DR Squared: Memorial Of Saint John Bosco, Priest

First Reading:  Philippians 4:4-9

Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say, rejoice. Let your modesty be known to all men. The Lord is nigh. Be nothing solicitous; but in every thing, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. For the rest, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever modest, whatsoever just, whatsoever holy, whatsoever lovely, whatsoever of good fame, if there be any virtue, if any praise of discipline, think on these things. The things which you have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, these do ye, and the God of peace shall be with you.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 103 (102):1b; V. 1bc-2, 3-4, 8-9, 13-14, 17-18

R. Bless the Lord, O my soul:

V. Bless the Lord, O my soul: and let all that is within me bless his holy name.

     Bless the Lord, O my soul, and never forget all he hath done for thee.

V. Who forgiveth all thy iniquities: who healeth all thy diseases.

     Who redeemeth thy life from destruction: who crowneth thee with mercy and compassion.

V. The Lord is compassionate and merciful: longsuffering and plenteous in mercy.

     He will not always be angry: nor will he threaten for ever.

V. As a father hath compassion on his children, so hath the Lord compassion on them that        fear him:

    For he knoweth our frame. He remembereth that we are dust:

V. But the mercy of the Lord is from eternity and unto eternity upon them that fear him:           And his justice unto children's children,

    To such as keep his covenant, And are mindful of his commandments to do them. 

Gospel Reading:  Matthew 18:1-5

At that hour the disciples came to Jesus, saying: Who thinkest thou is the greater in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus calling unto him a little child, set him in the midst of them, And said: Amen I say to you, unless you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, he is the greater in the kingdom of heaven. And he that shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Thursday Of The Third Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 10:19-25

Having therefore, brethren, a confidence in the entering into the holies by the blood of Christ; A new and living way which he hath dedicated for us through the veil, that is to say, his flesh, And a high priest over the house of God:  Let us draw near with a true heart in fulness of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with clean water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering (for he is faithful that hath promised), And let us consider one another, to provoke unto charity and to good works:  Not forsaking our assembly, as some are accustomed; but comforting one another, and so much the more as you see the day approaching.

Responsorial Psalm:  cf. Psalm 24 (23):6; V. 1-2, 3-4ab, 5-6

R. This is the generation of them that seek him, of them that seek the face of the God of               Jacob.

V. The earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof: the world, and all they that dwell therein.

     For he hath founded it upon the seas; and hath prepared it upon the rivers. 

V. Who shall ascend into the mountain of the Lord: or who shall stand in his holy place?

     The innocent in hands, and clean of heart, who hath not taken his soul in vain,

V. He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, and mercy from God his Saviour.

     This is the generation of them that seek him, of them that seek the face of the God of               Jacob.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 4:21-25

And he said to them: Doth a candle come in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? For there is nothing hid, which shall not be made manifest: neither was it made secret, but that it may come abroad. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And he said to them: Take heed what you hear. In what measure you shall mete, it shall be measured to you again, and more shall be given to you. For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, that also which he hath shall be taken away from him.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

January 2025 Morning Offering Prayer Intention

Here is the intention for this month when praying the Morning Offering:

For The Right To An Education. Let us pray for migrants, refugees, and those affected by war, that their right to an education, which is necessary to build a better world, might always be respected.

A reflection for this intention can be found here.

(Mea cupla. I was so intent on my new 'blogging project I forgot to post this at the proper time.)

DR Squared: Wednesday Of The Third Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 10:11-18

And every priest indeed standeth daily ministering, and often offering the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But this man offering one sacrifice for sins, for ever sitteth on the right hand of God, From henceforth expecting, until his enemies be made his footstool. For by one oblation he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. And the Holy Ghost also doth testify this to us. For after that he said:  And this is the testament which I will make unto them after those days, saith the Lord. I will give my laws in their hearts, and on their minds will I write them:  And their sins and iniquities I will remember no more. Now where there is a remission of these, there is no more an oblation for sin.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 110 (109):4b; V. 1, 2, 3, 4

R. Thou art a priest for ever according to the order of Melchisedech.

V. The Lord said to my Lord: Sit thou at my right hand:

     Until I make thy enemies thy footstool.

V. The Lord will send forth the sceptre of thy power out of Sion:

     rule thou in the midst of thy enemies.

V. With thee is the principality in the day of thy strength: in the brightness of the saints:

     from the womb before the day star I begot thee.

V. The Lord hath sworn, and he will not repent:

     Thou art a priest for ever according to the order of Melchisedech.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 4:1-20

And again he began to teach by the sea side; and a great multitude was gathered together unto him, so that he went up into a ship, and sat in the sea; and all the multitude was upon the land by the sea side. And he taught them many things in parables, and said unto them in his doctrine:  Hear ye: Behold, the sower went out to sow. And whilst he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the birds of the air came and ate it up. And other some fell upon stony ground, where it had not much earth; and it shot up immediately, because it had no depth of earth. And when the sun was risen, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. And some fell upon good ground; and brought forth fruit that grew up, and increased and yielded, one thirty, another sixty, and another a hundred. And he said: He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And when he was alone, the twelve that were with him asked him the parable. And he said to them: To you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but to them that are without, all things are done in parables:  That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand: lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. And he saith to them: Are you ignorant of this parable? and how shall you know all parables? He that soweth, soweth the word. And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown, and as soon as they have heard, immediately Satan cometh and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. And these likewise are they that are sown on the stony ground: who when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with joy. And they have no root in themselves, but are only for a time: and then when tribulation and persecution ariseth for the word they are presently scandalized. And others there are who are sown among thorns: these are they that hear the word, And the cares of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts after other things entering in choke the word, and it is made fruitless. And these are they who are sown upon the good ground, who hear the word, and receive it, and yield fruit, the one thirty, another sixty, and another a hundred. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here. 

DR Squared: Memorial Of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest And Doctor Of The Church

Frist Reading:  Wisdom 7:7-10, 15-16

Wherefore I wished, and understanding was given me: and I called upon God, and the spirit of wisdom came upon me:  And I preferred her before kingdoms and thrones, and esteemed riches nothing in comparison of her. Neither did I compare unto her any precious stone: for all gold in comparison of her, is as a little sand, and silver in respect to her shall be counted as clay. I loved her above health and beauty, and chose to have her instead of light: for her light cannot be put out. And God hath given to me to speak as I would, and to conceive thoughts worthy of those things that are given me: because he is the guide of wisdom, and the director of the wise:  For in his hand are both we, and our words, and all wisdom, and the knowledge and skill of works.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 119 (118):12;V. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

R. Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy justifications.

V. By what doth a young man correct his way? by observing thy words.

V. With my whole heart have I sought after thee: let me not stray from thy commandments.

V. Thy words have I hidden in my heart, that I may not sin against thee.

V. Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy justifications.

