Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint John Neumann, Bishop
Readings: 1 Jn 4:11-18; PS 72:1-2, 10, 12-13; Mk 6:45-52
Notes: So often we do not understand the divine actions. The apostles didn’t understand the feeding of the 5,000 – a pretty significant event! They didn’t understand Jesus walking on water nor the calming of the seas – pretty big deal there too!
They were simply astounded.
I will repeat this quote as often as my memory will allow. Some problems go beyond logic and planning. They are matters of faith. One must act with trust the Lord when he acts because he acts rightly and mercifully.
Let him love you.
Reflection
Neumann took seriously our Lord’s words, “Go and teach all nations.” From Christ he received his instructions and the power to carry them out. For Christ does not give a mission without supplying the means to accomplish it. The Father’s gift in Christ to John Neumann was his exceptional organizing ability, which he used to spread the Good News. Today the Church is in dire need of men and women to continue in our times the teaching of the Good News. The obstacles and inconveniences are real and costly. Yet when Christians approach Christ, he supplies the necessary talents to answer today’s needs. The Spirit of Christ continues his work through the instrumentality of generous Christians.
From: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-neumann
First reading
Beloved, if God so loved us,
we also must love one another.
No one has ever seen God.
Yet, if we love one another, God remains in us,
and his love is brought to perfection in us.
Responsorial Psalm
Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
Alleluia Verse
Glory to you, O Christ, proclaimed to the Gentiles.
Glory to you, O Christ, believed in throughout the world.
Gospel Portion
They were completely astounded.
They had not understood the incident of the loaves.
On the contrary, their hearts were hardened.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 