December 30, 2013
The Sixth Day in the Octave of Christmas
Saint of the day
Saint Egwin (d.717)
Saint Egwin was born to a noble family in Worcester, England. After joining a monastery, he was eagerly welcomed by royalty, the clergy, and the townspeople when he was appointed bishop of Worcester. His popularity soon began to wane, due to his extremely severe nature. He let his zeal and love of reform and discipline go too far, and was ordered to Rome to face the charges against him. The charges against Egwin were dropped, but he decided to found a monastery instead of return to his previous duties as bishop. He founded his monastery on the site that was revealed to him by Mary, who appeared to him in a vision. He also dedicated the monastery to the Blessed Virgin. After Saint Egwin was called to his heavenly home, many miracles were credited to him.
Reflection
Saint Egwin was overly zealous when it came to his love of reform and discipline, which caused people to become angry. Ask the Lord to help you follow his laws and commandments, but not to be overly severe when enforcing them. Ask the Lord to help you teach his message with love and kindness.
Prayer
God of justice, you have established the Law and sent Jesus to fulfill it for us. Please help me to understand why laws and commandments are so important in helping to keep me free. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 203
Place in Year: Christmas
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: White
Daily readings
Reading 1: 1 John 2:12-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 96:7-8a, 8b-9, 10
Gospel: Luke 2:36-40
View complete readings on USCCB.org