HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 21, 2024

Saturday of  the Third Week of Advent, Year C  (Purple)

LH: Office of the Day, Week III

Mass of the day, Preface II of Advent

FIRST READING
Behold, my beloved comes leaping upon the mountains.
A reading from the Song of Solomon (Song of Solomon 2:8-14)

The voice of my beloved! Behold, he comes, leaping upon the mountains, bounding over the hills. My beloved is like a gazelle, or a young stag. Behold, there he stands behind our wall, gazing in at the windows, looking through the lattice. My beloved speaks and says to me: “Arise, my love, my dove, my fair one, and come away; for behold, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of pruning has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. The fig tree puts forth its figs; and the vines are in blossom; they give forth fragrance. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the covert of the cliff, let me see your face, let me hear your voice, for your voice is sweet, and your face is comely.”

The word of the Lord.

Or the following:

FIRST READING
“The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Zephaniah (Zephaniah 3:14- 18a)

Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! The LORD has taken away the judgements against you, he has cast out your enemies. The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear evil no more. On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: “Do not fear, O Zion; let not your hands grow weak. The Lord your God is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you. With gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing as on a day of festival.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm33:2-3.11-12.20-21 (R. 1a, 3a)

R/. Ring out your joy to the Lord, O you just; O sing him a song that is new.

Give thanks to the Lord upon the harp; 
with a ten-stringed lute sing him songs. 
O sing him a song that is new;
Play skilfully, with shouts of joy. R/.

The designs of the Lord stand forever, 
the plans of his heart from age to age.
Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord, 
the people he has chosen as his heritage. R/.

Our soul is waiting for the Lord. 
He is our help and our shield.
In him do our hearts find joy.
We trust in his holy name. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Alleluia. 

O Emmanuel, our King and Law giver! Come and save us, O Lord our God. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:39-45)

In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the child leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

A CALL TO HEAR AND OBEY

Divine Appeal Reflection - 151

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 151: "If mankind do not hear My words, time will come and it will fall in this mire of errors.. "

Jesus’ mission centers on drawing souls into deep communion with Him, a relationship built on attentive listening and faithful obedience. This call is not limited to simply hearing His Word, but to allowing it to deeply transform our hearts and lives. The love of our Adorable Jesus invites us to respond with trust and action, making His truth the foundation of our existence. As we hear and obey His voice, we enter into divine life, aligning our will to His and reflecting His glory to the world (cf. Luke 11:28).

To hear and obey Jesus begins with humility. It requires acknowledging that God’s ways are infinitely higher than our own, calling us to trust in His divine wisdom. Such humility opens our hearts to accept His teachings, even when they challenge our understanding or comfort. The Blessed Virgin Mary offers the perfect model of this virtue in her response to God’s messenger, surrendering completely to His will. Her example reveals the beauty of obedience rooted in trust and love. Following her lead, we are called to submit ourselves to the will of our Adorable Jesus, trusting that His plan is always for our ultimate good and sanctification (cf. Isaiah 55:8-9; Luke 1:38).

Obedience to Jesus also demands profound trust. To live according to His commands is to believe that His love and wisdom surpass all human understanding. True love for Him is demonstrated not only in words but also in action, as we embrace His guidance and align our lives with His divine law. By walking in obedience, we allow our Adorable Jesus to illuminate the path of righteousness, steering us away from the errors that lead to spiritual ruin. Trusting in Him, we find freedom, joy, and salvation, knowing that His commandments are the way to eternal life (cf. John 14:15).

Let us, then, respond to the call of our Adorable Jesus to listen to His words and follow them with obedience. Through the grace of the sacraments, humility, trust, and perseverance, may we accept His truth and live in accordance with His will. By doing this, we will not only experience His blessing of joy and peace, but we will also guide others to the light of His salvific love.

Prayer

Our Adorable Jesus, teach us to hear Your Word with humility and obey it with love. Help us trust in Your wisdom, surrender to Your will, and follow Your path of righteousness. May Your truth transform our hearts and guide us to live faithfully for Your glory.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 151

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“As I am exposed, I will pour the treasures of My infinite Mercy into

human souls.”

“My daughter, as I am exposed I will pour the treasures of My 

infinite mercy into human souls. If mankind do not hear My words, 

time will come and it will fall in this mire of errors.

I agonise over souls. Pray more for the consecrated souls. Many

have lost My Life. They have allowed themselves to be dominated

by the devil. Almost all of them abuse Me. What more could I have

suffered for this mankind? I love souls and I am torn into pieces by

them. Pray and atone. It is time to pray.”

“I give My blessing.”

24th May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 20, 2024

Friday of  the Third Week of Advent, Year C  (Purple)

LH: Office of the Day, Week III

Mass of the day, Preface II of Advent

FIRST READING
“Behold, a virgin shall conceive.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 7: 10-14)

In those days: The Lord spoke to Ahaz, “Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.” But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, and I will not put the Lord to the test.” And he said, “Hear then, O house of David! I sit too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel [God is with us].”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm24:1-2.3-4ab.5-6 (R. see 7c, 10c)

R/. Let the Lord enter; he is the king of glory.

The Lord’s is the earth and its fullness, 
the world, and all who dwell in it.
It is he who set it on the seas; 
on the rivers he made it firm. R/.

Who shall climb the mountain of the Lord? 
Who shall stand in his holy place?
The clean of hands and pure of heart, 
whose soul is not set on vain things. R/.

Blessings from the Lord shall he receive,
And right reward from the God who saves him. 
Such are the people who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION
Alleluia. 

O Key of David! You open the gates of the eternal Kingdom: come and lead us out of the prison where we sit in darkness. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“You will conceive in your womb and bear a son.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:26-38)

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there will be no end.” And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I know not man?” And the angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon, you, and the power of the Most High will over shadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, your kinswoman Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

The Gospel of the Lord.

THE CRY OF JESUS IN A DESOLATE WORLD

Divine Appeal Reflection - 150

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 150:  "I am thirsting for the souls of mankind. The world is desolated because of the iniquitous evil with exaggerated freedom and without scruples. "

Our Adorable Jesus laments the destruction of the world , where pervasive evil spreads unchecked , leaving humanity in confusion and despair. This wilderness is rooted in a widespread rejection of God's law and a rapidly growing moral relativism that denies the existence of absolute truth. When society rejects God's commands , it opens the door to chaos and the normalization of sin. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that true freedom lies in obedience to God , but many people mistake freedom for the ability to act without restraint (cf. CCC 1733). This distorted view of freedom leads to spiritual blindness , where a person does not recognize sin for what it truly is-a violation of God's love. Jesus laments this spiritual poverty, thirsting for souls to return to Him as the source of truth and life.

