DR Squared: Optional Memorial Of Saint Christopher Magallanes, Priest, And Companions, Martyrs

First Reading:  Revelation 7:9-17

After this I saw a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and tribes, and peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne, and in sight of the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands:  And they cried with a loud voice, saying: Salvation to our God, who sitteth upon the throne, and to the Lamb. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and the ancients, and the four living creatures; and they fell down before the throne upon their faces, and adored God, Saying: Amen. Benediction, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, honour, and power, and strength to our God for ever and ever. Amen. And one of the ancients answered, and said to me: These that are clothed in white robes, who are they? and whence came they? And I said to him: My Lord, thou knowest. And he said to me: These are they who are come out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and have made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore they are before the throne of God, and they serve him day and night in his temple: and he, that sitteth on the throne, shall dwell over them. They shall no more hunger nor thirst, neither shall the sun fall on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb, which is in the midst of the throne, shall rule them, and shall lead them to the fountains of the waters of life, and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 34 (33):5b; V. 2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

R.  (A)nd he delivered me from all my troubles.

V.  I will bless the Lord at all times,

his praise shall be always in my mouth.

In the Lord shall my soul be praised:

let the meek hear and rejoice.

V.  O magnify the Lord with me;

and let us extol his name together.

I sought the Lord, and he heard me;

and he delivered me from all my troubles.

V.  Come ye to him and be enlightened:

and your faces shall not be confounded.

This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him:

and saved him out of all his troubles.

V.  The angel of the Lord shall encamp round about

them that fear him: and shall deliver them.

O taste, and see that the Lord is sweet:

blessed is the man that hopeth in him.

Gospel Reading:  John 12:24-26

Amen, amen I say to you, unless the grain of wheat falling into the ground die, Itself remaineth alone. But if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world, keepeth it unto life eternal. If any man minister to me, let him follow me; and where I am, there also shall my minister be. If any man minister to me, him will my Father honour.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Thursday Of The Seventh Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 22:30; 23:6-11

But on the next day, meaning to know more diligently for what cause he was accused by the Jews, he loosed him, and commanded the priests to come together, and all the council: and bringing forth Paul, he set him before them. And Paul knowing that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, cried out in the council: Men, brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of Pharisees: concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question. And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the multitude was divided. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both. And there arose a great cry. And some of the Pharisees rising up, strove, saying: We find no evil in this man. What if a spirit hath spoken to him, or an angel? And when there arose a great dissension, the tribune fearing lest Paul should be pulled in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle. And the night following the Lord standing by him, said: Be constant; for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome. 

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 16 (15):1; V. 1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11

R.  Preserve me, O Lord, for I have put my trust in thee.

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.  Therefore my heart hath been glad, and my tongue hath rejoiced:

     moreover my flesh also shall rest in hope.

     Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell;

     nor wilt thou give thy holy one to see corruption.

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:  John 17:20-26

And not for them only do I pray, but for them also who through their word shall believe in me; That they all may be one, as thou, Father, in me, and I in thee; that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou hast given me, I have given to them; that they may be one, as we also are one:  I in them, and thou in me; that they may be made perfect in one: and the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast also loved me. Father, I will that where I am, they also whom thou hast given me may be with me; that they may see my glory which thou hast given me, because thou hast loved me before the creation of the world. Just Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee: and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have made known thy name to them, and will make it known; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me, may be in them, and I in them.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 6/5/2025.

DR Squared: Optional Memorial Of Saint Bernardine Of Siena, Priest

First Reading:  Acts 4:8-12

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said to them: Ye princes of the people, and ancients, hear:  If we this day are examined concerning the good deed done to the infirm man, by what means he hath been made whole:  Be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God hath raised from the dead, even by him this man standeth here before you whole. This is the stone which was rejected by you the builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other. For there is no other name under heaven given to men, whereby we must be saved. 

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 40 (39):8a and 9a; V. 2, 4(a), 7-8, 8-9, 10, 11

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

V.  With expectation I have waited for the Lord,

     and he was attentive to me.

     And he put a new canticle into my mouth,

     a song to our God.

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,

     lo, I will not restrain my lips: O Lord, thou knowest it.

     I have not hid thy justice within my heart: I have declared thy truth and thy salvation.

     I have not concealed thy mercy and thy truth from a great council. 

Gospel Reading:  Luke 9:57-62

And it came to pass, as they walked in the way, that a certain man said to him: I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. Jesus said to him: The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. But he said to another: Follow me. And he said: Lord, suffer me first to go, and to bury my father. And Jesus said to him: Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou, and preach the kingdom of God. And another said: I will follow thee, Lord; but let me first take my leave of them that are at my house. Jesus said to him: No man putting his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/20/2025.

DR Squared: Wednesday Of The Seventh Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 20:28-38

Take heed to yourselves, and to the whole flock, wherein the Holy Ghost hath placed you bishops, to rule the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. I know that, after my departure, ravening wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock. And of your own selves shall arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, keeping in memory, that for three years I ceased not, with tears to admonish every one of you night and day. And now I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, who is able to build up, and to give an inheritance among all the sanctified. I have not coveted any man's silver, gold, or apparel, as You yourselves know: for such things as were needful for me and them that are with me, these hands have furnished. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring you ought to support the weak, and to remember the word of the Lord Jesus, how he said: It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive. And when he had said these things, kneeling down, he prayed with them all. And there was much weeping among them all; and falling on the neck of Paul, they kissed him, Being grieved most of all for the word which he had said, that they should see his face no more. And they brought him on his way to the ship.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 68 (67):33a; V. 29-30, 33-35a, 35bc-36ab

R.  Sing to God, ye kingdoms of the earth:

V.  Command thy strength, O God:

     confirm, O God, what thou hast wrought in us.

     From thy temple in Jerusalem,

     kings shall offer presents to thee.