V. With my lips I have pronounced all the judgments of thy mouth.

V. I have been delighted in the way of thy testimonies, as in all riches. 

Gospel Reading:  Matthew 23:8-12

But be not you called Rabbi. For one is your master; and all you are brethren. And call none your father upon earth; for one is your father, who is in heaven. Neither be ye called masters; for one is your master, Christ. He that is the greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be humbled: and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Monday Of The Third Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading: Hebrews 9:15, 24-28

And therefore he is the mediator of the new testament: that by means of his death, for the redemption of those transgressions, which were under the former testament, they that are called may receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For Jesus is not entered into the holies made with hands, the patterns of the true: but into heaven itself, that he may appear now in the presence of God for us. Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holies, every year with the blood of others:  For then he ought to have suffered often from the beginning of the world: but now once at the end of ages, he hath appeared for the destruction of sin, by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, and after this the judgment:  So also Christ was offered once to exhaust the sins of many; the second time he shall appear without sin to them that expect him unto salvation.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98 (97):1a; V. 1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4, 5-6

R. Sing ye to the Lord a new canticle: because he hath done wonderful things.

V. Sing ye to the Lord a new canticle: because he hath done wonderful things.

    His right hand hath wrought for him salvation, and his arm is holy.

V. The Lord hath made known his salvation: he hath revealed his justice in the sight of the       Gentiles.

     He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel.

V. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

    Sing joyfully to God, all the earth; make melody, rejoice and sing.

V. Sing praise to the Lord on the harp, on the harp, and with the voice of a psalm:

    With long trumpets, and sound of cornet. Make a joyful noise before the Lord our king:

Gospel Reading:  Mark 3:22-30

And the scribes who were come down from Jerusalem, said: He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of devils he casteth out devils. And after he had called them together, he said to them in parables: How can Satan cast out Satan? And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand. And if Satan be risen up against himself, he is divided, and cannot stand, but hath an end. No man can enter into the house of a strong man and rob him of his goods, unless he first bind the strong man, and then shall he plunder his house. Amen I say to you, that all sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and the blasphemies wherewith they shall blaspheme:  But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost, shall never have forgiveness, but shall be guilty of an everlasting sin. Because they said: He hath an unclean spirit.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Third Sunday In Ordinary Time (Year C)

First Reading:  Nehemiah 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10

Then Esdras the priest brought the law before the multitude of men and women, and all those that could understand, in the first day of the seventh month. And he read it plainly in the street that was before the water gate, from the morning until midday, before the men, and the women, and all those that could understand: and the ears of all the people were attentive to the book. And Esdras the scribe stood upon a step of wood, which he had made to speak upon, And Esdras opened the book before all the people: for he was above all the people: and when he had opened it, all the people stood. And Esdras blessed the Lord the great God: and all the people answered, Amen, amen: lifting up their hands: and they bowed down, and adored God with their faces to the ground. And they read in the book of the law of God distinctly and plainly to be understood: and they understood when it was read. And Nehemias (he is Athersatha) and Esdras the priest and scribe, and the Levites who interpreted to all the people, said: This is a holy day to the Lord our God: do not mourn, nor weep: for all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law. And he said to them: Go, eat fat meats, and drink sweet wine, and send portions to them that have not prepared for themselves: because it is the holy day of the Lord, and be not sad: for the joy of the Lord is our strength.

Responsorial Psalm: cf. John 6:63c; V. Psalm 19 (18):8, 9, 10, 15

R. The words that I have spoken to you, are spirit and life.

V. The law of the Lord is unspotted, converting souls:

     (T)he testimony of the Lord is faithful, giving wisdom to little ones.

V. The justices of the Lord are right, rejoicing hearts:

    (T)he commandment of the Lord is lightsome, enlightening the eyes.

V. The fear of the Lord is holy, enduring for ever and ever:

     (T)he judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.

V. And the words of my mouth shall be such as may please:

    and the meditation of my heart always in thy sight.

    O Lord, my helper, and my redeemer.   

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 12:12-30 or 12:12-14, 27

For as the body is one, and hath many members; and all the members of the body, whereas they are many, yet are one body, so also is Christ. For in one Spirit were we all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Gentiles, whether bond or free; and in one Spirit we have all been made to drink. For the body also is not one member, but many. If the foot should say, because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were the eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God hath set the members every one of them in the body as it hath pleased him. And if they all were one member, where would be the body? But now there are many members indeed, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand: I need not thy help; nor again the head to the feet: I have no need of you. Yea, much more those that seem to be the more feeble members of the body, are more necessary. And such as we think to be the less honourable members of the body, about these we put more abundant honour; and those that are our uncomely parts, have more abundant comeliness. But our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, giving to that which wanted the more abundant honour, That there might be no schism in the body; but the members might be mutually careful one for another. And if one member suffer any thing, all the members suffer with it; or if one member glory, all the members rejoice with it.  27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members of member. And God indeed hath set some in the church; first apostles, secondly prophets, thirdly doctors; after that miracles; then the graces of healing, helps, governments, kinds of tongues, interpretations of speeches. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all doctors? Are all workers of miracles? Have all the grace of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?

Gospel Reading:  Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21

Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a narration of the things that have been accomplished among us; According as they have delivered them unto us, who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word:  It seemed good to me also, having diligently attained to all things from the beginning, to write to thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, That thou mayest know the verity of those words in which thou hast been instructed.

And Jesus returned in the power of the spirit, into Galilee, and the fame of him went out through the whole country. And he taught in their synagogues, and was magnified by all. And he came to Nazareth, where he was brought up: and he went into the synagogue, according to his custom, on the sabbath day; and he rose up to read. And the book of Isaias the prophet was delivered unto him. And as he unfolded the book, he found the place where it was written:  The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. Wherefore he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, he hath sent me to heal the contrite of heart, To preach deliverance to the captives, and sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of reward. And when he had folded the book, he restored it to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them: This day is fulfilled this scripture in your ears. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Feast Of The Conversion Of Saint Paul, Apostle

First Reading:  Acts 22:3-16 or Acts 9:1-22

And he saith: I am a Jew, born at Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the truth of the law of the fathers, zealous for the law, as also all you are this day:  Who persecuted this way unto death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. As the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the ancients: from whom also receiving letters to the brethren, I went to Damascus, that I might bring them bound from thence to Jerusalem to be punished. And it came to pass, as I was going, and drawing nigh to Damascus at midday, that suddenly from heaven there shone round about me a great light:  And falling on the ground, I heard a voice saying to me: Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And I answered: Who art thou, Lord? And he said to me: I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. And they that were with me, saw indeed the light, but they heard not the voice of him that spoke with me. And I said: What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said to me: Arise, and go to Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things that thou must do. And whereas I did not see for the brightness of that light, being led by the hand by my companions, I came to Damascus. And one Ananias, a man according to the law, having testimony of all the Jews who dwelt there, Coming to me, and standing by me, said to me: Brother Saul, look up. And I the same hour looked upon him. But he said: The God of our fathers hath preordained thee that thou shouldst know his will, and see the Just One, and shouldst hear the voice from his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness to all men, of those things which thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? Rise up, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, invoking his name.

