HOLY MASS READINGS FOR SEPTEMBER 1, 2024

Twenty Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B   (Green)

Mass of the Twenty Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

LH: Office of the Twenty Second Sunday, Week II

Gloria, Creed, Preface of Sundays in Ordinary Time

FIRST READING
“You shall not add to the word which I commanded you…. keep the commandments of the Lord.”
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 4:1-2.6-8)

Moses spoke to the people, saying, “Now, O Israel, give heed to the statutes and the ordinances which I teach you, and do them; that you may live, and go in and take possession of the land which the Lord, the God of your fathers, gives you. You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it; that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you. “Keep them and do them; for that will be your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples, who, when they hear all these statutes, will say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as the Lord our God is to us, whenever we call upon him? And what great nation is there, that has statutes and ordinances so righteous as all this law which I set before you this day?”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 15:2-3a.3bc-4ab.5 (R. la)

R/. O Lord, who may abide in your tent?

Whoever walks without fault;
who does what is just,
and speaks the truth from his heart.
Who does not slander with his tongue. R/.

Who does no wrong to a neighbour,
who casts no slur on a friend,
who looks with scorn on the wicked,
but honours those who fear the Lord. R/.

Who lends no money at interest,
and accepts no bribes against the innocent.
Such a one shall never be shaken. R/.

SECOND READING
“Be doers of the word.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint James (James 1:17-18.2 lb-22.27)

My dearest brethren: Every good endowment and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth that we should be a kind of first fruits of his creatures. Receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

The word of the Lord.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

James 1:18

Alleluia. 

Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth that we should be a kind of first fruits of his. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“You leave the commandment of God, and holdfast the tradition of men.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 7:1-8.14-15.21-23)

At that time: When the Pharisees gathered together to Jesus, with some of the scribes, who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, do not eat unless they wash their hands, observing the tradition of the elders; and when they come from the market place, they do not eat unless they purify themselves; and there are many other traditions which they observe, the washing of cups and pots and vessels of bronze.) And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not live according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with hands defiled?” And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men. ’You leave the commandment of God, and hold fast the tradition of men.” And he called the people to him again, and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him; but the things which come out of a man are what defile him. “For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, fornication, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a man.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 31, 2024

Saturday of the Twenty First Week in Ordinary Weekday   (Green)

Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary   (White)

LH: Office of the Day or of the Memorial, Week I

Morning Mass and Preface of the day or BVM

FIRST READING
“God chose what is weak in the world.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 1:26-31)

Consider your call, brethren; not many of you were wise according to the flesh, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth; but God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong, God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no flesh might boast in the presence of God. He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom, our righteousness and sanctification and redemption; therefore, as it is written, “Let him who boasts, boast of the Lord.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm33: 12-13.18-19.20-21 (R: 12b)

R/. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen as his heritage.

Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people he has chosen as his heritage.
From the heavens the Lord looks forth;
he sees all the children of men. R/.

Yes, the Lord’s eyes are on those who fear him,
who hope in his merciful love,
to rescue their souls from death,
to keep them alive in famine. 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

John 13:34

Alleluia. 

A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“You have been faithful over a little,’ enter into the joy of your master.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 25:14-30)

At that time: Jesus told his disciples this parable: “It will be as when a man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. “Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more. ’His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’ And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’ “He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not winnow; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours. ’ But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to every one who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and quashing of teeth.’ “

The Gospel of the Lord.

MARY, THE MODEL OF LIVING TABERNACLES

Divine Appeal Reflection  - 119

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 119: "I want you to be a living tabernacle. It is very pleasing to Me."

We must look to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the most ideal model our Adorable Jesus has given us, to properly understand what it is to be a living tabernacle. From the sacred moment of the Annunciation, when Mary humbly accepted the divine will of God, she became the first living tabernacle, carrying within her womb the Incarnate Word, our Adorable Jesus (Luke 1:38). This profound mystery recalls the Old Testament Ark of the Covenant, which prefigured Mary as the true Ark, the vessel chosen to bear the real presence of God Himself . Throughout her life, the Blessed Mother epitomized the virtues of a true disciple—she heard the Word of God and faithfully acted upon it, with an unwavering trust that mirrored the faith of Abraham and the holy ones of old (Ex 25:10-22,Lk 1:45; Heb 11:8).

Mary’s sacred mission as a living tabernacle did not cease after the Annunciation but continued through her every action, especially during moments of trial and sorrow. Her intercession with our Adorable Jesus at the wedding feast at Cana led to His first miracle, she stood at the foot of the Cross in perfect union with Christ in His redeeming suffering, and even after His ascension, the Blessed Mother continued to be a source of grace and strength to the early Church, her prayers and presence nourishing the apostles .

As living tabernacles, we are called to imitate Mother Mary’s readiness to accept God’s will, trusting that His plan is for our ultimate good, even when we do not fully understand it . We have the responsibility to share the presence of our Adorable Jesus with others, just as Mary did when she presented Him to Elizabeth, which led to the joyful declaration of the Magnificat (Lk 1:38, Lk 1:39-56).

Her life teaches us that to be a living tabernacle is not just to receive Christ in Holy Communion but to let His presence permeate every aspect of our lives. We are to imitate the compassion and love of Christ in all that we do, just as Mary did, with humility, obedience, and faith in God’s plan, which were the pillars of her life. In imitating Mary, we bring the light of Christ into deep shadows and serve as instruments of His grace in a world that seeks it (Mt 5:14-16).