V.  Sing to God, ye kingdoms of the earth:

     sing ye to the Lord: Sing ye to God,

     Who mounteth above the heaven of heavens, to the east.

     Behold he will give to his voice the voice of power:

     Give ye glory to God

V.  (F)or Israel, his magnificence,

     and his power is in the clouds.

     God is wonderful in his saints:

     the God of Israel is he who will give power and strength to his people.   

Gospel Reading:  John 17:11b-19

Holy Father, keep them in thy name whom thou has given me; that they may be one, as we also are. While I was with them, I kept them in thy name. Those whom thou gavest me have I kept; and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition, that the scripture may be fulfilled. And now I come to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy filled in themselves. I have given them thy word, and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world; as I also am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldst take them out of the world, but that thou shouldst keep them from evil. They are not of the world, as I also am not of the world. Sanctify them in truth. Thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for them do I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 6/4/2025.

DR Squared: Tuesday Of The Seventh Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 20:17-27

And sending from Miletus to Ephesus, he called the ancients of the church. And when they were come to him, and were together, he said to them:  You know from the first day that I came into Asia, in what manner I have been with you, for all the time, Serving the Lord with all humility, and with tears, and temptations which befell me by the conspiracies of the Jews; How I have kept back nothing that was profitable to you, but have preached it to you, and taught you publicly, and from house to house, Testifying both to Jews and Gentiles penance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. And now, behold, being bound in the spirit, I go to Jerusalem: not knowing the things which shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost in every city witnesseth to me, saying: That bands and afflictions wait for me at Jerusalem. But I fear none of these things, neither do I count my life more precious than myself, so that I may consummate my course and the ministry of the word which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. And now behold, I know that all you, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to witness this day, that I am clear from the blood of all men;  For I have not spared to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 68 (67):33a; V. 10-11, 20-21

R.  Sing to God, ye kingdoms of the earth:

V.  Thou shalt set aside for thy inheritance a free rain, O God:

     and it was weakened, but thou hast made it perfect.

     In it shall thy animals dwell;

     in thy sweetness, O God, thou hast provided for the poor.

V.  Blessed be the Lord day by day:

     the God of our salvation will make our journey prosperous to us.

     Our God is the God of salvation:

     and of the Lord, of the Lord are the issues from death.

Gospel Reading:  John 17:1-11a

These things Jesus spoke, and lifting up his eyes to heaven, he said: Father, the hour is come, glorify thy Son, that thy Son may glorify thee. As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he may give eternal life to all whom thou hast given him. Now this is eternal life: That they may know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth; I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now glorify thou me, O Father, with thyself, with the glory which I had, before the world was, with thee. I have manifested thy name to the men whom thou hast given me out of the world. Thine they were, and to me thou gavest them; and they have kept thy word. Now they have known, that all things which thou hast given me, are from thee:  Because the words which thou gavest me, I have given to them; and they have received them, and have known in very deed that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them whom thou hast given me: because they are thine:  And all my things are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. And now I am not in the world, and these are in the world, and I come to thee.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 6/3/2025.

DR Squared: Optional Memorial Of Saint John I, Pope, Martyr

First Reading:  Revelation 3:14b, 20-22

These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, who is the beginning of the creation of God:  Behold, I stand at the gate, and knock. If any man shall hear my voice, and open to me the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that shall overcome, I will give to sit with me in my throne: as I also have overcome, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 23:1-3a, 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:  Luke 22:24-30

And there was also a strife amongst them, which of them should seem to be the greater. And he said to them: The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and they that have power over them, are called beneficent. But you not so: but he that is the greater among you, let him become as the younger; and he that is the leader, as he that serveth. For which is greater, he that sitteth at table, or he that serveth? Is it not he that sitteth at table? But I am in the midst of you, as he that serveth:  And you are they who have continued with me in my temptations:  And I dispose to you, as my Father hath disposed to me, a kingdom; That you may eat and drink at my table, in my kingdom: and may sit upon thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Monday Of The Seventh Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 19:1-8

And it came to pass, while Apollo was at Corinth, that Paul having passed through the upper coasts, came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples. And he said to them: Have you received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? But they said to him: We have not so much as heard whether there be a Holy Ghost. And he said: In what then were you baptized? Who said: In John's baptism. Then Paul said: John baptized the people with the baptism of penance, saying: That they should believe in him who was to come after him, that is to say, in Jesus. Having heard these things, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had imposed his hands on them, the Holy Ghost came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve. And entering into the synagogue, he spoke boldly for the space of three months, disputing and exhorting concerning the kingdom of God.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 68 (67):33a; V. 2-3ab, 4-5acd, 6-7ab

R.  Sing to God, ye kingdoms of the earth:

V.  Let God arise, and let his enemies be scattered:

     and let them that hate him flee from before his face. 

     As smoke vanisheth, so let them vanish away:

     as wax melteth before the fire,

V.  And let the just feast, and rejoice before God:

     and be delighted with gladness.

     Sing ye to God, sing a psalm to his name, 

     the Lord is his name.

V.  Who is the father of orphans, and the judge of widows.

     God in his holy place:

     God who maketh men of one manner to dwell in a house:

     Who bringeth out them that were bound in strength; 

Gospel Reading:  John 16:29-33

His disciples say to him: Behold, now thou speakest plainly, and speakest no proverb. Now we know that thou knowest all things, and thou needest not that any man should ask thee. By this we believe that thou camest forth from God. Jesus answered them: Do you now believe? Behold, the hour cometh, and it is now come, that you shall be scattered every man to his own, and shall leave me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. These things I have spoken to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you shall have distress: but have confidence, I have overcome the world.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 6/2/2025.