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And Saul, as yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest, And asked of him letters to Damascus, to the synagogues: that if he found any men and women of this way, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. And as he went on his journey, it came to pass that he drew nigh to Damascus; and suddenly a light from heaven shined round about him. And falling on the ground, he heard a voice saying to him: Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? Who said: Who art thou, Lord? And he: I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. It is hard for thee to kick against the goad. And he trembling and astonished, said: Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said to him: Arise, and go into the city, and there it shall be told thee what thou must do. Now the men who went in company with him, stood amazed, hearing indeed a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the ground; and when his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. But they leading him by the hands, brought him to Damascus. And he was there three days, without sight, and he did neither eat nor drink. Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias. And the Lord said to him in a vision: Ananias. And he said: Behold I am here, Lord. And the Lord said to him: Arise, and go into the street that is called Strait, and seek in the house of Judas, one named Saul of Tarsus. For behold he prayeth (And he saw a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hands upon him, that he might receive his sight.)  13 But Ananias answered: Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints in Jerusalem. And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that invoke thy name. And the Lord said to him: Go thy way; for this man is to me a vessel of election, to carry my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel. For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house. And laying his hands upon him, he said: Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus hath sent me, he that appeared to thee in the way as thou camest; that thou mayest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight; and rising up, he was baptized. And when he had taken meat, he was strengthened. And he was with the disciples that were at Damascus, for some days. And immediately he preached Jesus in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. And all that heard him, were astonished, and said: Is not this he who persecuted in Jerusalem those that called upon this name: and came hither for that intent, that he might carry them bound to the chief priests? But Saul increased much more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt at Damascus, affirming that this is the Christ.

Responsorial Psalm:  cf. Mark 16:15; V. Psalm 117 (116):1bc, 2

R. Go ye into the whole world, and preach the gospel

V. O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.

V. For his mercy is confirmed upon us: and the truth of the Lord remaineth for ever.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 16:15-18

And he said to them: Go ye into the whole world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall be condemned. And these signs shall follow them that believe: In my name they shall cast out devils: they shall speak with new tongues. They shall take up serpents; and if they shall drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them: they shall lay their hands upon the sick, and they shall recover.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Memorial Of Saint Francis De Sales, Bishop And Doctor Of The Church

First Reading:  Ephesians 3:8-12

To me, the least of all the saints, is given this grace, to preach among the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ, And to enlighten all men, that they may see what is the dispensation of the mystery which hath been hidden from eternity in God, who created all things:  That the manifold wisdom of God may be made known to the principalities and powers in heavenly places through the church, According to the eternal purpose, which he made, in Christ Jesus our Lord:  In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 37:30a; V. 3-4, 5-6, 30-31

R. The mouth of the just shall meditate wisdom:

V. Trust in the Lord, and do good, and dwell in the land, and thou shalt be fed with its riches.

     Delight in the Lord, and he will give thee the requests of thy heart.

V. Commit thy way to the Lord, and trust in him, and he will do it.

     And he will bring forth thy justice as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.

V. The mouth of the just shall meditate wisdom: and his tongue shall speak judgment.

     The law of his God is in his heart, and his steps shall not be supplanted.  

Gospel Reading:  John 15:9-17

As the Father hath loved me, I also have loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you shall abide in my love; as I also have kept my Father's commandments, and do abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and your joy may be filled. This is my commandment, that you love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love than this no man hath, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends, if you do the things that I command you. I will not now call you servants: for the servant knoweth not what his lord doth. But I have called you friends: because all things whatsoever I have heard of my Father, I have made known to you. You have not chosen me: but I have chosen you; and have appointed you, that you should go, and should bring forth fruit; and your fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that you love one another.

The reading from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Thursday Of The Second Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 7:25—8:6

Whereby he is able also to save for ever them that come to God by him; always living to make intercession for us. For it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;  Who needeth not daily (as the other priests) to offer sacrifices first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, in offering himself. For the law maketh men priests, who have infirmity: but the word of the oath, which was since the law, the Son who is perfected for evermore. Now of the things which we have spoken, this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of majesty in the heavens,  A minister of the holies, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord hath pitched, and not man. For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is necessary that he also should have some thing to offer. If then he were on earth, he would not be a priest: seeing that there would be others to offer gifts according to the law, Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things. As it was answered to Moses, when he was to finish the tabernacle: See (saith he) that thou make all things according to the pattern which was shewn thee on the mount. But now he hath obtained a better ministry, by how much also he is a mediator of a better testament, which is established on better promises.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 40 (39):8a, 9a; V. 7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17

R. Then said I, Behold I come. That I should do thy will:

V. Sacrifice and oblation thou didst not desire; but thou hast pierced ears for me.

    Burnt offering and sin offering thou didst not require:  Then said I, Behold I come.

V. In the head of the book it is written of me That I should do thy will:

    O my God, I have desired it, and thy law in the midst of my heart.

V. I have declared thy justice in a great church,

    (L)o, I will not restrain my lips: O Lord, thou knowest it.

V. Let all that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee:

    (A)nd let such as love thy salvation say always: The Lord be magnified.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 3:7-12

But Jesus retired with his disciples to the sea; and a great multitude followed him from Galilee and Judea, And from Jerusalem, and from Idumea, and from beyond the Jordan. And they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, hearing the things which he did, came to him. And he spoke to his disciples that a small ship should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng him. For he healed many, so that they pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had evils. And the unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him: and they cried, saying:  Thou art the Son of God. And he strictly charged them that they should not make him known. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

Truth Marching To Justice

The time has come once again.

The country once again remembers the landmark decisions made by the United State Supreme Court this day in 1973. The highest judiciary of this land deemed, in Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, that a woman could legally end her pregnancy via abortion. On that day as well the first March For Life was held.

Fifty-two years later, that demonstration still takes place. (It will happen on Friday this year.) It has grown in magnitude and stature ever since, spawning marches at state capitals and other sites around the country and world. The only other event with such gravitas is the Walk For Life West Coast, held in San Francisco, CA since 2005. (It will happen on Saturday this year.)

