Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Nicholas (d.346)

Saint Nicholas was a bishop, and bishops are often referred to as the shepherds of the people of God in the Church. Accounts credit Saint Nicholas with saving the lives of three daughters who were destined for prostitution because their father could not supply their dowries—the marriage gift to the groom’s family. Saint Nicholas supposedly left three bags of gold in the middle of the night, thereby rescuing the daughters from a life of sin. This legend led to Saint Nicholas being named the patron saint of children, and it includes the custom of giving treats to children in honor of his feast day. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")

Reflection

Think of ways to give surprise treats to your friends and family on Saint Nicholas Day, as a way of reminding them that they are special and that you care about them. Thank God for those who care for you. (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)

Prayer

I am grateful for my many blessings, generous God, for I know that I am well cared-for. May I always be mindful of those who go without and of my duty to care for them. “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)

Meditations

Meditation for Reading 1

In this verse from Isaiah, God is compared to a strong rock. This is a fitting image at a time when we are experiencing so much change. Technology is developing at such a high speed that it boggles the mind. People are losing their lives in conflicts that they didn't start or that are beyond their control. Corruption is found in many global institutions that were once thought trustworthy. You may wonder what you can contribute to a world that seems to be ever-changing. Amid those many changes, it is a blessing to know that the one thing we can count on is God, who is our anchor, our rock. (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)