg for a true change and conversion of heart. From Our Lady let us beg for the grace to renounce our sins by having frequent recourse to the Sacrament of Confession, so that we can die to sin and rise up to new life in Christ Jesus!

11. REDEEMER.  Jesus came into the world to give us life and life in abundance. The name Jesus, given to Him through the Archangel Gabriel at the Annunciation, means “Savior”.  He came to save us from our sins and open wide the gates of heaven for us. Jesus as Redeemer and Savior of all of humanity is your personal Savior and mine. The gates of heaven that were closed due to the sin of Adam and Eve were opened through Jesus, the second Adam, with the collaboration of Mary, the second Eve.

12. CO-REDEEMER.  Indeed, Jesus is the only Redeemer—saving us by His Precious Blood shed on Calvary. However, Mary as the Mother of the Redeemer, played a key role in the redemption of the human race and merits the title “Co-Redemptrix.” In concrete this means that Mary was associated intimately in the salvific work of Jesus in our redemption. Jesus is the only and unique Redeemer, but Mary collaborated with Jesus in the Redemption of the world. Jesus saved your soul and mine and opened up the gates of heaven for our entry. But Our Lady played a key role in the economy of salvation with her unconditional “Yes” to become the Mother of God in all times and places, even in associating herself with the bitter Passion of Jesus.

13. AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE.  Open up your heart and allow to flow freely abundant sentiments of gratitude towards Jesus and Mary, His Mother and your Mother, for opening up the gates of heaven and saving your soul. We can be saved and go to heaven because of the love and the intense suffering of both Jesus and Mary for you and me. Allow your heart to overflow with the deepest sentiments of gratitude. One day we trust we will be in heaven forever with Jesus, Mary, the angels and the saints because of all that Jesus and Mary did for me and for you. Talk often to Mary during the course of your day and during the course of your life. Beg for the grace to live a holy life, renouncing sin, and imitating Jesus and Mary so as to attain to eternal life.

14. SACRED HEART PIERCED WITH THE LANCE.  It was Our Lady who gave to Jesus His Humanity—that includes His human body. The Heart of Jesus and the Blood that circulated through His veins were given to Jesus through Mary. Actually Mary formed the most Sacred Heart of Jesus within her womb. On earth there is no more intimate and closer union existing between two persons than that of a mother forming a baby within her womb. Moreover, both Jesus and Mary were sinless; their union was the closest we could ever imagine.

15. DEATH AND HIS HEART PIERCED.  Mary witnessed the death of Jesus on the cross that first Friday that we call Good Friday. Furthermore, Mary witnessed an event that would change the world and be honored in time and throughout all eternity. A soldier underneath the cross, very close to Our Lady as she stood and contemplated the Body of her dead Son, lifted up his sword/lance and thrust it into the side of Jesus. The lance passed through Jesus’ side and penetrated into the very Heart of Jesus causing blood and water to come forth, not trickling forth, but gushing forth from Jesus’ most Sacred Heart. Jesus did not feel the pain of this sword thrust for He had already breathed His last. But Our Lady of Sorrows experienced intense pain penetrating the very depths of her most tender heart and soul.

16. JESUS’ HEART PIERCED FOR LOVE OF YOU AND ME. The prophecy of Simeon (First Sorrow of Mary) announced when Jesus was only forty days of age became a reality when this sword passed through the most Sacred Heart of Jesus and then the heart and soul of Mary. “Behold this child shall be a sign of contradiction, and a sword of sorrow will pass through your heart so that the thoughts of many will be revealed.” (Lk 2:34-35)

17. ENTER THE HEARTS OF JESUS AND MARY.  Now it is your turn to contemplate the Heart of Jesus pierced with the lance and contemplate the blood and water that gushed forth in abundance. This was the price of our eternal salvation and redemption. Your soul was saved and redeemed by the Precious Blood of Jesus that was given to Him through the consent and person of Mary. Contemplate the pierced and open Heart of Jesus; contemplate the sentiments in the heart and soul of Mary. For this reason, Our Lady is actually called among many of her titles the “Queen of Martyrs”. Her body was not crucified, but the sword that pierced the Sacred Heart of Jesus, pierced her Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart.

