2014 Lent/Easter CCUSA Reflections

Lent/Easter 2014
June 8, 2014
Solemnity of Pentecost
Acts of the Apostles 2: 1-11, I Corinthians 12: 3b-7, 12-13, John 20: 19-23
Whenever I think of Pentecost, I recall a remark made by an associate long ago. In our work for
charity and social justice, we must keep going to meetings, as much as we may not enjoy them.
We must keep going to meetings, he said, because you never know what inspiration may strike;
after all, Pentecost happened at a meeting, and it wasnt on the agenda.
In our work, we find ourselves alongside a wide range of people, bringing all of the gifts and
talents needed to run a successful agency and to ease human suffering. This is an easy
connection to make from both the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles and the second
from Paul to the Corinthians. It seems, though, that increasingly we recognize the gifts and
talents of those we serve, inviting them more intentionally to be part of the process. If we are all
the body of the risen Christ who comes among us, then that must include the middle-aged
homeless couple who has been banned a few times from our shelter for aggressive behaviors or
the Eritrean asylee suffering from PTSD who abandoned his apartment and is found camping in
a tent in winter next to a high school baseball field. What gifts do they bring? Do we recognize
them?
I am most challenged in todays scriptures by Jesus example in Johns Gospel. He offers the
Holy Spirit to the frightened disciples by breathing on them, and giving power over forgiveness
of sins. This is so easy to miss, so provocative: we are to forgive with the same ease and
frequency with which we breathe. Forgiveness is meant to be like breathing. We have now
journeyed through Easter with our risen Lord. Do we believe it?

Scott Cooper
Director, Parish Social Ministries; Catholic Charities Spokane
May 29, 2014
Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
Acts of the Apostles 1: 1-11; Psalm 47: 2-3, 6-7, 8-9; Ephesians 1: 17-23; Matthew 28: 16-20

Todays Psalm begins, All you peoples, clap your hands, shout to God with cries of gladness
and we respond, God mounts Gods throne to shouts of joy; a blare of trumpets for the Lord.
In todays Gospel passage Jesus appears to his disciples 40 days after his resurrection and just
before his ascension into heaven. He instructs them to take his message to all nations and to
baptize themto evangelize.
In reflecting on these passages, my mind goes immediately to Pope Francis apostolic
exhortation, The Joy of the Gospel! As part of our prayer at staff meetings, the staff in the Parish
Social Ministry Department of Catholic Charities is reading and discussing this document. It is
so rich with wisdom and inspiration. We often joke that we seem to be underlining the whole
book.
Jesus calls each of us, as his disciples, to share his message of love with all people. We may feel
uncomfortable or ill-equipped to proclaim the Gospel, because we associate evangelizing with
proselytizing. However, the Holy Father reminds us (Joy of the Gospel, #15) that, It is not by
proselytizing that the Church grows, but by attraction. People are attracted to joy, not
grumbling. And as St. Francis of Assisi put it, Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if
necessary.
Faith in the mercy and hope that Jesus teaches is a source of great joy. Joy is intentional, it is a
choice, unless there is some type of illness that interferes with the ability to feel joy. All of us
have suffered hardship and loss beyond our control. However, we do have choices about how
we move through those difficult times. Turning to our merciful God, we can choose to take on
the hard work that will begin our journey from brokenness to wholeness.
I am grateful for some of the difficult times Ive experienced in my life (now that Im on the
other side of them) because they taught me so much, and gave me new compassion for those who
may be going through similar experiences. If my pain can allow me to offer a sense of hope to
someone else or to extend a hand or shoulder in solidarity, I am evangelizing. Henri Nouwen
wrote about this in his book, Wounded Healer. Taking our brokenness and using it to reach out
to heal the wounds of others speaks as loud as the words about the saving love of our God.
For further reflection:

1. Would others describe me as a joy-filled person? What is the source of my joy?
2. How have I preached the Gospelevangelized?

Jan Jamroz
Parish Social Ministry Director, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rockville Centre

May 11, 2014
Fourth Sunday of Easter/Mothers Day
Acts of the Apostles 2: 14a, 36-41; I Peter 2: 20b-25; John 10: 1-10
Happy Mothers Day! As we pause to thank God for our mothers (living and deceased) and
shower them with our love, I find it no coincidence that we also celebrate our deep devotion to
the Blessed Virgin Mary during the month of May. Mary was so much more than simply a
biological mother to Jesus and her role did not end in that stable in Bethlehem. She was also the
human mother to a son who had a human upbringing.
Jesus called her "Mother" and he entrusted her, as one of his last and greatest gifts to his beloved
disciple and to the entire Church with these tender words of entrustment in the Gospel of John,
"When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother,
Woman, behold, your son. Then he said to the disciple, Behold, your mother. And from that
hour the disciple took her into his home." (John 19:26, 27)
As a convert to Catholicism, I sometimes misunderstood the deep devotion I saw Catholic
friends manifesting toward Mary. It wasnt until I held my own children in my own arms at their
births that I truly connected with Mary in a way that transformed me. Jesus gift of his mother to
the Church means that I have someone who understands the ups and downs of motherhood
sitting at the right hand of God. Mary knew how to be the mother of Jesus and she can guide me
in being a mother also.
Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.
Questions to ponder:
How might we be more like the Blessed Mother by showing our compassion and love for
those we serve at Catholic Charities and in our parishes? Are our services rendered in a
way that upholds the dignity of the human person?

If we have deceased mothers and grandmothers, they can intercede for us as we pray to
God. Is there a petition that you have that was also an important cause of your mother or
grandmother? Pray for their intercession.
Melissa DuCharme
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section and Social Action and Advocacy
Coordinator, Office of Human Life and Dignity, Diocese of Raleigh (North Carolina)

May 1, 2014
St. Joseph the Worker (Optional Memorial)
Genesis 1: 26 2:3; Matthew 13: 54 58

Today we celebrate St. Joseph the Worker, an Optional Memorial on the Church calendar but of
special interest to Catholic Charities. It was originally established by Pope Pius XII in 1955 as a
response to the May Day celebrations for workers in Communist countries. St. Joseph, the
father of Jesus and husband of Mary, was a master carpenter. He taught and trained Jesus in this
trade.

Saint John XXIII composed this beautiful prayer which places all workers under the patronage of
St. Joseph the Worker. He asks St. Joseph the Worker to intercede so that we may regard our
work as a means of growing in holiness.

A Prayer for Workers

O glorious Joseph! Who concealed your incomparable and regal dignity of custodian of Jesus
and of the Virgin Mary under the humble appearance of a craftsman and provided for them with
your work, protect with loving power your sons, especially entrusted to you.

You know their anxieties and sufferings, because you yourself experienced them at the side of
Jesus and of His Mother. Do not allow them, oppressed by so many worries, to forget the
purpose for which they were created by God. Do not allow the seeds of distrust to take hold of
their immortal souls. Remind all the workers that in the fields, in factories, in mines, and in
scientific laboratories, they are not working, rejoicing, or suffering alone, but at their side is
Jesus, with Mary, His Mother and ours, to sustain them, to dry the sweat of their brow, giving
value to their toil. Teach them to turn work into a very high instrument of sanctification as you
did. Amen.

We are all carpenters during our time on earth. God asks us to build with our mind and
hands while being in service to those less fortunate and to help create a world that is a better
place for all.


How have we utilized the skills and tools that we have acquired to help the less fortunate?

Do we treat all workers/clients with dignity and respect? How can we become less
judgmental?

Do we see the building that we do as growing in holiness and becoming closer to
God?

Mark A. Totaro, Ph.D.

Secretary, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Harrisburg

April 27, 2014
2nd Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday
Acts of the Apostles 2:42-47, Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24, First Letter of Saint Peter 1:3-9; John 20:19-
31

At this time of year every day reveals a little more of spring. The sun brings warmth and light to the
days determined to overcome the darkness of what seemed like never ending cold and snow this winter.
For me Easter celebrates spring, new beginnings, a hope realized by an empty tomb. How marvelous
the new life proclaimed by the Resurrection!

On this second Sunday in Easter, the church continues celebrating the mystery of Gods merciful love for
us revealed in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Along with the neophytes (new members of the church),
we gather at the Eucharist to hear the stories of the early Christians. The readings about the life of the
early church always invite me to reflect on my life, not only personally and professionally, but as part of
the Christian community.

In the Acts of the Apostles, we read how the early Christian community devoted itself to the communal
life and to prayer. They cared for each other, even dividing all their property and possessions, and
sharing it so that everyones needs were met. What a powerful image of reciprocity! How can we
envision this image today, allowing it to shape our work and our personal lives?

In the Gospel, we can imagine the disciples locked away in a room for fear of their lives. What was going
to happen to the followers of Jesus? And then, the risen Lord comes and stands among them and says,
Peace be with you. Jesus tells them that as he was sent they are now sent. He breaths the Spirit on
them and tells them that they are to forgive sins as they have been forgiven. As followers of Jesus we
are sent to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to be peace for one another. We receive what he
gives and in turn share that gift of forgiveness and mercy with others. What a challenge this is some
days!

In our history as a Christian community, the Church has elevated the lives of men and women who give
powerful witness of what it means to be a follower of Christ. Today our Church honors two men who
gave their lives as disciples of Jesus Christ. Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II will be canonized as
saints this Mercy Sunday. Pope John Paul II taught us what it means to forgive, even someone who tried
to take his life. Both were prophetic voices, in times of great cultural, political and religious
transformation. They stood for justice, in a world defined more by war than by peace. How appropriate
that Pope Francis choose this second Sunday in Easter, Mercy Sunday, to canonize these two great men.
Their example inspires us as we strive to be faithful to the mission of Jesus Christ.

In the First Letter of St. Peter, we discover the full meaning of the Easter season as we read, Blessed be
the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope
through the resurrection of Jesus Christ (I Peter I: 3). I believe that through the resurrection, God
reveals the power of love to overcome death, even death on a cross. This is the message that we, as the
living communion of saints, can hold on to, that can give us hope in our work and in our lives.

In many ways on this Sunday we can also celebrate the work we do at Catholic Charities. The work of
Catholic Charities carries on the story of the early Christian communitys reciprocal care for one another,

especially as we strive to meet peoples needs. We are challenged to extend Gods peace to the people
we serve, to be the place where people find a new beginning.

On this second Sunday of Easter, let us pray that in our work and with each other we reveal Gods mercy
and forgiveness. We pray that as a community we are good news for those we serve, that we bring hope
to peoples lives, and that our belief in the power of Gods love overcomes the pain, the struggles, the
evils and the challenges affecting the people we serve and in our own lives.

Easter is a time of renewal, a time to celebrate life, and a time when we recall Gods amazing mercy and
a hope realized by an empty tomb. Along with the Psalmist, we exclaim Let us celebrate and be glad,
give thanks to the Lord for he is good and his love is everlasting. Alleluia!


1. Do you wonder why the Church celebrates Divine Mercy Sunday? Consult (Norbertine) Fr. Alfred
McBrides article in American Catholic.