DR Squared: Seventh Sunday Of Easter (Year A)

First Reading:  Acts 1:12-14

Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount that is called Olivet, which is nigh Jerusalem, within a sabbath day's journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode Peter and John, James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James of Alpheus, and Simon Zelotes, and Jude the brother of James. All these were persevering with one mind in prayer with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 27 (26):13; V. 1, 4, 7-8

R.  I believe to see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.

V.  The Lord is my light and my salvation,

     whom shall I fear?

     The Lord is the protector of my life:

     of whom shall I be afraid?

V.  One thing I have asked of the Lord,

     this will I seek after;

     that I may dwell in the house of the Lord

     all the days of my life.

     That I may see the delight of the Lord,

     and may visit his temple.

V.  Hear, O Lord, my voice, with which I have cried to thee:

     have mercy on me and hear me.

     My heart hath said to thee:

     My face hath sought thee: thy face, O Lord, will I still seek.

Second Reading:  1 Peter 4:13-16

But if you partake of the sufferings of Christ, rejoice that when his glory shall be revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you be reproached for the name of Christ, you shall be blessed: for that which is of the honour, glory, and power of God, and that which is his Spirit, resteth upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or a railer, or a coveter of other men's things. But if as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.

Gospel Reading:  John 17:1-11a

These things Jesus spoke, and lifting up his eyes to heaven, he said: Father, the hour is come, glorify thy Son, that thy Son may glorify thee. As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he may give eternal life to all whom thou hast given him. Now this is eternal life: That they may know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth; I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now glorify thou me, O Father, with thyself, with the glory which I had, before the world was, with thee. I have manifested thy name to the men whom thou hast given me out of the world. Thine they were, and to me thou gavest them; and they have kept thy word. Now they have known, that all things which thou hast given me, are from thee:  Because the words which thou gavest me, I have given to them; and they have received them, and have known in very deed that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them whom thou hast given me: because they are thine:  And all my things are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. And now I am not in the world, and these are in the world, and I come to thee.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Saturday Of The Sixth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 18:23-28

And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went through the country of Galatia and Phrygia, in order, confirming all the disciples. Now a certain Jew, named Apollo, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, came to Ephesus, one mighty in the scriptures. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, spoke, and taught diligently the things that are of Jesus, knowing only the baptism of John. This man therefore began to speak boldly in the synagogue. Whom when Priscilla and Aquila had heard, they took him to them, and expounded to him the way of the Lord more diligently. And whereas he was desirous to go to Achaia, the brethren exhorting, wrote to the disciples to receive him. Who, when he was come, helped them much who had believed. For with much vigour he convinced the Jews openly, shewing by the scriptures, that Jesus is the Christ.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 47 (46):8a; V. 2-3, 8-9, 10

R.  For God is the king of all the earth:

V.  O clap your hands, all ye nations:

     shout unto God with the voice of Joy,

     For the Lord is high, terrible:

     a great king over all the earth.

V.  For God is the king of all the earth:

     sing ye wisely.

     God shall reign over the nations:

     God sitteth on his holy throne.

V.  The princes of the people are gathered together,

     with the God of Abraham:

     for the strong gods of the earth

     are exceedingly exalted.

Gospel Reading:  John 16:23b-28

Amen, amen I say to you: if you ask the Father any thing in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto you have not asked any thing in my name. Ask, and you shall receive; that your joy may be full. These things I have spoken to you in proverbs. The hour cometh, when I will no more speak to you in proverbs, but will shew you plainly of the Father. In that day you shall ask in my name; and I say not to you, that I will ask the Father for you:  For the Father himself loveth you, because you have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again I leave the world, and I go to the Father.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Optional Memorial Saint Isidore, Bishop And Doctor Of The Church

First Reading:  2 Corinthians 4:1-2, 5-7

Therefore, seeing we have this ministration, according as we have obtained mercy, we faint not; But we renounce the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor adulterating the word of God; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience, in the sight of God. For we preach not ourselves, but Jesus Christ our Lord; and ourselves your servants through Jesus. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of Christ Jesus. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency may be of the power of God, and not of us.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 37 (36):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:  Luke 6:43-45

For there is no good tree that bringeth forth evil fruit; nor an evil tree that bringeth forth good fruit. For every tree is known by its fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns; nor from a bramble bush do they gather the grape. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth that which is evil. For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 4/4/2025.

DR Squared: Friday Of The Sixth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 18:9-18

And the Lord said to Paul in the night, by a vision: Do not fear, but speak; and hold not thy peace, Because I am with thee: and no man shall set upon thee, to hurt thee; for I have much people in this city. And he stayed there a year and six months, teaching among them the word of God. But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, Saying: This man persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law. And when Paul was beginning to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews: If it were some matter of injustice, or an heinous deed, O Jews, I should with reason bear with you. But if they be questions of word and names, and of your law, look you to it: I will not be judge of such things. And he drove them from the judgment seat. And all laying hold on Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, beat him before the judgment seat; and Gallio cared for none of those things. But Paul, when he had stayed yet many days, taking his leave of the brethren, sailed thence into Syria (and with him Priscilla and Aquila), having shorn his head in Cenchrae: for he had a vow.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 47 (46):8a; V. 2-3, 4-5, 6-7

R.  For God is the king of all the earth:

V.  O clap your hands, all ye nations:

     shout unto God with the voice of Joy, 

     For the Lord is high, terrible:

     a great king over all the earth.

V.  He hath subdued the people under us;

     and the nations under our feet.

     He hath chosen for us his inheritance

     the beauty of Jacob which he hath loved.

V.  God is ascended with jubilee,

     and the Lord with the sound of trumpet.

     Sing praises to our God, sing ye:

    sing praises to our king, sing ye.

Gospel Reading:  John 16:20-23

Amen, amen I say to you, that you shall lament and weep, but the world shall rejoice; and you shall be made sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. A woman, when she is in labour, hath sorrow, because her hour is come; but when she hath brought forth the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. So also you now indeed have sorrow; but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice; and your joy no man shall take from you. And in that day you shall not ask me any thing. Amen, amen I say to you: if you ask the Father any thing in my name, he will give it you.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/30/2025.