The reason still remains the same. It is the affirmation of the dignity and worth of every human being, starting at conception. It is the appreciation and valuing of motherhood (and, indirectly, fatherhood) and children. It is a reminder of how precious and beautiful life and living is.

With the recent inauguration of Mr. Donald J. Trump for his second term as President of the United States, the pro-life forces are once again buoyed by an ally in the White House, as demonstrated by his actions in his first term. The pendulum will once again swing towards them, as opposed to the actions of the last occupant of the Oval Office, Mr. Joseph R. Biden, Jr., who did everything in his power for the pro-abortion faction.

{I have used in the past the term "poor-(pro-)choice" to describe those who want unrestricted access to abortion at any time during pregnancy. This will be the last time I will use that phrase. I have been persuaded by the commentary of the pro-life side and the actions of the pro-abortion side that they do not want "choice". They have even dropped that label from their statements. Therefore, that moniker is no longer accurate.}

The abortion issue is still the largest battle front in the culture war. Evident since Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, the Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe and Doe, the country has seen numerous legislative initiatives at both state and federal levels to establish what limits are allowed. Each side has seen what they deem to be success. But the argument (in its negative connotation) still literally rages, with no end in sight and no resolution to be had.

So what happens this weekend is still necessary. It is, in a way, the pro-life's New Year's Eve. We come together to celebrate our successes and renew our resolution. We gather to be inspired and reinvigorated. We congregate at places of power and centers of help and hope to bear witness to our cause.

We come to affirm the words found in Deuteronomy (30:15, 19b):

See, I have today set before you life and good, death and evil....I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Choose life, then, that you and your descendants may live.

We continue to "Choose Life".

DR Squared: Day Of Prayer For The Legal Protection Of Unborn Children

First Reading:  Isaiah 49:1-6

Give ear, ye islands, and hearken, ye people from afar. The Lord hath called me from the womb, from the bowels of my mother he hath been mindful of my name. And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword: in the shadow of his hand he hath protected me, and hath made me as a chosen arrow: in his quiver he hath hidden me. And he said to me: Thou art my servant Israel, for in thee will I glory. And I said: I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength without cause and in vain: therefore my judgment is with the Lord, and my work with my God. And now saith the Lord, that formed me from the womb to be his servant, that I may bring back Jacob unto him, and Israel will not be gathered together: and I am glorified in the eyes of the Lord, and my God is made my strength. And he said: It is a small thing that thou shouldst be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to convert the dregs of Israel. Behold, I have given thee to be the light of the Gentiles, that thou mayst be my salvation even to the farthest part of the earth.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 8:2ab; V. 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

R. O Lord our Lord, how admirable is thy name in the whole earth!

V. For I will behold thy heavens, the works of thy fingers: the moon and the stars which          thou hast founded.

    What is man that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him?

V. Thou hast made him a little less than the angels, thou hast crowned him with glory and         honour:

     And hast set him over the works of thy hands.

V. Thou hast subjected all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen: moreover the beasts           also of the fields.

     The birds of the air, and the fishes of the sea, that pass through the paths of the sea.   

Second Reading:  Ephesians 3:14-21

For this cause I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom all paternity in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened by his Spirit with might unto the inward man, That Christ may dwell by faith in your hearts; that being rooted and founded in charity, You may be able to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth, and length, and height, and depth:  To know also the charity of Christ, which surpasseth all knowledge, that you may be filled unto all the fulness of God. Now to him who is able to do all things more abundantly than we desire or understand, according to the power that worketh in us; To him be glory in the church, and in Christ Jesus unto all generations, world without end. Amen.

Gospel Reading:  Luke 1:39-56

And Mary rising up in those days, went into the hill country with haste into a city of Juda. And she entered into the house of Zachary, and saluted Elizabeth. And it came to pass, that when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the infant leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:  And she cried out with a loud voice, and said: Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed art thou that hast believed, because those things shall be accomplished that were spoken to thee by the Lord. And Mary said: My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. Because he hath regarded the humility of his handmaid; for behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because he that is mighty, hath done great things to me; and holy is his name. And his mercy is from generation unto generations, to them that fear him. He hath shewed might in his arm: he hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart. He hath put down the mighty from their seat, and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel his servant, being mindful of his mercy:  As he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed for ever. And Mary abode with her about three months; and she returned to her own house. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Memorial Of Saint Agnes, Virgin And Martyr

First Reading:  1 Corinthians 1:26-31

For see your vocation, brethren, that there are not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble:  But the foolish things of the world hath God chosen, that he may confound the wise; and the weak things of the world hath God chosen, that he may confound the strong. And the base things of the world, and the things that are contemptible, hath God chosen, and things that are not, that he might bring to nought things that are:  That no flesh should glory in his sight. But of him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and justice, and sanctification, and redemption:  That, as it is written: He that glorieth, may glory in the Lord.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 23 (22):1b; V. 1b-3a, 4, 5, 6

R. The Lord ruleth me: and I shall want nothing.

V. The Lord ruleth me: and I shall want nothing. He hath set me in a place of pasture.

     He hath brought me up, on the water of refreshment:  He hath converted my soul.

V. For though I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils, for thou      art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they have comforted me.

V. Thou hast prepared a table before me against them that afflict me

     Thou hast anointed my head with oil; and my chalice which inebriateth me, how goodly is        it!

V. And thy mercy will follow me all the days of my life.

     And that I may dwell in the house of the Lord unto length of days. 

Gospel Reading:  Matthew 13:44-46

The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in a field. Which a man having found, hid it, and for joy thereof goeth, and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant seeking good pearls. Who when he had found one pearl of great price, went his way, and sold all that he had, and bought it.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here. 

DR Squared: Monday Of The Second Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 5:1-10

For every high priest taken from among men, is ordained for men in the things that appertain to God, that he may offer up gifts and sacrifices for sins:  Who can have compassion on them that are ignorant and that err: because he himself also is compassed with infirmity. And therefore he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. Neither doth any man take the honour to himself, but he that is called by God, as Aaron was. So Christ also did not glorify himself, that he might be made a high priest: but he that said unto him: Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place: Thou art a priest for ever, according to the order of Melchisedech. Who in the days of his flesh, with a strong cry and tears, offering up prayers and supplications to him that was able to save him from death, was heard for his reverence. And whereas indeed he was the Son of God, he learned obedience by the things which he suffered:  And being consummated, he became, to all that obey him, the cause of eternal salvation. Called by God a high priest according to the order of Melchisedech.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 110 (109):4b; V. 1, 2, 3, 4

R. Thou art a priest for ever according to the order of Melchisedech.

V. The Lord said to my Lord: Sit thou at my right hand:

     Until I make thy enemies thy footstool.

V. The Lord will send forth the sceptre of thy power out of Sion:

     rule thou in the midst of thy enemies.

