Throughout the centuries, many have challenged our Catholic Faith. Nevertheless, it signifies that we are faithful to Christ and the gospel. The Church experienced this in 257 when Pope Sixtus appointed seven deacons in Rome. His first choice was Lawrence. Lawrence was appointed to distribute revenues to people experiencing poverty.
In the year 258, the government was in debt, and the Roman Emperor Valerian confiscated the property of Christians. St. Lawrence was the administrator of the Church’s goods, so he sold all the property. The holy deacon distributed it to the poor as commanded by Pope Sixtus. He even sold sacred vessels.
The prefect of Rome commanded that he surrender the treasures of the Church. So, St. Lawrence promised to show those very treasures. Instead of gold and silver, he pointed to the poor and exclaimed, "Here are the church’s treasures." It wasn’t long before they slowly roasted St. Lawrence on a gridiron.
He even humored his executioners, stating, "You can turn me over now. I am done on one side." Then, with his last breath, he prayed for his persecutors and the conversion of all of Rome.
The witness of St. Lawrence can inspire strength in us as we pray the words of the psalmist, "Blessed is the man whose heart is firm, trusting in the Lord. His heart is steadfast. He shall not fear."
Gospel Challenge: The wealth of the Church is indeed in her members who turn to Jesus in their poverty. He will always help us when the chips are down. When something overwhelms us, surrender it to the Lord. Let him take care of it. He will never fail us.
November 11, 2024, Luke 17:20-25 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111424.cfm No Greater Love. I remember a movie about Mother Teresa of Calcutta, No Greater Love. Many times, she brought tears to
November 13, 2024, Luke 17:11-19 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111324.cfm Jesus heals us on our way. Once again, Jesus catches us off guard. Usually, he heals someone on the spot. But
November 12, 2024, Luke 17:7-10 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111224.cfm Serving when we don’t plan it. I can see the servant in the gospel wiping his brow, walking
November 11, 2024 Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, BishopDaily Bible Readings, Podcast Audio and Videos and Prayers brought to you by the United States
Feast of St. Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr August 10, 2023
Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Homily for Feast of St. Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr
August 10, 2023, John 12:24-26
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081024.cfm
The Man Whose Heart Is Firm Will Not Fear.
Throughout the centuries, many have challenged our Catholic Faith. Nevertheless, it signifies that we are faithful to Christ and the gospel. The Church experienced this in 257 when Pope Sixtus appointed seven deacons in Rome. His first choice was Lawrence. Lawrence was appointed to distribute revenues to people experiencing poverty.
In the year 258, the government was in debt, and the Roman Emperor Valerian confiscated the property of Christians. St. Lawrence was the administrator of the Church’s goods, so he sold all the property. The holy deacon distributed it to the poor as commanded by Pope Sixtus. He even sold sacred vessels.
The prefect of Rome commanded that he surrender the treasures of the Church. So, St. Lawrence promised to show those very treasures. Instead of gold and silver, he pointed to the poor and exclaimed, "Here are the church’s treasures." It wasn’t long before they slowly roasted St. Lawrence on a gridiron.
He even humored his executioners, stating, "You can turn me over now. I am done on one side." Then, with his last breath, he prayed for his persecutors and the conversion of all of Rome.
The witness of St. Lawrence can inspire strength in us as we pray the words of the psalmist, "Blessed is the man whose heart is firm, trusting in the Lord. His heart is steadfast. He shall not fear."
Gospel Challenge:
The wealth of the Church is indeed in her members who turn to Jesus in their poverty. He will always help us when the chips are down. When something overwhelms us, surrender it to the Lord. Let him take care of it. He will never fail us.
Peace be with you.
Love Your Neighbor!
Father Rick Pilger, I.C.
pastor
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