peaceonjustice

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.

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.

Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope-francis/angelus/2018-03/pope-francis-palm-sunday-and-angelus-of-25-march-2018.html

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 April 15, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Posted on April 10, 2019 by Barb Born

April 14, 2019: Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord

Catholic Social Teaching: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

Pope Francis’ Homily Palm Sunday 2018

Readings

Gospel:Luke 19:28-40

First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-7

Psalm: 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24

Second Reading: Philippians 2:6-11

Passion:Luke 22:14-23-56

Catechism of the Catholic Church

How will Jerusalem welcome her Messiah? Although Jesus had always refused popular attempts to make him king, he chooses the time and prepares the details for his messianic entry into the city of “his father David”. Acclaimed as son of David, as the one who brings salvation (Hosanna means “Save!” or “Give salvation!”), the “King of glory” enters his City “riding on an ass”. Jesus conquers the Daughter of Zion, a figure of his Church, neither by ruse nor by violence, but by the humility that bears witness to the truth. And so the subjects of his kingdom on that day are children and God’s poor, who acclaim him as had the angels when they announced him to the shepherds. Their acclamation, “Blessed be he who comes in the name of the Lord”, is taken up by the Church in the “Sanctus” of the Eucharistic liturgy that introduces the memorial of the Lord’s Passover. (559) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord, Cycle C

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Luke 22:24-27 and 22:25

Jesus refuses the oppressive and despotic power wielded by the rulers of the nations (cf. Mk 10:42) and rejects their pretension in having themselves called benefactors (cf. Lk 22:25), but he does not directly oppose the authorities of his time. In his pronouncement on the paying of taxes to Caesar (cf. Mk 12:13-17; Mt 22:15-22; Lk 20:20-26), he affirms that we must give to God what is God’s, implicitly condemning every attempt at making temporal power divine or absolute: God alone can demand everything from man. At the same time, temporal power has the right to its due: Jesus does not consider it unjust to pay taxes to Caesar.

Jesus, the promised Messiah, fought against and overcame the temptation of a political messianism, characterized by the subjection of the nations (cf. Mt 4:8-11; Lk 4:5-8). He is the Son of Man who came “to serve, and to give his life” (Mk 10:45; cf. Mt 20:24-28: Lk 22:24-27). As his disciples are discussing with one another who is the greatest, Jesus teaches them that they must make themselves least and the servants of all (cf. Mk 9:33- 35), showing to the sons of Zebedee, James and John, who wish to sit at His right hand, the path of the cross (cf. Mk 10:35-40; Mt 20:20-23).(379)

Luke 22:25-27

The new relationships of interdependence between individuals and peoples, which are de facto forms of solidarity, have to be transformed into relationships tending towards genuine ethical-social solidarity. This is a moral requirement inherent within all human relationships. Solidarity is seen therefore under two complementary aspects: that of a social principle and that of a moral virtue.

Solidarity must be seen above all in its value as a moral virtue that determines the order of institutions. On the basis of this principle the “structures of sin” that dominate relationships between individuals and peoples must be overcome. They must be purified and transformed into structures of solidarity through the creation or appropriate modification of laws, market regulations, and juridical systems.

Solidarity is also an authentic moral virtue, not a “feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good. That is to say to the good of all and of each individual, because we are all really responsible for all”. Solidarity rises to the rank of fundamental social virtue since it places itself in the sphere of justice. It is a virtue directed par excellence to the common good, and is found in “a commitment to the good of one’s neighbour with the readiness, in the Gospel sense, to ‘lose oneself’ for the sake of the other instead of exploiting him, and to ‘serve him’ instead of oppressing him for one’s own advantage (cf. Mt 10:40-42, 20:25; Mk 10:42-45; Lk 22:25-27)”. (193)