DR Squared: Feast Of Saint Matthias, Apostle

First Reading:  Acts 1:15-17, 20-26

In those days Peter rising up in the midst of the brethren, said: (now the number of persons together was about an hundred and twenty:)  Men, brethren, the scripture must needs be fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was the leader of them that apprehended Jesus:  Who was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. For it is written in the book of Psalms: Let their habitation become desolate, and let there be none to dwell therein. And his bishopric let another take. Wherefore of these men who have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus came in and went out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, until the day wherein he was taken up from us, one of these must be made a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph, called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And praying, they said: Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, To take the place of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas hath by transgression fallen, that he might go to his own place. And they gave them lots, and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. 

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 113 (112):8; V. 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

R.  That he may place him with princes, with the princes of his people. 

V.  Praise the Lord, ye children:

     praise ye the name of the Lord.

     Blessed be the name of the Lord,

     from henceforth now and for ever.

V.  From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same,

     the name of the Lord is worthy of praise.

     The Lord is high above all nations;

     and his glory above the heavens.

V.  Who is as the Lord our God,

     who dwelleth on high:

     And looketh down on the low things

     in heaven and in earth?

V.  Raising up the needy from the earth,

     and lifting up the poor out of the dunghill:

     That he may place him with princes,

     with the princes of his people.

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 readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/14/2025.

DR Squared: Solemnity Of The Ascension Of The Lord (Year A)

First Reading:  Acts 1:1-11

The former treatise I made, O Theophilus, of all things which Jesus began to do and to teach, Until the day on which, giving commandments by the Holy Ghost to the apostles whom he had chosen, he was taken up. To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion, by many proofs, for forty days appearing to them, and speaking of the kingdom of God. And eating together with them, he commanded them, that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but should wait for the promise of the Father, which you have heard (saith he) by my mouth. For John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost, not many days hence. They therefore who were come together, asked him, saying: Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? But he said to them: It is not for you to know the times or moments, which the Father hath put in his own power:  But you shall receive the power of the Holy Ghost coming upon you, and you shall be witnesses unto me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the uttermost part of the earth. And when he had said these things, while they looked on, he was raised up: and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they were beholding him going up to heaven, behold two men stood by them in white garments. Who also said: Ye men of Galilee, why stand you looking up to heaven? This Jesus who is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come, as you have seen him going into heaven. 

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 47 (46):6; V. 2-3, 6-7, 8-9

R.  God is ascended with jubilee, and the Lord with the sound of trumpet.

V.  O clap your hands, all ye nations:

     shout unto God with the voice of Joy, 

     For the Lord is high, terrible:

     a great king over all the earth.

V.  God is ascended with jubilee,

     and the Lord with the sound of trumpet.

     Sing praises to our God, sing ye:

     sing praises to our king, sing ye.

V.  For God is the king of all the earth:

     sing ye wisely.

     God shall reign over the nations:

     God sitteth on his holy throne.

Second Reading:  Ephesians 1:17-23

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and of revelation, in the knowledge of him:  The eyes of your heart enlightened, that you may know what the hope is of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power towards us, who believe according to the operation of the might of his power, Which he wrought in Christ, raising him up from the dead, and setting him on his right hand in the heavenly places. Above all principality, and power, and virtue, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. And he hath subjected all things under his feet, and hath made him head over all the church, Which is his body, and the fulness of him who is filled all in all.

Gospel Reading:  Matthew 28:16-20

And the eleven disciples went into Galilee, unto the mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And seeing him they adored: but some doubted. And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Going therefore, teach ye all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Optional Memorial Of Our Lady Of Fatima

First Reading:  Isaiah 61:9-11

And they shall know their seed among the Gentiles, and their offspring in the midst of peoples: all that shall see them, shall know them, that these are the seed which the Lord hath blessed. I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, and my soul shall be joyful in my God: for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation: and with the robe of justice he hath covered me, as a bridegroom decked with a crown, and as a bride adorned with her jewels. For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth her seed to shoot forth: so shall the Lord God make justice to spring forth, and praise before all the nations.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 45:11a; V. 11-12, 14-15, 16-17

R.  Hearken, O daughter, and see, and incline thy ear:

V.  Hearken, O daughter, and see, and incline thy ear:

     and forget thy people and thy father's house.

     And the king shall greatly desire thy beauty;

     for he is the Lord thy God, and him they shall adore.

V.  All the glory of the king's daughter is within in golden borders,

     Clothed round about with varieties.

     After her shall virgins be brought to the king:

     her neighbours shall be brought to thee.

V.  They shall be brought with gladness and rejoicing:

     they shall be brought into the temple of the king.

     Instead of thy fathers, sons are born to thee:

     thou shalt make them princes over all the earth. 

Gospel Reading:  Luke 11:27-28

And it came to pass, as he spoke these things, a certain woman from the crowd, lifting up her voice, said to him: Blessed is the womb that bore thee, and the paps that gave thee suck. But he said: Yea rather, blessed are they who hear the word of God, and keep it.

The reading from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/13/2025.

DR Squared: Wednesday Of The Sixth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 17:15, 22—18:1

And they that conducted Paul, brought him as far as Athens; and receiving a commandment from him to Silas and Timothy, that they should come to him with all speed, they departed. But Paul standing in the midst of the Areopagus, said: Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are too superstitious. For passing by, and seeing your idols, I found an altar also, on which was written: To the unknown God. What therefore you worship, without knowing it, that I preach to you:  God, who made the world, and all things therein; he, being Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is he served with men's hands, as though he needed any thing; seeing it is he who giveth to all life, and breath, and all things:  And hath made of one, all mankind, to dwell upon the whole face of the earth, determining appointed times, and the limits of their habitation. That they should seek God, if happily they may feel after him or find him, although he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and are; as some also of your own poets said: For we are also his offspring. Being therefore the offspring of God, we must not suppose the divinity to be like unto gold, or silver, or stone, the graving of art, and device of man. And God indeed having winked at the times of this ignorance, now declareth unto men, that all should everywhere do penance. Because he hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world in equity, by the man whom he hath appointed; giving faith to all, by raising him up from the dead. And when they had heard of the resurrection of the dead, some indeed mocked, but others said: We will hear thee again concerning this matter. So Paul went out from among them. But certain men adhering to him, did believe; among whom was also Dionysius, the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them. After these things, departing from Athens, he came to Corinth.