Kathy Brown
Sr. Director for Mission, Catholic Charities USA

April 26, 2014
Saturday Within the Octave of Easter
Acts of the Apostles 4: 13-21, Mark 16: 9-15
Acts of the Apostles 4:13-21
This selection of Acts briefly gives an example of how leaders in the early Church were
persecuted. It also clearly shows that Peter and John had the grace and courage to be bold in
holding firm to giving witness to the healing sign (elsewhere called miracle) they had
performed through the power of Jesus.
How does this selection speak to you? Do you seek and rely on Gods grace to be sufficient for
every obstacle you meet while doing what your faith requires?
Mark 16:9-15
Though there is some disagreement between authorities who claim verse eight ends Marks
Gospel and others who claim a longer ending, the Church includes verses 9-15 to present three of
Jesus post resurrection appearances.
One appearance is to Mary Magdalene. Her claim that she had seen the Lord was not believed
by the other disciples. The other appears to be Marks version of Jesus meeting the two disciples
on the road to Emmaus. Again, their story of seeing the Lord was not believed.

Finally, He appears to the eleven whom He scolded for their lack of faith. He then proceeds to
commission them and us: Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole of
creation (Mark 16: 15) . Or, go now and tell He is risen.
How do you think this mission applies to you? Do you interpret it as meaning everyone must
preach the good news? Not everyone has the gift of public speaking. How else could we
proclaim the good news?
Claudette Burque
Member of the Catholic Charities USA Parish Social Ministry Section and St. Patrick Church
Webmaster (Phenix City, Alabama).
April 25, 2014
Friday within the Octave of Easter
Acts of the Apostles 4:1-12; John 21:1-14

5000 came to believe! Wow! Very concretein Jerusalem, Annas, Caiaphas, John, Alexander
and all the priestly class heard the word. There is no salvation through anyone else (Acts of
the Apostles 4: 12) This does present an ecumenical challenge! We are all in space and time,
affecting it and affected by it. In United States, we are specifically surrounded by greed
capitalism--and it shows. But we are an Easter people. The joy and hope and promise of Jesus
reported in John as Jesus reveals himself to seven of the 11 who went fishing is our joy. (I
wonder who counted the fish?)

Can you imagine the unfolding understanding these men and women experienced in the days
after Jesuss death, resurrection and ascension: but the disciples did not realize that it was
Jesus. (John 21: 4b) But then I paused.

So for my penance, nay, for my enlightenment and growth, let me read the Acts of the Apostles
so I too can say and mean: Halleluiah, Jesus is Lord! For his mercy endures forever! For this is
the day the Lord has made, let us be glad and rejoice in it!!!!

May our joy
in this sure and certain knowledge
of the joy of Jesus be our back.
As we work
to bring justice
which is in such a lack.
May the joy of Easter be with you all!


1. Do we recognize Gods presence when two or three are gathered in Gods name, or
2. Do we recognize Gods presence when I hear the word of Scripture proclaimed, or when we
receive the Body of Christ at Mass?

David J Dutschke
Director of Parish Engagement/Housing Development, Catholic Charities of Louisville

April 24, 2014
Thursday in the Octave of Easter
Acts of the Apostles 3: 11-26; Luke 24: 35-48

As Catholic Charities people, we really need to stop and take a look at todays readings because
they tell our story. In the First Reading, the crippled man who was healed could be anyone
whose life is changed because of a graced moment at a Catholic Charities agency. Peter says to
the crowd standing around gawking at the man, Why are you amazed at this? (Acts of the
Apostles 3: 12b)? Peter reminded the crowd to repent and be converted that your sins may be
wiped away, and that the Lord may grant you times of refreshment (Acts of the Apostles 3: 19).
Easter Week is that time of refreshment. And in the Gospel, Jesus is all about helping the
disciples recognize him in his Risen Self: touch me, see me, eat with me.
Wow! If we could keep this in mind as we go through our daywe arent doing this ourselves,
it is the Lord working through ushow much richer our encounters would be. As Christians we
remind each other that Jesus Christ is present in each person. Let us continually be amazed
that we are instruments of Gods love. That realization will give an extra richness to our work
and our relationships as we witness to the faith that motivates and sustains us.
1. Are we as likely to hand over credit for our successes to God as Peter was?
2. The disciples recognized Jesus in the breaking of the bread. Take a moment this Easter
to receive Christ in the Eucharist during a time when you were less likely to receive him.
Kristan Schlichte, M.S.
Sr. Director of Membership, Catholic Charities USA

April 23, 2014
Wednesday within the Octave of Easter
Acts of the Apostles 3: 1-10; Luke 24: 13-35

The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon! (Luke 24:35)

O, feet! How can you possibly keep from ...walking and jumping and praising God (Acts 3:8)?
O soul! How can you possibly keep from being ...filled with amazement and astonishment at
what happened...(Acts 3:10)? Could there ever be enough exclamation marks for Easter
alleluias?

But we forget. You have told us, Jesus; you have interpreted the Scriptures and fulfilled them in
our hearing. The way of the cross leads to the resurrection and there is no other way. Still, we

couldn't (can't) imagine what this mystery means except by what you have told us on the road to
Emmaus. You knew, O God, that we must live it with you. You know, O God, that this is the
truth each day, that the only way for us weak ones is that we walk with you patiently, that you
take us to and through the cross(es) and reveal yourself to us with and through other people and
in the breaking of the bread..

The Gospel story of the road to Emmaus is always such a companionable story. The setting is
in the context of accompaniment. Even before the risen Jesus is revealed to his disciples, they
revealed to him their most life-affecting concern and wonder, their confusion and their hope.
And Jesus listened and responded. How many times each day do I have the similar opportunity
to listen to someone's deepest or most immediate concerns and questions? Am I---are we---open
to the moment, to responding with full attention and focus, more importantly with true love?
Can we be seen to be ...walking and jumping and praising God (literally or figuratively) I pray
that we are. After all, we know what these disciples did not know until later; we already know
Jesus rose from the dead and lives in the Eucharist and in God's unending love for you, for me,
for all of us together, God's community. Indeed, Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord! We are
seekers whom the Lord has found and we are an alleluia people!

1) How do others see us as people of joy?
2) What single action will help us today to be open to others' revelation of the Lord to us?

Kathleen Walsh, MSW
Retired Diocesan Direct (Oak Park, IL)

April 22, 2014
Tuesday within the Octave of Easter
Acts of the Apostles 2: 36-41, John 20: 11-18

What are we to do, my brothers? Peter said to them. Repent and be baptized, every one of
you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of
the Holy Spirit. For the promise is made to you and to your children and to all those far off,
whomever the Lord our God will call. Acts of the Apostles 2: 37b-39.

Todays reading from Acts of the Apostles 2: 36-41 is directed to you and I, our sisters and
brothers, who are dedicated and devout in our love for Christ. Yet, we, as the body of Christ, are
not always obedient or faithful in our relationship with our Lord, particularly when we are
walking along a path that brings us tests, challenges, and lessons. My dear 90-year young Gram
Jo, who serves as a community spiritual mentor, says this is our cross and part of answering the
call as true believers. Being tested challenged, and learning is connected to our livelihood as the
body of Christ. We just need to trust that Our Father will always hold us in these periods.
Through humility, he begets us to repentance, healing and change.

She turned and said to him in Hebrew, Rabbouni, which means Teacher. Jesus said to her,
Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell
them,I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God. John 20: 16b-17

I am humbled by todays Gospel from John 20: 11-18. Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene first.
Everyday our Catholic Charities network collectively supports the gift of new life for people and
communities, bringing to light the blessing to be besieged in the essence of grace that can only
be through Our Lord, Our God.
I am inspired by our Catholic Charities network: parish social ministers, community organizers,
educators, social workers, youth, elderly, and others who minister daily for and in partnership
with others in collective visioning--ensuring that all people can engage meaningfully and gain
the tools needed to build and live with dignity in a just and sustainable world.
The promise of the Resurrection is transformative. Through healing and change, we are
strengthened by our witness and are able to see the face of Jesus in the people we serve and
support.
1. Do you have daily practices that help in building and sustaining your relationship with
Christ? If so, how do you witness your tests, challenges, and lessons to others as part of
the answering the call as true believers?
2. How does our Catholic Charities network inspire you and your work to reduce poverty in
America?

Christina Baldera
Training Manager, Parish Social Ministry; Catholic Charities USA

Monday, April 21, 2014
Monday within the Octave of Easter
Acts 2: 14, 22-33; Matthew 28: 8-15
Todays Gospel is the first resurrection story in the Gospel of Matthew. As a matter of fact,
Matthew is very brief in his report of the post resurrection eventsone chapter of only 20
verses! I encourage you to read not only the Gospel, but also the retelling of the immediate
events (Matthew 28: 1-7).
I am moved by the fact that Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to the empty tomb at
dawn and recognized that something extraordinary had happened. We began the celebration of
Jesus resurrection at the Easter Vigil, which by liturgical custom, cannot begin until the sun has
set. The celebration of the resurrection begins at night, even if human observers did not
discover the empty tomb until dawn.

Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me. Matthew
28: 10
Nine years ago, I heard then Archbishop Timothy Dolan of Milwaukee deliver a stirring
testimony just a few days after the death of Pope John Paul II. He eulogized the Holy Father by
often repeating the Popes frequent exhortation Be not afraid! I dare say that our soon to be
canonized Pope was rather fond of todays Gospel. The well known Catholic journalist John
Allen has gone so far as to say that Be not afraid can be licensed as Pope John Pauls tagline.
John Paul II, whose Catholic faith survived the Communist control of his native Poland,
exuberantly professed his faith while encouraging others to do likewise. In this Octave within
Easter, when we also prepare to celebrate the canonization of John Paul II, may we pray for a
degree of fearlessness in preaching and acting upon the Gospel as advocates for those on the
margins that we encounter in our Catholic Charities agencies and parishes.
1. Most of us have not been privileged to have met Pope John Paul II. However, do you have a
personal relationship with one who has demonstrated this same zest for faith that the resurrected
Christ and Pope John Paul II called us to?
2. We might also be overtaken by the dramatic shift in the level of confidence of St. Peter as
demonstrated in the First Reading written by St. Luke. Take time to reflect on Peters upsurge in
faith while asking God for a similar transformation.
Br. Steve Herro, O. Praem.
Manager of Mission and Ministry, Catholic Charities USA
April 20, 2014
Easter Sunday (Mass during the Day)
Acts of the Apostles 10: 34a, 37-43; Colossians 3: 1-4 or I Corinthians 5: 6b-8; John 20: 1-9

If we think that things are not going to change, we need to recall that Jesus Christ has triumphed over
sin and death and is now almighty. Jesus Christ truly lives.Christ, risen and glorified, is the wellspring of
our hope, and he will not deprive us of the help we need to carry out the mission which he has entrusted
to us. Christs resurrection is not an event of the past; it contains a vital power which has permeated the
world. Where all seems to be dead, signs of the resurrection suddenly spring up. Pope Francis, Joy of
the Gospel, 275-276.