18. REFUGE IN THE TWO HEARTS.  In the midst of the struggles of our daily life, the temptations of the devil that assault us constantly, the flesh that seeks to rebel against the spirit, and the world that tries to lie to us, presenting seductive but sinful fashions, we must seek and find a true refuge. The secure refuge of our heart, mind and soul must be the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary. These Hearts are secure refuges; these Hearts are harbors of safety; these Hearts are oases of peace; these hearts are secure and rock foundations! Lift up your gaze and open up your heart to the Hearts of Jesus and Mary.

Even now, open up your heart and talk to the Heart of Mary with total confidence. Tell Our Lady who is your dear Mother, all that is going on in your life. Tell Our Lady your desires; tell Our Lady your dreams and aspirations. Speak to Our Lady about your fears, doubts and insecurities. Open up and unload your sorrows, sufferings, failures to Our Lady. She is the best of listeners. Do not be afraid! Tell Our Lady your moral struggles, your temptations, and even your sins. Our Lady is also known as the Refuge of Sinners. Undoubtedly, Our Lady will attain for you special graces of repentance, mercy and true conversion of heart. Our Lady is known as the “Full of Grace.” She can attain for you the most signal and special graces to overcome any obstacle, especially the moral obstacle of sin in your life. Fear not, trust in the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary. She is your safe harbor and most secure refuge! 

19. SACRED HEART OF JESUS.  Our Lady will draw you to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Mary is the quickest and easiest pathway to the Heart of Jesus. Prayers to the Heart of Mary will often bring you to the most Sacred Heart of Jesus present in the most Blessed Sacrament where the Heart of Jesus is resting and waiting for you. Two friends want to meet through Mary—you and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Talk to Jesus, the Son of Mary, as your older Brother and as your best Friend. Pope Saint John Paul II stated that the living heartbeat of the Church is the most Blessed Sacrament, where Jesus is truly present in His Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity.

20. HOLY COMMUNION AND THE MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS.  Your final step through the intercession of Mary is to be present in Holy Mass participating fully, consciously and actively. The high point for you at Holy Mass is to receive Holy Communion—the Body and Blood of Jesus that was given to us through Mary. There is nothing in the world that brings greater joy to the Immaculate Heart of Mary than when you approach Jesus in the most Blessed Sacrament and receive Him with lively faith, limitless hope, and burning love. Our Lady gave us Jesus, but Our Lady most earnestly desires that we receive Jesus into our souls in Holy Communion. If done frequently, fervently and with the fire of divine love then He will receive us into Heaven, our eternal home with Jesus and Mary, the angels and saints for all eternity!!!

Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion

“For greater things you were born.” (Ven. Mother Luisita)

FRIDAY, April 15th    Jn. 18:1-19:42   Verse before the Gospel: “Christ became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every other name.”  

Good Friday is the celebration of The Passion of the Lord. Why celebration? From Saint Augustine: “Let us admire, congratulate, rejoice, love, praise, adore; because through the death of our Redeemer we are called from darkness to light, from death to life, from exile to home, from grief to everlasting joy.”

Today, let give us stop, ponder, and give thanks for “Christ among us” in the priest, the victim who offers the Victim, in imitation of Saint John who alone among the Apostles stood at the foot of the cross with Our Blessed Mother.

SAINT JOHN THE EVANGELIST & THE PRIESTHOOD by Fr. Ed Broom, OMV

On the front cover of the Book In Sinu Jesu, Our Lord and Savior Jesus is depicted at the Last Supper. With bread in one hand and the sign of blessing in the other can also be seen an Apostle resting on His shoulder: the person of Saint John the Evangelist. On the table in front of both Jesus and Saint John the Evangelist is a chalice.

This Biblical artistic scene portrays in a graphic version two Sacraments that were instituted in the context of the Last Supper: the Sacrament of the most Holy Eucharist as well as the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Both are intimately interconnected. Without the Sacrament of Holy Orders the Holy Eucharist cannot exist. The Cure of Ars expressed the truth more or less in these words: “No priest, no Mass; no Mass, no Consecration; no Consecration, no Real Presence of Jesus and no Holy Communion; no Jesus, then we become spiritual orphans.”

In order for the Church to exist and function fully the Priesthood is not secondary or accessory or ornamental; rather, the Priesthood is essential. Therefore, it is incumbent upon all, both laity as well as those endowed with Holy Orders, to pray for more priests, but not simply quantity, rather to pray for holy priests, those endowed with the Sacrament of Holy Orders who are sincerely striving to attain holiness of life.

People depend directly on the grace of God, but the grace of God emanates and pours forth through the vessel of the Priesthood. God can work even through a poor or mediocre priest. However, usually God’s grace manifests its strength and force more abundantly through the priest who is honestly striving on a daily basis for authentic holiness of life.

