⚜️ The Chosen Twelve

MORNING MESSAGE

Good Morning! As we embrace the dawn of a new day, let us reflect on the profound wisdom of St. Catherine Labouré.  In our daily interactions, may we strive to perceive the divine spark within each person we encounter, for every soul bears the imprint of our Creator.

As children of God, we are called to love, serve, and honor one another, recognizing the sacredness that resides within. Let this awareness guide our actions, inspiring acts of kindness, compassion, and empathy, fostering unity and understanding in our diverse world.

May your day be filled with the grace to see God in everyone you meet, and may it bring you closer to the divine love that unites us all.

- Catholic Captions Team

DAILY MASS READINGS
Readings from Today’s Holy Mass

Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 1 Samuel 24:3-21
Responsorial: Psalms 57:2, 3-4, 6 AND 11
Alleluia: 2 Corinthians 5:19
Gospel Reading: Mark 3:13-19

REFLECTIONS
Gospel Reflection on Mark 3:13-19

In Mark 3:13-19, Jesus ascends a mountain and calls twelve disciples to Himself, designating them as apostles. Their names are Simon (whom Jesus names Peter), James, John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot. Jesus appoints them to be with Him and to preach, granting them authority to cast out demons.

This passage invites us to reflect on the significance of Jesus' selection of the twelve apostles and the authority He confers upon them. As Jesus calls them from various walks of life, we see the inclusivity of His ministry, embracing diversity among His closest followers.

May we acknowledge the special role and authority that Jesus entrusted to His chosen disciples, recognizing the transformative power of His call. Just as they were called to be with Jesus and preach the Good News, we too are called to be His disciples, sharing His message of salvation. Embracing our own call, let us follow Christ faithfully, celebrating the diversity among His followers, and recognizing each of us has a unique role in His redemptive plan.

CATHOLIC NEWS
Headlines

🙏 March for Life Vigil Mass
At the March for Life vigil Mass in Washington, D.C., Arlington Bishop Michael Burbidge delivered a powerful message, emphasizing the need to persist in the pro-life movement even in states where abortion rights are firmly established. Bishop Burbidge encouraged pro-life advocates to shine a light on the darkest corners, reaffirming the importance of continuing the fight for the unborn. He reminded the congregation that while victories are significant, the challenges remain, and unwavering dedication to the pro-life cause is essential. The Mass and vigil occurred almost two years after the fall of Roe v. Wade, symbolizing the ongoing battle for the protection of life.

🇻🇳 Pope Francis Expresses Interest in Historic Visit to Vietnam
During a meeting with a delegation from Vietnam's Communist Party government, Pope Francis expressed his eagerness to visit Vietnam, a country with one of the largest Catholic populations never visited by a pope. This development marks a significant warming in Vatican-Vietnam relations, with Vietnam permitting the Vatican to establish a papal representative's office in Hanoi. While Archbishop Paul Gallagher believes a papal trip to Vietnam is in the works, he notes that certain steps need to be taken before such a visit can occur. The Catholic community in Vietnam eagerly awaits this potential historic event, seen as a positive message to the region.

📰 Diocese of Peoria Ceases Publication of The Catholic Post After 90 Years
Bishop Louis Tylka of Peoria has made the decision to discontinue the publication of The Catholic Post, the Diocese of Peoria's newspaper with a nearly 90-year history. While the final regular edition was dated December 24, 2023, Bishop Tylka expressed his commitment to exploring new communication strategies to continue sharing the faith stories within the Diocese of Peoria. The newspaper, formerly known as The Peoria Register, has been an integral part of Catholic press history, with former editors making significant contributions to the Catholic Press Association.

SAINTLY STORIES
Saint Fillan: The Light of Scotland

Saint Fillan, revered in Scottish and Irish tradition, was a 7th-century monk known for his piety and miracles. Born in Ireland, he moved to Scotland, dedicating his life to Christian missionary work. His legend includes a miraculous light that appeared over his head during evening prayers, illuminating his surroundings.

Fillan established a monastery in Pittenweem and later in Strathfillan, where he continued his mission. Known for his healing powers, especially in mental illnesses, he was deeply venerated in Scotland. After his death, his relics were believed to possess healing properties, especially his arm, which was often brought into battle for protection.

His feast day on January 19th celebrates his contributions to Christianity in Scotland. Saint Fillan’s legacy as a beacon of faith and miraculous healer endures in Scottish history and folklore, symbolizing the spread of Christianity in medieval Scotland.

DIVINE DIVERSIONS
Word Scramble

Theme: Words associated with Mark 3:13-19

1. OASPLSTE

2. ESOCNH

3. WVELETT

4. IDSELPISC

5. NSMIISO

Answers Below

ANSWERS
Word Scramble Answers

1. APOSTLES - Used because Mark 3:13-19 mentions Jesus selecting His apostles

2. CHOSEN - the apostles were referred to as the chosen

3. TWELVE - refers to the number of apostles selected by Jesus

4. DISCIPLES - followers and learners of Jesus

5. MISSIONS - indicates the purpose of the apostles to spread the message

WEEKLY POLL
VOTE!

How has your involvement in your local Catholic Community changed in the past year? Vote on our poll by clicking the link below. Results will be posted on Saturday!

Catholic Captions - WEEKLY POLL

FINAL THOUGHTS
Share!

We would love to continue to grow our community of faith! Please consider sharing with someone today. It could be family, friends, or members of your parish. Please copy and share the link below:

Catholic Captions Newsletter