December 28, 2016 
Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs
Saint of the day
Saint Anthony the Hermit (c.468-c.520)
Saint Anthony was just a small child when his father passed away. Orphaned, he went to stay with his uncle, Bishop Constantius of Lorsch in Bavaria. When Anthony became old enough, he entered monastic life. He then joined a fellow priest as a hermit at Lake Como. Because of their holy and prayerful ways, the hermits soon gained so many followers that Anthony had to leave Lake Como to live the quiet life of prayer that he desired. Saint Anthony the Hermit is best known for his deep spiritual life and the miracles that are associated with him.
Reflection
Saint Anthony the Hermit understood the importance of prayer, and how it enriches spiritual life. Resolve to spend quiet time each day just listening to the voice of God in your heart. Stay connected to God, who is the source of all spiritual energy. (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Prayer
Come, Holy Spirit, and shower me with your spiritual gifts, so that I may live my Christian life to the fullest! (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 698
Place in Year: Christmas
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Red
Daily readings
Reading 1: 1 John 1:5–2:2
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 124:2-3, 4-5, 7cd-8
Gospel: Matthew 2:13-18
View complete readings on USCCB.org