How could a dump of a place, ransacked and devastated by the French Revolution, be transformed into a community of fervent and saintly people—this place being the little town of Ars? The response is simple and to the point: the holiness of one priest who begged the Lord to send him any suffering so as the save his Parish and parishioners. That priest was Saint John Marie Vianney—commonly known as the Cure of Ars.

Returning to Saint John the Evangelist, why is it that this saint whose image is depicted on the cover of the book In Sinu Jesu becomes the entrance gate to what is becoming a modern spiritual classic?

In this book that was written by an Irish Benedictine monk, the person of Saint John the Evangelist returns time and time again. The fundamental reason for the frequent presence of Saint John the Evangelist is simply this: Saint John, also nicknamed by Jesus with his brother James as Boanerges—meaning sons of thunder, is a model for all priests, as well as Bishops.

Therefore, let us pray fervently to Jesus the High-priest and to Mary the Mother of priests, for all priests, but also to Saint John the Evangelist that priests would contemplate and pray to this saint to help them grow in holiness in their vocation and state—that of the holy priesthood.

The following points accentuate and highlight the characteristics of Saint John the Evangelist as model, friend, pattern and intercessor of priests. Even the worst of priests living in whatever country, situation or social milieu in the world can still become a super-star priest. This depends on one primary condition: they trust infinitely in the mercy of God and beg the Lord Jesus, Mary and Saint John for a new heart. It is never too late! Saint Paul reminds us: “Where sin abounds, the mercy of God abounds all the more.” (Rom. 5:20) Jesus said to Saint Faustina that the worst sinner can become the greatest saint on one condition: INFINITE TRUST IN THE INFINITE MERCY OF GOD!

What then are the characteristics of Saint John the Evangelist as model and pattern for priests? There are many! May priests utilize this for meditation; may lay people use this in their fervent prayers for priests and future priests.

1. CHOSEN.  Jesus Christ, Model for all priests and the High-priest Himself, chooses some individuals to follow Him in the priestly vocation. Saint John the Evangelist was chosen by Christ to be His follower as a priest. This free choice was simply a pure and gratuitous love that Jesus had for Saint John, as well as for all priests. Of course those who are chosen must say YES to the call. God’s love must be accepted freely and without coercion.

2. JOHN SPENT THE WHOLE AFTERNOON WITH JESUS. (Jn 1:38-50)  In the Gospel of Saint John, the very first chapter after the beautiful Prologue, John the Baptist points to Jesus as the Lamb of God to two of his disciples, John and Andrew. They follow Jesus and He turns around asking what they are searching for, then Jesus invites them to spend that afternoon with Him. It all started that day at 2:00 pm—a critical hour that radically changed their lives. Like John, the priest must have experienced that special day, that hour, that precise moment when Jesus became real to him. That moment of grace when, like John the Evangelist, the priest became convinced of the personal love that Jesus has for him.

3. FROM FISHERS IN LIKE GALILEE TO FISHERS OF MEN.  Jesus was preaching on the shore of Lake Galilee, then in the boat of St. Peter to the multitude that stood on the shore. The preaching finished, Jesus told Peter to go out into the deep and drop the nets.  Obedient to the command of the Master, Peter caught so many fish that he had to summon James and John to help haul the fish to the shore. Then Jesus gave the definite call: “Do not be afraid. From now on you will be fishers of men.” (Lk 5:10) Peter, James and John left all to follow Jesus. Like Saint John in this critical moment, the priest must learn the true freedom that comes from leaving all to follow Christ. Money, possessions, power, fame—all are freely surrendered for something much greater: a dynamic and deep Friendship with Jesus. Indeed, having Jesus as the center of their lives they have all. The priest who focuses upon Christ as the center of his whole existence will experience a perpetual state of joy in the depths of his soul.

4. THE TRANSFIGURATION EXPERIENCE.  Peter, James and John were privileged in experiencing a foretaste of Heaven. On the top of Mount Tabor, bathed and transfigured in light, Jesus spoke freely with Moses and Elijah. Then the voice of God the Father could be clearly heard: “This is my Beloved Son, listen to Him.” (Lk 9:35) Jesus was encouraging His three best friends with a foretaste of Heavenly glory. The priest lives on earth, but with his mind and heart directed to the glory of Heaven. The virtue of hope will buoy the priest above and beyond the daily trials and crosses that are part and parcel of following Christ.