The desolation becomes even more apparent in the normalization of sin, a reality that wounds the heart of our Adorable Jesus. Today, society standards celebrate or justify many sins rather than viewing them as transgressions of the will of God. Isaiah forewarned of this moral inversion, saying, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil" (cf. Isaiah 5:20). This inversion of morality is evident in the dissolution of the family, the defilement of marriage, and the disrespect for the sanctity of life. These assaults on the basic principles of human dignity demonstrate how selfishness triumphs over selfless love. St. John Paul II warned against the "culture of death," in which convenience and individual preference take priority over human life and moral principles (cf. Evangelium Vitae). Our Adorable Jesus longs for us to turn away from these erroneous beliefs and embrace the truth of His Gospel, which restores dignity and peace to souls and society.

Exaggerated freedom has further deepened the desolation by promoting a false sense of autonomy that disregards God and moral accountability. This counterfeit freedom fosters self-centeredness, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions and desires without concern for their eternal destiny. St. Paul reminds us that true freedom is not a license for sin but a call to live in loving service to God and others (cf. Galatians 5:13). When humanity misuses freedom in this way, it leads to enslavement by sin rather than liberation. Our Adorable Jesus, who desires nothing more than our holiness and eternal happiness, grieves over the souls trapped in this cycle of self-destruction. He continues to call out to us, offering His mercy and grace to those who turn back to Him with contrite hearts.

We are called to respond to this desolation as followers of Jesus by serving as conduits for His love and light. Our Adorable Jesus longs for us to embrace this task with bravery and faith, proclaiming the gospel and leading moral lives as a testament to the truth. Acts of evangelization, prayer, and reparation are necessary to combat the darkness of sin. On his homily on April 18, 2005, Pope Benedict XVI exhorted the faithful to reject the "dictatorship of relativism" by establishing their foundation on Christ's truth. We can start to mend the world's wounds and reunite souls with Jesus by doing this. Let us answer His cry by recommitting ourselves to the mission of love and truth, offering Him the consolation of our faithfulness amidst the desolation of this age.

Prayer

O our Adorable Jesus, we offer You our hearts in reparation for the desolation caused by sin. In this desolate world, may our prayers and sacrifices bring lost souls back to You. Grant us courage to proclaim Your truth, resist evil, and live faithfully, that we may quench Your longing for the salvation of mankind.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 150

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“I have nowhere to lay My head.”

“Listen carefully and write all down. Pray and hold mankind in your 

heart. My Eternal Father’s justice will be inexorable. I am in search 

of souls to exhort souls. I am thirsting for the souls of mankind. The

world is desolated because of the iniquitous evil with exaggerated

freedom and without scruples. The devil instigates souls, they do not

believe. What a pain to Me!

I pour My tears of blood over humanity’s ignominy. In the Sacrament

of My Love I am profaned, denied and so much blasphemed. I

have nowhere to lay My Head. I tell you pray a great deal and do

penance.”

“I bless you.”

2.00 a.m., 

24th May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 19, 2024

Thursday of  the Third Week of Advent, Year C  (Purple)

LH: Office of the Day, Week III

Mass of the day, Preface II of Advent

FIRST READING
The birth of Samson is announced by an angel.
A reading from the Book of Judges (Judges 13:2-7.24-25a)

In those days: There was a certain man of Zorah, of the tribe of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren and had no children. And the angel of the Lord appeared to the woman and said to her, “Behold, you are barren and have no children; but you shall conceive and bear a son. Therefore beware, and drink no wine or strong drink, and eat nothing unclean, for behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the boy shall be a Nazirite to God from birth; and he shall begin to deliver Israel from the hand of the Philistines.” Then the woman came and told her husband, “A man of God came to me, and his countenance was like the countenance of the angel of God, very terrible; I did not ask him where he was from, and he did not tell me his name; but he said to me, ‘Behold, you shall conceive and bear a son; so then drink no wine or strong drink, and eat nothing unclean, for the boy shall be a Nazirite to God from birth to the day of his death.”’ And the woman bore a son, and called his name Samson; and the boy grew, and the Lord blessed him. And the Spirit of the Lord began to stir him.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 71:3-4a.5-6ab: 16- 17 (R. see 8a)

R/. My mouth is filled with your praise, and I will sing your glory!

Be my rock, my constant refuge,
a mighty stronghold to save me,
for you are my rock, my stronghold.
My God, free me from the hand of the wicked. R/. 

It is you, O Lord, who are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
On you I have leaned from my birth;
from my mother’s womb, you have been my help. R/.

I will come with praise of your might, O Lord;
I will call to mind your justice, yours, O LORD, alone.
O God, you have taught me from my youth, 
and I proclaim your wonders still. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Alleluia. 

Root of Jesse, who stand as a sign to the nations! Come and deliver us: delay no longer. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL

The birth of John the Baptist is announced by Gabriel.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:5-25)

In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, according to the custom of the priesthood, it fell to him by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer is heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth; for he will be great before the Lord, and he shall drink no wine nor strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel, who stand in the presence of God; and I was sent to speak to you, and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things come to pass, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they wondered at his delay in the temple. And when he came out, he could not speak to them, and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple; and he made signs to them and remained mute. And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home. After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she hid herself, saying, “Thus the Lord has done to me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

THE SACRED ROLE OF PRIESTS AND CONSECRATED SOULS

Divine Appeal Reflection - 149

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 149: "My ministers are worriless and tranquil. They do not  defend Me. Instead they step on Me and allow everything. My  arm falls inexorably. Many of them do not believe My words."

Priests, by virtue of their ordination, are uniquely configured to Christ the High Priest through the sacrament of Holy Orders. This sacred calling is not a mere function but a profound participation in the redemptive mission of Our Adorable Jesus. Priests who act in persona Christi must be watchful shepherds who are tasked with guarding the faithful against the wolves of sin and error (cf. John 10:12-13). Priests are modeled after the Good Shepherd, who selflessly sacrifices Himself for the sheep. Their purpose requires a steadfast dedication to holiness and truth, even at the cost of one's own life. Because of their divine calling, they have the grave duty of leading, sanctifying, and instructing the flock, actively modeling Christ's love and faithfulness in their lives.

