April 10, 2014 
Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Saint of the day
Saint Bademus (d.376)
Saint Bademus was a wealthy Persian noble. He founded a monastery in Bethlapeta, Persia, on his estates. He practiced numerous penances and spent many nights in prayer. Bademus, along with seven other monks of the monastery, were incarcerated for their Christian faith during the persecution of King Sapor. He was martyred for his unwavering belief in Christ.
Reflection
Many of the saints were poor or spent their lives in complete solidarity with the poor. But Saint Bademus reminds us that wealthy people can also become saints. Wealth, in and of itself, does not corrupt a person or prevent that person from reaching holiness. How people choose to use their wealth and the importance they give it in forming their identity is what truly matters.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, help me to more fully devote my life to you.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 254
Place in Year: Lent
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Violet
Daily readings
Reading 1: Genesis 17:3-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
Gospel: John 8:51-59
View complete readings on USCCB.org