Like many, I have spent a lot of time with Pope Francis apostolic exhortation Joy of the Gospel since he
released it last November. A man who exudes such tremendous joy in the midst of very heavy
responsibilities shepherding 1.2 billion people in a world threatened by climate change, civil war, and
global terrorism is who he is because he embraces the risen and glorified Christ.

What were the elements of suffering, death and sin that you encountered this Lent? In the last two
months, God called my former co-worker and dear friend Don and my Aunt Carol home. Another friend

and co-worker was hospitalized with serious surgery just two months before a long anticipated
retirement. A man of whom I sponsor for RCIA is being shuffled from hotspot to hotspot in Ukraine.
But thanks to Matthew and Jessie for bringing to life their first new offspring, Kadence, earlier this
month. And thanks to Danielle and Terry for sharing the great news of the successful heart surgery of
their infant and first born Eleanor this April.

Every Easter, we are reminded of the power of new life and the great hope that we have for life eternal
after the close of our earthly existence. And this is all possible because God loved us so much that he
decided to walk this planet as one of us and accept a humiliating trial and death for us to overcome
suffering, sin, and death and enjoy the greatest possible existence with Him.

Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and to those in the tomb, bestowing life,
alleluia. From the Paschal Troparion from the Sacred Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom.


1. How can you/will you carry the joy of the Risen Christ beyond Easter Sunday, even our 50 day Easter
season that ends on the Solemnity of the Pentecost this June 8, 2014, for all time?

2. Take a moment to acknowledge the people and events who have represented the joy of the risen
Christ in your life this Easter Sunday.


April 19, 2014
The Easter Vigil in the Holy Night
Genesis 1:1-2:2; Genesis 22:1-18; Exodus 14:15-15:1; Isaiah 54: 5-14; Isaiah 55:1-11;
Baruch 3:9-15, 32 44; Ezekiel 36: 16-17a, 18-28; Romans 6:3-11; Matthew 28: 1-10

Do not be afraid. He is risen! Sometimes in our work, we see empty tombs. We fear there is no
real solution for those we accompany. We need to be reminded that He is truly risen and is
always with us on the journey. This is the day for remembering.

Todays readings take us back to the beginning. It is the very beginning, darkness into light! This
is the time of the creation of all Gods gifts to us, most especially our own humanity. These
scriptural passages walk us through our Judeo-Christian roots, so that we may truly know who
we are. The Prophets speak to us of what is to come. Then Paul shares with us baptism, death
and resurrection, for we must know this to appreciate what will follow. Matthew has the final say
as he describes that glorious morning.

It is the time that we have awaited for forty days. We know the story, yet it still amazes us. He is
risen! An earthquake, an angel as bright as lightning set the stage for the incredible, unbelievable
news of his Resurrection. This can only be topped off by His appearance to the women. (Only
the counter-cultural Jesus could make his first appearance to women!)

So on Monday, how will His Resurrection affect our ministries of serving, accompanying and
defending poor and marginalized brothers and sisters?

We know He has called us. We responded to that call. Surely we can help the lost find their way;
we will lead the hungry to quench their thirst and nourish their bodies; those in need of shelter
will find places to rest; our incarcerated brethren will have hope; we will advocate for those
seeking refuge here in our land. We can do all this. We are walking in His footsteps. He is with
us.

Alleluia!


1. If the readings chronicle the paschal mystery in the life of Christ, what life stories would
chronicle your history of life conquering death?

2. How did you experience death and resurrection in the last 40 days?

Stan Fitzgerald
CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section; St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Community
San Jose, California

April 18, 2014
Good Friday
Isaiah 52: 13-53: 12; Hebrews 4: 14-16, 5: 7-9; John 18: 1-19: 42

We come in silence before the cross.
We risk a deeper encounter that may for everything.
We are drawn, almost against our will, to the quiet depths of our being.

We can come to the cross because we have already been blessed. We know God's mercy in our
lives in our sinfulness and our selfishness. We know the anguish of the prodigal son who had
nowhere to turn except to fall into the arms of his father. We know the unconditional acceptance
and tenderness toward the adulterous woman shamed before the whole town.
Without these blessings, I don't think we could stand very long beneath the cross. It is too stark.
Too foreboding. It blocks our way to resurrection. It weighs on us like addiction, like
unresolved pain from abuse, dysfunctional family life, or terminal illness.
But the cross won't budge and we can't move until we accept the struggle. Jesus shows us the
way. In the garden, he too struggled. He clung to the Father's unconditional love that he knew
personally. He also knew the Father's same love for those who would kill him. And Jesus could
not betray that love. He surrendered.
Jesus invites us to be true to the same journey.

The addict blessed with the grace to accept the disease and the powerlessness over it;
the woman wounded by violence and betrayal, but now graced with awareness of the pain and
the harm that had been done; the man dying of a terminal illness--each stands before the cross
where God offers unconditional love and tenderness.

Accepting the pain, opening to freedom and joy...
As we become graced with surrender, we understand more clearly how all of us, staff,
volunteers, clients, are bound as one, carrying each other's burdens, supporting each other on our
common journey through death to resurrection, all held in God's tender love and mercy.
1. What is the cross before me right now? How is God calling me to embrace it?
2. What do I fear most?
3. Am I ready to accept more fully God's merciful love?
4. Spend a moment with Im Held by Your Love.
Ann Kilkelly
Director of Development, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte
April 17, 2014
Holy Thursday
Exodus 12: 1-8, 11-14, I Corinthians 11: 23-26, John 13: 1-15
There are so many important stories and themes shared this day preparing us for the Easter
resurrection--Passover, last supper and washing of the feet--each of these can be a week long
reflection. For ten years, I helped plan the Thanksgiving service in a large Albuquerque parish.
What are your faith communitys Holy Thursday traditions?
In todays Second Reading from Corinthians, we are reminded of the real presence of the divine
Christ in the Eucharist. We hear and pray these simple words every time Mass is celebrated. We
share that Last Supper with the community with gratitude and humility. I pray with thankfulness
for the Eucharist and the communion we share. This communion inspires us and feeds us to
serve. As I prepare for the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter, I pray that I am a
servant to others. Through the ministry of Catholic Charities, we strive to treat all with dignity
and respect.
In the Gospel Reading, Jesus gathered with his apostles for a final meal before his death. Jesus
bent to wash their feet. Imagine their feet dusty from walking the roads and paths in sandals.
The act of kneeling before each of his apostles and performing this act of humility was a

powerful message then and is an extremely powerful message now. We are all servants to each
other.
We may not kneel before every person we serve to clean their feet (thankfully, my knees could
not take that), but we are called every day to serve ALL at Catholic Charities. A friend of mine
once said Catholic Charities should be spelled catholic (universal) Charities, a reminder that
we are called to serve all.

1. Has your family shared Last Suppers, such as a child leaving for college or a last meal
with a sick friend or relative? If so, what do you remember most of the activity?

2. What does servant leadership mean to you in your family life and at Catholic Charities
and or your faith community? Who is an example of a servant leader in your life?

3. How would you react to Jesus kneeling before you?

Kathy Freeze
Parish & Faith Community Outreach Liaison, Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Santa Fe

April 16, 2014
Wednesday of Holy Week
Isaiah 50: 4-9a; Psalm 69: 8-10, 21-22, 31; 33-34; Matthew 26: 14-25

The author of the First Reading and Matthew both write, though centuries apart, of the courage
of two different individuals who accept/bear suffering (I gave my back to those who beat me,
my cheeks to those who plucked my beard; my face I did not shield from buffets and spitting
[Isaiah 50: 6] and When it grew dark, he declined at table with the Twelve. In the course of
the meal, he said, I assure you, one of you is about to betray me (Matthew 26: 20-21).

You dont have to travel to Ukraine or Egypt to find men and women being arrested and even
killed for demonstrating for their rights and or the rights of others. Im currently reading The
Life You Save May Be Your Own; it has helped me to better understand the life and writings of
Dorothy Day, a 20
th
century Catholic social reformer who was arrested dozens of times for
protesting against war and in support equal rights. Indeed, todays readings cause me to reflect
on the moral and spiritual strength of those who practice nonviolence and conscientious
objection against unjust structures.

What are the unpopular causes that we may be beaten or plucked for? I cannot help but
think of the many Catholic Charities clients, particularly less mobile seniors and ex-offenders,
whose ease of voting is under attack in many parts of the country, or immigrants that we help
resettle or teach English to, whose dignity and civil rights are being neglected in our media and
by our judicial system. Though our First Reading hero and Jesus gave their back and

underwent punishment by their foes, they persevered in faith because they knew that God had
their back.


1. Todays Responsorial Psalm ends, See, you lowly ones, and be glad; you who seek
God, may your hearts revive! For the Lord hears the cry of the poor, and his own who
are in bonds he spurns not (Psalm 69: 31, 33-34). Save this verse for recitation to help
strengthen you when you feel particularly challenged by the deck stacked against the
those who are poor.

2. The Lord God has given me a well trained tongue.Morning after morning he opens
my ear that I may hear (Isaiah 50: 4). How have we used our speaking and listening
skills to perform the work of God?


April 15, 2014
Tuesday of Holy Week
Isaiah 49: 1-6; John 13: 21-33, 36-38

The weeks drama that began on Sunday with the entry into Jerusalem continues today, as Jesus
speaks directly to Judas, who will betray him, and Simon Peter, who will deny him three times
after his arrest and before his death. Johns portrayal of Judas and Simon Peter remind us of
some of the flaws in human character, evil, and redemption.

During a week the we meditate on the trial and death of Jesus, Give Us This Day: Daily Prayer
for Todays Catholic also notes that today is the 31
st
anniversary of the death of Corrie ten Boon.
Corrie was a Dutch Catholic whose family harbored fleeing European Jews during the
Holocaust. Corrie and her sister Betsie were arrested by the Nazis and sent to the Ravensbruck
concentration camp. Betsie died in the camp, but Corrie survived and spent her last 40 years as
an international spokeswomen for human rights.

Though Jesus died for our sins, the Holocaust is just one example that Jesus passion and death
did not eliminate sin and evil from the human agenda. Corrie ten Boon and her family of Dutch
Catholics could have turned their back or looked the other way during the Holocaust, but less
than 100 years ago, they sacrificed their livelihoods and lives for Jews and others sought by the
Nazis because they were not perceived as pure Aryans.

As uncomfortable as it may make us feel, it is necessary that we meditate on the passion and
death of Jesus on a regular basis; as long as we have the examples of the Russian pogroms, the
Nazi Holocaust, and even todays Syrian slaughters, we know that we must continue to strive to
follow the example of the Prince of Peace who embraced all and refused to seek vengeance
against those who harmed him.


1. As we near the close of Lent, have there been times when we modeled the behavior of
Judas, who betrayed Jesus, and Simon Peter, who denied Jesus? If so, seek forgiveness
in order to best prepare yourself for the celebration of the Resurrection.
2. Following the example of Corrie ten Boon, consider how you can advocate for someone
whose protection is not in your self interest nor who can easily repay you.


