August 31, 2017 
Thursday of the Twenty-first Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne (d.651)
Saint Aidan was born in Ireland. It is said that he may have been a student of Saint Senan before dedicating himself to monastic life. At the request of the king of Northumbria, Aidan became the bishop of Lindisfarne. He was known by those he served as having an extensive knowledge of the Bible, stirring preaching, aversion to pomp, great holiness, and the ability to perform miracles. Aidan founded a monastery while in Lindisfarne that became well known throughout England as a center of learning and missionary work. Saint Aiden died in 651.
Reflection
Saint Aidan devoted considerable energy to expanding his understanding of Christianity. He wanted to understand God fully. In what areas of Christianity do you lack knowledge? How could you learn more?
Prayer
Dear Jesus, please teach me as much as possible about yourself and the life to which you have called me.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 428
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 90:3-5a, 12-13, 14 and 17
Alleluia: Matthew 24:42a, 44
Gospel: Matthew 24:42-51
View complete readings on USCCB.org