Prayer

O Blessed Mother Mary, first living tabernacle of our Adorable Jesus, help us to carry Christ in our hearts as you did. Grant us your humility, obedience, and unwavering trust, so we may reflect His love and mercy in all we do, bringing His presence to others.

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

DIVINE APPEAL 119

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

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

VOLUME 1

“Write down what I tell you.”

“My daughter, listen and write down what I tell you. Pray and watch 

with Me in this dark hour. Suffer and learn. Follow Me along this 

painful path. Do not be afraid. Calm down and be strong for I ordain 

this work for the salvation of souls. I speak with you amid tears. Pray 

a great deal in order to bring Me more souls. Whenever you call Me, 

I am always there in order to fulfil the will of My Eternal Father. I do 

not have any rest.

What a pain! How much evil! The world is growing from bad to

worse. Time is short. Bring Me souls. I am thirsting for souls. In the

Sacrament of My Love I am so lonely and abused. I come here to

seek shelter. I want you to be a living tabernacle. It is very pleasing

to Me.

Unclean spirits have taken over three parts of mankind. Pray a great

deal and cloister souls in your heart.”

“I bless you.”

13th April 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese 
of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. 
Reproduced by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 30, 2024

Friday of  the Twenty First Week in Ordinary Weekday  (Green)

LH: Office of the Day, Week I

Mass and Preface of the day 

FIRST READING
“We preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to men, but to those who are called, the wisdom of God.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (I Corinthians 1:17-25)

Brethren: Christ did not send me to baptise but to preach the gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the cleverness of the clever I will thwart.” Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 33: 1-2.4-5.10- 11 (R. 5b)

R/. The Lord’s merciful love fills the earth.

Ring out your joy to the Lord, O you just;
for praise is fitting for the upright.
Give thanks to the Lord upon the harp;
with a ten-stringed lute sing him songs. R/.

For the word of the Lord is faithful,
and all his works to be trusted.
The Lord loves justice and right,
and his merciful love fills the earth. R/.

The Lord frustrates the designs of the nations;
he defeats the plans of the peoples.
The designs of the Lord stand forever,
the plans of his heart from age to age. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Luke 21:36

Alleluia. 

Watch at all times, praying that you may be able to stand before the Son of man. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 25: 1-13)

At that time: Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The kingdom of heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. “As the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ “Then all those maidens rose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ' Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘Perhaps there will not be enough for us and for you; go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.’ “And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. Afterward the other maidens came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ “But he replied, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 29, 2024

Thursday of the Twenty First Week in Ordinary Weekday (Red)

Memorial of the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week I

Mass and Preface of the Memorial

FIRST READING

“Say to them everything that I command you,’ do not be dismayed by them.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1: 17-19)

In those days: The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Gird up your loins; arise, and say to them everything that I command you. Do not be dismayed by them, lest I dismay you before them. And I, behold, I make you this day a fortified city, an iron pillar, and bronze walls, against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, its princes, its priests, and the people of the land. They will fight against you; but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you, says the Lord, to deliver you.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Ps 71: 1-2.3-4a.5-6ab. 15ab and 17 (R. 15ab)

R/. My mouth will tell of your salvation, Lord.

In you, O Lord, I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame.
In your justice, rescue me, free me;
incline your ear to me and save me. R/.

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/.

My mouth will tell of your justice,
and all the day long of your salvation.
O God, you have taught me from my youth,
and I proclaim your wonders still. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Alleluia. 

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL

“I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 6:17-29)

At that time: Herod sent and seized John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; because he had married her. For John said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But he could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he heard him, he was much perplexed; and yet he heard him gladly. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and the leading men of Galilee. For when Herodias’ daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will grant it.” And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.” And she went out, and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king, and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” And the king was exceedingly sorry; but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her. And immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard and gave orders to bring his head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard of it, they came, took his; body, and laid it in a tomb.

 The Gospel of the Lord.

PERFECTION FOR PRIESTS AND CONSECRATED SOULS

Divine Appeal Reflection  - 118

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 118: "Many among the consecrated souls do not understand My feelings. They treat Me as one unknown to them. I like them to know how much I desire perfection."

Priests and consecrated souls are called to reflect Christ's love and sacrifice, but many fail to understand His feelings, treating Him as a distant rather than a close friend. This disconnect arises from a lack of a deep relationship with Christ, leading to routine religious duties without a true connection to the image of Our Adorable Jesus in their daily lives. Christ's call to perfection is an invitation to fully embody His love, surrender to His will, and strive to mirror His self-giving love in every aspect of life.

Jesus calls His chosen souls to pursue perfection, not as a burden but as a joyful response to His love. The path to perfection involves three essential steps. First of all, daily conversion calls on priests and consecrated souls to reaffirm their daily dedication to Christ by making an effort to align their words, deeds, and thoughts with His will. This necessitates a real desire to increase in virtue, frequent confession, and a daily examination of conscience. Second, more than just reciting prayers, their prayer life has to reflect an intimate relationship with Christ. It is opening up a heartfelt conversation with Jesus, letting Him speak to their hearts, and expressing all of their joys, sufferings, and desires with Him. The willingness to give one's life for others, as Christ did, is the third requirement for genuine perfection. Every priest and consecrated soul should embody this selfless love, which is shown in charitable deeds, pastoral concern, and a willingness to serve wherever the Lord leads.

Our Heavenly Mother, Mary, stands as the ultimate model of perfection and obedience to God’s will. She intercedes for all priests and consecrated souls, guiding them gently but firmly toward the heart of her Son. Through her maternal care, she encourages the lay faithful to fervently pray for the sanctification of those who have dedicated their lives to Christ, offering their sacrifices for their holiness and perfection. In unity with Mary, the Church can fully respond to Jesus’ call, helping to bring about a renewal of love, holiness, and dedication within the heart of the Church.

