February 2, 2020: Presentation of the Lord
Catholic Social Teaching: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
In accordance with Pope Francis’s repeated exhortations and encouragement, may these Pastoral Orientations serve as a framework for planning, establishing, conducting and evaluating the whole range of actions aimed towards the important and urgent goal of overcoming HT. While the immediate objective is the liberation and rehabilitation of all who are entangled in HT, the ultimate goal is to dismantle and eradicate this most evil and sinful enterprise of deception, entrapment, domination and exploitation. “This immense task, which requires courage, patience and perseverance, demands a joint and global effort on the part of the different actors that make up society. The Churches must also play a role in this. (47) Pastoral Orientations on Human Trafficking
https://migrants-refugees.va/documents/en/read/a4/pastoral-orientations-on-human-trafficking.pdf
Readings
First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4
Psalm: 24:7, 8, 9, 10
Second Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18
Gospel: Luke 2:22-40
Catechism of the Catholic Church
The presentation of Jesus in the temple shows him to be the firstborn Son who belongs to the Lord. With Simeon and Anna, all Israel awaits its encounter with the Savior-the name given to this event in the Byzantine tradition. Jesus is recognized as the long-expected Messiah, the “light to the nations” and the “glory of Israel”, but also “a sign that is spoken against”. The sword of sorrow predicted for Mary announces Christ’s perfect and unique oblation on the cross that will impart the salvation God had “prepared in the presence of all peoples”. (529) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Presentation of the Lord
Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church: No references this week
For complete text visit: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/justpeace/documents/rc_pc_justpeace_doc_20060526_compendio-dott-soc_en.html
Reflection
Anna, whose name means “grace”, and Simeon, meaning “God has heard”, represent Temple regulars in ancient Palestine and definitive models for Church today. Luke gives voice to a woman and man both proclaiming the message of the Incarnation and ensuing message of salvation. People displaying devout faith, with fullness of praise, fasting and prayer. The empowerment to offer blessings and speak a prophetic voice on holy ground. Each received the same gifts and executed their sacred responsibilities at the Temple. Seeing the Law fulfilled in ritual purification’s sacrifice of two birds, but abandoning the payment of five shekels, for the Lord was already of the priestly class. Prophetic utterances articulating the Passion and redemption of all Jerusalem, symbolic of all humanity. Both lives flowed from the Holy Spirit’s promptings and their faithfulness in coming to the Temple not for show, but sacredness. Their lives and spirituality were not limited by gate keepers at the walls of Jerusalem asking rhetorical questions to pilgrims, “Who is the king of glory?” As we must be prophetic voices, voices questioning our sons of Levi, leaders today not offering actions pleasing to the Lord. The need for systemic purification to let the Anna’s and Simeon’s of today fully participate in Church, without restraints, persecutions. No more slavery or classes of segregation limiting the working of the Holy Spirit. In trying times of oppression, we trust in the Lord’s help, because He was tested through what he suffered, He helps those tested while being faithful amidst leaders keeping gates closed instead of opening doors.
Individual Reflection: Malachi 3:1-4
February 8th is the feast day for St Josephine Bakhita, who was a victim of human trafficking. This day is the international day of prayer and awareness of human trafficking. Share information about human trafficking to raise awareness of this global concern:
http://www.usccb.org/about/anti-trafficking-program/day-of-prayer.cfm
Family Reflection: Luke 2:22-40
The Presentation of the Lord is associated with blessing of candles. Take a candle to mass for the blessing. When eating dinner today, light the candle and have each family member share how the Lord is a light in their lives.
Prayer: If your parish did not do the procession and blessing of candles for the Presentation of the Lord, reflect on the words of the blessing:
http://www.liturgies.net/Epiphany/Candlemas/blessingofcandles.htm
Blogs to Visit:
As we reflect upon Mary’s presence in the mysteries of the Rosary, we are blessed to know her. For her journey, a timeless trek, calls us to surrender, continuing conversion, humbleness and justice now.
https://peaceonjustice.wordpress.com/
Weekly lectionary reflections, for faith sharing groups, parish bulletins, newsletters or personal prayer, from the synergy of the Word we hear and the rich tradition of Catholic Social Teaching.
https://cst74life.wordpress.com/
Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.
How we do Catholic Social Teaching.
https://csmresources.wordpress.com/
Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.
Social Ministry Resources Engaging Parishes: Monthly and liturgical seasons resources for use with parish websites, bulletins and newsletters
Involvement Opportunities
List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites
By Barb Born January 29, 2020 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.