V. With thee is the principality in the day of thy strength: in the brightness of the saints:

     from the womb before the day star I begot thee.

V. The Lord hath sworn, and he will not repent:

     Thou art a priest for ever according to the order of Melchisedech. 

Gospel Reading: Mark 2:18-22

And the disciples of John and the Pharisees used to fast; and they come and say to him: Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast; but thy disciples do not fast? And Jesus saith to them: Can the children of the marriage fast, as long as the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them; and then they shall fast in those days. No man seweth a piece of raw cloth to an old garment: otherwise the new piecing taketh away from the old, and there is made a greater rent. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: otherwise the wine will burst the bottles, and both the wine will be spilled, and the bottles will be lost. But new wine must be put into new bottles. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Second Sunday In Ordinary Time (Year C)

First Reading:  Isaiah 62:1-5

For Sion's sake I will not hold my peace, and for the sake of Jerusalem, I will not rest till her just one come forth as brightness, and her saviour be lighted as a lamp. And the Gentiles shall see thy just one, and all kings thy glorious one: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name. And thou shalt be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God. Thou shalt no more be called Forsaken: and thy land shall no more be called Desolate: but thou shalt be called My pleasure in her, and thy land inhabited. Because the Lord hath been well pleased with thee: and thy land shall be inhabited. For the young man shall dwell with the virgin, and thy children shall dwell in thee. And the bridegroom shall rejoice over the bride, and thy God shall rejoice over thee.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 96 (95):3; V.1-2, 2-3, 7-8, 9-10

R. Declare his glory among the Gentiles: his wonders among all people.

V. Sing ye to the Lord a new canticle: sing to the Lord, all the earth.

     Sing ye to the Lord and bless his name:

V. (S)hew forth his salvation from day to day.

     Declare his glory among the Gentiles: his wonders among all people.

V.  Bring ye to the Lord, O ye kindreds of the Gentiles, bring ye to the Lord glory and               honour:

     Bring to the Lord glory unto his name. Bring up sacrifices, and come into his courts:

V. Adore ye the Lord in his holy court. Let all the earth be moved at his presence.

    Say ye among the Gentiles, the Lord hath reigned. For he hath corrected the world,              which shall not be moved: he will judge the people with justice.

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 12:4-11

Now there are diversities of graces, but the same Spirit; And there are diversities of ministries, but the same Lord; And there are diversities of operations, but the same God, who worketh all in all. And the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man unto profit. To one indeed, by the Spirit, is given the word of wisdom: and to another, the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit; To another, faith in the same spirit; to another, the grace of healing in one Spirit; To another, the working of miracles; to another, prophecy; to another, the discerning of spirits; to another, diverse kinds of tongues; to another, interpretation of speeches. But all these things one and the same Spirit worketh, dividing to every one according as he will.

Gospel Reading:  John 2:1-11

And the third day, there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee: and the mother of Jesus was there. And Jesus also was invited, and his disciples, to the marriage. And the wine failing, the mother of Jesus saith to him: They have no wine. And Jesus saith to her: Woman, what is that to me and to thee? my hour is not yet come. His mother saith to the waiters: Whatsoever he shall say to you, do ye. Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three measures apiece. Jesus saith to them: Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. And Jesus saith to them: Draw out now, and carry to the chief steward of the feast. And they carried it. And when the chief steward had tasted the water made wine, and knew not whence it was, but the waiters knew who had drawn the water; the chief steward calleth the bridegroom, And saith to him: Every man at first setteth forth good wine, and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse. But thou hast kept the good wine until now. This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee; and manifested his glory, and his disciples believed in him.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Saturday Of The First Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 4:12-16

For the word of God is living and effectual, and more piercing than any two edged sword; and reaching unto the division of the soul and the spirit, of the joints also and the marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature invisible in his sight: but all things are naked and open to his eyes, to whom our speech is. Having therefore a great high priest that hath passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God: let us hold fast our confession. For we have not a high priest, who can not have compassion on our infirmities: but one tempted in all things like as we are, without sin. Let us go therefore with confidence to the throne of grace: that we may obtain mercy, and find grace in seasonable aid.

Responsorial Psalm:  cf. John 6:64b; V. Psalm 19 (18):8, 9, 10, 15

R. The words that I have spoken to you, are spirit and life.

V. The law of the Lord is unspotted, converting souls:

     the testimony of the Lord is faithful, giving wisdom to little ones.

V. The justices of the Lord are right, rejoicing hearts:

     the commandment of the Lord is lightsome, enlightening the eyes.

V. The fear of the Lord is holy, enduring for ever and ever:

     the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.

V.  And the words of my mouth shall be such as may please:

     and the meditation of my heart always in thy sight. O Lord, my helper, and my redeemer.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 2:13-17

And he went forth again to the sea side; and all the multitude came to him, and he taught them. And when he was passing by, he saw Levi the son of Alpheus sitting at the receipt of custom; and he saith to him: Follow me. And rising up, he followed him. And it came to pass, that as he sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat down together with Jesus and his disciples. For they were many, who also followed him. And the scribes and the Pharisees, seeing that he ate with publicans and sinners, said to his disciples: Why doth your master eat and drink with publicans and sinners? Jesus hearing this, saith to them: They that are well have no need of a physician, but they that are sick. For I came not to call the just, but sinners. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Memorial Of Saint Anthony, Abbot

First Reading: Ephesians 6:10-13, 18

Finally, brethren, be strengthened in the Lord, and in the might of his power. Put you on the armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the deceits of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood; but against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the world of this darkness, against the spirits of wickedness in the high places. Therefore take unto you the armour of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and to stand in all things perfect. By all prayer and supplication praying at all times in the spirit; and in the same watching with all instance and supplication for all the saints:

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 16 (15):5a; V. 1-2a and 5, 7-8, 11

R. The Lord is the portion of my inheritance

V. Preserve me, O Lord, for I have put my trust in thee. I have said to the Lord, thou art          my God,

    The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and of my cup: it is thou that wilt restore my        inheritance to me.

V. I will bless the Lord, who hath given me understanding: moreover my reins also have          corrected me even till night.

    I set the Lord always in my sight: for he is at my right hand, that I be not moved.

V. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life, thou shalt fill me with joy with thy                 countenance: at thy right hand are delights even to the end.

Gospel Reading:  Matthew 19:16-26

And behold one came and said to him: Good master, what good shall I do that I may have life everlasting Who said to him: Why asketh thou me concerning good? One is good, God. But if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He said to him: Which? And Jesus said: Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness. Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith to him: All these I have kept from my youth, what is yet wanting to me? Jesus saith to him: If thou wilt be perfect, go sell what thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come follow me. And when the young man had heard this word, he went away sad: for he had great possessions. Then Jesus said to his disciples: Amen, I say to you, that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you: It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven. And when they had heard this, the disciples wondered very much, saying: Who then can be saved? And Jesus beholding, said to them: With men this is impossible: but with God all things are possible.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.  