Prayer:

Our adorable Jesus, we humbly beseech You to draw priests and consecrated souls closer to Your Sacred Heart. Grant them the grace to understand Your feelings and strive for holiness. Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, may they fulfill their vocations in perfect love and devotion.

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

DIVINE APPEAL 118

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

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

VOLUME 1

“The devil has taken possession of souls.”

“My daughter, spend this dark hour with Me. These are My terrible 

hours. I seek some shade here. In the Sacrament of My Love I am 

very sad and full of pain. Freemasonry hurls itself against the Church. 

They only believe in their malicious work. How much bitterness! 

Whoever frees his mind from this affair will have My forgiveness. 

Led by their master they labour hard to abolish the Holy Sacrifice 

of the Mass. What more could I have suffered for mankind. It is 

My great love that keeps Me a prisoner in the tabernacle. Pray a 

great deal. Give Me your company because of the evil of mankind. 

Unclean spirits have taken over three parts of mankind as My work 

has been abandoned and the devil has taken possession of souls 

which have desired My way.

As I am exposed I will pour infinite mercy in the hearts of many

human souls. I abandoned Myself in the hearts of those who want

Me. Pray a great deal as never before has the world needed prayers

like at the present moment. I order you to bring Me souls. Do not

waste any of these precious times to save souls. Pray a great deal.

Many among the consecrated souls do not understand My feelings.

They treat Me as one unknown to them. I like them to know how

much I desire perfection. My love for mankind goes far (to) draw

treasure out of mere nothing. Pray a great deal. It was My great

love for souls that made Me embrace all the miseries of human

nature. I love mankind and I make Myself visible in order to give

My warnings of mercy. Bring Me souls. For their sake put yourself

in the high spirit of contemplation.”

“I bless you.”

12th April 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese 
of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. 
Reproduced by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 28, 2024

Wednesday of the Twenty First Week in Ordinary Weekday (White)

Memorial of St. Augustine, Bishop and Doctor

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week I

Mass and Preface of the Memorial

FIRST READING
“If any one will not work, let him not eat. ”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 3:6- 10. 16- 18)

We command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us; we were not idle when we were with you, we did not eat any one’s bread without paying, but with toil and labour we worked night and day, that we might not burden any of you. It was not because we have not that right, but to give you in our conduct an example to imitate. For even when we were with you, we gave you this command: If any one will not work, let him not eat. Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with you all. I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. This is the mark in every letter of mine; it is the way I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 128:1-2.4-5 (R. see 1a)

R/. Blessed are all who fear the Lord.

Blessed are all who fear the Lord,
and walk in his ways!
By the labour of your hands you shall eat.
You will be blessed and prosper. R/.

Indeed thus shall be blessed
the man who fears the Lord.
May the Lord bless you from Sion.
May you see Jerusalem prosper
all the days of your life! R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

1 John 2:5

Alleluia. 

Whoever keeps Christ’s word, in him truly love for God is perfected. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“You are sons of those who murdered the prophets.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 23:27-32)

At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, saying, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ Thus you witness against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 27, 2024

Tuesday of the Twenty First Week in Ordinary Weekday (White)

Memorial of St. Monica

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week I

Mass and Preface of the Memorial

FIRST READING
“Hold to the traditions which you were taught by us.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 2:1-3a.14-17)

Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our assembling to meet him, we beg you, brethren, not to be quickly shaken in mind or excited, either by spirit or by word, or by letter purporting to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one deceive you in any way. God has called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm96:10.11-12a. l2b- 13 (R. 13b)

R/. The Lord comes to judge the earth

Say to the nations, “The Lord is king.”
The world he made firm in its place;
he will judge the peoples in fairness. R/.

Let the heavens rejoice and earth be glad;
let the sea and all within it thunder praise.
Let the land and all it bears rejoice. R/.

Then will all the trees of the wood shout for
joy at the presence of the Lord, for he comes,
he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with justice;
he will govern the peoples with his truth. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Hebrews 4:12

Alleluia. 

The word of the Lord is living and active discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 23:23-26)

At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel! Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you cleanse the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full of extortion and rapacity. You blind Pharisee! first cleanse the inside of the cup and of the plate, that the outside also may be clean.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 26, 2024

Monday of  the Twenty First Week in Ordinary Weekday  (Green)

LH: Office of the Day, Week I

Mass and Preface of the day 

FIRST READING
“May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be glorified in you, and you in him.”
The beginning of the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 1: 1 -5. 11b- 12)

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the Church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren, as is fitting, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. Therefore we ourselves boast of you in the churches of God for you steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the affliction which you are enduring. This is evidence of the righteous judgement of God, that you may be made worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. May our God make you worthy of his call, and fulfil every good resolve and work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 96: 1-2a.2b-3.4-5 (R. 3)

R/. Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord.

O sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth!
Sing to the Lord, bless his name. R/.

Proclaim his salvation day by day.
Tell among the nations his glory,
and his wonders among all the peoples. R/.

For the Lord is great and highly to be praised,
to be feared above all gods.
For the gods of the nations are naught.
It was the Lord who made the heavens. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION 

John 10:27

Alleluia. 

