✝️ The Family of Faith

MORNING MESSAGE

Good Morning! As we start this new day, let us remember the profound wisdom of Pope John Paul II. These words remind us of the boundless love that our Heavenly Father has for each of us. In our journey of faith, it's easy to focus on our imperfections, but let us embrace the truth that we are cherished and valued beyond measure by a loving God. Today, let us carry this knowledge in our hearts, allowing it to illuminate our path and guide our actions, so we may share His love with others.

Blessings for a beautiful day ahead!

- Catholic Captions Team

DAILY MASS READINGS
Readings from Today’s Holy Mass

Tuesday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 2 Samuel 6:12B-15, 17-19
Responsorial: Psalms 24:7, 8, 9, 10
Alleluia: Matthew 11:25
Gospel Reading: Mark 3:31-35

REFLECTIONS
Gospel Reflection on Mark 3:31-35

This passage invites us to reflect on the profound concept of spiritual kinship within the family of faith. Jesus challenges the traditional understanding of family ties, emphasizing the spiritual bond among believers who prioritize God's will.

As we contemplate this passage, we recognize that Jesus expands the definition of family beyond blood relations to encompass all who follow God's will. It underscores the idea that our spiritual bond with fellow believers is equally significant. May we understand the depth of our connection with one another as members of the family of faith and strive to do God's will in unity. Through our shared commitment to following Christ, let us cultivate a strong and supportive spiritual family, bearing witness to the transformative power of faith and love. In this way, we demonstrate that our true family transcends biological relationships, embracing a broader, deeper connection in the body of Christ.

CATHOLIC NEWS
Headlines

✝️ Ecumenical Musical Event Unites Christian Faiths in Praise
In a heartfelt display of unity and hope, patriarchs, bishops, priests, and lay faithful from diverse Christian traditions congregated in Beirut for the "Beirut 2024" ecumenical musical event. Organized by the Middle East Council of Churches, approximately 10,000 individuals joined together to sing hymns and praise the Lord, seeking peace not only in Beirut but also throughout the Middle East. Led by Mark Merhej, a young Lebanese Catholic, a choir of 400 singers from various Christian communities harmoniously raised their voices in different languages and musical traditions during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

🇳🇮 Nicaraguan Dictatorship Expels Priests and Targets Catholic Church
In her report titled "Nicaragua: A persecuted Church?", researcher Martha Patricia Molina sheds light on the troubling actions taken by President Daniel Ortega's regime against the Catholic Church. The recent expulsion of three priests, including two Mexicans, from the Most Holy Savior religious order, along with previous incidents of threats and abductions, underscores the ongoing persecution faced by the Church in Nicaragua under this dictatorship.

🇺🇲 Eighteen U.S. Bishops Advocate for Military Spending Reduction
Eighteen bishops in the United States have come together to call for a reduction in military spending and a shift towards addressing poverty. Led by Pax Christi USA, a Catholic peace organization, the "Bread Not Stones" campaign seeks to bridge the growing gap between wealth and poverty while emphasizing the need to reevaluate the nation's military expenditures. They emphasized  the importance of providing for those in need over military investments.

SAINTLY STORIES
Saint Marianne Cope: Beacon of Hope in Kalaupapa

Saint Marianne Cope, born in Germany in 1838 and raised in the United States, is renowned for her selfless dedication to healthcare and compassion for leprosy patients. After joining the Sisters of Saint Francis in Syracuse, New York, she excelled in hospital administration and the care of the sick. Her life took a significant turn in 1883 when she answered a call to care for leprosy sufferers in Hawaii.

In Hawaii, Saint Marianne's unwavering compassion shone brightly as she established a home for women and girls affected by leprosy in Kalaupapa, Molokai. Working alongside Saint Damien of Molokai, she became a symbol of hope and love for those ostracized by society. Her efforts not only provided comfort and care but also dignity to those afflicted.

Canonized in 2012, Saint Marianne Cope's legacy is a testament to the power of kindness and steadfast commitment to serving the marginalized. Her life inspires many to embrace acts of charity and to extend compassion to those in need.

DIVINE DIVERSIONS
Word Scramble

Theme: Words associated with Mark 3:31-35

1. MROHTE

2. ORSTBEHR

3. RWODC

4. IASTHGCEIN

5. ISDCPILES

Answers Below

ANSWERS
Word Scramble Answers

1. MOTHER - Refers to Mary, who is mentioned in the passage as standing outside.

2. BROTHERS - Jesus mentions his brothers in the passage.

3. CROWD - The passage mentions a large crowd gathered around Jesus.

4. TEACHINGS - Jesus is teaching the crowd in the passage.

5. DISCIPLES - Jesus mentions his disciples in the passage.

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