DR Squared: Thursday Of The First Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 3:7-14

Wherefore, as the Holy Ghost saith: Today if you shall hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation; in the day of temptation in the desert, Where your fathers tempted me, proved and saw my works, Forty years: for which cause I was offended with this generation, and I said: They always err in heart. And they have not known my ways, As I have sworn in my wrath: If they shall enter into my rest. Take heed, brethren, lest perhaps there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, to depart from the living God. But exhort one another every day, whilst it is called today, that none of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ: yet so, if we hold the beginning of his substance firm unto the end.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 95 (94):8; V. 6-7c, 8-9, 10-11

R. Today if you shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts:

V. Come let us adore and fall down: and weep before the Lord that made us.

     For he is the Lord our God: and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his           hand.

V. Today if you shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts:  As in the provocation,                   according to the day of temptation in the wilderness:

     where your fathers tempted me, they proved me, and saw my works.

V. Forty years long was I offended with that generation, and I said: These always err in            heart.

    And these men have not known my ways: so I swore in my wrath that they shall not            enter into my rest.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 1:40-45

And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down said to him: If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus having compassion on him, stretched forth his hand; and touching him, saith to him: I will. Be thou made clean. And when he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was made clean. And he strictly charged him, and forthwith sent him away. And he saith to him: See thou tell no one; but go, shew thyself to the high priest, and offer for thy cleansing the things that Moses commanded, for a testimony to them. But he being gone out, began to publish and to blaze abroad the word: so that he could not openly go into the city, but was without in desert places: and they flocked to him from all sides.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Wednesday Of The First Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 2:14-18

Therefore because the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself in like manner hath been partaker of the same: that, through death, he might destroy him who had the empire of death, that is to say, the devil:  And might deliver them, who through the fear of death were all their lifetime subject to servitude. For no where doth he take hold of the angels: but of the seed of Abraham he taketh hold. Wherefore it behoved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren, that he might become a merciful and faithful priest before God, that he might be a propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that, wherein he himself hath suffered and been tempted, he is able to succour them also that are tempted.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 105 (104):8a; V. 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9

R. He hath remembered his covenant for ever:

V. Give glory to the Lord, and call upon his name: declare his deeds among the Gentiles.

    Sing to him, yea sing praises to him: relate all his wondrous works.

V. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord.

     Seek ye the Lord, and be strengthened: seek his face evermore.

V. O ye seed of Abraham his servant; ye sons of Jacob his chosen.

    He is the Lord our God: his judgments are in all the earth.

V. He hath remembered his covenant for ever: the word which he commanded to a thousand                        generations.

    Which he made to Abraham; and his oath to Isaac:

Gospel Reading:  Mark 1:29-39

And immediately going out of the synagogue they came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. And Simon's wife's mother lay in a fit of a fever: and forthwith they tell him of her. And coming to her, he lifted her up, taking her by the hand; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them. And when it was evening, after sunset, they brought to him all that were ill and that were possessed with devils. And all the city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many that were troubled with divers diseases; and he cast out many devils, and he suffered them not to speak, because they knew him. And rising very early, going out, he went into a desert place: and there he prayed. And Simon, and they that were with him, followed after him. And when they had found him, they said to him: All seek for thee. And he saith to them: Let us go into the neighbouring towns and cities, that I may preach there also; for to this purpose am I come. And he was preaching in their synagogues, and in all Galilee, and casting out devils.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Tuesday Of The First Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 2:5-12

For God hath not subjected unto angels the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place hath testified, saying: What is man, that thou art mindful of him: or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Thou hast made him a little lower than the angels: thou hast crowned him with glory and honour, and hast set him over the works of thy hands:  Thou hast subjected all things under his feet. For in that he hath subjected all things to him, he left nothing not subject to him. But now we see not as yet all things subject to him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour: that, through the grace of God, he might taste death for all. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, who had brought many children into glory, to perfect the author of their salvation, by his passion. For both he that sanctifieth, and they who are sanctified, are all of one. For which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying:  I will declare thy name to my brethren; in the midst of the church will I praise thee. 

Responsorial Psalm:  cf. Psalm 8:7; V. 2ab and 5, 6-7, 8-9

R. And hast set him over the works of thy hands.

V. O Lord our Lord, how admirable is thy name in the whole earth! 

    What is man that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him?

V. Thou hast made him a little less than the angels, thou hast crowned him with glory and         honour:

    And hast set him over the works of thy hands. Thou hast subjected all things under his        feet,

V. (A)ll sheep and oxen: moreover the beasts also of the fields.

     The birds of the air, and the fishes of the sea, that pass through the paths of the sea.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 1:21-28

And they entered into Capharnaum, and forthwith upon the sabbath days going into the synagogue, he taught them. And they were astonished at his doctrine. For he was teaching them as one having power, and not as the scribes. And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, Saying: What have we to do with thee, Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know who thou art, the Holy One of God. And Jesus threatened him, saying: Speak no more, and go out of the man. And the unclean spirit tearing him, and crying out with a loud voice, went out of him. And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying: What thing is this? what is this new doctrine? for with power he commandeth even the unclean spirits, and they obey him. And the fame of him was spread forthwith into all the country of Galilee.

The reading from the USCCB can be found here. 

DR Squared: Monday Of The First Week In Ordinary Time (Year I)

First Reading:  Hebrews 1:1-6

God, who, at sundry times and in divers manners, spoke in times past to the fathers by the prophets, last of all, In these days hath spoken to us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the world. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the figure of his substance, and upholding all things by the word of his power, making purgation of sins, sitteth on the right hand of the majesty on high. Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath inherited a more excellent name than they. For to which of the angels hath he said at any time, Thou art my Son, today have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? And again, when he bringeth in the first begotten into the world, he saith: And let all the angels of God adore him.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 97 (96):7c; V. 1 and 2b, 6 and 7c, 9

R. Adore him, all you his angels:

V. The Lord hath reigned, let the earth rejoice: let many islands be glad.

     (J)ustice and judgment are the establishment of his throne.