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

On Palm Sunday, the Passion account in the Gospel of Luke starts with Jesus taking His place at the Passover table. Sharing of the bread and cup, the prediction of denial and reminder of the Lord’s providential care and a finalized exhortation to pray. The journey to the cross lived in an exodus to Egypt, discernment in the Temple, baptism in the Jordan, walks thru Galilee, encounters with outcasts, the other, feasts with family and friends would soon culminate. Orchestrated by elites, contrived by the powerful, the cross was an attempt to silence the ways of God and perpetuate human greediness for power and control. To maintain the status quo of the dominate and keep the oppressed in bondage. Simon of Cyrene, with the cross played on him represents those forced by oppression to unwillingly participate in unjust systems, be they economic, political or religious. Would he had to endure if he refused to subject himself to the cross? Fortunately, some have voices to speak the truth about what they witness, as modeled by the centurion at the crucifixion who proclaims the first words after Jesus dies. Words proclaimed by a Gentile, as witness to the universality of Jesus’ death was for all humanity. And some step forward like Joseph of Arimathea to act and let his actions speak resoundingly of his belief. For even though he was a member of the ruling council his virtue and righteousness took precedent over his affiliation and place of power. His action expressed belief in immortality, for he wrapped Jesus’ lifeless body in linen, a fabric symbolizing immortality.

The Passion, from beginning to end, gives us the ardor to be disciples roused to not abandon the cross. For we see the prophets’ words come to fruition, the Psalms reverberate reality, the action of saints, named and unnamed, that have gone before us leave witness embedded in the sands of time. A continuing unfolding to when every knee should bend and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. An affirmation we make by our soulful expressions of prayer, our actions defining the lives we lead and our Amen in reception of the Lord’s presence at each Eucharistic celebration.

Individual Reflection:Luke 22:14-23:56

During the Paschal Triduum, from Holy Thursday thru Easter refrain from using your electronic devices except for necessary phone conversations

Family Reflection:Philippians 2:6-11

Each day during Holy Week have the family spend 15 minutes together in silence

Prayer: Take time to prayerfully reflect on your feelings when you briefly kneel during the proclamation of the Passion during Palm Sunday liturgy.

Blogs to Visit:

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.

Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

From: http://www.catholicsocialteaching.org.uk/themes/peace/reflection/prayer-peace-forgiveness/

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 April 14, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Fifth Sunday of Lent Lectionary Reflection April 7, 2019

Posted on April 1, 2019 by Barb Born

April 7, 2019:Fifth Sunday of Lent

Catholic Social Teaching: Solidarity

Prayer for Peace and Forgiveness

We confess that in our lives we do not

Always choose the way of peace.

We spread gossip which fans the flame of hatred.

We are ready to make any sacrifices when Caesar demands –

but few when God invites.

We worship the false god of security and nationalism

We hold out our hand in friendship –

But keep a weapon in the other behind our back

We have divided your body of people

Into those we trust and those we do not.

Huge problems challenge us in the world –

But our greed, fear and selfishness prevent

us from uniting to solve them

Lord, we pray for your help,

Your forgiveness and your

Reconciling power in our lives.

Readings

First Reading: Isaiah 43:16-21

Psalm: 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6

Second Reading: Philippians 3:8-14

Gospel:John 8:1-11

Catechism of the Catholic Church

It is precisely in the Passion, when the mercy of Christ is about to vanquish it, that sin most clearly manifests its violence and its many forms: unbelief, murderous hatred, shunning and mockery by the leaders and the people, Pilate’s cowardice and the cruelty of the soldiers, Judas’ betrayal – so bitter to Jesus, Peter’s denial and the disciples’ flight. However, at the very hour of darkness, the hour of the prince of this world, The sacrifice of Christ secretly becomes the source from which the forgiveness of our sins will pour forth inexhaustibly. (1851) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Fifth Sunday of Lent, Cycle C

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

God makes a way in seemingly impossible situations, defined, envisioned in human terms, to move forward in a newness of life. He places unexpected well springs in the most parched environs to give live to the sojourners. With a God like that, our experiences should render us announcing praise in exclamation of the vitality of life He invites us into. A praise in acclamation of our primacy towards God and knowing Christ Jesus as Lord over the frivolity of fleeting possessions that can be trashed in a second into uselessness. Rubbish or excrement from Greek translation define their true nature, so holding on emotionally or possessively to let possessions define our nature is a detriment or nuisance from treasuring God first and foremost.

