Embracing the Outcast

MORNING MESSAGE

Good Morning! Welcome to the weekend! In the light of this new day, let us remember the importance of embracing our true selves in our faith journey. Each of us has a unique purpose in God's plan, and by staying true to ourselves, we can better fulfill that divine calling. May today be a reminder to live authentically and strive for spiritual growth, allowing God's grace to guide us on this path.

- Catholic Captions Team

DAILY MASS READINGS
Readings from Today’s Holy Mass

Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 1 Samuel 9:1-4, 17-19; 10:1
Responsorial: Psalms 21:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
Alleluia: Luke 4:18
Gospel Reading: Mark 2:13-17

REFLECTIONS
Gospel Reflection on Mark 2:13-17

In Mark 2:13-17, Jesus encounters Levi, also known as Matthew, a tax collector, and extends an invitation to follow Him. Levi responds by hosting a banquet at his house, where many tax collectors and sinners gather. This act of inclusion sparks criticism from the scribes and Pharisees, who question Jesus' association with those considered outcasts. Jesus responds, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."

This passage invites us to reflect on the profound message of Jesus' compassion and inclusivity. He reaches out to those society often marginalizes, embodying His mission to call sinners to repentance.

As we contemplate this passage, may we draw inspiration from Jesus' example of compassion and acceptance. Let us recognize the transformative power of extending love and mercy to those in need. Acknowledging that Jesus calls us to reach out to the marginalized, may we lead them toward transformation through His grace. Just as Levi left everything to follow Jesus, may we also respond to His call with open hearts and lives dedicated to His mission of reconciliation and redemption..

CATHOLIC NEWS
Headlines

✝️ Pope Encourages Catholic Communicators to Share Gospel with Love
Pope Francis welcomed a group of Catholic communicators from France who had just completed a spiritual formation retreat in Rome. In his address, the Pope emphasized the importance of their mission in a hyperconnected world and encouraged them to communicate the Gospel with an open heart and creativity. He stressed the need to focus on Christian testimony, have the courage to share the joy of the Gospel even in challenging situations, and broaden their gaze with love to unite rather than divide.

🇺🇦 Pope Francis Strongly Condemns Russian Missile Attacks on Ukraine
Pope Francis has penned a letter to Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of Kyiv-Halyč, head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, vehemently denouncing the recent Russian missile attacks on Ukraine. In the letter, the Pope expressed his deep sorrow over the attacks, mourned the loss of lives, and emphasized the urgent need to address the ongoing conflict, preventing it from becoming a "forgotten" war. He underscored the importance of international efforts to seek peaceful solutions and reiterated his commitment to making appeals for the cessation of hostilities and the pursuit of a just peace in Ukraine.

✝️ Pope Encourages Youth to Embrace Restlessness and Take Risks
Pope Francis, addressing a gathering organized by the Toniolo Young Professional Association, emphasized the importance of avoiding "short thought" and encouraged young people to stay restless, take risks, and never lose their sense of wonder. He urged them to dream, embrace restlessness in their hearts, take bold risks, and maintain their capacity for astonishment. The Pope emphasized that life is meant to be given away rather than merely managed, promoting a spirit of selflessness and service to others.

SAINTLY STORIES
Saint Hilary of Poitiers: Defender of the Faith

Saint Hilary of Poitiers, a pivotal figure in the early Christian Church, is celebrated for his unwavering defense of Christian orthodoxy against Arianism. Born around 310 A.D. in Poitiers, France, into a pagan family, he experienced a profound conversion to Christianity in his adult years. His intellectual acumen and deep faith led him to become the bishop of Poitiers, where he emerged as a formidable opponent of Arianism, a heresy that challenged the divinity of Christ.

Hilary's theological contributions are substantial, most notably his treatise "De Trinitate" (On the Trinity), where he eloquently defended the doctrine of the Trinity and the true nature of Christ's divinity. His efforts in upholding the Nicene Creed, against the rising tide of Arianism, earned him the title "Hammer of the Arians."

His dedication to theological truth and his ability to articulate the complexities of Christian doctrine made him a respected and influential figure in the Church. Canonized as a saint, his feast day on January 13th honors his legacy as a Doctor of the Church and a steadfast guardian of the faith. Saint Hilary's life and works continue to inspire theologians and faithful alike, embodying the spirit of commitment to truth and clarity in understanding the Christian faith.

DIVINE DIVERSIONS
Word Scramble

Theme: Words associated with Mark 2:13-17

1. RNEISSNS

2. RNDEID

3. IYSRPEAHE

4. LFLWOO

5. TECPARNENE

Answers Below

ANSWERS
Word Scramble Answers

1. SINNERS - Refers to the people Jesus chose to dine with, highlighting His inclusive nature.

2. DINNER - Signifies the meal shared by Jesus with tax collectors and sinners, symbolizing fellowship.

3. PHARISEES - Represents the religious leaders who questioned Jesus' associations and actions.

4. FOLLOW - Reflects Jesus' call for individuals to become His disciples and follow His teachings.

5. REPENTANCE - Underlines Jesus' emphasis on the need for sinners to acknowledge their wrongdoings and turn towards righteousness.

WEEKLY POLL
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FINAL THOUGHTS
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