In Divine Appeal 149, Our Adorable Jesus mourns the negligence of some of His ministers, who fail to defend His Sacred Presence and teachings. This failure manifests not only in their silence but also in their actions that dishonor His mission. Such indifference deeply wounds the heart of Our Adorable Jesus, who entrusted His priests with safeguarding His flock. The scandal caused by neglectful priests reverberates throughout the Church, leaving the faithful vulnerable in a world overwhelmed by spiritual and moral confusion. The priestly vocation calls for vigilance and a fervent defense of Christ, and when this sacred duty is ignored, the resulting harm strikes at the very heart of the Mystical Body of Christ.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that priests are conformed to Christ “so that they can act in His person” (CCC 1548). This conformity demands fidelity to Christ’s own mission and example. Priests must embody His faithfulness, enthusiasm, and commitment to Truth. Any compromise, indifference, or complacency undermines the sacred trust bestowed upon them and weakens the priesthood itself.Consecrated souls are also called to live as luminous witnesses to God's Kingdom by their vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience. They provide a spiritual shield against the demonic powers that threaten the Church through their lives of sacrifice and prayer. When consecrated souls fail to embrace their call to perfection (cf. Matthew 5:48), their neglect allows darkness to obscure the light of Christ, leaving countless souls susceptible to spiritual ruin.

Our Adorable Jesus warns against the grave danger of complacency, describing some of His ministers as “worriless and tranquil.” This indifference permits moral decay and spiritual apathy to infiltrate His Church, betraying the sacred mission entrusted to priests and consecrated souls. Such negligence reflects a failure to grasp the reality of spiritual warfare, where every soul is a battlefield. To overcome this danger, priests and consecrated souls must renew their dedication to prayer, penance, and unwavering love for Our Adorable Jesus, especially in the Eucharist. This deep interior renewal will empower them to radiate Christ’s light in a world desperate for hope and truth. Divine Appeal 149 is a clarion call to repentance and spiritual revival, urging priests and consecrated souls to rise to the heights of their vocation, boldly defending Christ’s Sacred Presence and guiding the faithful to His eternal embrace.

Prayer

O Adorable Jesus, grant Your priests and consecrated souls the grace to defend Your Sacred Presence with courage and fidelity. Strengthen them in holiness, zeal for souls, and unwavering commitment to Truth. May their lives radiate Your light, guiding the faithful and bringing glory to You in all they do. 

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 149

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“Souls have united themselves to the devil.”

“My daughter, listen to the cry from My Divine Mercy. I speak to 

you. Continue to pray and speak to souls for all the evil they do. My

Eternal Father’s wrath is overflowing. They have united themselves 

to the devil. My ministers are worriless and tranquil. They do not 

defend Me. Instead they step on Me and allow everything. My 

arm falls inexorably. Many of them do not believe My words.

Days of darkness will cover the earth. It will tremble because of its

own sins. It will bring you from one end of the earth to the other so

that you may preach My message. I am warning mankind. I give

you the words to speak and I give you light to see their consciences.

I counsel you so that you may act before those days are reached

whereby churches will be destroyed and the... will be trampled

upon. I want to save the souls of humanity. I have nothing more

precious than the souls of mankind. Pray a great deal, listen to Me

and be attentive. I shed tears of blood over humanity. The world is

full of terror.”

“I bless you.”

2.00 a.m., 22nd May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 18, 2024

Wednesday of  the Third Week of Advent, Year C  (Purple)

LH: Office of the Day, Week III

Mass of the day, Preface II of Advent

FIRST READING
“I will raise up for David" a righteous Branch.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 23:5-8)

“Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.’ “Therefore, behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when men shall no longer say, ‘As the Lord lives who brought up the sons of Israel out of the land of Egypt,’ but ‘As the Lord lives who brought up and led the descendants of the house of Israel out of the north country and out of all the countries where he had driven them.’ Then they shall dwell in their own land.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm72:1-2.12-13.18-19 (R.see7)

R/. In his days shall justice flourish, and great peace forever.

O God, give your judgement to the king, 
to a king’s son your justice,
that he may judge your people in justice, 
and your poor in right judgement. R/.

For he shall save the needy when they cry, 
the poor, and those who are helpless.
He will have pity on the weak and the needy, 
and save the lives of the needy. R/.

Blest be the Lord, God of Israel,

Who alone works wonders,
Ever blest his glorious name.
Let his glory fill the earth. Amen! Amen! R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Alleluia. 

O Leader of the house of Israel! You gave the law to Moses on Sinai: come and redeem us with an outstretched arm. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
Jesus was born of Mary, the betrothed of Joseph, a son of David.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 1:18-24)

The birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to send her away quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.

The Gospel of the Lord.

A WORLD SUBMERGED IN SIN

Divine Appeal Reflection - 148

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 148: "What a sorrow! Mankind is submerged in the muddy tide. Corruption tries to drown the world in tears of blood. I beg you to pray and suffer for souls. Sacrifice yourself however painful it is."

The "muddy tide" vividly represents the current state of humanity, submerged in the filth of sin and moral decay. Sin blinds humanity to the eternal truths, leaving souls burdened and unable to rise to the heights of holiness to which they are called as children of God. This tide, thick with the vices of pride, greed, lust, and countless other sins, defiles the soul’s God-given beauty and casts a dark shadow over the society. Just as mud clings to the body, sin adheres to the soul, disfiguring its purity and weighing it down with guilt and estrangement from God. 

By portraying a humanity that has rejected God and fallen into a life of wickedness and immorality, St. Paul warns of this sorrowful reality in his Letter to the Romans (cf. Romans 1:28-32).This rejection of divine truth leads to malice, envy, deceit, and hatred—vices that echo the "muddy tide" revealed by Our Adorable Jesus. Such sin not only drowns individual souls but also poisons the broader culture, eroding the sanctity of life, destroying families, and normalizing grave evils. A society blinded by this tide begins to celebrate sin, failing to recognize its offense against God, who is the source of all truth and goodness.

Amid this sorrowful appeal, our Adorable Jesus extends a radiant hope to humanity. His tears of blood, a profound outpouring of His divine sorrow, manifest the depths of His boundless love and mercy for each soul. These sacred tears echo His agony in Gethsemane, where He carried the crushing weight of our sins with unfathomable love (cf. Matthew 26:36-46), and His weeping over Jerusalem, lamenting its blindness to the hour of its visitation (cf. Luke 19:41-44).

Our Adorable Jesus weeps today over a world trapped in sin, but He also does so with a heart that yearns to bring us back to Him. His gentle and urgent appeal for repentance and reparation serves as a reminder that no sin is beyond His mercy. Through fervent prayer, self-denial, and unwavering fidelity to His commandments, we are invited to console His Sacred Heart, pierced anew by the indifference and ingratitude of His children.

Regaining each soul from the clutches of sin is a testimonial to the transformative power of God's forgiving love, a triumph of divine grace, and a beacon of light piercing the darkness of a fallen world. In a world that is in dire need of healing and restoration, let us instantly respond to His appeal by becoming His redeeming agents and ambassadors of His love.