April 14, 2014
Monday of Holy Week
Isaiah 42:1-7, John 12: 1-11

These verses are so full of the promise, call and Gods delight in us. I think not only of how we act with
the brothers and sisters we serve, but with each other as well.
I have grasped you by the hand; I formed you (Isaiah 42: 6b)
I can vividly remember holding the hand of one of our sons when he was probably ten years old, beyond
the age most boys are willing to hold their fathers hand in public. We were in a strip mall walking from
our car to a grocery store. I was aware of being pleased that he took my hand so freely, realizing he
probably wouldnt do so much longer. I held his hand to protect him, to keep him close, to guide him and
to assure him of my love.

Thats what God promises us. Walking the streets of our city, in those neighborhoods where people live
who need groceries and help with the electric bill, where many of our friends wont walk, I have no fear
knowing God is holding my hand. God assures me this is where I am to be, this is where God travels
with me, this is where God makes me firm in my purpose.

And we gather as a community of people responding to Gods call as we hold each others hand, assuring,
guiding, staying close. Together we remind each other that this is right, this is justice, and we are not
alone.

I, the Lord, have called you for justiceTo open the eyes of the blind (Isaiah 42: 6a, 7a)

Whether together or alone, we witness to the people we serve, as well as to others in the community, that
we have a brighter purpose. We serve so they can see that God calls all to live for the sake of justice.
One of the reliable workers in our food pantry is a young woman who found us when she came looking
for food for her family. She saw what we were doing and saw that she could do the same. She has
returned every week to serve and be a witness, to open other eyes. We never know who sits in darkness
that we may bring to light.


1. Whose hand might we hold as we begin the walk into this darkness of Holy Week?
2. When have we felt embraced by God?

Patrick Nugent
Member CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section; Chair, Social Concerns Committee, St. Mary Refuge of
Sinners Parish (Cambridge, Maryland)

April 13, 2014
Palm Sunday of the Lords Passion
Matthew 21: 1-11; Isaiah 50: 4-7; Philippians 2: 6-11; Matthew 26: 14-27: 66

Palm Sunday sets the stage for the events of Holy Week and invites us to place the Scriptures
alongside the events of our lives and our times. The journey into the meaning of Christs Passion
is not limited to our personal experience. It is always a journey that we make in the company of
others.
When the Sanctuary Movement in the U.S. was most active in the mid to late 1980s, many
interfaith groups opened the doors of their religious institutions to house refugees from Latin
America escaping persecution. Similar to the historic underground railroad of Civil War times,
individuals and groups risked arrest by assisting refugees to find sanctuaries of safety in
countries of the North.
One of our Franciscan sisters who had ministered in Central America was a member of a
coalition committed to assisting refugees and was due to face trial. I was present for the prayer
service of solidarity which was planned for the Sunday before the trial. It was a large gathering
of persons from the U.S. and Latin America who came together to pray that Palm Sunday. As I
listened to each presenter, it was clear that our sisters and brothers in Latin America were living
a history that reflected the suffering and passion of Jesus. They had left their families and
homeland to escape torture and death. On that Palm Sunday, we could not separate their
suffering from that of Jesus. Their suffering often ended in death as did his. His resurrection
offered them hope of sanctuary and new life. I recognized that the readings of Palm Sunday and
Holy Week must be proclaimed in relationship to the environment, place and context of our time
and events of the world around us.
In Matthews Gospel read before the procession of the Palm Sunday liturgy, Jesus knew his
listeners need to hear the message of healing and liberation. The large crowd spread their
cloaks on the road, while others cut branches and strewed them on the road. The crowdskept
crying out and saying: Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is he who comes in the name of the
LordWhen asked who he was, the crowds replied, This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth
in Galilee (Matthew 21: 8-11).

Reflection on the Passion of Christ invites us to take action to lessen violence in our world. In its
document Justice in the World, the World Synod of Bishops reminded us , The radical
transformation of the world in the paschal Mystery of the Lord gives full meaning to the efforts
of people to lessen injustice, violence and hatred and to advance all together in justice, freedom
kinship and love (#76).
The journey into the Passion of Christ is not limited to reflection on our personal experience. It
is always a journey that we make in the company of others and on behalf of others. Christ
emptied himself and became the servant of all (Philippians 2).
1. Where do you see signs of hope emerging in the lives of people of faith in spite of legislative
decisions that continue to widen the gap between the rich and the poor?
2. In Isaiah 50:4-7, we read the Lord God has given me a well-trained tongue that I may know
how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them. When have you been an advocate for
others in need?
Sister Frances Cunningham, O.S.F.
Parish Relations Coordinator, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee

April 12, 2014
Saturday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Ezekiel 37: 21-28, John 11: 45-56

Never again shall they be two nations, and never again shall they be divided into two
kingdoms, Ezekiel 37:22.

Do we have two kingdoms in the U.S. today? There certainly is a lot of media attention to
issues like the growing wealth gap or the challenge of "social mobility. These are extremely
important discussions. The challenge, as with many such debates, is finding the facts among the
partisan factions. I wish I had an easy answer for that one. What I do know is that we won't
solve our political problems by continuing to entrench ourselves in our bunkers and hurl fact
bombs at the other side.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul was founded by French university students in 1833 (at the
same time and time of Victor Hugos Les Miserables). They were challenged by their fellow
students to demonstrate their faith in more concrete ways than simple debate. When asked to
show their works, they had one response: "Let us go to the poor.

Frederick Ozanam, one of the principle founders of The Society, was an active advocate for the
poor. However, he also knew that partisan debate was not the answer. Frederick wrote:
The problem which divides people today is not a political problem; it is a social
one.Many people have too much and still want more. Others do not have enough, or
do not have anything at all, and they want to take by force what is not being given to
them. A war is threatening between these two groups. On one side, the power of wealth,
on the other, the force of desperation. We must get in between these two groups, at least
to reduce the impact if we cannot stop it.
At its foundation, the SVDP ministry is for the spiritual development of its members. As such,
our role in advocacy is not to simply dig in our heels and emphatically state and restate our
position. Our job is to represent the needs of the people we serve while promoting understanding
and empathy between opposite factions, wherever they exist. As Ozanam wrote in a letter:
"Let us learn, first of all, to defend our belief without hating our adversaries, to appreciate
those who do not think as we do, to recognize that there are Christians in every camp, and
that God can be served now as always! Let us complain less of our times and more of
ourselves. Let us not be discouraged, let us be better."

1. Think of a moment in which you brought two opposing viewpoints together to forge an
agreement acceptable to multiple parties. What can you learn from this success to help you forge
agreements between opposing parties today?
2. Do you find that your agencys or parishs outreach butts heads with those of another parish
or agency? If so, how can you foster greater cooperation?
Jack Murphy
Volunteer Chair , Voice of the Poor National Advocacy Committee, St. Vincent De Paul Society
(Alpharetta, Georgia)

April 11, 2014
Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Jeremiah 20: 10-13; John 10: 31-42

Both Jeremiah and Jesus experienced scrutiny of their every word and deed. Jeremiah was ridiculed and
beaten for his prophecy of doom and destruction. Jesus countrymen picked up rocks to stone him. They
claimed their actions were a response to blasphemy that Jesus, a mere human, claimed to be the Son of
God. Jesus encouraged them to believe him not because of his claim to be the Son of God but because of
his good works done in the name of his Father.

Like the Jews in Jeremiahs and Jesus time, do we ever find ourselves ready to cast stones based on
our harsh judgments of other peoples motives? Though there may be 99 good reasons for the word or
deed of another, we may all too readily ascribe the one evil intention. We may not say something aloud
but simply cast a withering glance. I remember a lesson from my youth when my aspirant directress told
me: If looks could kill, the person you are looking at would be dead. That is what you might call an
evil eye.
At times, like Jeremiah and Jesus, we may receive harsh judgments from others. When giving handouts
in charity we may be criticized for not giving a hand up. (Mother Teresa of Calcutta suffered such an
indictment.) When working diligently to change unjust systems we may be chastised for not instead
fulfilling the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. How do we respond to such criticism? Do we, like
Jeremiah, complain to God about our suffering? Or do we, like Jesus, leave for a quiet and holy place
where we can center ourselves and consider who we are before God Gods Beloved.

1. How do I respond to criticisms leveled against me?
2. As the end of our Lenten journey approaches, are my words and deeds in greater harmony? Am I
more understanding and willing to ascribe good intentions to others?

Sally Ann Brickner, OSF
Justice, Peace and Ecology Coordinator
Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes (Fond du Lac, Wisconsin)
April 10, 2014
Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Genesis 17: 3-9, John 8: 51-59

As a follower of the Word of God, I fully recognize that to KNOW God is to have faith in His
Word and in His most holy and loving son, Jesus Christ. It is through Jesus and our belief in
Him as the Son of God that we have hope for an eternal life in the kingdom of heaven.

Abraham is a perfect example of this faith. The First Reading demonstrates how he gave himself
over to God and how God blessed him as the father of many nations. Are we as likely to be as
faithful to God as Abraham was?

Jesus is tested in todays Gospel. He refuses to exalt himself to men of this world while
explaining that He is exalted by His Father. In the same token, if we are true to the faith in God
we so readily exclaim to have, then we must show reverence to Jesus as our Messiah and Savior
who was sent by God to be our redeemer


1. Like Abraham, how can we best pass our faith to future generations ?
2. How will we respond when those without faith pick up stones to condemn us as Jesus
was condemned in todays Gospel?

Claudette M. Almaraz, MBA
Kansas Loan Pool Project Director, Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas

April 9, 2014
Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Daniel 3: 14-20, 91-92, 95; John 8: 31-42

It seems everywhere we turn today, people are seeking to become free. It is hard to keep up with
the protests alone which are occurring across the globe. Whether in nations or particular
movements, one cannot ignore the growing cry for liberation.
We certainly encounter people everyday who seek freedom from addiction, abuse,
unemployment, sub-standard housing, income inequality and all the forms of destitution that
result from poverty. There can even be enslavement to the very programs we provide. While
necessary, those who must access our services are denied the freedom of self-sufficiency, of that
dignity which comes with being able to provide for oneself and ones family.
Todays scriptures are all about freedom.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are freed from the white-hot furnace by the God they serve,
the One who alone can save them. They refused to be enslaved to false gods, and found freedom
in the true God of Israel. So many of us fall prey to the false gods of an individualistic,
indifferent, materialistic, and self-centered mentality which results, as Pope Francis repeatedly
teaches, in the exclusion of so many from the table of life. It also results in enslaving those who
possess the wealth, the goods, and power to fear, insecurity, and spiritual emptiness.

Jesus promises that the truth He brings will set us free. It frees us to discover our true dignity as
children of God, sisters and brothers to one another. It frees us for a solidarity that breaks the
cycle of our enslavement to violence and fear. It frees us for a love and joy that comes from
simplicity and knowing that everyone has just enough to live, grow, and celebrate.

May we let Christ free us so we might be instruments of that same freedom to one another and to
those whom we serve in our agencies and congregations.


1. Is there anything in my life that I am enslaved that I desire Christ to set me free from?

2. What can we do as Catholic Charities and parish staff and volunteers to insure those we
serve are not enslaved to the very programs we provide? How might we find ways to
move our clients towards a reasonable self-sufficiency?

