DR Squared: Introduction

"Ever ancient; ever new."

These words are a description of the workings of the Church since it inception. While they are formed in time, they are timeless. While the appearance may change, the substance remains. While they happen in the moment, they are eternally efficacious.

It is with this in mind I announce a new series of posts which will appear in this infinitesimal corner of the universe. Unlike my series on the "O" Antiphons, the "Seven Last Words", and the "Propers Mediations", this will be the biggest undertaking of my 'blogging career. This series isn't going to last seven days or a year. This is at least a three-year project.

Like some others who post on the internet, I will be presenting the daily readings from the Mass in the Ordinary Form (or Masses, if there are optional celebrations). Unlike them, I will be using a different English translation. Or should I say, the original English translation.

I will be using the Douay-Rheims version of the Bible. A history of its inception can be read here. As the English language has developed over time, the text I present will seem very foreign to you. I chose this translation to give you a different focus on Scripture, to take you away from the familiar, perhaps to give you who practice lectio divina some fresh perspective. There will also be a link to the daily readings as presented on the website of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, so you may compare and contrast the two styles. Since I will offer no thoughts of my own this time, none of what I may discern from these words, it will be incumbent upon you who dwell on these verses to glean whatever meaning the Holy Spirit inspires in you.

Ambitious? Yes. Foolhardy? It's not the first time I have gone where angels may fear to tread. As always, I offer this as a point of departure for your own spiritual edification and encouragement. May you find it useful.

Douay-Rhimes Daily Readings.

DR Squared.

"Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and enkindle in them the fire of your love."