Prayer

Our Adorable Jesus, we behold Your tears of blood shed for a sinful world. Fill our hearts with love and courage to pray, sacrifice, and labor for the salvation of souls. May our lives bring You consolation and draw many back to Your merciful embrace.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 148

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“Mankind is submerged in the muddy tide.”

“My daughter, in My Presence I am so much abused and 

blasphemed. Pray a great deal. This is a serious moment for 

mankind. The world is in ruins. Desolation and death are

coming. Those who do not want to repent will throw themselves

into perdition. Many nations will disappear from the face of this

earth. Sin brings ruin and death, earthquakes, hunger, and famines.

Pray a great deal and keep Me company in My lonely hours. I will

always draw you strongly to prayer. This will cause you many tears

and humiliations. You will have to follow My painful path for the

good of souls.

What a sorrow! Mankind is submerged in the muddy tide. Corruption

tries to drown the world in tears of blood. I beg you to pray and

suffer for souls. Sacrifice yourself however painful it is. I assure

you, if enough prayers are not offered, time is approaching. The

devil will cast its evil powers into all nations and in a given moment

it will destroy the best part of My flock. My... have lost all shame.

This purification will be the greatest scourge in history.

Pray a great deal and meditate on these evils. Bring Me souls. Do not

fear. You are a victim of love.”

“I bless you.”

21st May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 17, 2024

Tuesday of  the Third Week of Advent, Year C  (Purple)

LH: Office of the Day, Week III

Mass of the day, Preface II of Advent

FIRST READING
“The sceptre shall not depart from Judah.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 49:2.8-10)

In those days: Jacob called his sons, and said, “Assemble and hear, O sons of Jacob, and hearken to Israel your father. “Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons shall bow down before you. Judah is a lion’s whelp; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down, he lurked as a lion, and as a lioness; who dares rouse him up? The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 72: 1-2.3-4ab.7-8.17

R/. In his days shall justice flourish, and great peace forever.

O God, give your judgement to the king,
to a king’s son your justice,
that he may judge your people in justice,
and your poor in right judgement. R/.

May the mountains bring forth peace for the people,
and the hills justice.
May he defend the poor of the people,
and save the children of the needy. R/.

In his days shall justice flourish,
and great peace till the moon is no more.
He shall rule from sea to sea,
from the River to the bounds of the earth. R/.

May his name endure forever,
his name continue like the sun.
Every tribe shall be blest in him,
all nations shall call him blessed. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION
Alleluia. 

Come, O wisdom of the Most High! You order all things with gentle power: come and teach us the way of prudence. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
The genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David
The beginning of the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 1:1-17)

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, and Amos the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations.

The Gospel of the Lord.

MARY'S VITAL ROLE IN THE DIVINE APPEALS

Divine Appeal Reflection - 147

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 147:  "I make this known to souls. I give many communications so that My messages and those of My Holy Mother will defeat the resistance of mankind to repeated calls.”

Mary is essential to God's plan of salvation because she is the Mediatrix of all grace. She joined Jesus in his suffering at the foot of the Cross in order to save humanity. Ever since, she has dutifully dispersed the graces bestowed to her, relentlessly guiding others to her Son's boundless mercy. This Divine Appeal emphasizes Our Blessed Mother's vital role in amplifying and echoing our Adorable Jesus' plea.

Mary has made appearances during spiritual crises throughout history, her teachings echoing our Adorable Jesus's tender pleas. At Fatima, she exhorted the faithful to believe in God's mercy, offer sacrifices for sinners, and pray the Rosary every day. Her appeal for piety and devotion at Lourdes emphasized the necessity of individual transformation and belief in her Immaculate Conception. These messages, deeply intertwined with the mission of Jesus, continue to speak to every generation, reminding us of the urgency of prayer and penance in overcoming the resistance of sin.

Mary’s maternal love mirrors the unfathomable love of our Adorable Jesus, who thirsts for the salvation of souls. Her patience and persistence in calling humanity back to God reflect the boundless mercy of Jesus, who never tires of extending His forgiveness. Her messages are filled with hope and the assurance that those who listen and respond will find peace and protection under her Immaculate Heart, always pointing to the Sacred Heart of Jesus as the ultimate refuge.

In a world marked by indifference and sin, Our Blessed Mother’s role becomes even more critical. Her repeated calls to prayer, penance, and conversion act as a beacon of light in the darkness. She intercedes for us with her Son, softening hardened hearts and leading them to the mercy of our Adorable Jesus. By her example of humility, faith, and obedience, Mary inspires us to surrender completely to God’s will, becoming instruments of His grace in the world.

To honor Mary’s role and respond to her messages, we are called to consecrate ourselves to her maternal care, entrusting our lives entirely to her guidance. As she asks, we should pray the Rosary every day to strengthen our bond with our Adorable Jesus by reflecting on His life, death, and resurrection. We become more in line with God's will when we emulate Mary's qualities of humility, purity, and unshakeable trust. Her exhortations for intercession and sacrifice also serve as a reminder to us to join her in bringing humanity to Jesus.

The role of Our Blessed Mother in Divine Appeal 147 is a testament to her indispensable mission in salvation history. Her messages, united with the love and mercy of our Adorable Jesus, are a divine plea to overcome the resistance of sin and embrace the light of grace. May we respond with open hearts to their repeated calls, trusting in Mary’s intercession to guide us to her Son, who is the way, the truth, and the life. Let us, with her maternal assistance, remain faithful to our Adorable Jesus, who desires nothing more than to bring us into the eternal joy of His Kingdom.

Prayer

O Jesus, our Adorable Saviour , through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, we implore Your mercy. Grant us the grace to overcome resistance to Your divine calls. Strengthen us through prayer, penance, and devotion. May our hearts burn with love for You. Mary, Mediatrix of Grace, pray for us.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 147

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“My left Hand points to a warning and My right Hand to a miracle.”

“My daughter, listen to Me. I come here to seek shelter. Pray a great 

deal and cloister souls in your heart. Pray very hard for the scandals of

the world. My left Hand points to a warning and My right Hand to a 

miracle. I beg you to do penance for the souls of mankind. I have nothing 

more precious than that.

I make this known to souls. I give many communications so that My

messages and those of My Holy Mother will defeat the resistance of

mankind to repeated calls.”

“I bless you.”