Responsorial Psalm:  cf, Isaiah 6:3b (?); V. Psalm 148:1-2, 11-12ab, 12c-13, 14

R.  (Heaven and) all the earth is full of his glory.

V.  Praise ye the Lord from the heavens:

     praise ye him in the high places.

     Praise ye him, all his angels:

     praise ye him, all his hosts.

V.  Kings of the earth and all people:

     princes and all judges of the earth:

     Young men and maidens:

     let the old with the younger,

V,  (P)raise the name of the Lord.

     For his name alone is exalted.

     The praise of him is above heaven and earth:

V.  (A)nd he hath exalted the horn of his people.

     A hymn to all his saints:

     to the children of Israel, a people approaching to him. Alleluia.

Gospel Reading:  John 16:12-15

I have yet many things to say to you: but you cannot bear them now. But when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will teach you all truth. For he shall not speak of himself; but what things soever he shall hear, he shall speak; and the things that are to come, he shall shew you. He shall glorify me; because he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it to you. All things whatsoever the Father hath, are mine. Therefore I said, that he shall receive of mine, and shew it to you.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/28/2025,

DR Squared: Tuesday Of The Sixth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 16:22-34

And the people ran together against them; and the magistrates rending off their clothes, commanded them to be beaten with rods. And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the gaoler to keep them diligently. Who having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. And at midnight, Paul and Silas praying, praised God. And they that were in prison, heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and the bands of all were loosed. And the keeper of the prison, awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the doors of the prison open, drawing his sword, would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying: Do thyself no harm, for we all are here. Then calling for a light, he went in, and trembling, fell down at the feet of Paul and Silas. And bringing them out, he said: Masters, what must I do, that I may be saved? But they said: Believe in the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they preached the word of the Lord to him and to all that were in his house. And he, taking them the same hour of the night, washed their stripes, and himself was baptized, and all his house immediately. And when he had brought them into his own house, he laid the table for them, and rejoiced with all his house, believing God.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 138 (137):7c; V. 1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8

R.  (A)nd thy right hand hath saved me.

V.  I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart:

     for thou hast heard the words of my mouth.

     I will sing praise to thee in the sight of the angels:

     I will worship towards thy holy temple,

     and I will give glory to thy name.

V,  For thy mercy, and for thy truth:

     for thou hast magnified thy holy name above all.

     In what day soever I shall call upon thee, hear me:

     thou shall multiply strength in my soul.

V.  (A)nd thy right hand hath saved me.

     The Lord will repay for me:

     thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever:

     O despise not the work of thy hands. 

Gospel Reading:  John 16:5-11

But I told you not these things from the beginning, because I was with you. And now I go to him that sent me, and none of you asketh me: Whither goest thou? But because I have spoken these things to you, sorrow hath filled your heart. But I tell you the truth: it is expedient to you that I go: for if I go not, the Paraclete will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. And when he is come, he will convict the world of sin, and of justice, and of judgment. Of sin: because they believed not in me. And of justice: because I go to the Father; and you shall see me no longer. And of judgment: because the prince of this world is already judged.

The reading from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/27/2025.

DR Squared: Monday Of The Sixth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 16:11-15

And sailing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the day following to Neapolis;  And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of part of Macedonia, a colony. And we were in this city some days conferring together. And upon the sabbath day, we went forth without the gate by a river side, where it seemed that there was prayer; and sitting down, we spoke to the women that were assembled. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, one that worshipped God, did hear: whose heart the Lord opened to attend to those things which were said by Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying: If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 149:4a; V. 1b-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 15:26—16:4a

But when the Paraclete cometh, whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father, he shall give testimony of me. And you shall give testimony, because you are with me from the beginning. These things have I spoken to you, that you may not be scandalized. They will put you out of the synagogues: yea, the hour cometh, that whosoever killeth you, will think that he doth a service to God. And these things will they do to you; because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things I have told you, that when the hour shall come, you may remember that I told you of them.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/26/2025.

DR Squared: Sixth Sunday Of Easter (Year A)

First Reading:  Acts 8:5-8, 14-17

And Philip going down to the city of Samaria, preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord were attentive to those things which were said by Philip, hearing, and seeing the miracles which he did. For many of them who had unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, went out. And many, taken with the palsy, and that were lame, were healed. Now when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, had heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John. Who, when they were come, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost. For he was not as yet come upon any of them; but they were only baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands upon them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 66 (65):1; V. 1-3a, 4-5, 6-7a, 16, 20

R.  Shout with joy to God, all the earth,

V.  Shout with joy to God, all the earth,

Sing ye a psalm to his name;

give glory to his praise. 

Say unto God, How terrible are thy works, O Lord!

V.  Let all the earth adore thee, and sing to thee:

let it sing a psalm to thy name.

Come and see the works of God;

who is terrible in his counsels over the sons of men.

V.  Who turneth the sea into dry land,

in the river they shall pass on foot:

there shall we rejoice in him.

Who by his power ruleth for ever:

V.  Come and hear, all ye that fear God,

and I will tell you what great things he hath done for my soul.

Blessed be God, who hath not turned away my prayer,

nor his mercy from me. 