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Woe to you, blind guides.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 23:.13-22)

At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because you shut the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither enter yourselves, nor allow those who would enter to go in. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you traverse sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when he becomes a proselyte, you make him twice as much a child of hell as yourselves. Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘If any one swears by the temple, it is nothing; but if any one swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’ You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that has made the gold sacred? And you say, ‘If any one swears by the altar, it is nothing; but if any one swears by the gift that is on the altar, he is bound by his oath.’ You blind men! For which is greater, the gift or the altar that makes the gift sacred? So he who swears by the altar, swears by it and by everything on it; and he who swears by the temple, swears by it and by him who dwells in it; and he who swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God and by him who sits upon it.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

EMBRACING MORTIFICATION

Divine Appeal Reflection  - 117

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 117: "I want you to mortify yourself corporal, receive the suffering with joy and with no fear because it will repair for the mortification of many souls who could be lost in perdition."

In the spiritual journey, every soul encounters the reality of sin, which seeks to draw us away from the grace and love of God. Any offense against God opens the door to the influence of the demons of sin, which are ever eager to ensnare souls in darkness and lead them away from salvation. This appeal highlights the necessity of self-denial and the embracing of suffering as a means of spiritual purification and reparation for the sins of the world.

Jesus encourages us to embrace interior mortifications, acts of self-denial and sacrifice that cleanse our souls and atone for the sins of others, in addition to prayer, which is crucial. Mortification involves more than just outward penances; it also involves a person's innermost disposition. It is putting an end to our self-centered wants, giving up bad habits, and lovingly offering up our sufferings in order to save humanity. Saint Thérèse of Lisieux once said, "To pick up a pin for love can convert a soul." This brief yet insightful remark demonstrates the impact of little acts of sacrifice made with a great deal of love. Any act of mortification, whatever of magnitude, has the capacity to undo the harm brought about by sin and to draw down God’s mercy upon the world.

Jesus’ Divine Appeal 117 further emphasizes the importance of receiving suffering with a joyful heart, untainted by fear. When combined with Christ's Passion, suffering becomes a potent tool for atonement and sanctification. We become more like Christ—who died on the Cross to save humanity—through suffering. We share in Christ's redeeming mission when we joyfully embrace our trials and crosses. When our sufferings are offered in unity with His, they acquire a salvific significance, helping to save souls that might otherwise perish in damnation. This is the profound truth that is at the core of the Catholic faith: the mystery of redemptive suffering.

May Our Adorable Jesus, be glorified in the salvation of countless souls through our humble acts of prayer and mortification. With the loving intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, who faithfully stood by Jesus at the foot of the Cross, may we unite our sufferings with His, offering them with joy and love. Through this sacred union with Christ's Passion, and under the tender care of Mary, may the light of His mercy shine brightly in the hearts of all who are ensnared by the demons of sin. Together with Our Lady, may we contribute to the redemption of the world, bringing honor and glory to our Lord, who desires nothing more than to save souls and lead them to eternal life.

Prayer

O Adorable Jesus, who bears the weight of our sins in the Sacrament of Your Love, draw us ever closer to Your Sacred Heart. May we willingly take up our crosses with joy, combining them with Your suffering through the loving intercession of Mother Mary for the salvation of souls and the triumph of Your mercy.

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

DIVINE APPEAL 117

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

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

VOLUME 1

“I am thirsting for souls.”

“Listen to Me in the Sacrament in My Love. See My wounds and 

let yourself be guided by the desire to comfort and dress My wounds. 

Pray a great deal. Do not be afraid. I assure you of the secrets of My
heart. I long to be given souls. I am in search of souls. I only wish
souls would realise how I wait for them in mercy. I want the world to
know that My Heart is overflowing with love and mercy. My joy is
to forgive. I am thirsting for souls. I want to use you to reveal more
to souls. Pray a great deal. Cloister souls in your heart. Time is short
for saving souls.

My appeal is for all. Time is approaching for the hour of justice.
Pray a great deal. I need you to pray. Never before has the world
needed prayers like at this tragic time. Bending over the world I pour
My tears. Souls live in the obstinacy of sin and yet they do not want
to listen to My warnings.

I do not want anyone to perish. What a pain to Me! My flock is
about to be dispersed. Pray a great deal and bring Me souls. In the
Sacrament of My Love you are a victim.

My own... have whipped Me. I want you to mortify yourself corporal,
receive the suffering with joy and with no fear because it will repair
for the mortification of many souls who could be lost in perdition. I
order you to pray, pray.”

“I give My blessing.”

11th April 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese 

of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. 

Reproduced by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 25, 2024

Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B   (Green)

Mass of the Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary Time

LH: Office of the Twenty First Sunday, Week I

Gloria, Creed, Preface of Sundays in Ordinary Time

FIRST READING
“We will serve the Lord, for he is our God.”
A reading from the Book of Joshua (Joshua 24: 1-2a. 15-17.18b)

In those days: Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem, and summoned the elders, the heads, the judges, and the officers of Israel; and they presented themselves before God. And Joshua said to all the people, “If you be unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Then the people answered, “Far be it from us that we should forsake the Lord, to serve other gods; for it is the Lord our God who brought us and our fathers up from the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage, and who did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way that we went, and among all the peoples through whom we passed; therefore we also will serve the Lord, for he is our God.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Ps 34: 1-2.15-16.17-18.19-20.21-22 (R. 8a)

R/. Taste and see that the Lord is good!

I will bless the Lord at all times,
praise of him is always in my mouth.
In the Lord my soul shall make its boast;
the humble shall hear and be glad. R/.

The Lord turns his eyes to the just,
and his ears are open to their cry.
The Lord turns his face against the wicked
to destroy their remembrance from the earth. R/.

