May 20, 2016 
Friday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Bernardino of Siena (1380-1444)
Saint Bernardino was a Franciscan who was a great preacher, traveling from town to town on foot, often preaching for hours to great crowds. He was a leader of his order and established schools of theology for his monks. Even before Bernardino was a priest and preacher, he, with other young men in his home town, offered to run the local hospital during the plague. Later he spent a year caring for a beloved aunt until she died. Bernardino spent time each day in prayer and reflection to stay connected with God, the source of his energy. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Reflection
Saint Bernardino taught the huge value of regular prayer and reflection. In the same way that you maintain your friendships by spending time with friends, it is necessary to spend time with God in order to maintain your relationship with him. Try to make time daily to simply sit in God's presence and talk with him.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, please help me to find time to get to know you better.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 345
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: James 5:9-12
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 8-9, 11-12
Alleluia: See Jn 17:17b, 17a
Gospel: Mark 10:1-12
View complete readings on USCCB.org