Second Reading:  1 Peter 3:15-18

But sanctify the Lord Christ in your hearts, being ready always to satisfy every one that asketh you a reason of that hope which is in you. But with modesty and fear, having a good conscience: that whereas they speak evil of you, they may be ashamed who falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better doing well (if such be the will of God) to suffer, than doing ill. Because Christ also died once for our sins, the just for the unjust: that he might offer us to God, being put to death indeed in the flesh, but enlivened in the spirit,

Gospel Reading:  John 14:15-21

If you love me, keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he shall give you another Paraclete, that he may abide with you for ever. The spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, nor knoweth him: but you shall know him; because he shall abide with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you orphans, I will come to you. Yet a little while: and the world seeth me no more. But you see me: because I live, and you shall live. In that day you shall know, that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them; he it is that loveth me. And he that loveth me, shall be loved of my Father: and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Saturday Of The Fifth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 16:1-10

And he came to Derbe and Lystra. And behold, there was a certain disciple there named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman that believed; but his father was a Gentile. To this man the brethren that were in Lystra and Iconium, gave a good testimony. Him Paul would have to go along with him: and taking him he circumcised him, because of the Jews who were in those places. For they all knew that his father was a Gentile. And as they passed through the cities, they delivered unto them the decrees for to keep, that were decreed by the apostles and ancients who were at Jerusalem. And the churches were confirmed in faith, and increased in number daily. And when they had passed through Phrygia, and the country of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia. And when they were come into Mysia, they attempted to go into Bythynia, and the Spirit of Jesus suffered them not. And when they had passed through Mysia, they went down to Troas. And a vision was shewed to Paul in the night, which was a man of Macedonia standing and beseeching him, and saying: Pass over into Macedonia, and help us. And as soon as he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go into Macedonia, being assured that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 100 (99):1b V. 1b-2, 3, 5

R.  Sing joyfully to God, all the earth:

V.  Sing joyfully to God, all the earth:

     serve ye the Lord with gladness.

     Come in before his presence with exceeding great joy.

V.  Know ye that the Lord he is God:

     he made us, and not we ourselves.

     We are his people and the sheep of his pasture.

V.  For the Lord is sweet,

     his mercy endureth for ever,

     and his truth to generation and generation.

Gospel Reading:  John 15:18-21

If the world hate you, know ye, that it hath hated me before you. If you had been of the world, the world would love its own: but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember my word that I said to you: The servant is not greater than his master. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you: if they have kept my word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for my name's sake: because they know not him who sent me.

The reading from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/24/2025.

DR Squared: Friday Of The Fifth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 15:22-31

Then it pleased the apostles and ancients, with the whole church, to choose men of their own company, and to send to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas, who was surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren. Writing by their hands: The apostles and ancients, brethren, to the brethren of the Gentiles that are at Antioch, and in Syria and Cilicia, greeting. Forasmuch as we have heard, that some going out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls; to whom we gave no commandment:  It hath seemed good to us, being assembled together, to choose out men, and to send them unto you, with our well beloved Barnabas and Paul:  Men that have given their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who themselves also will, by word of mouth, tell you the same things. For it hath seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us, to lay no further burden upon you than these necessary things:  That you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication; from which things keeping yourselves, you shall do well. Fare ye well. They therefore being dismissed, went down to Antioch; and gathering together the multitude, delivered the epistle. Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 57 (56):10a; V. 8-9, 10 and 12

R.  I will give praise to thee, O Lord, among the people:

V.  My heart is ready, O God, my heart is ready:

     I will Sing, and rehearse a psalm.

     Arise, O my glory, arise psaltery and harp:

     I will arise early.

V.  I will give praise to thee, O Lord, among the people:

     I will sing a psalm to thee among the nations.

     Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens:

     and thy glory above all the earth.   

Gospel Reading:  John 15:12-17

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 readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/23/2025.

DR Squared: Thursday Of The Fifth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 15:7-21

And when there had been much disputing, Peter, rising up, said to them: Men, brethren, you know, that in former days God made choice among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, who knoweth the hearts, gave testimony, giving unto them the Holy Ghost, as well as to us; And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.  Now therefore, why tempt you God to put a yoke upon the necks of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? But by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we believe to be saved, in like manner as they also.  And all the multitude held their peace; and they heard Barnabas and Paul telling what great signs and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying: Men, brethren, hear me. Simon hath related how God first visited to take of the Gentiles a people to his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets, as it is written:  After these things I will return, and will rebuild the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and the ruins thereof I will rebuild, and I will set it up:  That the residue of men may seek after the Lord, and all nations upon whom my name is invoked, saith the Lord, who doth these things. To the Lord was his own work known from the beginning of the world. For which cause I judge that they, who from among the Gentiles are converted to God, are not to be disquieted. But that we write unto them, that they refrain themselves from the pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him in the synagogues, where he is read every sabbath. 

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 96 (95):3; V. 1-2a, 2b-3, 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.  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.

Gospel Reading:  John 15:9-11

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.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/22/2025.

DR Squared: Wednesday Of The Fifth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 15:1-6

And some coming down from Judea, taught the brethren: That except you be circumcised after the manner of Moses, you cannot be saved. And when Paul and Barnabas had no small contest with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of the other side, should go up to the apostles and priests to Jerusalem about this question. They therefore being brought on their way by the church, passed through Phenice, and Samaria, relating the conversion of the Gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church, and by the apostles and ancients, declaring how great things God had done with them. But there arose some of the sect of the Pharisees that believed, saying: They must be circumcised, and be commanded to observe the law of Moses. And the apostles and ancients assembled to consider of this matter.

Responsorial Psalm:  cf. Psalm 122 (121):1; V. 1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5

R.  I rejoiced at the things that were said to me: We shall go into the house of the Lord.

V.  I rejoiced at the things that were said to me:

     We shall go into the house of the Lord.

     Our feet were standing in thy courts,

     O Jerusalem.