When the just cry out, the Lord hears,
and rescues them in all their distress.
The Lord is close to the broken-hearted;
those whose spirit is crushed he will save. R.

Many are the trials of the just man,
but from them all the Lord will rescue him.
He will keep guard over all his bones;
not one of his bones shall be broken. R/.

Evil brings death to the wicked;
those who hate the just man are doomed.
The Lord ransoms the souls of his servants.
All who trust in him shall not be condemned. R/.

SECOND READING
“This is a great mystery, and I mean in reference to Christ and the Church.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 5:21-32)

Brethren: Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, be subject to your husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the Church, his body, and is himself its Saviour. As the Church is subject to Christ, so let wives also be subject in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the Church to himself in splendour, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. Even so husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no man ever hates his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, as Christ does the Church, because we are members of his body. “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This is a great mystery, and I mean in reference to Christ and the Church.

The word of the Lord.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

John 6:63c.68c

Alleluia. 

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:60-69)

At that time: Many of the disciples of Jesus said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them, “Do you take offence at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of man ascending where he was before? It is the Spirit that gives life, the flesh is of no avail; the words that I have spoken to you are Spirit and life. But there are some of you that do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the first who those were that did not believe, and who it was that would betray him. And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.” After this many of his disciples drew back and no longer walked with him. Jesus said to the Twelve, “Will you also go away?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

MAKING OUR ADORABLE JESUS VISIBLE

Divine Appeal Reflection  - 116

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 116: "I make Myself visible in order to bring back lost souls."

The significance of having the image of the Adorable Jesus in our homes is a profound expression of His divine presence, love, and mercy. With its enduring reminder of Jesus' protection, direction, and call to holiness, especially in the midst of difficulties and spiritual obstacles, this holy image welcomes Jesus into our everyday life. Respecting the image of Jesus becomes a focal point that draws family members and guests nearer to Christ. As the domestic Church, the family gains much from the grace that comes from this act, which promotes togetherness, prayer, and reverence.

However, the importance of making Jesus visible in our lives is equally emphasized. Beyond displaying His image, we are called to reflect His love, mercy, and compassion through our words, actions, and the way we live our faith. By embodying Christ's virtues, we become instruments of His love, drawing others to Him through our witness. Jesus' deep desire to bring back lost souls is fulfilled not just through the image of the Adorable Jesus, but also through our lives as living testimonies to His mercy and grace.

In a world filled with distractions and temptations, the image of Jesus acts as a spiritual safeguard, a visible sign of His victory over sin and death. Yet, this protection is magnified when we make Jesus visible in every aspect of our lives, reflecting His glory and dispelling darkness. As we honor His image in our homes, let us strive to become living images of His presence, participating in His mission to bring lost souls back to the faith, and inspiring others through our devotion and example.

Prayer

Our Adorable Jesus, as we gaze at Your sacred image, we humbly place our hearts before You. Fill us with Your love and mercy. Make us living images of Your presence, reflecting Your compassion and grace to all we meet. Strengthen our faith and guide us to draw others closer to You.

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

DIVINE APPEAL 116

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

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

VOLUME 1

“I make Myself visible in order to bring back souls.”

“I order you to pray and atone. This is a work of redemption to 

save souls before it is too late. Pray a great deal. My Eternal 

Father’s justice is powerful. It will exterminate what is rotten.

My Heart is afflicted because souls do not listen to My Merciful

warning. I make Myself visible in order to bring back lost souls.

Pray a great deal. Mankind is fatigued and corrupted by blasphemies

and sins of all kinds. This grieves My Heart with pain. Souls go

to perdition and they do not want to hear My anguished call. Pray

more.”

“I give My blessings.”

10th April 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese 
of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. 
Reproduced by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 24, 2024

Saturday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Weekday   (Red)

Feast of St. Bartholomew, Apostle

LH: Office of the Feast

Mass of the Feast, Gloria, Preface of the Apostles

FIRST READING
On the foundations the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
A reading from the Book of Revelation (Revelation 21:9b-14)

An angel spoke to me, saying, “Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And in the Spirit he carried me away to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel were inscribed; on the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Ps145:10-11.12-13ab.17-18 (R. 12a)

R/. Your saints, O Lord, make known the glory of your reign.

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/.

To 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/.

The Lord is just in all his ways,
and holy in all his deeds.
The Lord is close to all who call him,
who call on him in truth. R/.

ALLELUIA 

John 1:49 b

Alleluia. 

Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel! 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1:45-51)

At that time: Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these.” And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 23, 2024

Friday of  the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Weekday  (Green)

Optional Memorial of St. Rose of Lima, Virgin      (White)

LH: Office of the Day or Memorial, Week IV

Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial

FIRST READING
“O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. I will raise you from your graves, O my people. ”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37:1-14)

In those days: The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; it was full of bones. And he led me round among them; and behold, there were very many upon the valley; and behold, they were very dry. And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord GOD, you know.” Again he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. And I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord.” So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold, a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to its bone. And as I looked, there were sinews on them, and flesh had come upon them, and skin had covered them; but there was no spirit in them. Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the spirit, prophesy, son of man, and say to the spirit, Thus says the Lord GOD: Come from the four winds, O spirit, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.” So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the spirit came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great host. Then he said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. Behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are clean cut off. ’ Therefore prophesy, and say to them, Thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I will open your graves, and raise you from your graves, O my people; and I will bring you home into the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves, and raise you from your graves, O my people. And I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land; then you shall know that I, the LORD, have spoken, and I have done it, says the Lord.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 107:2-3.4-5.6-7.8-9 (R. 1)

R/. O give thanks to the Lord for he is good; for his mercy endures forever!