10.30 a.m., 20th May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 16, 2024

Monday of  the Third Week of Advent, Year C  (Purple)

LH: Office of the Day, Week III

Mass of the day, Preface I of Advent

FIRST READING
“A star shall come forth out of Jacob.”
A reading from the Book of Numbers (Numbers 24: 2-7, 15-17a)

In those days: Balaam lifted up his eyes, and saw Israel encamping tribe by tribe. And the Spirit of God came upon him, and he took up his discourse, and said, “The oracle of Balaam the son of Beor, the oracle of the man whose eye is opened, the oracle of him who hears the words of God, who sees the vision of the Almighty, falling down, but having his eyes uncovered: How fair are your tents, O Jacob, your encampments, O Israel! Like valleys that stretch afar, like gardens beside a river, like aloes that the Lord has planted, like cedar trees beside the waters. Water shall flow from his buckets, and his seed shall be in many waters, his king shall be higher than Agag, and his kingdom shall be exalted.” And he took up his discourse, and said, “The oracle of Balaam the son of Beor, the oracle of the man whose eye is opened, the oracle of him who hears the words of God, and knows the knowledge of the Most High, who sees the vision of the Almighty, falling down, but having his eyes uncovered: I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come forth out of Jacob, and a sceptre shall rise out of Israel.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 25:4-5ab.6 and 7cd.8—9 (R. 4b)

R/. Teach me your paths, O Lord.

O Lord, make me know your ways.
Teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth, and teach me;
for you are the God of my salvation. R/.

Remember your compassion, O Lord,
and your merciful love, for they are from of old.
In your merciful love remember me,
because of your goodness, O Lord. R/.

Good and upright is the Lord;
he shows the way to sinners.
He guides the humble in right judgement;
to the humble he teaches his way. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Psalm 85:8

Alleluia.

Let us see, O Lord, your mercy, and grant us your salvation. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“The baptism of John, where was it from?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 21:23-27)

At that time: When Jesus entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” Jesus answered them, “I also will ask you a question; and if you tell me the answer, then I also will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, where was it from? From heaven or from men?” And they argued with one another, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men,’ we are afraid of the multitude; for all hold that John was a prophet.” So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.”And he said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

REDEMPTIVE POWER OF THE CROSS

Divine Appeal Reflection - 146

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 146:  "I have saved the world through suffering on the cross. Pray and do penance for souls."

 The Cross of Christ is the supreme symbol of God's infinite love and mercy, through which our Adorable Jesus redeemed humanity. In His death, He was victorious over sin and death so that He might deliver the world from the power of the devil. In this vein, through the Cross , Jesus exemplified His unending love for mankind and provided the roadmap to eternal life for anyone who believes in Him. True and full redemption, along with the hope of glory, are found in the Cross of Christ. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the Cross is Christ's singular sacrifice, inviting all humanity to partake in His Paschal Mystery (cf. CCC 618) by embracing their own crosses. Not only have we received grace, but we also participate in Christ's redemptive work. 

Our Adorable Jesus bore the burden of transcending humanity through His Passion . The Cross remains the source of grace for all. The cross holds a special place in the Christian home. It is a visible symbol of God's presence and love. Families are invited to honor the Holy Cross by placing it prominently in their homes. This practice serves as a daily reminder of the sacrificial love of our Adorable Jesus. It also encourages family members to live lives of faith, prayer, and charity. The home is the place where faith is nurtured and passed on to the next generation (cf. CCC 1657). Placing the cross at the center of family life is a declaration of faith in Christ's victory over sin and death and invites His grace to purify the home.

Furthermore, the profound mystery of redemptive suffering is revealed by the Cross. To save souls, Jesus urges us to connect our suffering and sacrifices with His, transforming them into acts of mercy and love. St. Paul addresses this issue when he states that, for the benefit of His body, the Church, our sufferings make up for what Christ's sufferings lacked (cf. Colossians 1:24). Even though Jesus made a perfect and comprehensive sacrifice, He mercifully allows us to partake in His atoning work through our selfless deeds, penance, and prayers. Pope St. John Paul II emphasized that when suffering is joined with the Cross, it becomes a source of grace and a pathway to holiness for everyone in the world (cf. Salvifici Doloris, 19). May every family place the Cross at the center of their lives, drawing strength, hope, and love from this sacred mystery of redemption.

Prayer

Oh , our Adorable Jesus, we bow before Your Holy Cross, the source of our redemption and hope. Transform our hearts with Your grace, teach us to embrace sacrifices with love, and guide us in bringing souls to You. May Your mercy and love reign in us now and forever.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 146

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“Pray and do penance.”

“My daughter, listen to My crying voice. I come to seek shelter here. 

I am shedding tears of blood for all of mankind. The Chalice is filled.
Be attentive to all that I tell you.

I have saved the world through suffering on the cross. Pray and do
penance for souls. I am with you in all the tabernacles of the world.”

19th May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 15, 2024

Third Sunday of Advent - Gaudete  (Purple/Pink)

LH: Office of the Third Sunday of Advent, Week III

Mass of the Third Sunday of Advent, Preface I of Advent

FIRST READING
“The Lord will exult over you with loud singing.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Zephaniah (Zephaniah 3:14-18a)

Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away the judgements against you, he has cast out your enemies. The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear evil no more. On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: “Do not fear, O Zion; let not your hands grow weak. The LORD your God is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing as on a day of festival.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Isaiah 12:2-3.4bcde.5-6 (R. 6)

R/. Shout, and sing for joy,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.

“Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the Lord God is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation.”
With joy you will draw water
from the wells of salvation. R/.

“Give thanks to the Lord,
call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the nations,
proclaim that his name is exalted.” R/.

“Sing praises to the Lord,
for he has done gloriously; 
let this be known in all the earth.
Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.” R/.

SECOND READING
“The Lord is at hand.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians (Philippians 4:4 -7)

Brethren: Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let all men know your forbearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The word of the Lord.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Luke 4: 18

Alleluia. 

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he has sent me to preach good news to the poor. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“What, then, shall we do?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 3:10-18)

At that time: The multitudes asked John, “What then shall we do?” And he answered them, “He who has two coats, let him share with him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise.” Tax collectors also came to be baptised, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Collect no more than is appointed you.” Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Rob no one by violence or by false accusation, and be content with your wages.” As the people were in expectation, and all men questioned in their hearts concerning John, whether perhaps he were the Christ, John answered them all, “I baptise you with water; but he who is mightier than I is coming, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie; he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor, and to gather the wheat into his granary, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” So, with many other exhortations, he preached good news to the people.

The Gospel of the Lord.

FLAGELLATIONS AS PATHS TO RENEWAL

Divine Appeal Reflection - 145

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 145: "My Eternal Father’s anger is cast down on this world. These are terrible days. Do not be afraid of seeing many flagellations. With My tears of blood I want to cover this corrupt world."

