Feast of St Callistus, Pope and Martyr.
"While Jesus was speaking, a woman from the crowd called out and said to him,
“Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed.” He replied, “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.” (Luke 11: 27 - 28).
Saturday 14th October 2023 of the 27th Week of Ordinary Time is the feast of St Callistus (+222).Pope and Martyr.
How does history remember Pope St Callistus? From slave to pope to martyr. Pope St Callistus reminds us of our current Pontiff, Pope Francis.
Pope Francis is a Pope opposed openly by some of his Bishops, clergy and theologians. Why?
Some people disagreed with some of his teaching.
Some members of the hierarchy also disagreed with the uncompromising stand of Callistus that the Church must show mercy and forgive even the worst of sinners. This struggle in the Church with the Rigorist faction outlived St Callistus who was martyred by Emperor Alexander Severus.
Pope Francis faces the same opposition over the sacramental discipline of Marriage, and over Immigration, Safe Environment, Economic Equity, etc.
Jesus said to the woman who praised His saintly Mother:
“Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.”
What is the word of God? What did Mary hear and observed?
1. Mary heard the message of the Archangel Gabriel and believed it and said Yes to the Will of God.
2. Mary heard the inspired prophecy of Elizabeth: "You are blessed among women." Mary believed and responded :
"All generations shall call me blessed." She believed and responded.
3. Simeon the aged holy Prophet said to Mary: A sword will pierce your heart because of this little boy.
Mary responded in total silence of submission to the will of God.
The above are a few examples to show that Mary's life is completely oriented to hearing God's word and saying Yes to God.
How about you and I? Although we were not conceived in Immaculate Conception, we were reborn again in holy Baptism as the children of God and adopted brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ.
One of the best gifts I received in 2022 is the gift of renewing my Baptistmal promises every day during my morning prayer. It takes less than a minute. I say:
"Father, I Emmanuel declare that I am Your child and the brother of Your Son Jesus Christ. I renounce Satan and all his lies and false promises. I desire to embrace Your holy and gracious will for me in everything today. Help me Father. Amen."
If you like, you can sign yourself with holy water when you renew your Baptismal promises.
The Seed is the word of God.
Believe in the word of God.
Share the word of God.
Practice the word of God.
October is the Holy Rosary Month.
“The Rosary is a powerful weapon to put the demons to flight and to keep oneself from sin…If you desire peace in your hearts, in your homes, and in your country, assemble each evening to recite the Rosary. Let not even one day pass without saying it, no matter how burdened you may be with many cares and labors.” – Pope Pius XI
Say the Holy Rosary every day in October.
For Prayers, Consecration, Litany, Testimony of Jesus about those who pray the Rosary, click the link below:
https://seekfirst.blogspot.com/2023/09/october-devotion-to-holy-rosary.html?m=1
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