To fathom righteousness is a realization it eminates from God. For our inherent humanity ebbs and flows among the Law and letter of the Law until faith awakens our transformation thru grace. From the power of the resurrection, we grasp to ground us in the great things the Lord has done for us and are filled with joy. For we cease clinging to the past and look forward to what lies ahead in defining who we are and what we do on earth and for eternity.

As a bridge injected in around third century manuscripts, the exchange between Jesus and the women caught in adultery codicils the relationship between God and His Son. When trapped between denying the Laws of Moses and encroachment by the Scribes and Pharisees using a women as a pawn in their guise to accuse Jesus of heretical theology, Jesus continued HIs teaching not missing a beat from the interruption. He used the moment to highlight why the Father sent Him. The Law could judge, condemn, keep people in bondage to sin, never rectifiable, but Jesus offers salvation.

Jesus never asked where the other party to the iniquity was, lecture the religious orders or endorse the death sentence on the woman. An initial response of silence to make those assembled in a triad for justice reflect on their lack of compliance to the Law, to eventually utter a death defying challenge—-only those without sin could throw the first stone at the woman. Jesus was the only person in attendance who could have thrown the first stone, but He opted to act like His Father. Realizing they were not God and fell short of the Law, everyone departed except Jesus and the woman. Leaving them in a conversation in violation of the Law, a man and woman talking in public together, an unholy dialogue for the times. He invited her to not look at her past. But accept Divine mercy and move forward in a newness of life. An invitation to be receptive of God’s righteousness in challenges, when persecuted, made a scapegoat or the daily nuances of life to not dwell on out inadequacies but trust the mercy of God we have gained and found in Christ.

In the day, hate equated murder for it severed the dignity of the individual, in a society woven with tight bands of communal cohesiveness, to despicable abandonment. Words of condemnation, accusation leveling irrevocable divides all throw stones on the Father’s will and Jesu’ words that we all be One.

We must not be drawn into the frenzy instigating scapegoats to condemn one or a sector perceived as one making them an example when societally we all render injustices. Instead of making one stand alone, let us invite the one, other to stand with us so we may among the ostriches, jackets and all creation live knowing we are forgiven, not condemned and extolled to live on the roots and eternal goals of our salvation. A time to disarm from throwing stones and the associated violence to encourage and support each other on the journey of life.

Individual Reflection:Isaiah 43:16-21

Work to encourage elimination of the death penalty in America.

https://deathpenalty.org

https://catholicsmobilizing.org/catholics-against-capital-punishment-cacp

Family Reflection:Philippians 3:8-14

Celebrate Easter by placing a Peace Pole in your yard, at your parish or school. Select languages on the Peace Pole reflecting your ancestral heritage or cultures in your parish or school communities.

https://peacepoleproject.org/order.html

Prayer:John 8:1-11

Reflect what Jesus was writing on the ground with His finger. Tradition suggested it might have been Jeremiah 17:13. What might you have been writing it you were in that assembly?

Blogs to Visit:

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.

Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://www.peacebuilders.com/media/pdfs/research/ScienceofPBBrainResearch.pdf

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 April 1, 2019 (04/07/2007) The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Fourth Sunday of Lent Lectionary Reflection March 31, 2019

Posted on March 28, 2019 by Barb Born

March 31, 2019: Fourth Sunday of Lent
Catholic Social Teaching: Call to Family Community and Participation

Learn about Peace Builders to foster safe, positive learning environments in your community

Readings

First Reading: Joshua 5:9a, 10-12

Psalm: Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7

Second Reading: 2nd Corinthians 5:17-21

Gospel: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The process of conversion and repentance was described by Jesus in the parable of the prodigal son, the center of which is the merciful father: the fascination of illusory freedom, the abandonment of the father’s house; the extreme misery in which the son finds himself after squandering his fortune; his deep humiliation at finding himself obliged to feed swine, and still worse, at wanting to feed on the husks the pigs ate; his reflection on all he has lost; his repentance and decision to declare himself guilty before his father; the journey back; the father’s generous welcome; the father’s joy – all these are characteristic of the process of conversion. The beautiful robe, the ring, and the festive banquet are symbols of that new life – pure worthy, and joyful – of anyone who returns to God and to the bosom of his family, which is the Church. Only the heart Of Christ Who knows the depths of his Father’s love could reveal to us the abyss of his mercy in so simple and beautiful a way. (1439)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the, Fourth Sunday of Lent, Cycle C

