✝️ Lord of the Sabbath

MORNING MESSAGE

Good Morning! As we embrace a new day on our spiritual journey, let us remember the wisdom of St. Augustine.  In our pursuit of truth, may we find the strength to trust in the inherent power of what is right and just. As we navigate life's challenges, let us allow the truth to guide us, knowing that it will always stand strong.  May your day be filled with blessings and moments of enlightenment.

- Catholic Captions Team

DAILY MASS READINGS
Readings from Today’s Holy Mass

Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
Responsorial: Psalms 89:20, 21-22, 27-28
Alleluia: Ephesians 1:17-18
Gospel Reading: Mark 2:23-28

REFLECTIONS
Gospel Reflection on Mark 2:23-28

In Mark 2:23-28, as Jesus and His disciples walk through grainfields on the Sabbath, the Pharisees question their actions, accusing them of breaking the Sabbath law by plucking and eating grain. Jesus responds by reminding them of David's actions and asserts that the Sabbath was made for humanity, not the other way around. He declares, "The Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath."

This passage invites us to reflect on Jesus' authority over the Sabbath and His emphasis on the well-being of people over rigid religious rules.

As we contemplate this passage, let us recognize that Jesus is the Lord of our lives, including our times of rest and worship. His message challenges us to prioritize love, compassion, and the needs of others over legalistic interpretations of religious laws. May we embrace the freedom and grace that Christ offers, understanding that our faith is not bound by rules but centered on a loving relationship with Him. Let us seek to honor the Sabbath and all aspects of our lives in ways that reflect His lordship and bring glory to God.

CATHOLIC NEWS
Headlines

✝️ Pope Francis Addresses Vatican's Declaration on Blessings for Same-Sex Couples
Pope Francis publicly responded to questions about the Vatican's declaration on blessings for same-sex couples in a televised interview. He emphasized that the Lord blesses everyone and that disagreements should be expressed through fraternal discussion rather than resistance. The pope also clarified that the Church's doctrine on the sacrament of marriage between a man and a woman remains unchanged.

🇳🇮 Vatican Welcomes Release of Imprisoned Nicaraguan Bishops and Clergy
In a significant development, the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega released and sent two imprisoned Nicaraguan bishops along with 15 priests and seminarians to the Vatican. Among those released were Bishop Rolando Álvarez of Matagalpa and Bishop Isidoro Mora of Siuna. The clerics arrived in Rome and were welcomed as "guests of the Holy See." The release, facilitated through Vatican coordination, marks a positive step toward peace and improved communication between the Holy See and Nicaragua amid ongoing tensions and concerns for religious freedom in the country.

🇺🇸 U.S. Bishops Reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.'s Call to Action
The U.S. bishops, led by Archbishop Timothy Broglio, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, highlighted the enduring relevance of Martin Luther King Jr.'s message of justice and peace on the occasion of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Archbishop Broglio emphasized King's teachings on confronting racism and prejudice with the love of Christ and the need for an all-embracing love for all humanity. He noted that King's message remains pertinent in addressing issues such as migration, antisemitism, and racial and religious discrimination, urging everyone to continue working for justice and peace.

SAINTLY STORIES
St. Berard and Companions: Protomartyrs of the Franciscan Order

Saint Berard and Companions, Peter, Adjutus, Accurs, and Odo, are venerated as the first martyrs of the Franciscan Order. In the early 13th century, these courageous friars were sent by Saint Francis of Assisi to the Muslim-dominated region of Morocco. They embarked on this mission with a deep commitment to preach the Gospel, embodying the Franciscan spirit of evangelical zeal and compassion.

Despite facing severe resistance, they remained resolute in their faith and continued their ministry. Their unwavering proclamation of the Christian message ultimately led to their martyrdom in 1220. This act of supreme sacrifice marked a turning point in the history of the Franciscan missions, setting a powerful example of faithfulness and bravery.

Their canonization by Pope Sixtus IV in 1481 commemorates their extraordinary faith and determination. Celebrated on January 16th, the feast day of Saint Berard and Companions honors their legacy as the first martyrs of the Franciscan Order. They continue to inspire Christians around the world, particularly missionaries, to persevere in their faith and evangelization efforts, regardless of the challenges they face.

DIVINE DIVERSIONS
Word Scramble

Theme: Words associated with Mark 2:23-28

1. ABBATHS

2. PILESICDS

3. GKULPCIN

4. NARGI

5. FSLIED

6. YHUGNR

7. RYSTOONCEVRO

Answers Below

ANSWERS
Word Scramble Answers

1. SABBATH: it refers to the day of rest

2. DISCIPLES: disciples of Jesus who were with Him in the passage.

3. PRICKING: alludes to the Pharisees "pricking" or questioning Jesus about the Sabbath.

4. GRAIN: represents the grainfields that the disciples walked through.

5. SELF: the concept of self and human needs, which are discussed in the passage.

6. HUNGRY: the hunger of the disciples as they plucked grain to eat.

7. OVERTHROWN: the idea of the Son of Man being Lord of the Sabbath, emphasizing Jesus' authority.

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