V. The heavens declared his justice: and all people saw his glory.

     Adore him, all you his angels:

V. For thou art the most high Lord over all the earth: thou art exalted exceedingly above all          gods.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 1:14-20

And after that John was delivered up, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying: The time is accomplished, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent, and believe the gospel. And passing by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother, casting nets into the sea (for they were fishermen). And Jesus said to them: Come after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. And immediately leaving their nets, they followed him. And going on from thence a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were mending their nets in the ship:  And forthwith he called them. And leaving their father Zebedee in the ship with his hired men, they followed him.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: The Baptism Of The Lord

First Reading:  Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 or Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11

Behold my servant, I will uphold him: my elect, my soul delighteth in him: I have given my spirit upon him, he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not cry, nor have respect to person, neither shall his voice be heard abroad. The bruised reed he shall not break, and smoking flax he shall not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. He shall not be sad, nor troublesome, till he set judgment in the earth: and the islands shall wait for his law. (T)he Lord have called thee in justice, and taken thee by the hand, and preserved thee. And I have given thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles:  That thou mightest open the eyes of the blind, and bring forth the prisoner out of prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.

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Be comforted, be comforted, my people, saith your God. Speak ye to the heart of Jerusalem, and call to her: for her evil is come to an end, her iniquity is forgiven: she hath received of the hand of the Lord double for all her sins. The voice of one crying in the desert: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the wilderness the paths of our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall become straight, and the rough ways plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh together shall see, that the mouth of the Lord hath spoken. Get thee up upon a high mountain, thou that bringest good tidings to Sion: lift up thy voice with strength, thou that bringest good tidings to Jerusalem: lift it up, fear not. Say to the cities of Juda: Behold your God:  Behold the Lord God shall come with strength, and his arm shall rule: Behold his reward is with him and his work is before him. He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather together the lambs with his arm, and shall take them up in his bosom, and he himself shall carry them that are with young.  

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 29 (28):11b: V. 1-2, 3-4, 8, 9b-10 or Psalm 104 (103):1a; V. 1b-2, 3-4, 24-25, 27-28, 29-30

R. (T)he Lord will bless his people with peace.

V. Bring to the Lord, O ye children of God:...Bring to the Lord glory and honour:

     bring to the Lord glory to his name: adore ye the Lord in his holy court.

V. The voice of the Lord is upon the waters;...The Lord is upon many waters.

     The voice of the Lord is in power; the voice of the Lord in magnificence.

V. The voice of the Lord shaketh the desert:  and in his temple all shall speak his glory. 

     The Lord maketh the flood to dwell: and the Lord shall sit king for ever.

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R. Bless the Lord, O my soul

V. O Lord my God, thou art exceedingly great. Thou hast put on praise and beauty:

     And art clothed with light as with a garment. Who stretchest out the heaven like a                 pavilion:

V. Who coverest the higher rooms thereof with water. Who makest the clouds thy chariot:         who walkest upon the wings of the winds.

     Who makest thy angels spirits: and thy ministers a burning fire.

V. How great are thy works, O Lord? thou hast made all things in wisdom: the earth is            filled with thy riches.

    So is this great sea, which stretcheth wide its arms: there are creeping things without            number: Creatures little and great.

V. All expect of thee that thou give them food in season.

    What thou givest to them they shall gather up: when thou openest thy hand, they shall          all be filled with good.

V. But if thou turnest away thy face, they shall be troubled: thou shalt take away their              breath, and they shall fail, and shall return to their dust.

    Thou shalt send forth thy spirit, and they shall be created: and thou shalt renew the face      of the earth.  

Second Reading: Acts 10:34-38 or Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7

And Peter opening his mouth, said: In very deed I perceive, that God is not a respecter of persons. But in every nation, he that feareth him, and worketh justice, is acceptable to him. God sent the word to the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all.) You know the word which hath been published through all Judea: for it began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached, Jesus of Nazareth: how God anointed him with the Holy Ghost, and with power, who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

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For the grace of God our Saviour hath appeared to all men; Instructing us, that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live soberly, and justly, and godly in this world, Looking for the blessed hope and coming of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and might cleanse to himself a people acceptable, a pursuer of good works. But when the goodness and kindness of God our Saviour appeared:  Not by the works of justice, which we have done, but according to his mercy, he saved us, by the laver of regeneration, and renovation of the Holy Ghost; Whom he hath poured forth upon us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour:  That, being justified by his grace, we may be heirs, according to hope of life everlasting.    

Gospel Reading:  Luke 3:15-16, 21-22

And as the people were of opinion, and all were thinking in their hearts of John, that perhaps he might be the Christ; John answered, saying unto all: I indeed baptize you with water; but there shall come one mightier than I, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to loose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:  Now it came to pass, when all the people were baptized, that Jesus also being baptized and praying, heaven was opened; And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape, as a dove upon him; and a voice came from heaven: Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Saturday After Epiphany

First Reading:  1 John 5:14-21

And this is the confidence which we have towards him: That, whatsoever we shall ask according to his will, he heareth us. And we know that he heareth us whatsoever we ask: we know that we have the petitions which we request of him. He that knoweth his brother to sin a sin which is not to death, let him ask, and life shall be given to him, who sinneth not to death. There is a sin unto death: for that I say not that any man ask. All iniquity is sin. And there is a sin unto death. We know that whosoever is born of God, sinneth not: but the generation of God preserveth him, and the wicked one toucheth him not. We know that we are of God, and the whole world is seated in wickedness. And we know that the Son of God is come: and he hath given us understanding that we may know the true God, and may be in his true Son. This is the true God and life eternal. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 149:4a: V. 1-2, 3-4, 5-6a and 9b

R. For the Lord is well pleased with his people:

V. Sing ye to the Lord a new canticle: let his praise be in the church of the saints.

     Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: and let the children of Sion be joyful in their           king.

V. Let them praise his name in choir: let them sing to him with the timbrel and the psaltery.

     For the Lord is well pleased with his people: and he will exalt the meek unto salvation.

V. The saints shall rejoice in glory: they shall be joyful in their beds.

     The high praise of God shall be in their mouth:  this glory is to all his saints. Alleluia.

Gospel Reading:  John 3:22-30

After these things Jesus and his disciples came into the land of Judea: and there he abode with them, and baptized. And John also was baptizing in Ennon near Salim; because there was much water there; and they came and were baptized. For John was not yet cast into prison. And there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews concerning purification:  And they came to John, and said to him: Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond the Jordan, to whom thou gavest testimony, behold he baptizeth, and all men come to him. John answered, and said: A man cannot receive any thing, unless it be given him from heaven. You yourselves do bear me witness, that I said, I am not Christ, but that I am sent before him. He that hath the bride, is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, who standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth with joy because of the bridegroom's voice. This my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Friday After Epiphany

First Reading:  1 John 5:5-13

Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? This is he that came by water and blood, Jesus Christ: not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit which testifieth, that Christ is the truth. And there are three who give testimony in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost. And these three are one. And there are three that give testimony on earth: the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three are one. If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater. For this is the testimony of God, which is greater, because he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth in the Son of God, hath the testimony of God in himself. He that believeth not the Son, maketh him a liar: because he believeth not in the testimony which God hath testified of his Son. And this is the testimony, that God hath given to us eternal life. And this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son, hath life. He that hath not the Son, hath not life. These things I write to you, that you may know that you have eternal life, you who believe in the name of the Son of God.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 147:12a; V. 12-13, 14-15, 19-20

R. Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem:

V. Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem: praise thy God, O Sion.