Deacon Lucio Caruso

Director, Mission Integration
Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Louisville

April 8, 2014
Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Numbers 21: 4-9, John 8:21-30

In the First Reading, the Israelites complain about their condition and long for the comforts of Egypt,
from where they had recently escaped with Gods intervention; they have become ungrateful. In
response, He sends serpents which kill many of the people, but relents when the survivors repent of
their complaining. He has Moses erect a bronze serpent on a stand so that anyone who looks up to it is
cured.
The Gospel according to John is a reflection on the person of Jesus and His miraculous deeds, with long
discourses, rich symbolism, and themes of contrast (i.e. light vs. darkness, ignorance vs. knowledge, and
good vs. evil). It was written at a time of increasing animosity between the Jewish establishment and
the early Christian communities.
In todays reading, Jesus proclaims His coming from God the Father to this world and eventual return to
heaven; hence, He is not only the promised Messiah but God Himself. The Pharisees reject this claim
and eventually have Him crucified. Ironically, that very crucifixion only leads to His resurrection and
return to the Father, therefore proving His Divinity and His victory over the ultimate evil, death.
Like the Israelites, we may fix our gaze upon a cross to be healed. Our cross is that of the crucified
Christ. Upon reflection of the passion and death of Christ for our sins, we are empowered to love and
follow Him more clearly.
1. Spend several moments today venerating the cross of Christ.
2. Jesus notes that, but I say only what the Father taught me. The one who sent me is with me. He
has not left me alone, because I always do what is pleasing to him (John 8: 28b-29). Who manifests
Gods teaching most clearly in our lives?
Kevin Cushing
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry and Our Lady of Loretto Parish (Novato, California)
April 7, 2014
Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Daniel 13: 1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62, John 8: 1-11

Respect for the reputation of persons forbids every attitude and word likely to cause them
unjust injury, Cathechism of the Catholic Church, #2477.

Whether factual or a lie, gossip hurts. It does seem like fun to be in the know about someone.
Gossip can build up our self-esteem or give us power over someone. We say to ourselves, at
least Im not that bad! Any words spoken aloud that cause pain to another person or group
dishonors God because gossip takes away a persons dignity. Have you ever thought, Its a fact
I am sharing, so its not gossip. How does this promote the common good? What if the
rumor is true? Does it build up or tear down the community?

The Scriptures today show both sides of gossip, false and true. We must focus on what is for the
good of the community and what promotes the dignity of the people around us. We should never
take a story at face value. There are always nuances that must be taken into consideration. It is
easier to take someones word as fact and start throwing stones. It is easy to condemn and even
harder to forgive. Reputation of a person can never be fully restored once the words have been
spoken aloud. Condemnation, hatred, and lies take up energy and project a negative atmosphere
that can hide Gods love. We are called to build up the kingdom of God. Building each other up
shows respect. We should always ask ourselves if the words we use honor God and bring dignity
to Gods children.


1. Are there times when I accepted gossip as true and ignore the facts?
2. Have I ever condemned someone based on one persons information?

C. Diane Zbasnik, MAPM
Director, Catholic Commission of Summit County, Cleveland Catholic Charities

April 6, 2014
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Ezekiel 37: 12-14, Romans 8: 8-11, John 11: 1-45
When I wrote this, the due date of our first child was just days away. It is easy for me to view a
lot from a parental perspective. I have no idea what that actually is, but, I like to imagine it
includes an immense amount of trust, forgiveness, and love. I believe I only have the capacity
to trust, forgive and love because of the gifts of the Trinity.
The first two readings are enveloped with The Spirit:
I will put my spirit in you that you may live (Ezekiel 37: 14)
you are in the spirit, if only the Spirit of God dwells in you (Romans 8: 9b)
the Spirit of Christ (Romans 8: 9)
the spirit is alive (Romans 8: 10)
the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you (Romans 8: 11)

through his Spirit dwelling in you (Romans 8: 11).
When I reflect on the Spirit, I think not of myself but of the abundant blessings already bestowed
on our child. The Spirit of Life that initiates our being is not just a gift we passively receive but
a mandate to use our life to serve God and love one another. As a new parent, to serve and love
in the midst of doubt, pain, and self-pity is an immense challenge. Yet I trust that the Spirit will
guide me.
The Gospel illustrates Jesus capacity to forgive. It is said that Jesus wept, not because of the
loss of his friend Lazarus, but because the disciples showed a lack of trust in their belief that Life
and Love are greater than despair and death. I reflect on the times when I cause Jesus to weep:
when I despair over a social issue and do not trust that God will roll away the stone of injustice;
when I do not forgive an action and I leave a brother or sister in the darkness of the tomb about
our relationship; and when I fail to love, binding people in hate and preventing them from
experiencing Gods love through me. As a parent I will often need forgiveness
The love of God the Father gives me the awesome responsibility of raising this child to be a
peacemaker, a child of God. Ultimately, I trust that raising a peacemaker will be a joyful
journey, not because of all those who have gone before me (although those examples certainly
help) but because the same Spirit that lies in each one of us now lies in my child. The
opportunity to connect with every human spirit I encountered over the last 32 years of life
prepares me to trust, forgive and love this new manifestation of Gods Spirit.
1. Are you likely to all upon the Spirit to assist you in time of need? Why or why not?
2. Consider Fr. John Dears commentary of todays Gospel from his book Jesus the Rebel.

Matthew Price
mprice@catholiccharitiesusa.org
Sr. Manager, Programs & Services, Catholic Charities USA
April 5, 2014
Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Jeremiah 11: 18-20, John 7: 40-53

Todays Gospel opens with some people who heard Jesus speak recognizing that he was a
prophet and others acknowledging him as the Christ. The word Christ in Greek means the
anointed one. It is the equivalent of the Hebrew word messiah which means the anointed
one of God.

What does it mean to be anointed? Anointing is the act of placing or pouring sacred oil upon
ones head. It signifies that God has chosen the person for a special task. In the Old Testament,

priests, kings, and sometimes prophets, were anointed. Jesus fulfills each of these roles: priest,
king and prophet. His role as king is suggested in todays reading; it will be fleshed out in the
imagery of readings over the next few weeks (i.e. his royal entry into Jerusalem).

When we think about Jesus as he is shown to us in the gospels, He embodies the true meaning of
the anointed one. He was chosen by God His Father to minister to the needs of others. He was
chosen to teach others how to live a life that manifests Gods presence with us on earth. Jesus
was chosen by His Father to make the ultimate sacrifice for the atonement of sin and for the
salvation of Gods people.

Lord, let me deepen my understanding of what it means for me to be chosen by you, and each
day to purposefully live out my anointing. Help me to know what special tasks you have chosen
for me so that I will grow ever closer to you.


We, too, are anointed. When we are baptized and confirmed, we are anointed with holy oils
which mark us as Gods chosen people. How do we live out our anointing in our daily lives?

Do we acknowledge that we are chosen by God to be His children and partake of his kingdom?
Do we recognize and heed the call to do His work by ministering to the needs of others, working
for peace and justice, and living our lives as a daily manifestation of Gods love to those we
serve?

Tina Parchin
Family Center Program Coordinator, Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Hartford

April 4, 2014
Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Wisdom 2:1A, 12-22; Psalm 34:17-18. 19-20, 21 and 23; John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30
As we move through our Lenten repentance, perhaps having stumbled, even fallen, let Christ
help us rise again. We, as the wicked did in the First Reading of Wisdom, in time of doubt
sometimes question, Let us see whether his words be true; let us find out what will happen to
him (Wisdom 2: 17). In this secular world, the Word of God continues to be rejected in
different ways and we, in our work and lives, are Christs messengers, spreading His Word with
kindness in our deeds and truth in both our words and actions.
As we see in Psalm 34: 19-20, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are
crushed in spirit he saves. Many are the troubles of the just man, but out of them all, the Lord
delivers him. In our work with Catholic Charities and our congregations, we help many whose
hearts have been broken and spirits crushed, whether through poverty, being forced from their
homes, and having seemingly no one to turn to. Which is why Pope Francis reminds us that
living out our faith is work. His definition of servant leadership is not so much speaking, but
rather speaking with our whole lives.

In todays Gospel of John, Jesus already knew people were trying to kill him, yet he still traveled
to Jerusalem to continue his teaching. So those who saw him thought, Could the authorities
have realized that he is the Christ (John 7: 26b)? We know that He is Christ, the Anointed One,
so let us not forget the brokenhearted ones whom He holds close. These are whom we hold up in
truth and tenderness in any message in the public square.
1. How have we come to realize Jesus is the Christ, as are our own clients who come to us
seeking help?
2. What is Jesus telling us when he cries out, You know me and also know where I am
from (John 7: 28)? Do we share that knowledge and spirit through our words and
actions?
Jo Ann Zuniga
Program Manager, Communications, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-
Houston
April 3, 2014
Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Exodus 32: 7-14, John 5: 31-47

Todays reading from Exodus is placed in the middle of the Israelites 40 years of wandering in
the desert. Yahweh uses Moses to proclaim his message to the Israelites in the midst of their
sojourn. Moses carries a message of Gods wrath against the Israelites due to their disloyalty to
him.

I am touched by Pope Francis message for us during our 40 day journey in Lent 2014. Our
forty-day journey to Easter can be an opportunity for us to reflect on our call to serve as public
witnesses of Gods love for every one of our brothers and sisters, particularly those on the
margins of society. The Holy Father reflects on our role as missionaries of charity and justice in
his message for Lent: What does this invitation to poverty, a life of evangelical poverty, mean
for us today? In the catechism, we hear the same call: All Christ's faithful are to direct their
affections rightly, lest they be hindered in their pursuit of perfect charity by the use of worldly
things and by an adherence to riches which is contrary to the spirit of evangelical poverty (CCC
2545).

This notion of evangelical poverty may sound challenging, but in his message, Pope Francis
explains that it is an invitation to partake in a life of radical simplicity and humility to better
serve those suffering from material and spiritual poverty. By emptying ourselves of our
attachment to the things of this world, we are able to meet others in their need with open hearts
and understanding. A spirit of evangelical poverty enables us to go into the world and see the

dignity and worth of everyone we come in contact with, especially those with no one else to turn
to.

There is no better time in the year than Lent to undertake a period of self-reflection, to examine
our own attachments and what is preventing from more deeply being servants bringing the
message of hope and love to all of Gods children. In these forty days, we have the opportunity
to strengthen our resolve to innovating, educating, and acting to bring about a society that
provides opportunity for everyone to achieve their full potential. As our Holy Father says:

The Church offers her help, her diakonia [servant ministry], in meeting these needs and
binding these wounds which disfigure the face of humanity. In the poor and outcast we
see Christs face; by loving and helping the poor, we love and serve Christ.

As Catholic Charities agencies, we are the tangible expression of this commitment to bind
wounds and alleviate injustice. Let us use this Lenten season as an opportunity to let go of
whatever prevents us from fully following our Lords call, and, with both arms free, fully
embrace what it means to love and serve those who are poor and marginalized in our
communities.