Flagellations signify trials, suffering, and divine chastisements that God permits for the purification of the world and the salvation of souls. While these moments of suffering may seem harsh, they reflect a deep expression of God’s fatherly love, aimed at drawing humanity back to Him. As Scripture reminds us, the justice of God is revealed against sin (Romans 1:18), yet His ultimate desire is repentance and renewal (Hebrews 12:6–7). God has used chastisements throughout the history of salvation to make people realize how much they depend on Him. The plagues in Egypt, the exile of the Israelites, and the flood during Noah's time were all opportunities for conversion in addition to being the results of sin. Each of these events called people to abandon their ways and return to trust in God’s providence.

Today, the flagellations we witness—natural disasters, societal decay, or personal suffering—are no different. They are permitted by God to purify hearts, awaken consciences, and redirect humanity’s focus toward eternity. These trials are not signs of divine abandonment but of God’s enduring patience and His desire for the salvation of all souls (2 Peter 3:9). 

In the midst of these flagellations, our Adorable Jesus speaks words of comfort and assurance: “Do not be afraid.” These words, repeated often in the Gospels (Matthew 14:27; John 14:27), remind us that no trial is beyond God’s power to transform for our good. Even when the world seems engulfed in chaos, our Adorable Jesus reassures us of His presence as our refuge and strength.

Even though they are challenging, trials are only temporary and have a bigger purpose in God's plan. They challenge and fortify our faith, deepening our trust and honing our love for Him (1 Peter 1:6–7). We are constantly reminded that we are never alone in our problems by the presence of our Adorable Jesus, especially in the Eucharist. His tears of blood, mentioned in this Divine Appeal, reveal His profound compassion for humanity and His longing to shield us from despair.

Even when we are surrounded by suffering, we can find hope in the steadfastness of His love. His mercy endures forever, and His promises remain unshaken, giving us the courage to face any trial with trust in His divine providence. Let us embrace these moments as opportunities for deeper conversion and unite our trials to the redemptive suffering of our Adorable Jesus, trusting always in His infinite mercy and love.

Prayer

Our Adorable Jesus, in these times of trials and flagellations, grant us strength, purity of heart, and unwavering trust in Your infinite mercy. Help us unite our sufferings with Yours for the salvation of souls. May Your love guide us through every trial, renewing our hearts in faith and hope. 

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 14, 2024

Saturday of  the Second Week of Advent  (White)

Memorial of St. John of the Cross 

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week II

Mass of the Memorial, Preface I of Advent

FIRST READING
Elijah will come again.
A reading from the Book of Sirach (Sirach 48:1- 4.9-11b)

In those days: Then the prophet Elijah arose like a fire, and his word burned like a torch. He brought a famine upon them, and by his zeal he made them few in number. By the word of the Lord he shut up the heavens, and also three times brought down fire. How glorious you were, O Elijah, in your wondrous deeds! And who has the right to boast which you have? You who were taken up by a whirlwind of fire, in a chariot with horses of fire; you who are ready at the appointed time, it is written, to calm the wrath of God before it breaks out in fury, to turn the heart of the father to the son, and to restore the tribes of Jacob. Blessed are those who saw you, and those who have fallen asleep in your love.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 80:2ac and 3b.15 - 16a.18-19 (R. 4)

R/. O God, bring us back; let your face shine on us, and we shall be saved.

O shepherd of Israel, hear us, 
enthroned on the cherubim, shine forth.
Rouse up your might and come to save us. R/.

God of hosts, turn again, we implore; 
look down from heaven and see.
Visit this vine and protect it,
the vine your right hand has planted. R/.

May your hand be on the man at your right hand, 
the son of man you have confirmed as your own. 
And we shall never forsake you again;
give us life that we may call upon your name. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Luke 3:4.6

Alleluia. 

Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight; all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
Elijah has already come and they did not know him.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 17:10-13)

As they were coming down the mountain, the disciples asked Jesus, “Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” He replied, “Elijah does come, and he is to restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not know him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of man will suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist.

The Gospel of the Lord

DIVINE APPEAL 145

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“I have nothing more precious than souls of mankind.”

“My daughter, listen to My words of tears. I am calling you to pray 

and to do penance and receive Me in atonement for all the offences

and abuses against Me. For the great love of mankind I am above 

this world. Listen to Me. I have a very important message. It is only 

prayers that can save this world. My Eternal Father’s anger is cast 

down on this world. These are terrible days. Do not be afraid of 

seeing many flagellations. With My tears of blood I want to cover 

this corrupt world.

This earth is full of terror and the devil has taken possession of souls.

What a pain! Mankind does not want to repent! Pray a great deal. Do

not fear to tell Me the things that you know will bring Me harm in

the Sacrament of My Love. I am here sensitive to your tenderness. I

ask you to keep silence at the delicate way in which I give you My

secret thoughts. I love you to the point of doing the good I want to

do for the good of souls. I am in great need of saving souls. Keep

silence. I have nothing more precious than souls of mankind. I beg

you to be humble. Loosen yourself for the sake of souls.

Follow My voice for it will lead you to co-operate and hunt more

souls for Me. Time is short. The devil already knows how short it is.

From My Divine Mercy I speak and call back souls. Listen to My

crying voice.”

“I bless you.”

3.30 a.m., 18th May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 13, 2024

Friday of  the Second Week of Advent  (Red)

Memorial of St. Lucy Bishop and Martyr 

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week II

Mass of the Memorial, Preface I of Advent

FIRST READING
“O that you had listened to my commandments!”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 48:17 - 19)

Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go. O that you had listened to my commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea; your offspring would have been like the sand, and your descendants like its grains; their name would never be cut off or destroyed from before me.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 1:1-2.3.4 and 6 (R. see John 8: 12)

R/. He who follows you, Lord, will have the light of life

Blessed indeed is the man
Who follows not the counsel of the wicked, 
nor stands in the path with sinners,
nor abides in the company of scorers, 
but whose delight is the law of the Lord,
and who ponders his law day and night. R/.

He is like a tree that is planted 
beside the flowing waters,
that yields its fruit in due season, 
and whose leaves shall never fade; 
and all that he does shall prosper. R/.

Not so are the wicked, not so!
For they, like winnowed chaff, 
shall be driven away by the wind.
For the Lord knows the way of the just, 
but the way of the wicked will perish. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION 

Alleluia. 

The Lord is coming, run out to meet him; he is the prince of peace. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
They listened neither to John nor to the Son of man
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 11:16-19)

At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “To what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the market places and calling to their playmates, ‘We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn. ’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon’; the Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Behold, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners! “Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”

The Gospel of the Lord

UNDERSTANDING SELF- ANNIHILATION IN CHRIST

Divine Appeal Reflection - 144

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 144:  "I want you to understand and  annihilate yourself so that My Eternal Father may reign not only in you but to many more souls which you bring to Me."