Let the redeemed of the Lord say this,
those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,
and gathered from far-off lands,
from east and west, north and south. R/.

They wandered in a barren desert,
finding no way to a city they could dwell in.
Hungry they were and thirsty;
their soul was fainting within them. R/.

Then they cried to the Lord in their need,
and he rescued them from their distress,
and he guided them along a straight path,
to reach a city they could dwell in. R/.

Let them thank the Lord for his mercy,
his wonders for the children of men;
for he satisfies the thirsty soul,
and the hungry he fills with good things. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Psalm 25:4b.5a

Alleluia. 

Teach me your paths, O Lord. Guide me in your truth. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“You shall love the Lord your God, your neighbour as yourself. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 22:34-40)

At that time: When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question, to test him, “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

JESUS' JOY IN FORGIVENESS

Divine Appeal Reflection  - 115

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 115: "My joy is to forgive. Christians must renounce sins. Souls must contribute to My appeal."

Sacramental grace is an extraordinary gift from God, poured into our souls through the holy sacraments. Instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, each sacrament is a visible sign of an invisible reality—God’s sanctifying grace at work in our lives. As taught by the Catechism of the Catholic Church, sacraments are “efficacious signs of grace” (CCC 1131), dispensing divine life that strengthens, heals, and sanctifies us.

Confession, also known as the Sacrament of Reconciliation, is special among the sacraments because it helps mend the damage that sin has done to our relationship with God. Like a prodigal son's loving father, Jesus joyfully anticipates our confession and is always willing to pardon. His declaration, "My joy is to forgive," expresses how eager He is to show us forgiveness again and make amends with the Father. We come into contact with Christ through the ministry of the priest, who not only forgives our sins but also gives us supernatural power to withstand temptation in the future and develop virtue.

However, this sacramental grace requires our cooperation. Jesus’ call that “Christians must renounce sins” urges us to a true conversion of heart. This is not just a one-time act but a lifelong journey of aligning our will with God’s. The grace received in the sacraments, particularly Confession and the Holy Eucharist, sustains us in this journey, fortifying us against the snares of sin. Jesus’ appeal that “souls must contribute” calls us to active participation in the life of grace. Beyond receiving forgiveness, we are called to live in holiness, evangelize, and offer reparation for our sins and the world’s. Through this spiritual partnership with Christ, we join in His redemptive mission, offering our lives as a testament to His love and mercy.

May Our Adorable Jesus, who revealed these divine appeals to Sr. Anna Ali, fill our hearts with the grace to embrace His call fully. In the Sacrament of Confession, may we encounter His boundless mercy, and in the Holy Eucharist, may we be strengthened to renounce sin and live in His grace. As we respond to His appeal, let us be vigilant in offering our lives as a testament to His love and forgiveness, contributing to the salvation of souls. Through the intercession of Our Lady and the example of Sr. Anna Ali, may we grow in holiness and become true instruments of Jesus’ redemptive mission in the world.

Prayer

We give You thanks, Our Adorable Jesus, for Your infinite mercy and joy in forgiving us. Strengthen us to renounce sin and embrace Your grace. Through Your divine appeal, guide us to live in holiness and actively contribute to Your mission of the salvation of souls. 

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

DIVINE APPEAL 115

ON THE EUCHARIST:A DIVINE APPEAL

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

VOLUME 1

“My joy is to forgive.”

“My daughter, listen to Me. I come to seek shelter. Keep Me in light 

and silence. Pray a great deal and hold mankind in your heart. I

need prayers to repair and appease the wrath of My Eternal Father. 

Humanity with its diabolical behaviour brings down upon itself 

punishments and scourges.

My mercy is great if they repent. What a pain! Souls who are

consecrated to Me keep on betraying Me! In the Sacrament of My

Love I am so lonely. Listen to My Voice. With tears in My Heart I

call. My joy is to forgive.

Christians must renounce sins. Souls must contribute to My appeal.

In the Sacrament of My Love I am so abused and profaned. My

own... offer Me the holy Sacrifice of Mass and many do not believe

in My mystical body. Their dishonesty is diabolical.”

“Pray a great deal and give Me company. What tremendous suffering

to Me. I thirst and long for souls.”

10th April 1988

Copyright © 2015 Bishop Cornelius K. Arap Korir, Catholic Diocese 
of Eldoret, Kenya. All rights reserved. 
Reproduced by www.adivineappeal.com

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 22, 2024

Thursday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Weekday (White)

Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week IV

Mass and Preface of the Memorial

FIRST READING
“Anew heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 36:23-28)

Thus says the Lord: “I will vindicate the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them; and the nations will know that I am the Lord, says the Lord GOD, when through you I vindicate my holiness before their eyes. For I will take you from the nations, and gather you from all the countries, and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will take out of your flesh the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to observe my ordinances. You shall dwell in the land which I gave to your fathers; and you shall be my people, and I will be your God.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 51 : 12-13.14- I 5.18-19 (R. Ezekiel 36:25)

R/. I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses.

Create a pure heart for me, O God;
renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence;
take not your holy spirit from me. R/.

Restore in me the joy of your salvation;
sustain in me a willing spirit.
I will teach transgressors your ways,
that sinners may return to you. R/.

For in sacrifice you take no delight;
burnt offering from me would not please you.
My sacrifice to God, a broken spirit:
a broken and humbled heart, O God, 
you will not spurn. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Psalm 95:7d.8a

Alleluia. 

Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Invite to the marriage feast as many as you find. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 22: 1-14)

At that time: Again Jesus spoke to the chief priests and the elders of the people in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves are killed, and everything is ready; come to the marriage feast.’ But they made light of it and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burnt their city. “Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the streets, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment; and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and cast him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and quashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 21, 2024

Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Weekday (White)

Memorial of St. Pius X, Pope, Memorial 

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week IV

Mass and Preface of the Memorial

FIRST READING
“I will rescue my sheep from their mouths, that they may not be food for them.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 34: 1-11)

The word of the Lord came to me: “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say to them, even to the shepherds, Thus says the Lord God: Oh, shepherds of Israel who have been feeding yourselves! Should not shepherds feed the sheep? You eat the fat, you clothe yourselves with the wool, you slaughter the fatlings; but you do not feed the sheep. The weak you have not strengthened, the sick you have not healed, the crippled you have not bound up, the strayed you have not brought back, the lost you have not sought, and with force and harshness you have ruled them. So they were scattered, because there was no shepherd; and they became food for all the wild beasts. My sheep were scattered, they wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill; my sheep were scattered over all the face of the earth, with none to search or seek for them. “Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the Lord: As I live, says the Lord God, because my sheep have become a prey, and my sheep have become food for all the wild beasts, since there was no shepherd; and because my shepherds have not searched for my sheep, but the shepherds have fed themselves, and have not fed my sheep; therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the Lord: Thus says the Lord GOD, Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my sheep at their hand, and put a stop to their feeding the sheep; no longer shall the shepherds feed themselves. I will rescue my sheep from their mouths, that they may not be food for them. “For thus says the Lord God: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep, and will seek them out.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Ps 23:1-3a.3b-4.5.6 (R. 1)

R/. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I shall want.
Fresh and green are the pastures
where he gives me repose.
Near restful waters he leads me;
he revives my soul. R/.

He guides me along the right path,
for the sake of his name.
Though I should walk in the
valley of the shadow of death,
no evil would I fear, for you are with me.
Your crook and your staff will give me comfort. R/.

You have prepared a table before me
in the sight of my foes.
My head you have anointed with oil;
my cup is overflowing. R/.

Surely goodness and mercy
shall follow me all the days of my life.
In the Lord’s own house shall I dwell
for length of days unending. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION 

Hebrews 4: 12

Alleluia. 

The word of the Lord is living and active, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Do you begrudge my generosity?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 20: 1-16a)

At that time: Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a householder who went out early in the morning to hire labourers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the labourers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the market place; and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing; and he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ “They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ “He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ “And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the labourers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.’ And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received a denarius. And on receiving it they grumbled at the householder, saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat. ’“But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what belongs to you, and go; I choose to give to this last as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ So the last will be first, and the first last.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 20, 2024

Tuesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Weekday (White)

Memorial of St. Benard, Abbot and Doctor, Memorial 

LH: Office of the Memorial, Week IV

Mass and Preface of the Memorial

FIRST READING
“You are but a man, and no god, though you consider yourself as wise as a god.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 28: 1-10)

The word of the Lord came to me: “Son of man, say to the prince of Tyre, Thus says the Lord GOD: “Because your heart is proud, and you have said, ‘I am a god, I sit in the seat of the gods, in the heart of the seas,’ yet you are but a man, and no god, though you consider yourself as wise as a god — you are indeed wiser than Daniel; no secret is hidden from you; by your wisdom and your understanding you have gotten wealth for yourself, and have gathered gold and silver into your treasuries; by your great wisdom in trade you have increased your wealth, and your heart has become proud in your wealth — therefore thus says the Lord God: “Because you consider yourself as wise as a god, therefore, behold, I will bring strangers upon you, the most terrible of the nations; and they shall draw their swords against the beauty of your wisdom and defile your splendour. They shall thrust you down into the Pit, and you shall die the death of the slain in the heart of the seas. Will you still say, ‘I am a god,’ in the presence of those who slay you, though you are but a man, and no god, in the hands of those who wound you? You shall die the death of the uncircumcised by the hand of foreigners; for I have spoken, says the Lord God.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Dt 32:26-27ab.27cd-28.30.35cd-36ab

R/. I kill and I make alive.

“I would have said, ‘I will scatter them afar,
I will make the remembrance of
them cease from among men,’
had I not feared provocation by the enemy,
lest their adversaries should judge amiss.” R/.

“Lest they should say, ‘Our hand is triumphant,
the Lord has not wrought all this. ’
For they are a nation void of counsel,
and there is no understanding in them.” R/.

“How should one chase a thousand,
and two put ten thousand to flight,
unless their Rock had sold them,
and the Lord had given them up?” R/.

“For the day of their calamity is at hand,
and their doom comes swiftly.
For the Lord will vindicate his people
and have compassion on his servants.” R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION 

2 Corinthians 8:9

Alleluia. 