    Because he hath strengthened the bolts of thy gates, he hath blessed thy children within        thee.

V. Who hath placed peace in thy borders: and filleth thee with the fat of corn.

     Who sendeth forth his speech to the earth: his word runneth swiftly.

V. Who declareth his word to Jacob: his justices and his judgments to Israel.

     He hath not done in like manner to every nation: and his judgments he hath not made           manifest to them. Alleluia.

Gospel Reading:  Luke 5:12-16

And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy, who seeing Jesus, and falling on his face, besought him, saying: Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And stretching forth his hand, he touched him, saying: I will. Be thou cleansed. And immediately the leprosy departed from him. And he charged him that he should tell no man, but, Go, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing according as Moses commanded, for a testimony to them. But the fame of him went abroad the more, and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities. And he retired into the desert, and prayed. 

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Thursday After Epiphany

First Reading:  1 John 4:19–5:4

Let us therefore love God, because God first hath loved us. If any man say, I love God, and hateth his brother; he is a liar. For he that loveth not his brother, whom he seeth, how can he love God, whom he seeth not? Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ, is born of God. And every one that loveth him who begot, loveth him also who is born of him. In this we know that we love the children of God: when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the charity of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not heavy. For whatsoever is born of God, overcometh the world: and this is the victory which overcometh the world, our faith.  

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 72 (71):11a; V. 1-2, 14 and 15bc, 17

R. And all kings of the earth shall adore him:

V. Give to the king thy judgment, O God: and to the king's son thy justice:

     To judge thy people with justice, and thy poor with judgment.

V.  He shall redeem their souls from usuries and iniquity: and their names shall be                      honourable in his sight.

     (F)or him they shall always adore: they shall bless him all the day.

V. Let his name be blessed for evermore: his name continueth before the sun.

     And in him shall all the tribes of the earth be blessed: all nations shall magnify him.

Gospel Reading:  Luke 4:14-22

And Jesus returned in the power of the spirit, into Galilee, and the fame of him went out through the whole country. And he taught in their synagogues, and was magnified by all. And he came to Nazareth, where he was brought up: and he went into the synagogue, according to his custom, on the sabbath day; and he rose up to read. And the book of Isaias the prophet was delivered unto him. And as he unfolded the book, he found the place where it was written:  The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. Wherefore he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, he hath sent me to heal the contrite of heart, To preach deliverance to the captives, and sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of reward. And when he had folded the book, he restored it to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them: This day is fulfilled this scripture in your ears. And all gave testimony to him: and they wondered at the words of grace that proceeded from his mouth,

The readings from the USCCB can be found here,

DR Squared: Wednesday After Epiphany

First Reading:  1 John 4:11-18

My dearest, if God hath so loved us; we also ought to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abideth in us, and his charity is perfected in us. In this we know that we abide in him, and he in us: because he hath given us of his spirit. And we have seen, and do testify, that the Father hath sent his Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God abideth in him, and he in God. And we have known, and have believed the charity, which God hath to us. God is charity: and he that abideth in charity, abideth in God, and God in him. In this is the charity of God perfected with us, that we may have confidence in the day of judgment: because as he is, we also are in this world. Fear is not in charity: but perfect charity casteth out fear, because fear hath pain. And he that feareth, is not perfected in charity.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 72 (71):11a; V. 1-2, 10, 12-13

R. And all kings of the earth shall adore him:

V. Give to the king thy judgment, O God: and to the king's son thy justice:

     To judge thy people with justice, and thy poor with judgment.

V. The kings of Tharsis and the islands shall offer presents:

     the kings of the Arabians and of Saba shall bring gifts:

V. For he shall deliver the poor from the mighty: and the needy that had no helper.

    He shall spare the poor and needy: and he shall save the souls of the poor. 

Gospel Reading:  Mark 6:45-52

And immediately he obliged his disciples to go up into the ship, that they might go before him over the water to Bethsaida, whilst he dismissed the people. And when he had dismissed them, he went up to the mountain to pray. And when it was late, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and himself alone on the land. And seeing them labouring in rowing, (for the wind was against them,) and about the fourth watch of the night, he cometh to them walking upon the sea, and he would have passed by them. But they seeing him walking upon the sea, thought it was an apparition, and they cried out. For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he spoke with them, and said to them: Have a good heart, it is I, fear ye not. And he went up to them into the ship, and the wind ceased: and they were far more astonished within themselves:  For they understood not concerning the loaves; for their heart was blinded.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Tuesday After Epiphany

First Reading:  1 John 4:7-10

Dearly beloved, let us love one another, for charity is of God. And every one that loveth, is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not, knoweth not God: for God is charity. 9 By this hath the charity of God appeared towards us, because God hath sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we may live by him. In this is charity: not as though we had loved God, but because he hath first loved us, and sent his Son to be a propitiation for our sins. 

Responsorial Psalm:  cf. Psalm 72 (71):11a; V. 1-2, 3-4, 7-8

R. And all kings of the earth shall adore him:

V. Give to the king thy judgment, O God: and to the king's son thy justice:

     To judge thy people with justice, and thy poor with judgment.

V. Let the mountains receive peace for the people: and the hills justice.

    He shall judge the poor of the people, and he shall save the children of the poor: and he            shall humble the oppressor.

V.  In his days shall justice spring up, and abundance of peace, till the moon be taken away.

      And he shall rule from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.

Gospel Reading:  Mark 6:34-44

And Jesus going out saw a great multitude: and he had compassion on them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd, and he began to teach them many things. And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came to him, saying: This is a desert place, and the hour is now past:  Send them away, that going into the next villages and towns, they may buy themselves meat to eat. And he answering said to them: Give you them to eat. And they said to him: Let us go and buy bread for two hundred pence, and we will give them to eat. And he saith to them: How many loaves have you? go and see. And when they knew, they say: Five, and two fishes.  And he commanded them that they should make them all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds and by fifties. And when he had taken the five loaves, and the two fishes: looking up to heaven, he blessed, and broke the loaves, and gave to his disciples to set before them: and the two fishes he divided among them all. And they all did eat, and had their fill. And they took up the leavings, twelve full baskets of fragments, and of the fishes. And they that did eat, were five thousand men.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.