The concept of self-annihilation can initially sound severe, but in the spiritual sense, it is a transformative journey into the heart of God. This annihilation is not about negating our dignity or existence but about aligning ourselves with God’s will. It calls for humility, detachment, and sacrificial love, leading to complete dependence on God. This is the pathway to allowing divine grace to permeate our lives, transforming us into living reflections of our Adorable Jesus.

Self-annihilation is based on humility. It is an honest admission of our frailty and total reliance on God's grace. The Bible teaches us that God opposes the arrogant and elevates the lowly (James 4:6). We make room for God's transformational power to operate within us when we approach Him with an understanding of our weakness and wickedness. The lives of saints demonstrate this humility. For instance, one saint referred to herself as the “little flower,” believing she was small and insignificant yet completely reliant on God’s mercy. This simplicity and trust allowed God to do great things through her. In a similar way, we are called to bow low before the Creator, surrendering our self-reliance and embracing His divine will as our Adorable Jesus exemplified in His earthly life.

The conscious process of letting go of material attachments and worldly goals that obstruct our relationship with God is known as detachment. In Matthew 6:24, Jesus reminds us that one cannot serve two masters by emphasizing that one cannot serve God and money simultaneously.  Instead of letting the gifts of creation rule our hearts, detachment encourages us to appropriate their order and use them to exalt God. Detachment is not about rejecting the gifts of creation but about rightly ordering them, using them to glorify God rather than allowing them to dominate our hearts. In the Gospels, for instance, when Jesus invited the wealthy young man to accompany Him, he was unable to part with his possessions and left in despair (Mark 10:21-22). This shows us the value of giving heavenly treasures priority over material ones. When we let go of transient things, we make room for eternal riches and a deeper intimacy with our Adorable Jesus.

The ultimate form of self-annihilation is sacrificial love that gives ones life for others in emulation of Christ. Jesus declared that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (John 15:13). This call to sacrificial love is not only for radical and dramatic gestures but even a relentless act of caring, forgiving, and serving. Sacrificial love is defined by selflessness, putting others' needs first, and sacrificing the necessary resources to help others. Parents, missionaries, and caretakers who set aside time every day to help others are excellent examples of this. By exhibiting selfless love, we make ourselves available to serve as conduits for the Adorable Jesus to draw others nearer to us.

Self-annihilation in Christ is not about losing oneself in a void but about being filled with the presence and life of God. Humility teaches us to acknowledge our dependence on Him, detachment frees us from distractions, and sacrificial love transforms us into vessels of divine grace. As we yield our egos and embrace God’s will, we allow Him to reign in us and through us, bringing His light and love to the world through the example of our Adorable Jesus.

Prayer

Oh our Adorable Jesus, teach me to embrace humility, detach from worldly desires, and offer myself in sacrificial love. Reign in my heart and transform me into a vessel of Your grace, so that I may bring Your light and love to the souls You long to save.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 144

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“My Love is not a global love. Bring me souls.”

“My daughter, listen to My cry for souls. I thirst for the souls 

of mankind that I love so much. I want you to understand and 

annihilate yourself so that My Eternal Father may reign
not only in you but to many more souls which you bring to Me.
Pray a great deal for the souls unknown to you. I come here to seek
shelter. I beg you to devote this day in adoring My Divine Sacrament
outraged by the torments of wounds received from the consecrated
souls. I ask for your adoration and reparation every minute. For the
love of mankind I keep Myself a prisoner in the tabernacle. Consider
how much I suffer from loneliness! My own have abandoned Me.
Come and penetrate Me deeply.

Speak out My words to the very souls who have wondered away
from Me. They are on the way to perdition. This is the only time for
mankind to be saved. I address My appeal to all. Souls must know
Me. The world has lost its senses. Keep Me in silence and light. In
the Sacrament of My Love I am a stranger.”

Everyday I call you to pray through events. Pray for those I entrusted
souls. Listen to My words of mercy to mankind. Pray a great deal
and cloister souls in your heart. I come here to seek shelter. Give Me
your company. In the prison of My tabernacle I feel as an abandoned
child left out in the cold. This is why I give you pleasure in which
you know Me better. Bring Me souls. I love you and understand you.
My Love is not a global love. For the sake of souls I ask you to pray.
The souls I love so much do not understand to what extent. I beg you
to listen to Me always.”

“I bless you.”

12th May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 12, 2024

Thursday of  the Second Week of Advent  (Purple)

Optional Memorial of Our Lady of Guadalupe   (White)

LH: Office of the Day or Memorial, Week II

Mass of the Day or Memorial, Preface I of Advent

FIRST READING
I am your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 41:13-20)

I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I will help you.” Fear not, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel! I will help you, says the Lord; your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. Behold, I will make of you a threshing sledge, new, sharp, and having teeth; you shall thresh the mountains and crush them, and you shall make the hills like chaff; you shall winnow them and the wind shall carry them away, and the tempest shall scatter them. And you shall rejoice in the Lord; in the Holy One of Israel you shall glory. When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst, I the Lord will answer them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. I will open rivers on the bare heights, and fountains in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water. I will put in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive; I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane and the pine together; that men may see and know, may consider and understand together, that the hand of the Lord has done this, the Holy One of Israel has created it.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 145:1 and 9.10- 11.12-13ab (R. 8)

R/. The Lord is kind and full of compassion,
slow to anger, abounding in mercy.

I will extol you, my God and king, 
and bless your name forever and ever. 
How good is the Lord to all, 
compassionate to all his creatures. R/.

All your works shall thank you, 
O Lord, and all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign, 
and declare your mighty deeds. R/.

They shall make known your might to the children of men, 
and the glorious splendour of your reign.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom; 
your rule endures for all generations. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Isaiah 45:8

Alleluia. 

Shower, O heavens, from above, and let the skies rain down the Just One; let the earth open, that it may bring forth the Saviour. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
No one greater than John the Baptist has risen.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 11:11-15)

At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and men of violence take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John; and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

The Gospel of the Lord.

WITNESS THROUGH HOLINESS

Divine Appeal Reflection - 143

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 143:  "My thirst for souls is ever new. Hunt souls for Me. My Love is always the same."

By encouraging us to live out the Gospel every day, our Adorable Jesus encourages us to "hunt souls" for Him. Because holiness is both a personal journey and a mission for the conversion of others, St. Paul exhorts us to follow Christ's example in whatever we do (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:1). We fulfill Jesus' charge to be the light of the world when we live moral lives, which shine brightly and attract others to us (cf. Matthew 5:14). Holiness, which exudes the splendor of God's transforming love, is the cornerstone of our Christian witness.