1. How can we incorporate a spirit of evangelical poverty into our daily work?
2. What is preventing us from seeing the face of Christ in the stranger, the homeless, the
drug addict, the unborn, the immigrant, the disabled, the prisoner, the aged, or other
vulnerable members of society? What can we do to advocate on their behalf?

Patrick Brown
Manager, Communications and Notre Dame Partnership
Catholic Charities USA

April 2, 2014
Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Isaiah 49: 8-15; John 5: 17-30

Todays readings present to the hearer both a consolation and a challenge. We are reminded that
the fruits of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving along our personal Lenten journey will allow us to
more fully experience the Lord as near to us who call upon him in truth. However, they also
challenge us to a larger ecclesial dimension of our Lenten practices through which we walk with
our sisters and brothers on their journey to salvation.

Jesus clarifies the manner in which God has chosen to reveal His divine presence in the world. It
is no longer simply through the words spoken by prophets and judges. This new order of
revelation is through Jesus himself as the Incarnate Word. To do the will of God in the world is
to follow the example of Jesus, the Son, who taught by word and deed. These words and deeds
are confirmed by the Spirit manifestly present from the moment of Jesus baptism in the Jordan.
We understand that just as the Son cannot do anything on his own, but only what he sees the
Father doing (John 5: 19) so we, as proclaimers of the gospel in the world today, cannot do
anything on our own but can only act as followers of Christ.

We have been created in the image of the Trinitarian God, the first community of love. Thus, we
have been invited on this path of salvation not merely as individuals but also as members of the
universal family of humanity. As such, our first task on the journey is to unwaveringly believe in
the abiding love of our Creating God who will never forget us even if a mother may forget her
infant and be without tenderness for the child of her womb (Isaiah 49: 15). Our second task is
to live our lives in such a manner as to make that knowledge manifest through the actions of our
lives.

When we firmly believe in the enveloping love of God for us there is no other response possible
than to make this love manifest through the sharing of it with those lacking the ability to do so
for themselves. Thus we accept our vocation to be the living covenant of God with us calling to
prisoners to come out! to those in darkness--show yourselves, to comfort Gods people and
show mercy to his afflicted so there shall not be hunger or thirst.

The Lord is indeed near to all who call upon him in truth. God will lift up all who are falling and
raise up all who are bowed down. And God will do this though us! Today, we are reminded that
we are the prophets of the gospel of love and salvation, each called to follow the example of
Jesus who did the will of the Father in restoring the order of love in the universe of Gods glory.


In the general audience of 19 February 2014 Pope Francis, stated to celebrate the
sacrament of reconciliation is to be wrapped in a warm embrace. How do our Lenten
practices help ourselves and others to experience this expression of Gods love?

How many times in our daily lives do we, like Zion, say The Lord has forsaken me; my
Lord has forgotten me (Isaiah 49: 14)? How may we learn to trust fully in the power of
Gods promises?

How may we learn to live the attitude of Jesus that I cannot do anything on my ownI
do not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me (John 5: 30)?

Pope Francis has called us to be a church of the poor, for the poor. How can we become
more like that this Lent?

Rev. Bernard Olszewski
Outreach Priest, Cross Catholic Outreach, Boca Raton

April 1, 2014
Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Ezekiel 47-1-9, John 5: 1-16
I am a fourth generation "shore" vacationer. Just as my parents, grandparents and great
grandparents have done, my family has been blessed to be able to spend some time at the beach
most years. We take advantage of the healing properties of the sun and water, the enjoyment of
each other's company, and the opportunity to decompress from the pressures of work. We
haven't made this pilgrimage every year. Some years our schedules were too tight and others we
just couldn't afford it. In those years, we scrimped and saved more diligently so that we could
"go back to the sea," as John Kennedy said.

There is something medicinal for many of us in water. Whether it's drinking our daily allotment
to stay healthy, bathing to wash away the days grit and grime, floating weightless in a pool, or
staring at the waves as they repeatedly lap the shoreline, each of us seems to find that we are
reenergized when we wade in the water.

In today's readings, we hear both an Old and New Testament descriptions of the healing and
soothing roles that water takes in our lives. Because of the water flowing from the temple, the
people will have fruit and medicine in abundance. Because of the pool by the Sheep Gate, many
people gained strength, confidence, and healing from their ailments and troubles.

But what about the guy who couldn't get to the water? Thankfully, Jesus was his spring.

In our various ministries, we are called upon to be the healing waters. It is our unique role to
address the immediate need of the person before us by providing whatever assistance we can.
But we must also display the compassion of our faith, to address the spiritual charism our faith
based work requires. If we don't provide that healing water every time we meet those in need,
by offering an empathetic ear, a patient gaze, a compassionate view, then how are we different
from any public service agency?
1. How can we act to maintain the wonders and benefits that water brings to our local
communities?

2. We are invited to join Church leaders in prayer today who are celebrating Mass on the
U.S. Mexican border in order to bring attention to the plight of immigrant families unduly
harmed by our nations immigration policies. You may pray with them live at noon
Eastern time by clicking here. How can we respond to bring new life to immigrant
families as Jesus did to bring new life to the ill man at the Sheep Gate?
Jack Murphy
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section; Volunteer Chair, St. Vincent de Paul
Society, Voice of the Poor National Advocacy Committee

March 31, 2014
Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Isaiah 65: 17-21; John 4:43-54

John presents his second sign

Throughout his book, John presents seven signs so that we "may [come to] believe that Jesus is the
Messiah, the Son of God, and that through this belief you may live life in his name." (John 20:31) He
presents these signs to show Jesus' divinity, to reveal His glory. In today's gospel, John shares the
second of his seven signs, the healing of the royal officials son. When the royal official heard that Jesus
was in town, he begged him to heal his ill son. Jesus' first reaction was to comment, "Unless you people
see signs and wonders, you will not believe (John 4: 48).

Still, the man insists on Jesus' help and pleas again for him to heal his son before he dies. Perhaps he
made his request out of desperation for his son's life, but he still chose to put his faith in Jesus. At this
moment, Jesus healed the man's dying son.

By sharing these signs, John is not only showing us that we need to trust in Jesus; he is showing us that
we need to give ourselves to Jesus, to give ourselves to eternal life. We should not expect eternal life in
exchange for trusting Jesus, but we can expect eternal life by jumping into God's arms and trusting in His
Way.

Part of having faith is asking God to help us live out that faith, to help us take that leap into our Father's
arms. As we prepare for the Lord's death and resurrection, let us ask for the deepening of our faith so
that we can continue our walk with Him into eternal life.
1. The text reads that the official begged Jesus for help and later pleaded with Jesus. Are we
as passionate in seeking relationship with Jesus?
2. Have you ever met anyone in ministry that was as persistent in seeking help as the royal official
was? If so, how did you respond? What can we offer to our clients beyond material support?

Anonymous Volunteer
Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of San Antonio, Inc.

March 30, 2014
Sunday of the Fourth Week of Lent; Second Scrutiny of the Elect
I Samuel 16: 1b, 6-7, 10-13a, Ephesians 5: 8-14, John 9: 1-41

Todays readings focus on the marvel of being Gods choice. In the First Reading God chooses David to
be the new king. In the Letter to the Ephesians, the author reminds us that we have been chosen to
receive the light. And, in the Gospel of John, the man blind from birth was chosen to illustrate Gods
power.
How many of us resist being chosen? Do we refuse the special assignment at work? Do we claim to be
too busy to chair the parish festival committee? Do we find ourselves saying NO more often that we say
YES? Do we just refuse to be chosen?
Think of our work with Catholic Charities clients and congregation members. We have chosen a
ministry with materially or emotionally broken people. Have we chosen to provide those with the best
care that we can offer? Our choices in ministry may help those seeking assistance to make a positive
choices with a long-lasting impact.
All choices have consequences. It is wise to pray that we and our clients may be empowered to make
the right choices in our ministry and clients life decisions. Through prayer and the understanding and
application of the principles of Catholic social teaching and the Catholic Charities Code of Ethics, we can
position ourselves to help build a more caring and just society for all. We can choose to ensure a clear
understanding of the sacredness and dignity of all humans, a foundation of these principles.
Today is also a very important day for those preparing to enter the Catholic Church through the Rite of
Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) process. Catechumens (those not yet baptized) and candidates
(those baptized) have elected (or chosen) to enter fully into the Catholic faith. Most of them will be
fully received this Easter. Today is the Second Scrutiny; the elect (catechumens and candidates) and
the whole parish are asked to examine their lives while praying for continued healing and strength.
Catholic parishioners, through lives of prayer, modeling actions of mercy and justice, and personal
contact with the elect, are invited to contribute in the final steps of the their journey.
For reflection:
1. Do we choose to be among the chosen? If so, how?
2. Has there been a time in your life when you felt a sense of healing as strong as the man born blind?
If so, how did you proceed to thank God for being chosen to receive His goodness?
Coquese L. Williams
Director of Parish Social Ministry, Catholic Charities of Southeast Texas
March 29, 2014

Saturday of the Third Week of Lent
Hosea 6:1-6; Luke 18:9-14

The promise of Resurrection is held out by the prophet Hosea in todays First Reading, but with a
challenge to us to practice loyalty and to have knowledge of God. Knowledge of God is essential to
loyalty. If we dont know who God is and what God wants, we cant walk in Gods path.

The Gospel tells the story of the Pharisee and the tax collector, one self-righteous and the other humble.
Jesus clearly states that the tax collectorthe one who humbled himselfhad the right attitude. By
humbling himself, he would be exalted by God.

What do these two readings have in common? And what do they tell us about our mission to serve
those who are poor and vulnerable? In essence, God is asking us to know him deeply, to know what it is
that God wants for the world, and then to do it. The Gospel makes it clear that judging others or
imposing our own standards on them is not what God is about. Loyalty to God means accepting others
whoever they are and in whatever condition we encounter them. God is not impressed with people who
are impressed with themselves. Nor does God admire those who patronize and look down on their
neighbor.

In our ministry with those who are poor and vulnerable, it is important to pause and remind ourselves
that we arent above them, that we arent their saviors, and that they are wondrously created in Gods
image.

Questions for Reflection:

1. Do we take the time during our Lenten journey to deepen our knowledge of God and what God
wants of us?

2. When we work with those who struggle financially, or with addiction, or to find shelter or food,
do we (even subconsciously) see ourselves as above them?

3. Do we use Gods lens to see the dignity, the worth, the humanity of those whom we are
privileged to serve?

Joan Weber
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section and Project Coordinator for Lifelong Faith
Formation, Center for Ministry Development; Omaha, Nebraska

March 28, 2014
Friday of the Third Week of Lent
Hosea 14: 2-10, Mark 12: 28-34

As I began to write this reflection, I received a text message from my sister. She is an executive
in a Fortune 500 company, and was just informed that despite record earnings last quarter, she

and several colleagues were told they need to lay off some staff. She is keenly aware that this
will have devastating impact on those who are about to lose their jobs, and is sincerely concerned
for them. As we read todays readings, let us keep in mind not just those who lose their
livelihoods, but also those who control the futures of others.

