Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint John of Capistrano (1386-1456)

Saint John was born in Capistrano, Italy, in 1385. He was the son of a former knight. He studied law, became a lawyer in the courts of Naples, and was eventually appointed the governor of Perugia. He was incarcerated after a battle against a neighboring town and upon release was determined to change his way of life. He joined the Franciscans at the age of 30, and was ordained a priest four years later. His ministry and preaching drew in large crowds and interest at a time of great religious indifference and misunderstanding. He, along with his 12 Franciscan brothers, were extremely helpful in stimulating a dying faith and devotion. John's training in law helped to free the religious orders that were being repressed by heretics. He also helped to bring about a brief reunification between Greek and Armenian Churches. John was appointed to preach a crusade for the protection of Europe. He was very successful in his efforts, but became worn out and susceptible to illness. He fell victim to an infection that was caused by the aftereffects of battle and died on October 23, 1456. Saint John of Capistrano is the patron saint of jurists.

Reflection

Saint John is an excellent example of how our unique talents, skills, and interests can help us with our ministry. His training in law helped to free the religious orders that were being repressed by heretics. How can you use your special interests and skills in your ministry? Pray for the Lord's help in discerning your vocation and in discovering how you can use your unique talents to aid in your ministry.

Prayer

Holy Spirit, you bless us with gifts and talents to be used for God’s Kingdom. Help me to focus on my own gifts and how I can use them to make God’s Kingdom grow and multiply. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")

Meditations

Meditation for Reading 1

Simon and Jude were among the twelve Apostles, and when we celebrate their feast, we are reminded of our connection to the past, the meaning it brings for the present, and the energy it gives us for the future. We are Christians today because of the faith of the Apostles and the actions they took in the name of Christ. They formed the early Church, which was a community of believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit. What does it mean to be part of the "household of God"? A household is a group of people who work together, who help out one another, who share talents, and who contribute to the whole. God's house has room for all! (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)

Meditation for Gospel

Jesus is reminding people that they need to be alert to the coming of God in their lives. He says we must be ready for the unexpected. He speaks of opening the door as soon as the master knocks. These images refer to God entering and reentering our lives. We need to be ready. We need to be attentive. We need to recognize God as he comes through people and the events of our lives. We dress differently for different occasions. When you hear "Be dressed for action" as a symbol for responding to God, what images come to mind? (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)