The holiness our Adorable Jesus desires is not extraordinary but lived in the simplicity of daily virtue. By being humble, patient, loving, and obedient, we mirror His divine essence. Our deeds speak louder than words about the joy and serenity that result from living a life centered on Him. According to Scripture, when others witness the manifestation of the deeds of light in the life of Christians, they are drawn to virtue (cf. Ephesians 5:8-10). A person's holiness can inspire others to pursue Christ in addition to being a personal treasure.

Holiness also requires a commitment to prayer and the sacraments. We are strengthened to live as His witnesses by regular Eucharistic communion, where our Adorable Jesus feeds us with His Body and Blood (cf. John 6:56). Our hearts are purified by reconciliation, which also restores us to grace and gives us the ability to show others His mercy. Our relationship with God is strengthened by daily prayer, which also enables us to recognize and sincerely follow out His will. According to Scripture, the righteous' prayers have the capacity and efficacy to bring people nearer to Him (cf. James 5:16).

Our Adorable Jesus thirsts for souls, and holiness is the means by which we can quench that thirst. Acts of charity, compassion, and selflessness demonstrate His love to the world. By being patient in trials and forgiving those who wrong us, we show that God’s grace works powerfully within us (cf. Colossians 3:12-14). The joy and peace that flow from a life of virtue naturally inspire others to seek the source of that light.

Holiness has a profound impact on others. When we live as Christ’s witnesses, we become instruments of His grace, leading souls to Him. St. Catherine of Siena reminds us that being who God calls us to be will ignite the world with His love. Through our fidelity, we fulfill the mission of our Adorable Jesus, whose unchanging love and thirst for souls compel us to labor tirelessly for their salvation (cf. 2 Timothy 4:7-8).

In answering this call, we embrace our role as His disciples, reflecting His light in every aspect of life. Let us pray for the grace to live holy lives, trusting that through our witness, others will encounter the merciful love of our Adorable Jesus and be drawn into His eternal embrace.

Prayer

Our Adorable Jesus, Your love for souls is infinite. Fill our hearts with the desire to bring others to You through holiness and virtue. Teach us to reflect Your light in all we do. Strengthen us in prayer, guide us by Your mercy, and make us faithful witnesses.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.

DIVINE APPEAL 143

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

(Revelation to Sr Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist)

VOLUME 1

“I am so lonely and wounded in the Sacrament of My Love.”

“Never before has the world needed prayers like in these tragic times.”

“My daughter, listen to My words of mercy towards mankind. I am 

thirsty. Bring Me souls in your prayers. Pray a great deal and atone. 

I come for shelter here. I am so lonely and wounded in the Sacrament 

of My Love. I cannot stand to see the souls that have cost My life to 

be eternally lost. What a pain to Me! The souls I love so much I draw 

you strongly to pray for. I want your prayers and sacrifices to draw 

souls to Me. Reflect on how the world treats Me in the prison of 

My tabernacle by consecrated souls. I am wounded pitilessly. I live in 

the midst of souls with all My Love. I remain day and night that all 

may come to the fountain of love and mercy. My grief is that many of 

the consecrated souls leave Me so much blasphemed and abused in the

tabernacle. I pour tears of blood to see My own... labouring hard to

abolish the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. I so much want them to know

that I love them. I do not wish anyone to perish. I suffered all the

pain that I could have suffered for mankind. It is high time for My

Divine Mercy which will be followed by Divine Justice. Pray a great

deal to appease the wrath of My Eternal Father. Do not fear to suffer.

Never before has the world needed prayers like in these tragic times.

Time is short for saving souls. I beg you to take care of Me in the

Sacrament of My Love. My thirst for souls is ever new. Hunt souls

for Me. My Love is always the same. I need the world to know that

time is approaching when I will stand with My Judge’s Voice. It

will be a voice of Divine Justice after Divine Mercy. Immersed in a

chain of scandals the world is a swampland of muck and mire. Make

reparation; I have nowhere to rest.”

“I bless you.”

11th May 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. Reproduced from ON THE EUCHARIST: A DIVINE APPEAL, Volume 1 by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 11, 2024

Wednesday of  the Second Week of Advent  (Purple)

LH: Office of the Day, Week II

Mass of the day, Preface I of Advent

FIRST READING
The Lord is strong in power and gives power to the faint.
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 40:25-31)

To whom will you compare me, that I should be like him? Says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name; by the greatness of his might, and because he is strong in power not one is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord and my right is disregarded by my God”? Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary, his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

The word of the Lord

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 103:1-2.3-4.8 and10 (R.1a)

R/. Bless the Lord, O my soul.

Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R/.

It is the Lord who forgives all your sins, 
who heals every one of your ills,
who redeems your life from the grave,
who crowns you with mercy and compassion. R/.

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, 
slow to anger and rich in mercy.
He does not treat us according to our sins, 
Nor repay us according to our faults. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION
Alleluia. 

Behold, the Lord is coming to save his people; blessed are those who are ready to meet him. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Come to me, all who labour.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 11:28-30)

At that time: Jesus said, “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR DECEMBER 7, 2024

Saturday of  the First Week of Advent  (Purple)

Memorial of St. Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor (White)

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week I

Mass of the Memorial, Preface I of Advent

FIRST READING
“He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 30:19-21.23-26)

Thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: Yes, O people in Zion who dwell at Jerusalem; you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when he hears it, he will answer you. And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself any more, but your eyes shall see your Teacher. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. And he will give rain for the seed with which you sow the ground, and grain, the produce of the ground, which will be rich and plenteous. In that day your flock will be given pasture, and the lamb will graze in open fields; and the oxen and the donkeys that till the ground will eat salted food, which has been winnowed with shovel and fork. And upon every lofty mountain and every high hill there will be brooks running with water, in the day of the great slaughter, when the towers fall. Moreover the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day when the Lord binds up the hurt of his people, and heals the wounds inflicted by his blow.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 147: 1-2.3-4.5-6 (R. Isaiah 30: 18)

R/. Blessed are all those who wait for the Lord.

How good to sing psalms to our God;
how pleasant to chant fitting praise!
The Lord builds up Jerusalem and
brings back Israel's exiles. R/.

He heals the broken-hearted;
he binds up all their wounds.
He counts out the number of the stars;
he calls each one by its name. R/.

Our Lord is great and almighty;
his wisdom can never be measured.
The Lord lifts up the lowly;
he casts down the wicked to the ground. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Isaiah 33:22

Alleluia. 

The Lord is our judge, the Lord is our ruler, the Lord is our king: he will save us. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:35-10:1.5a.6-8)

At that time: Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.” And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. These Twelve Jesus sent out, charging them, “Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleans lepers, cast out demons. You received without pay, give without pay.”

The Gospel of the Lord.