Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint John Vianney, Priest
Readings: Jer 31:31-34; Ps 51:12-13, 14-15, 18-19; Mt 16:13-23
Notes: In today’s gospel portion the Church is given authority of Reconciliation to Bind the Wounds and Loosen the Fetters.
Saint John Vianney, Priest (also from Franciscanmedia)
His work as a confessor is John Vianney’s most remarkable accomplishment. In the winter months he was to spend 11 to 12 hours daily reconciling people with God. In the summer months this time was increased to 16 hours. Unless a man was dedicated to his vision of a priestly vocation, he could not have endured this giving of self day after day.
Reflection
Indifference toward religion, coupled with a love for material comfort, seem to be common signs of our times. A person from another planet observing us would not likely judge us to be pilgrim people, on our way to somewhere else. John Vianney on the other hand, was a man on a journey, with his goal before him at all times. From:
https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-vianney
First reading
I will place my law within them, and write it upon their hearts;
I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Responsorial Psalm
Create a clean heart in me, O God.
Psalm 51 is a psalm of confession and placing ourselves directly before a merciful God.
We pray this psalm at least once per week.
A clean heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew within me.
Cast me not out from your presence,
and your Holy Spirit take not from me.
Give me back the joy of your salvation,
and a willing spirit sustain in me.
I will teach transgressors your ways,
and sinners shall return to you.
For you are not pleased with sacrifices;
should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it.
My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit;
a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.
Alleluia Verse
You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church,
and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.
Gospel Portion
And so I say to you, you are Peter,
and upon this rock I will build my Church,
and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.
I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven.
Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven;
and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
Come and receive the gift of Reconciliation.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 