V.  Jerusalem, which is built as a city,

     which is compact together.

     For thither did the tribes go up,

     the tribes of the Lord:

V.  (T)he testimony of Israel,

     to praise the name of the Lord.

     Because their seats have sat in judgment,

     seats upon the house of David.

Gospel Reading:  John 15:1-8

I am the true vine; and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me, that beareth not fruit, he will take away: and every one that beareth fruit, he will purge it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now you are clean by reason of the word, which I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abide in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine: you the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing. If any one abide not in me, he shall be cast forth as a branch, and shall wither, and they shall gather him up, and cast him into the fire, and he burneth. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you shall ask whatever you will, and it shall be done unto you. In this is my Father glorified; that you bring forth very much fruit, and become my disciples.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/21/2025

DR Squared: Tuesday Of The Fifth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 14:19-28 (DR 18-27)

Now there came thither certain Jews from Antioch, and Iconium: and persuading the multitude, and stoning Paul, drew him out of the city, thinking him to be dead. But as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up and entered into the city, and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and to Antioch:  Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith: and that through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained to them priests in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, in whom they believed. And passing through Pisidia, they came into Pamphylia. And having spoken the word of the Lord in Perge, they went down into Attalia:  And thence they sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been delivered to the grace of God, unto the work which they accomplished. And when they were come, and had assembled the church, they related what great things God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. And they abode no small time with the disciples.

Responsorial Psalm: cf. Psalm 145 (144):12; V. 10-11, 12-13ab, 21

R.  To make thy might known to the sons of men: and the glory of the magnificence of thy        kingdom.

V.  Let all thy works, O lord, praise thee:

     and let thy saints bless thee.

     They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom:

     and shall tell of thy power:

V.  To make thy might known to the sons of men:

     and the glory of the magnificence of thy kingdom.

     Thy kingdom is a kingdom of all ages:

     and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.

V.  My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord:

     and let all flesh bless thy holy name for ever; yea, for ever and ever. 

Gospel Reading:  John 14:27-31a

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, do I give unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. You have heard that I said to you: I go away, and I come unto you. If you loved me, you would indeed be glad, because I go to the Father: for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it comes to pass: that when it shall come to pass, you may believe. I will not now speak many things with you. For the prince of this world cometh, and in me he hath not any thing. But that the world may know, that I love the Father: and as the Father hath given me commandment, so do I:

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/20/2025.

DR Squared: Monday Of The Fifth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 14:5-18

And when there was an assault made by the Gentiles and the Jews with their rulers, to use them contumeliously, and to stone them:  They understanding it, fled to Lystra, and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the whole country round about, and were there preaching the gospel. And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked. This same heard Paul speaking. Who looking upon him, and seeing that he had faith to be healed, Said with a loud voice: Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped up, and walked. And when the multitudes had seen what Paul had done, they lifted up their voice in the Lycaonian tongue, saying: The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men; And they called Barnabas, Jupiter: but Paul, Mercury; because he was chief speaker. The priest also of Jupiter that was before the city, bringing oxen and garlands before the gate, would have offered sacrifice with the people. Which, when the apostles Barnabas and Paul had heard, rending their clothes, they leaped out among the people, crying, And saying: Ye men, why do ye these things? We also are mortals, men like unto you, preaching to you to be converted from these vain things, to the living God, who made the heaven, and the earth, and the sea, and all things that are in them:  Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless he left not himself without testimony, doing good from heaven, giving rains and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. And speaking these things, they scarce restrained the people from sacrificing to them. Now there came thither certain Jews from Antioch, and Iconium: and persuading the multitude, and stoning Paul, drew him out of the city, thinking him to be dead. But as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up and entered into the city, and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 115:1ab; V. 1-2, 3-4, 15-16 (DR Psalm 113:9; V. 9-10, 11-12, 23-24)

R.  Not to us, O Lord, not to us; but to thy name give glory.

V.   Not to us, O Lord, not to us;

      but to thy name give glory.

      For thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake:

      lest the gentiles should say: Where is their God?

V.  But our God is in heaven:

     he hath done all things whatsoever he would.

     The idols of the gentiles are silver and gold,

     the works of the hands of men.

V.  Blessed be you of the Lord,

     who made heaven and earth.

     The heaven of heaven is the Lord's:

     but the earth he has given to the children of men.    

Gospel Reading:  John 14:21-26

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them; he it is that loveth me. And he that loveth me, shall be loved of my Father: and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith to him, not the Iscariot: Lord, how is it, that thou wilt manifest thyself to us, and not to the world? Jesus answered, and said to him: If any one love me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and will make our abode with him. He that loveth me not, keepeth not my words. And the word which you have heard, is not mine; but the Father's who sent me. These things have I spoken to you, abiding with you. But the Paraclete, the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and bring all things to your mind, whatsoever I shall have said to you.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/19/2025.

DR Squared: Fifth Sunday Of Easter (Year A)

First Reading:  Acts 6:1-7

And in those days, the number of the disciples increasing, there arose a murmuring of the Greeks against the Hebrews, for that their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Then the twelve calling together the multitude of the disciples, said: It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. And the saying was liked by all the multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith, and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles; and they praying, imposed hands upon them. And the word of the Lord increased; and the number of the disciples was multiplied in Jerusalem exceedingly: a great multitude also of the priests obeyed the faith.

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 33 (32):22; V. 1-2, 4-5, 18-19

R.  Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, as we have hoped in thee.

V.  Rejoice in the Lord, O ye just:

     praise becometh the upright.

     Give praise to the Lord on the harp;

     sing to him with the psaltery, the instrument of ten strings.

V.  For the word of the Lord is right,

     and all his works are done with faithfulness.

     He loveth mercy and judgment;

     the earth is full of the mercy of the Lord.

V.  Behold the eyes of the Lord are on them that fear him:

     and on them that hope in his mercy.

