Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Peter Martinez (d.1000)

Saint Peter Martinez was born in Galicia, Spain. He began his religious life as a Benedictine monk at the Monastery of Saint Mary of Monzonzo in around 950. In 986, he was appointed the archbishop of Saint Martin of Antealares in Compostela. Peter played an important role in the Spanish Reconquista, which drove the Moors out of Spain. Saint Peter Martinez is also credited as one of the composers of the hymn Salve Regina.

Reflection

Saint Peter Martinez, a composer, reminds us of the importance of art in connecting with the divine. Through art--music, literature, painting, etc.--we can see the hand of God and experience a small taste of the wonders and truths that await us in heaven. Take a moment to appreciate some of your favorite art. Try to see holiness in it.

Prayer

Dear God, help me to appreciate your influence in all things.

Meditations

Meditation for Gospel

The Sabbath is a very important day for Christians. Our celebration of the Sabbath day is rooted in the Book of Genesis: God created the world in six days, and on the seventh day, He rested. We, too, are invited to rest - and we rest on Sunday because it is the day of the week on which Jesus rose from the dead. We celebrate and remember in a special way each Sunday that God created the whole world, and that Jesus entered this created world and died for our sins. Resting on the seventh day does not mean being lazy, slothful, cruel, or irresponsible, as Jesus points out in the Gospel. If your mom needs help with chores, don't excuse yourself by saying "Sorry mom, I'm resting today!" Instead, help her get the work done on Saturday, so you can both relax fully on Sunday. Then plan a way of celebrating - maybe going for a walk, staying after Mass to pray, or writing a kind note to someone. This would be truly honoring the Sabbath day!