5. BOANERGES—SONS OF THUNDER.  In a very loving, kind and charming manner Jesus gave two of His best friends, James and John, a nickname: Boanerges—meaning sons of thunder! The priest should be a son of thunder in that he should thunder against sin, and have a roaring thunder and fire in his heart for love of Jesus. The Lord Jesus Himself declared: “I have come to cast fire on the earth and I am not at peace until that fire be enkindled.” (Lk 12:49)

6. THE LAST SUPPER: JOHN RESTS ON THE HEART OF JESUS.  One of the patron saints for the Sacred Heart of Jesus is none other than Saint John the Evangelist. Why? One of the primary reasons is that there at the Last Supper, Saint John leaned over to rest on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. John listened to Jesus’ heartbeats of love. Every priest is summoned to draw close to Christ and to rest on His Sacred Heart. Jesus invites: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Mt 11:28-30) Like John, may the priest find rest in the Sacred Heart of Jesus—his true refuge and haven against the storms of life.

7. AT PRAYER, JOHN FALLS ASLEEP.  It is a Biblical-Gospel truth: John fell asleep when Jesus really needed his prayers and friendship. John was not perfect! There is a perennial danger for all Catholics—and this does include the priest—to fall asleep in prayer when we should be wide awake and vigilant. The primary reason for the fall of the priest is precisely this: lack of prayer and lack of fervent prayer. Indeed, prayer is truly Friendship with Jesus; talking with the One we love and who loves us! May priests learn the art of praying even in the difficult moments of desolation! Indeed, the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.

8. THERE AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSS.  There at the foot of the cross on Calvary that first Good Friday were present three of Jesus’ best of friends: the Magdalene, John the Evangelist, and Jesus’ Mother, Our Lady of Sorrows. Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen depicts the three as representing three different styles of life: Mary Magdalene represents the true Penitent—the sinner repentant and sorrowful for the sins of her past.  Our Lady represents total Innocence—the Immaculate one. Saint John, according to Sheen, represents the Priesthood. Quite understandable given that John stands under the cross, as it were, offering Jesus, the Innocent Victim, to God the Father for the salvation of the world. In every Mass that is offered, in any time or place, the priest transports back to Calvary with Jesus hanging on the cross. Thus the fruits of Calvary and the Mass are one and the same and they are infinite!

9. JESUS: MARY AND SAINT JOHN.  From the pulpit of the cross Jesus delivers His last and greatest sermon. These would be His famous “Seven Last Words”. One of these words or short phrases is directed at His Mother Mary and His Beloved Disciple Saint John.  Jesus said: “Woman behold thy son; son behold thy Mother; then the beloved disciple took Mary into his home.” (Jn 19:26-27) Like Saint John the Beloved disciple and Apostle, every priest must invite Mary into his home. By home, in a spiritual but a very profound sense, is meant into his very heart!  John invited Mary into his heart to be his loving Mother forever. Every successful man must have a woman behind him. In the case of the priest that woman is the Blessed Virgin Mary—his loving, tender and Heavenly Mother.

10. HIS HEART WAS PIERCED WITH THE LANCE: BLOOD AND WATER CAME GUSHING FORTH.  After Jesus breathed forth his last, a soldier came forth and pierced His side with a lance and Blood and water came gushing forth. Saint John, as well as Jesus’ Mother Mary, witnessed this heart-rending event. The Church teaches that the Blood and water symbolize the Church and its Sacramental life. Most specifically, water symbolizes Baptism and Confession; His Precious Blood symbolizes the Holy Eucharist. The priest must be motivated with great love to celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Also, the priest should have a great desire to bring back wandering souls to Jesus the Good Shepherd by means of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

In closing, our prayer, desire and hope is that Saint John the Evangelist, presented as a model for priests in In Sinu Jesus, will become a model and pattern for every priest to meditate upon, pray over and imitate. More than anything else, Saint John allowed the love of Jesus to penetrate his whole being, every fiber of his being. As with Saint John, hopefully for every priest Jesus will become the end all, the alpha and omega, the Principle and Foundation of his existence. For Saint John, Jesus was His Lord and God, His Master and Teacher, His Redeemer and Savior, and most especially His Best Friend. May all priests take Saint John as a model priest on which to pattern the essence and heart of their priestly life! Indeed, Jesus is and always will be the BEST OF FRIENDS WHO WILL NEVER FAIL US!!!