Jesus tells us in todays Gospel that we are to love God with all our being, and our neighbor as
ourselves. Sometimes we do not consider how our actions affect our neighbors, or forget who
our neighbors are. Servant of God Teresa of Calcutta has said that although it is easy to love
people who are far away, distant Calcutta leads to our own door, acknowledging the difficulty in
feeling love towards those who are nearby. Such nearness can lead to a callousness on our part;
nearness that experiences irritation or judgment, leading to a feeling of justification of our own
non-loving actions.

While this reflection was inspired by sadness over actions within corporate America, a cursory
examination of conscience will reveal that we have all been in this situation. Perhaps with lower
stakes, we have missed opportunities to love our neighbor as ourselves. In this situation, we
can love our neighbor by advocating for resources for our unemployed neighbors and by working
to ensure the rights of workers, an essential element of Catholic social teaching. Loving our
neighbors as ourselves does not stop there, however.

In 1998, the U.S. Bishops issued the pastoral statement Everyday Christianity: To Hunger and
Thirst for Justice. It outlined six ways (as family members, workers, owners/manager/investors,
consumers, and good stewards) that we can practice our Christianity and love. If you have time,
its worth a re-read.

As our greatest commandments are to love God with all our being and our neighbor as ourselves,
let us try to expand our vision of who are neighbors are, and extend love to them in every way
we can.


1. Are there people in my life that I find hard to love? What is holding me back from loving
them? How can I break that barrier?

2. When I watch/read the news, do I view the people whom I read about as my neighbor?
How can I show love in a difficult situation?

Patrice Critchley-Menor
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section and Director of the Social Apostolate,
Diocese of Duluth

March 27, 2014
Thursday of the Third Week of Lent
Jeremiah 7: 23-28, Luke 11: 14-23

Several years ago, I received a phone call at home from a parishioner in the diocese for which I
was serving. Joe was irate over the fact that Catholic parishioners from our diocese were
advocating for national health care reform under the leadership of a faith based, though
ecumenical and not strictly Catholic, organization. For crying aloud, our Catholic parishioners
were even wearing shirts on Capitol Hill displaying their membership in the ecumenical
community organizing group. As I listened to Joe berate such behavior by our parishioners, a
sense of sorrow overtook me--sorrow for Joe. He seemed to be craving for a return to the pre
Vatican II Catholic Church, when our faith based schools, social ministries, and fraternal
organizations were more than likely purely Catholic.

Jesus was also questioned about his source for power in todays Gospel. Were Jesus opponents
attempting to trip him up because they feared that his popularity would threaten their own power
or were they generally fearful of a source of power that they could not explain (and therefore not
control?). As a friend in ministry has often asked when any of our offices are being similarly
interrogated, What are they afraid of?

One reason for the success of Catholic Charities is our ability to partner with federal, state, and
local governments. Our Catholic Charities annual survey illustrates that, on average, a Catholic
Charities agency raises 65 percent of its revenue from government sources. In other words, taxes
paid to governments often come back to our agencies to help run our programs. Last month, I
met a Congressional aide who was very enthusiastic about faith based social service providers,
while arguing that the government sources should be much less involved. When I informed her
of the dependence of Catholic Charities agencies on government contracts, she was so surprised
that she asked me to repeat myself! Next time I hear such an argument, I will not only remind
the speaker of the budget facts, but todays Gospel, as well!


1. Jesus noted in todays Gospel, Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste. Any
house torn by dissension falls (Luke 11: 17). Is there a role for us to help strengthen
collaboration between different service providers attempting to reduce poverty in our
local communities? Is there a role for us to help strengthen understanding and mutual
respect between opposing parties in our congregations and families?
2. Was there a time in your life when you acted similarly to those who tested Jesus in
todays Gospel? What was your motivation? Are you still driven by such notions?


March 26, 2014
Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent
Deuteronomy 4: 1, 5-9, Matthew 5: 17-19

Jesus makes a definitive statement that the will of God will be accomplished by adherence to the
Jewish law and prophets. God is so committed to these promises that Jesus reminds us "whoever

then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in
the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the
kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5: 19).

This is a reminder for us modern disciples that we are called to teach and to live the Word of
God, all that it means, and nothing that it doesn't mean. If we are preaching, teaching and living
the Word of God we are answering the call by Jesus for us to live a righteous life. This living of
a righteous life will in fact exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees.

How can this be? This can be done because we, New Testament people, have Jesus dwelling in
us. We have the benefit of knowing, from the New Testament, what was unknown to our
forebears in faith. God revealed himself to Moses on Mount Sinai and said what he expected of
us and what we could expect from him. The prophets of the Old Testament were called to speak
his word to the people. They were messengers of the Word of God; Jesus is the Word of God
incarnate. With this coming of the Christ we have a visible example of how to live God's law
perfectly.

Today, God's law is under attack from various areas of society. The baptized have a duty to
speak God's truth at every opportunity. Our faith is a permanent part of who we are. During Lent
we have an opportunity to recommit, through our meditations and contemplations, to imitate the
faith and trust of the Magi who traveled far, in faith, to experience the incarnation of their faith.
Lent is a time to open ourselves to the empowering grace of God's Holy Spirit. Let us pray that
we remain open to the Holy Spirit living in us so that we can fulfill Gods plan. Amen.


1. Todays readings emphasize the privileged relationship between the Jewish people and
God. How does this fact color your relationship with Jewish people today?

2. However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your
own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory, as long as you live but teach
them to your children and your childrens children (Deuteronomy 4: 9) and but
whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom
of heaven (Matthew 5: 19) Teaching of Old and New Testament law is very
important! How seriously do we take our role as teachers to those in our ministry?

Deacon Al Turner
Director of Office of Black Catholics, Archdiocese of Washington

March 25, 2014
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

Isaiah 7: 10-14, 8: 10, Hebrews 10: 4-10, Luke 1: 26-38

Todays Solemnity of the Annunciation is a very important observance in the liturgical calendar. It
commemorates our God actually putting on flesh in order to dwell among us, to be like us in all things
except sin. The mystery of Gods intent is awesome: to be formed within the womb of a young woman,
to be born as an infant, to be raised in a home as a child with parents, to work as a young man as a
carpenter, to be teacher for all of humanity, to suffer and die, and then to be raised back to life; all this
to prove that we are indeed loved by God and are co-heirs to eternal life.

Todays Solemnity ignites the story of the Incarnation: the announcement comes to Mary. Amazement!
Then the words, Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God (Luke 1: 30b). I think Mary
must have found favor with God long before she accepted the message of the angel to be an unwed
mother. I think she had longed to serve God throughout her life and, along with her community she was
waiting in joyful hope for the coming of a redeemer.

All of us sort through all types of announcements, opportunities, and possibilities every day. We quickly
sort through some, discard many, and take note of others. Sometimes were led fruitfully, and others,
while they may have been initially intriguing, dont materialize. But we always need to give
consideration through faith and with trust that God will lead us.

Mary said, I am the handmaid of the Lord (Luke 1: 38a). With simple faith and trust Marys yes
changed the course of humankind. God didnt just need to borrow a body to create an infant; he
needed the totality of Marys being. So it is with us. We need to continually try to offer all that we are
in order that God may work mysteries and wonders in and through us; we may we be Gods heart,
hands, and feet to others.

Do not be afraid, for you have found favor with God (Luke 1: 30b).


1. Consider a time when you have been asked to adopt a surprising role. How did you respond?
What processes did you follow to help make the decision? In retrospect, how did you decision
turn out?
2. Now put yourself in the shoes of the angel, when you have announced to another a special role
that was in store for that person. Why were you called as messenger? How did your role affect
the longer term relationship with the recipient?

Deacon Richard Sage
Executive Director, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse

March 24, 2014
Monday of the Third Week of Lent.
2 Kings 5: 1-15ab, Luke 4: 24-30

The story of Naaman the Syrian and his interaction with the prophet Elisha is instructive for

Christians who may wonder if an ordinary or "routine" experience can be as full of grace as those of
the great saints. The story speaks to the reality of the action of God in circumstances that are
everyday, that is, not exceptional. Naaman seems to have thought that he was special and that God
should have treated him in a special way. He expected God to act according to a framework of
preconceptions in which he was ready to understand Him, but how lucky Naaman was to have
someone to reason with him to point out that the important thing was not his opinion of whether
Gods instructions were great enough but rather that Naaman obey and do as God instructed. The
Syrian was subsequently healed, but note that it was on Gods terms, not his own.
What an important lesson it is to learn to take God at His word and, like Naaman had to be
convinced to do, put aside preconceptions that so often end up being obstacles to obedience.
Applied to the lives of Christians today, this reveals the wisdom of the ordinary, everyday things that
are places where God acts in the life of grace: going to Mass, praying with the Scriptures,
sacramental confession, and daily devotions like the Rosary or the Divine Office. Whether an
individual receives a special or intense grace is up to God, but we should not presume that we are
special and get upset like Naaman if God does not act the way we think He should toward us. My
prayer for us this Lent is that we are all given the grace to humbly surrender and trust that God can
and does act in everyday circumstances, and devote ourselves to the apostolic teaching, fellowship,
the breaking of bread, and to prayer (Acts 2:42).
1. What ordinary means of sanctification am I failing to take advantage of because they are not
"special enough" for me?

2. Has God spoken to me in a quiet, everyday way that I have overlooked because I want
bigger things from Him?

3. The greatest exposition I have ever come across of how to encounter God in the everyday is
The Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis De Sales. I recommend it for everyone.