     To deliver their souls from death;

     and feed them in famine.

Second Reading:  1 Peter 2:4-9

Unto whom coming, as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen and made honourable by God:  Be you also as living stones built up, a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore it is said in the scripture: Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious. And he that shall believe in him, shall not be confounded. To you therefore that believe, he is honour: but to them that believe not, the stone which the builders rejected, the same is made the head of the corner:  And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of scandal, to them who stumble at the word, neither do believe, whereunto also they are set. But you are a chosen generation, a kingly priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people: that you may declare his virtues, who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Gospel Reading:  John 14:1-12

Let not your heart be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house there are many mansions. If not, I would have told you: because I go to prepare a place for you. And if I shall go, and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will take you to myself; that where I am, you also may be. And whither I go you know, and the way you know. Thomas saith to him: Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith to him: I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No man cometh to the Father, but by me. If you had known me, you would without doubt have known my Father also: and from henceforth you shall know him, and you have seen him. Philip saith to him: Lord, shew us the Father, and it is enough for us. Jesus saith to him: Have I been so long a time with you; and have you not known me? Philip, he that seeth me seeth the Father also. How sayest thou, shew us the Father? Do you not believe, that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak to you, I speak not of myself. But the Father who abideth in me, he doth the works. Believe you not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? Otherwise believe for the very works' sake. Amen, amen I say to you, he that believeth in me, the works that I do, he also shall do; and greater than these shall he do.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

DR Squared: Memorial Of Saint Athanasius, Bishop And Doctor Of The Church

First Reading:  1 John 5:1-5

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. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 37 (36):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:  Matthew 10:22-25

And you shall be hated by all men for my name's sake: but he that shall persevere unto the end, he shall be saved. And when they shall persecute you in this city, flee into another. Amen I say to you, you shall not finish all the cities of Israel, till the Son of man come. The disciple is not above the master, nor the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the goodman of the house Beelzebub, how much more them of his household?

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted. 5/2/2025.

DR Squared: Saturday Of The Fourth Week Of Easter

First Reading:  Acts 13:44-52

But the next sabbath day, the whole city almost came together, to hear the word of God. And the Jews seeing the multitudes, were filled with envy, and contradicted those things which were said by Paul, blaspheming. Then Paul and Barnabas said boldly: To you it behoved us first to speak the word of God: but because you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold we turn to the Gentiles. For so the Lord hath commanded us: I have set thee to be the light of the Gentiles; that thou mayest be for salvation unto the utmost part of the earth. And the Gentiles hearing it, were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to life everlasting, believed. And the word of the Lord was published throughout the whole country. But the Jews stirred up religious and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas: and cast them out of their coasts. But they, shaking off the dust of their feet against them, came to Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Ghost.

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

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

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.  

Gospel Reading:  John 14:7-14

If you had known me, you would without doubt have known my Father also: and from henceforth you shall know him, and you have seen him. Philip saith to him: Lord, shew us the Father, and it is enough for us. Jesus saith to him: Have I been so long a time with you; and have you not known me? Philip, he that seeth me seeth the Father also. How sayest thou, shew us the Father? Do you not believe, that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak to you, I speak not of myself. But the Father who abideth in me, he doth the works. Believe you not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? Otherwise believe for the very works' sake. Amen, amen I say to you, he that believeth in me, the works that I do, he also shall do; and greater than these shall he do. Because I go to the Father: and whatsoever you shall ask the Father in my name, that will I do: that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you shall ask me any thing in my name, that I will do.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/17/2025.

DR Squared: Optional Memorial Of Saint Joseph The Worker

First Reading:  Genesis 1:26b-2:3

And he said: Let us make man to our image and likeness: and let him have dominion over the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the air, and the beasts, and the whole earth, and every creeping creature that moveth upon the earth. And God created man to his own image: to the image of God he created him: male and female he created them. And God blessed them, saying: Increase and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it, and rule over the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the air, and all living creatures that move upon the earth. And God said: Behold I have given you every herb bearing seed upon the earth, and all trees that have in themselves seed of their own kind, to be your meat:  And to all beasts of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to all that move upon the earth, and wherein there is life, that they may have to feed upon. And it was so done. And God saw all the things that he had made, and they were very good. And the evening and morning were the sixth day. So the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the furniture of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made: and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done. And he blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. 

OR

First Reading:  Colossians 3:14-15, 17, 23-24

But above all these things have charity, which is the bond of perfection:  And let the peace of Christ rejoice in your hearts, wherein also you are called in one body: and be ye thankful. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Whatsoever you do, do it from the heart, as to the Lord, and not to men:  Knowing that you shall receive of the Lord the reward of inheritance. Serve ye the Lord Christ. 

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 90 (89):17b; V. 2, 3-4, 12-13, 14 and 16

R.  (D)irect thou the works of our hands over us;

V.  Before the mountains were made,

     or the earth and the world was formed;

     from eternity and to eternity thou art God.

V.  Turn not man away to be brought low:

     and thou hast said: Be converted, O ye sons of men.

     For a thousand years in thy sight are as yesterday, which is past.

     And as a watch in the night,

V.  Can number thy wrath? So make thy right hand known:

     and men learned in heart, in wisdom.

     Return, O Lord, how long?

     and be entreated in favour of thy servants.

V.  We are filled in the morning with thy mercy:

     and we have rejoiced, and are delighted all our days.

     Look upon thy servants and upon their works:

     and direct their children.   

Gospel Reading:  Matthew 13:54-58

And coming into his own country, he taught them in their synagogues, so that they wondered and said: How came this man by this wisdom and miracles? Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary, and his brethren James, and Joseph, and Simon, and Jude:   And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence therefore hath he all these things? And they were scandalized in his regard. But Jesus said to them: A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And he wrought not many miracles there, because of their unbelief.

The readings from the USCCB can be found here.

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Originally posted 5/1/2025