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

2nd Corinthians 5:17

The entrance of Jesus Christ into the history of the world reaches its culmination in the Paschal Mystery, where nature itself takes part in the drama of the rejection of the Son of God and in the victory of his Resurrection (cf. Mt 27:45,51, 28:2). Crossing through death and grafting onto it the new splendour of the Resurrection, Jesus inaugurates a new world in which everything is subjected to him (cf. 1 Cor 15:20-28) and he creates anew those relationships of order and harmony that sin had destroyed. Knowledge of the imbalances existing between man and nature should be accompanied by an awareness that in Jesus the reconciliation of man and the world with God — such that every human being, aware of divine love, can find anew the peace that was lost — has been brought about. “Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come” (2 Cor 5:17). Nature, which was created in the Word is, by the same Word made flesh, reconciled to God and given new peace (cf. Col 1:15-20). (454)

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
We cannot be ambassadors for Christ unless we know Christ. For to know about Christ is not to experience Christ. To know Christ, one knows His mercy, humility and generosity where we become a new creation fashioned in His love, formed at His table. A place where transgressions cease tallied computation. The focus of every time and place entrusted us with the message of reconciliation to the Divine and each other. We become the vessels where God appeals through us to recreate and heal the world. But first we must experience Christ, to taste and see His goodness. A place beyond existence, subsistence to living with the full yield of Divine grace. To cease bargaining with, even demanding of God for what we think we ought to have, to stop and absorb the abundance of God. Instead we might tread in unspeakable escapades to metaphorically tend the swine while they dine on portions appealing to one’s palate, but outside the reach of one’s grasp to leave one emaciated spiritually. Whether one makes a U-turn, 90 degree turns or follows a winding path, the journey away from despair to God only bring rejoicing. From the quiet place of one’s heart to the exuberance of God’s embrace, our plea for reconciliation expresses words defining our frailties, but God will not listen to our litany of remorse. For He looks far beyond inequities seeking to reveal our desire for Him, as He desires we have the best possible relationship with Him. If we think we are too good for God’s mercy and live with an elevated pious demeanor, we only miss out on God’s celebration, deny reconciliation is for all people and cease to be benefactors of reconciliation in the world as ambassadors for Christ. We must make the decision if we want to love or judge. Love without asterisks, exceptions or exclusions as God loves to be radiant with joy, or remain outside God’s house judging every nuance in the context of scrupulous principles detached from the reality of the world, ready to pounce on infractions to define Church as a pedigree of ideals instead of reconciling with God and one another where we are at to build a foundation instead of divides.

Individual Reflection:Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

This Laetare Sunday what will you do that is joyful in the hope of Easter?

Family Reflection: 2nd Corinthians 5:17-21

Participate in Catholic Charities’ Be a Good Samaritan project this Lent to provide charity and advocacy to those facing challenges:

https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/beagoodsamaritan/?utm_medium=CCUSAsite&utm_source=homepagehero&utm_campaign=goodsamaritan&_ga=2.71130320.1158128926.1553802896-1391330601.1553680549

Prayer: Reflect on this portion of the Collect for Fourth Sunday of Lent

O God, who through your Word reconcile the human race to yourself in a wonderful way

Blogs to Visit:

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.

Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbAQ51ZklrQ

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 March 28, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Third Sunday of Lent Lectionary Reflection March 24, 2019

Posted on March 21, 2019 by Barb Born

March 24, 2019: Third Sunday of Lent

Catholic Social Teaching: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

At the beginning of Psalm 128, the father appears as a labourer who by the work of his hands sustains the physical well-being and tranquillity of his family: “You shall eat the fruit of the labour of your hands; you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you” (Ps 128:2). It is clear from the very first pages of the Bible that work is an essential part of human dignity…we can appreciate the suffering created by unemployment and the lack of steady work, as reflected in the Book of Ruth, Jesus’ own parable of the labourers forced to stand idly in the town square (Mt 20:1-16), and his personal experience of meeting people suffering from poverty and hunger. Sadly, these realities are present in many countries today, where the lack of employment opportunities takes its toll on the serenity of family life. Nor can we overlook the social degeneration brought about by sin, as, for example, when human beings tyrannize nature, selfishly and even brutally ravaging it. This leads to the desertification of the earth (cf. Gen 3:17-19) and those social and economic imbalances denounced by the prophets, beginning with Elijah (cf. 1 Kg 21) and culminating in Jesus’ own words against injustice (cf. Lk 12:13; 16:1-31). (23, 25-6)

Amoris Laetitia Pope Francis

Readings

First Reading: Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15

Psalm: 103:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8,11

Second Reading: 1st Corinthians10:1-6, 10-12

Gospel: Luke 13:1-9

Catechism of the Catholic Church

As St. Paul affirms, “Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.” But to do its work grace must uncover sin so as to convert our hearts and bestow on us “righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”¹¹⁹ Like a physician who probes the wound before treating it, God, by his Word and by his Spirit, casts a living light on sin:

Conversion requires convincing of sin; it includes the interior judgment of conscience, and this, being a proof of the action of the Spirit of truth in man’s inmost being, becomes at the same time the start of a new grant of grace and love: “Receive the Holy Spirit.” Thus in this “convincing concerning sin” we discover a double gift: the gift of the truth of conscience and the gift of the certainty of redemption. The Spirit of truth is the Consoler. (1848) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the, Third Sunday of Lent, Cycle C

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Researching footnote references, so not including these references at this time.

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

When we see life failing to bear fruit, what is our reaction? Do we focus on the grumbling, the void of hope to perpetuate the essence of futility? Do we quickly depart the scene to distance ourselves from the pitiful environment? Do we gossip about the reality to stretch its reach farther than its actual confines? Do we sincerely pray, but at a distance? Or do we help cultivate the ground and metaphorically let the person put down roots of faith, absorbing the nourishment to produce good fruit? Cultivating the ground for faith to grow in our parish communities means putting the sheath over the ax blade poised to chop away. A premature action to make dead wood could make a statement of writing people off before they even had a chance to consider or express repentance to blossom forth. Repentance of rotating away from sin to turn to the Son. To absorb light to become light in the world instead of perishing into the abyss of separation from God. Who could ignore the benefits of the Lord who is kind, gracious, merciful, pardons all inequities, heals all ills, secures justice and rights of the oppressed to redeem life from destruction? Sin, the separation from God may feel lofty, secure, but in essence poised to fall. But the fire of the Holy Spirit will infuse us with courage, energy and direction if our feet our planted firmly on Holy Ground. A need for us to remove thick souls that insulate us from embracing and matriculating in all God offers and desires we become to connect with pliable souls the holiness of each moment of time and place. With lugs of traction on our souls, the realization we don’t need to shelter our being from the world but investigate, educate and see the face of God in all. For He is I AM through all generations!

Individual Reflection: 1st Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12

Share these videos from the Diocese of San Diego about sustainability with your parish and help your parish to discern supporting sustainability and care for creation. If your parish has video screens in the church, ask that the videos be shown to parishioners so they are encouraged to adapt sustainability in their personal purchasing decisions.

https://vimeo.com/320550799 (English)

https://vimeo.com/323940772 (Spanish)

Family Reflection: Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15

Take a meditative walk to reflect on the Holy Ground we walk upon.

Prayer: Watch, listen and reflect on the song Holy Ground

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tm4GxM3Y6Xw

Blogs to Visit:

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.

Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://www.caritas.eu/the-sustainable-development-goals-sdgs/

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 March 21, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Second Sunday of Lent Lectionary Reflection March 17, 2019

Posted on March 13, 2019 by Barb Born

March 17, 2019: Second Sunday of Lent
Catholic Social Teaching: Solidarity

Reflect on how UN Sustainable Development Goals relate to Catholic Social Teaching

Read about the work of Catholic Relief Services work on Sustainable Development Goal 6 relating to clean water https://www.crs.org/our-work-overseas/program-areas/water-strategy
Readings

First Reading: Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18

Psalm: 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14

Second Reading: Philippians 3:17-4:1

Gospel:Luke:9:28b-36
Catechism of the Catholic Church

For a moment Jesus discloses his divine glory, confirming Peter’s confession. He also reveals that he will have to go by the way of the cross at Jerusalem in order to “enter into his glory”.295 Moses and Elijah had seen God’s glory on the Mountain; the Law and the Prophets had announced the Messiah’s sufferings.296 Christ’s Passion is the will of the Father: the Son acts as God’s servant;297 the cloud indicates the presence of the Holy Spirit. “The whole Trinity appeared: the Father in the voice; the Son in the man; the Spirit in the shining cloud.”298

You were transfigured on the mountain, and your disciples, as much as they were capable of it, beheld your glory, O Christ our God, so that when they should see you crucified they would understand that your Passion was voluntary, and proclaim to the world that you truly are the splendor of the Father. (555)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the, Second Sunday of Lent Cycle C
Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Researching footnote references, so not including these references at this time.

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

The Transfiguration, a gathering of the Trinity, the Father in spoken word, Jesus in His humanity radiating divinity and the Holy Spirit in billowing clouds placing the apostles in encounter with the Divine. An experience only when they became fully awake to see the dazzling Lord transfigured while in prayer. To hear the affirmation of Moses and Elijah, representation of the Law and Prophets, that Jesus fully manifest, a fulfillment of revelation leading Him to the accomplishment of His exodus in Jerusalem. To understand, grasp the relevance Peter, James and John allowed Jesus to guide them up the mountain. A journey of trust in ascent to new heights of faith. A journey leaving them fatigues but soon to awakened to the full manifestation to hear God’s voice. Human nature would say embrace the power of the moment, encapsulated in dwellings to preserve affinity. So wowed, they fell silent seeing Jesus alone. The moment when they fully realized Jesus embodied the lineage of words spoken and fulfillment of the Law given. Not just words etched with calligraphy on parchment scrolls but transfigurally etched spiritually in their hearts and souls. Words to be manifest only by leaving the comfort and seclusion of the mountain and coming into the real world. The dynamics of power between religious elites and occupying forces grasping for decisive control.
To be disciples of Jesus, we each must experience His Transfiguration, so He is not just a voice among many, but the manifestation of the Trinity inviting us up the mountain on a journey we may experience challenging. Him showing us the nexus of His humanity and divinity fulfilling the Law given and prophetic proclamations. Maybe stunned and unable to articulate our experience, Jesus asks us to embellish the world with our experience. Something that cannot be done on the mountain top, forever sitting inside a church or retreating to the comfort of our home, but fully active in the streets of our Jerusalem with challenging dynamics, crowds and buzz of human activity. An experience where the face of the Lord is never hidden from us, for we see Him in all those around us. The call for us to be courageous, not timid. To model in the world what Jesus models for us, so we do not become enemies of the cross. Our lives cannot be absorbed with earthly things to negate our citizenship in heaven, as we stand firm in the Lord by the way we live our lives on earth thru experiencing the grace of the Lord’s transfiguration.

Individual Reflection: Luke 9:28b-36

Prayerfully reflect on the song Transfigure Us O Lord

Family Reflection:Philippians 3:17-4:1

Learn about Earth Overshoot Day. During this Lenten season how can your family reduce consumption of earth’s resources?

https://www.overshootday.org/about-earth-overshoot-day/

Prayer: In preparation for the grace of Reconciliation this Lenten season, review this examination of conscience related to Catholic Social Teaching precepts:

http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/sacraments-and-sacramentals/penance/examination-conscience-in-light-of-catholic-social-teaching.cfm

Blogs to Visit:

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.

Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://justresponse.faith/lent-2019

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 March 13, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

First Sunday of Lent Lectionary Reflection March 10, 2019

Posted on March 4, 2019 by Barb Born

March 10, 2019: First Sunday of Lent

Catholic Social Teaching: Care for God’s Creation

Start this Lent with an Ecological Examen and Consumer Examination

Readings

First Reading: Deuteronomy 26:4-10

Psalm: 91:1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15

Second Reading: Romans 10:8-13

Gospel: Luke 4:1-13

Catechism of the Catholic Church

This dramatic situation of “the whole world [which] is in the power of the evil one” makes man’s life a battle:

The whole of man’s history has been the story of dour combat with the powers of evil, stretching, so our Lord tells us, from the very dawn of history until the last day. Finding himself in the midst of the battlefield man has to struggle to do what is right, and it is at great cost to himself, and aided by God’s grace, that he succeeds in achieving his own inner integrity. (409)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the First Sunday of Lent, Cycle C

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Researching footnote references, so not including these references at this time.

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

Arising fresh from baptism in the River Jordan, Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit and affirmation as the Son of God. This sustained Him during the proverbial number forty, signifying a long time, like Noah and companions in the ark and the chosen people wandering to the promised land from Egypt. A period of fasting allowing the Holy Spirit and Word of God to come forth and deflate temptation to banish evil with faith. Three temptations attempting to position worldly paradigms above the power of God. One stone, a compilation of metamorphosis from heat and pressure, could never transform to satisfy the human heart, for man does not live by bread alone, but every word that comes forth from God. The realization of the need for spiritual food to satisfy spiritual yearnings. The evil of political power, shown in a single instant Greek and Roman vestiges to Mesopotamia stretching all the way to Asian lands, offered as a pacifier to place one’s self in control denies the reign of God. God’s omnipotent power, our surrender is true freedom never achievable by principalities, their weapons tactical and subversive. A worship of power Jesus dismisses to glorify worship to the Father. The view from the parapet of the temple in Jerusalem and Jesus’ view from the cross outside Jerusalem presented the same reality, the temptation to say no to God for a temporary denial erasing for a short time, compared to eternity, the anguish that appears a finality, but in reality gives life. Jesus’ acknowledgement is we should not test God, for to do so we say we do not trust HIs plan and feel we know better in our finite perspective. Jesus’ reply to the option for evil all were words He heard proclaimed in the synagogue, on the temple grounds in dialogue with teachers as He grew in human stature, living as the Son of God. Words planted in HIs heart, proclaimed with His lips to banish temptation boldly for the Holy Spirit filled His being. Where Adam and the chosen people’s faith failed, leaving them to wander astray from the love of God, Jesus modeled the way to the Father.

This Lent will we acknowledge the Holy Spirit embedded in our lives from our baptism, sealed with the Holy Spirit in our confirmation? Will we speak the Word of God to dispel evil in our world, when we are tempted to place ourselves in control, positions of power to banish God from our hearts and center of our lives? Evil may appear to give us the desires of our lives, but inner freedom as a child of God, knowing our true inheritance, we don’t have to accept such deceptions. For we have the Word in our mouths and hearts for our justification and salvation to not be put to shame and enriching all peoples, without distinction, who call upon Him. As an affirmation of our belief, this Lent may we give the first fruits of our lives, the best of the gifts, our talents God has given us to the foot of the altar as a sign of our fasting from allowing evil from wrestling away goodness in the world. Our giving of monetary alms in service of positive affirmations of the Church in the world and alms of service to dispel injustice where ever evil arises. This journey of Lent must only begin with sincere prayer, even and more fervently needed in times of desert in our lives, as we hunger for only what will ever truly satisfy us.

Individual Reflection: Deuteronomy 26:4-10

Take this survey from the Catholic Climate Covenant about the visibility of Laudato Si at your parish:

https://catholicclimatecovenant.org/laudato-si-and-us-catholic-parishes

Family Reflection: Romans 10:8-13

Receive and reflect on daily Lenten reflections form Catholic Charities USA

https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/story/lent-advent-and-christmas-reflections-from-ccusa/

Prayer: This Sunday RCIA participants celebrate the Rite of Election, to announce their intention to become fully initiated members of the Church. During Lent prayerfully support their journey to reception of the Sacraments.

Blogs to Visit:

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.

Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.