Though Jesus Christ was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 19:23-30)

At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Then Peter said in reply, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you. What then shall we have?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of man shall sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life. But many that are first will be last, and the last first.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 19, 2024

Monday of  the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Weekday  (Green)

Optional Memorial of St. John Eudes, Priest           (White)

LH: Office of the Day or of the Memorial, Week IV

Mass and Preface of the day or of the Memorial

FIRST READING
“Thus shall Ezekiel be to you a sign,’ according to all that he has done you shall do.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 24:15-24)

The word of the Lord came to me: “Son of man; behold, I am about to take the delight of your eyes away from you at a stroke; yet you shall not mourn or weep nor shall your tears run down. Sigh, but not aloud; make no mourning for the dead. Bind on your turban, and put your shoes on your feet; do not cover your lips, nor eat the bread of mourners.” So I spoke to the people in the morning, and at evening my wife died. And on the next morning I did as I was commanded. And the people said to me, “Will you not tell us what these things mean for us, that you are acting thus?” Then I said to them, “The word of the Lord came to me: ‘Say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I will profane my sanctuary, the pride of your power, the delight of your eyes, and the desire of your soul; and your sons and your daughters whom you left behind shall fall by the sword. And you shall do `as I have done; you shall not cover your lips, nor eat the bread of mourners. Your turbans shall be on your heads and your shoes on your feet; you shall not mourn or weep, but you shall pine away in your iniquities and groan to one another. Thus shall Ezekiel be to you a sign; according to all that he has done you shall do. When this comes, then you will know that I am the Lord GOD.”’

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Dt 32: 18-19.20.21 (R. see 18b)

R/. You forgot God who gave you birth.

You were unmindful of the Rock that begot you,
and you forgot the God who gave you birth.
The Lord saw it, and spurned them,
because of the provocation of his
sons and his daughters. R/.

And he said, “I will hide my face from them,
I will see what their end will be,
for they are a perverse generation,
children in whom is no faithfulness.” R/.

“They have stirred me to jealousy with what is no god;
they have provoked me with their idols.
So I will stir them to jealousy with those who are no people;
I will provoke them with a foolish nation.” R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION 

Matthew 5:3

Alleluia. 

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“If you would be perfect, sell what you possess, and you will have treasure in heaven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew l9: 16-22)

At that time: Behold, one came up to Jesus, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?” And he said to him “Why do you ask me about what is good? One there is who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” He said to him, Which?” And Jesus said, “You shall not kill, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honour your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” The young man said to him, “All these I have observed; what do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 18, 2024

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B   (Green)

Mass of the Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

LH: Office of the Twentieth Sunday, Week IV

Gloria, Creed, Preface of Sundays in Ordinary Time

FIRST READING
“Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed.”
A reading from the Book of Proverbs (Proverbs 9: 1-6)

Wisdom has built her house, she has set up her seven pillars. She has slaughtered her beasts, she has mixed her wine, she has also set her table. She has sent out her maids to call from the highest places in the town, “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” to him who is without sense she says, “Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Leave simpleness, and live, and walk in the way of insight.”

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 34: 1-2.9-10.11- 12.13- 14 (R. 1)

R/. Taste and see that the Lord is good!

I will bless the Lord at all times,
praise of him is always in my mouth.
In the Lord my soul shall make its boast;
the humble shall hear and be glad. R/.

Fear the Lord, you his holy ones.
They lack nothing, those who fear him.
The rich suffer want and go hungry,
but those who seek the Lord lack no blessing. R/.

Come, children, and hear me,
that I may teach you the fear of the Lord.
Who is it that desires life
and longs to see prosperous days? R/.

Guard your tongue from evil,
and your lips from speaking deceit.
Turn aside from evil and do good.
Seek after peace, and pursue it. R/.

SECOND READING
“Understand what the will of the Lord is.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 5:15-20)

Look carefully, brethren, how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.

The word of the Lord.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION 

John 6:56

Alleluia. 

He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him, says the Lord. 

Alleluia.

 GOSPEL
“My flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:5 1-58)

At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live for ever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh.” The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me. This is the bread which came down from heaven, not such as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live for ever.”

The Gospel of the Lord

HOLY MASS READINGS FOR AUGUST 17, 2024

Saturday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Weekday (Green)

Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary   (White)

LH: Office of the Day or of the Memorial, Week III

Morning Mass and Preface of the day or BVM

FIRST READING
“I will judge every one according to his ways.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 18: l -10. I 3b.30—32)

The word of the Lord came to me again: “What do you mean by repeating this proverb concerning the land of Israel, ‘The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge’? As I live, says the Lord God, this proverb shall no more be used by you in Israel. Behold, all souls are mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sins shall die. “If a man is righteous and does what is lawful and right — if he does not eat upon the mountains or lift up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, does not defile his neighbour’s wife or approach a woman in her time of impurity, does not oppress any one, but restores to the debtor his pledge, commits no robbery, gives his bread to the hungry and covers the naked with a garment, does not lend at interest or take any increase, withholds his hand from iniquity, executes true justice between man and mart, walks in my statutes, and is careful to observe my ordinances — he is righteous, he shall surely live, says the Lord GOD. “If he begets a son who is a robber, a shedder of blood, he shall not live. He has done all these abominable things; he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon himself. “Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, says the Lord God. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin. Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed against me, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of any one, says the Lord GOD; so turn, and live.

The word of the Lord.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM 

Psalm 51: 12-, 13.14-15. 18-19 (R. 12a)

R/. Create a pure heart for me, O God.

Create a pure heart for me, O God;
renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence;
take not your holy spirit from me. R/.

Restore in me the joy of your salvation;
sustain in me a willing spirit.
I will teach transgressors your ways,
that sinners may return to you. R/.

For in sacrifice you take no delight;
burnt offering from me would not please you.
My sacrifice to God, a broken spirit:
a broken and humbled heart, O God,
you will not spurn. R/.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Matthew 11:25

Alleluia. 

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. 

Alleluia.

GOSPEL
“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 19:13-15)

At that time: Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people; but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid his hands on them and went away.

The Gospel of the Lord