June 7, 2012 
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Gottschalk (d.1066)
Saint Gottschalk was a Christian prince of Wends, but he turned his back on his religion when his father was murdered by a Christian Saxon. Gottschalk spent some time serving in the army of Canute of Denmark. He became a practicing Christian again when he married a Christian woman. When he took back his kingdom, he was instrumental in converting his subjects to Christianity. Gottschalk assisted his local priests in translating sermons into the Slavonic language. He was killed by his brother-in-law, who was the leader of an anti-Christian movement. Saint Gottschalk is the patron saint of princes, linguists, and translators.
Reflection
Saint Gottschalk was killed because he chose to be a Christian. What sacrifices has Christianity required from you? What would you be willing to give up for your faith? Would you, like Saint Gottschalk, be willing to sacrifice your life?
Prayer
Dear Jesus, please help me to be open to sacrificing my life for you, as you sacrificed yours for me.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 356
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: 2 Timothy 2:8-15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14
Gospel: Mark 12:28-34
View complete readings on USCCB.org