Andrew Olesh
Outreach Coordinator, Homebase ; Catholic Charities Community Services, Archdiocese of New York

March 23, 2014
Third Sunday of Lent
Exodus 17: 3-7, Romans 5: 1-2, 5-8, John 4: 5-42

Growing up next to the Ogallala Aquifer, I was used to having water, as much as I wanted, when I
wanted. To this very day, every night before I go to bed, I make sure that I have a glass of water on my
nightstand. Sometimes I will make an effort to drink the glass before turning out the light. Other times I
will let the glass stay there overnight so I can have it in the morning. In addition, some nights I might fix

a cup of tea. This will also find its way to my nightstand. Sometimes my nightstand will hold two or
three glasses and mugs.
The only time I have been aware of how much I take my water consumption for granted is when I travel.
I spent time in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic as a missioner. I had to buy bottled water and it
would be rationed. I was intentional about only using one glass so as not to waste more clean water for
washing dishes. That was the time in my life when I was most aware of the limits of not having clean
water at my disposal.
Our readings today are significant for many reasons. The Israelites are thirsting and are so consumed by
thirst; they doubt there will be nourishment in the desert. Moses acts as an intercessory again for God
and is able to provide the men and women with water. The Gospel reading of the Samaritan woman at
the well is one of the scriptures I most associate with Lent. A woman who has sinned is at the well,
seeking water for the day. She is seeking water for its life giving ability. She gets her water and so much
more. She encounters Jesus and their conversation is as astonishing as it would be for us to imagine
what Jesus would tell us about our lives. She did not even know that she was seeking water for its
healing and restorative power. That is the overflowing gift of believing in a merciful and just God.
We are yearning right now in our Lenten journey. Sacramental nature and identity in our lives are
sometimes altered during this holy season. Some parishes remove the holy water fonts from the parish.
No baptisms take place during these 40 days. We are about half-way through our Lenten journey. This
is when our sacrifice goes dry, gets tiresome, is boring. We are thirsting for refreshment and thirsting
for Jesus everlasting presence in our lives. When that is hard to find, it is easy to seek comfort and
solace in other places that arent as nurturing. We are left yearning for the water that will bring life in
God.
1. How do you maintain your Lenten fast while seeking the Truth?
2. What would Jesus challenge you to change in your life?
Genevieve Mougey
Poverty Education & Outreach Manager
Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development

March 22, 2014
Saturday of the Second Week of Lent
Micah 7: 14-15, 18-20; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
Jesus stood in the street and the folks were anxious to meet him and hear what he had to say. These were
the tax collectors and sinners who had walked away from practicing their religion. But they wanted to
hear Jesus talk about it. When he came out of the temple, they came to him. His message must have
been fresh and attractive. These were not religious Jews; they were, after all, working for the

occupying army. Yet they were eager to hear what he had to say. Just the act of coming into the
street to be with them was his first message. And they got it.
The story of the Prodigal Son shows the father coming out twice! He came out of the house when he saw
the younger son returning, and his son was glad to see him. And he came out of the house to coax his
older son to join the party; however, this son didnt even want to see the father. He came out to each son;
he did not rest on his authority and right to respect as father; he went to them in their need.
I celebrate Eucharist most weekday mornings with a small community of five to ten of the faithful in the
chapel of our little rural parish. We gather around the table of the Lord, able to look at each other and
have a real sense of community. Many mornings I actively think Id like to just stay here and enjoy
this. Jesus, too, probably would have liked to just hang out with his friends and talk about the Kingdom,
the Good News.
But he didnt. As Christians, as believers, as ministers, were called to follow Jesus lead and go to the
street. And so we do. When we visit the homes of poor people to deliver food, when we gather to
support the parents and friends of LGBT Catholics, when we find temporary housing for families burned
out of their homes, when we join Pope Francis campaign to end hunger, we are being Jesus to the sisters
and brothers we encounter. As Jesus is in each of us, we deliver his real presence along with food and
support. And when we look in their eyes, we encounter the suffering Jesus we are privileged to serve.
Jesus I long to see your face; then look around you. The Father is with us as we go out to build his
Kingdom here and now.

1. How do I see Jesus in the faces of the brothers and sisters I serve?
2. How do I see my service as a privilege?
3. What do I do when my work seems overwhelming?

Patrick Nugent
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section; Social Concerns Committee Chair, St. Mary
Refuge of Sinners Parish; Cambridge, MD

March 21, 2014
Friday of the Second Week of Lent
Genesis: 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a; Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46

The stone which the builders rejected has become
the keystone. This was the Lords doing; and we
marvel at it. (Matthew 21: 42)

The first reading from Genesis is the story of Joseph and his brothers. Matthews passage is the
parable of the wicked tenants. They are not exactly wholesome groups in either reading. These

people sound like some of the obstacles that we encounter as we accompany our brothers and
sisters on the margins.

Matthew relates to us that Jesus asks, Have you never read what the Scriptures say? Thats a
good question for us to ponder. How often do we read Scripture, not counting when we are going
to lector, or as part of a lectio divina group or when we read these reflections? Growing up
Catholic in the 50s, the Bible was not part of my 16 year Catholic school education. Thank
goodness, weve made such great progress since then.

In His parable, Jesus uses the quote from Psalm 118the stone which the builders rejected has
become the keystone. As we reflect on this passage, we might ask, How does this relate to my
ministry? We know that Matthew is addressing a Jewish audience familiar with the Psalms.
Apparently, the Jewish people are rejecting Jesus as their Messiah and are unaware that He is the
keystone, the one upon whom the future will be built. Jesus was not the Messiah they
expected.

Do we harbor false expectations about the harvest we expect in our ministries? Do we lose hope
when confronted by the impossible tasks we sometimes face accompanying hungry, jobless,
homeless, undocumented families who face many structural barriers? Too often, it is not about
justice; it is about rules or what is legal.

Jesus is our answer. He is the cornerstone for our work. He is the foundation which supports our
structure and binds us all together. Jesus reminds us that we will marvel at the Lords doing.
Our job is to simply trust Him, for He is the master builder.


1. Thomas Merton writes, Do not depend on the hope of results. When you are doing the sort of
work you have taken on, essentially an apostolic work, you may have to meet the fact that your
work will be apparently worthless and achieve no result at all, if not perhaps results opposite to
what you expect. As you get used to the idea, you start more and more to concentrate not on the
results but on the value, the rightness, the truth of the work itself.

How does this apply to your thoughts on your ministry?

2. How do you maintain your worker status and the belief that your task is simply to plant
seeds that one day will grow, water seeds already planted and lay foundations that will need
further development? How do you manage to avoid the mistaken notion that you are the master
builder?

3. How often do you read full chapters of Scripture, so that you may truly drink in the words
of entire stories of our Judeo Christian heritage? This is an exercise worth considering.

Stan Fitzgerald
CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section and member St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Community,
San Jose, CA

March 20, 2014
Thursday of the 2
nd
Week Lent
Jeremiah 17: 5-10; Psalm 1: 1-2, 3, 4,6; Luke 16: 19-31

Todays First Reading features Jeremiahs frustration with those who ignored his warnings and
calls for repentance: Like a barren bush in the desert that enjoys no change of season, but stands
in a lava waste, a salt and empty earth (Jeremiah 17: 6). Compare to one who trusts in the Lord
(Jeremiah 17: 8): Like a tree planted beside the waters, that stretches out its roots to the stream.
It fears not the heat when it comes, its leaves stay green. Now examine Psalm 1: 3: He is like
a tree planted near running water, that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never
fade Despite the ravages of the weather, these trees stand firm, so do those who put their trust
in the Lord.

These verses inspired an old slave song, that evolved to a spiritual, then a protest song for
worker rights, and finally a freedom song of the civil rights movement. Every time I read these
verses, these songs kick in, as well they should. We Catholic Charities folks labor among those
who marginalized, poor, and thrown away. Jeremiah 17 tells me of the strength God gives to
those with deep faith, and must speak truth to power.

Todays Gospel features the great story of Lazarus. Jesus parables take on lives of their own by
teaching moral lessons with personal qualities like narratives of real events. Such is the story of
Lazarus, that archetype of beggars. Every homeless person living in doorways, under bridges, in
cardboard boxes, scrounging for food, are all wrapped up in Lazarus. The wealthy and privileged
are often unaware of their existence, except maybe once a year at Christmastime. But these two
worlds exist side by side.

The world of those who are poor struggles to get the attention of the world of those who are rich.
We Catholic Charities folks are in two worlds. We have access to the world of Lazarus, and can
be his voice for change, for help. At the same time we have access to resources of many kinds to
lift Lazarus up from the rich mans door, to teach him, to help empower him able to support
himself.

For years I worked in the ghetto with Catholic Charities. I often thought that these hardships
would not exist if someone were not making money off of them. And Im not talking about the
street punks selling dope. Who can think in terms of systems, when just keeping people alive is
all you can do?

That is what we do as Catholic Charities. I am reminded of a motto back home, Compassion in
Action. Helping to put broken people back together is a form of resurrection, a second chance
at life. You cant walk with Lazarus in the ghetto without seeing the closeness of death and life.
That is what Lent is about isnt it? Jesus died a grizzly, gruesome death, as any one of us could
encounter in our work, or hear a refugee family tell of their loved ones left behind.

But we bring hope. We see Lazarus in heaven telling us not to be overcome with sadness, for it
too will pass. We help to provide hope. Lent moves to Good Friday, and then to Easter. The hope
we can bring our clients is a glimpse of their own resurrection.


1. How is Lazarus in the parable the archetype of beggars, of the faceless poor?
2. What is real compassion?
3. As a worker in Catholic Charities or parish staff/volunteer, how do you see your work as an
extension of Jesus the Healer and Jesus the Teacher?
4. How do we deal with failure? Sometimes all our skill is not enough. The parable ends with,
If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone
should rise from the dead. Hint: the tree stuck in the lava waste.

Fr. Jeremy Tobin, O. Praem.
Volunteer, Catholic Charities, Inc.--Jackson

March 19, 2014
Solemnity of Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary
2 Samuel 7: 4-5a, 12-14a, 16, Romans 4: 13, 16-18, 22, Matthew 1: 16, 18-21, 24a

St. Joseph A Man who Followed his Dreams

Today is the Feast of St. Joseph. How lucky we are to have this man as a model to celebrate today. My
impression of Joseph is that he was a simple, humble man of stability, who would have never
anticipated or strove for the movements in his life and the key role in salvation history to which he
would be called. Joseph was a carpenter, and carpentry is a skilled, practical trade. Precision is needed,
as reflected in the carpenters motto measure twice, cut once.

Different careers are often associated with different personality types. Some careers may be more
suited for dreamers. An architect may dream up a unique floor plan and building design, but it is the
carpenter who needs to work with the hammer, nails, and other tools of the trade to make that design a
reality. Carpentry is not a trade you would typically think of for a dreamer. Yet, the Bible includes
several accounts of God communicating to Joseph through powerful dreams and messages.

Joseph did not measure these twice. In a sense, he went out of the character of his trade and cut
immediately responding to Gods call and message obediently, even if he didnt and couldnt totally
understand what or why he was being asked to take the actions he was being called to do. There were
no blueprints for making real such concepts as a virgins pregnancy or serving as the foster father of
the Son of God. Because of his faith, he could digress from his course of action and take on a role in a
most Holy Family.

St. Joseph is remembered in the names of many towns, churches, and missions. He is a busy patron
saint, including being Patron of Workers (especially cabinetmakers, confectioners, and carpenters);
Patron for People in Doubt; Patron of the Universal Church and Vatican II; Patron of Fathers; Patron of
several countries, from Canada to China to Peru; and Patron of a Happy and Holy Death. Hes a popular
saint for those trying to sell their homes, with Joseph statues being buried in the ground, upside down (I

can personally testify that this works!). I was raised at St. Joseph Parish (which we all affectionately
refer to as St. Joes) and I went to college and now work in a town we also refer to as St. Joe. There
is something familiar in the realness of St. Joseph that invites us to see him as a dependable guy who we
know. But without a doubt, he is no average Joe. Because he followed his dreams, our Lord Jesus had a
wonderful earthly father.


1. Take a moment to pray over this image of St. Joseph and Jesus

2. Can you recall a time in your life when you stepped out of your comfort zone to accept a challenging
role like Joseph did?

Deborah Forstner
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section; NACC Certified Chaplain
St. Cloud, Minnesota

March 18, 2014
Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent
Isaiah 1: 10, 16-20, Matthew 23: 1-12

You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. The greatest amongst you must be your
servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
(Matthew 23: 10-12)

Todays Gospel is a beautiful passage. Jesus is calling us to be humble servants. As previous
Director of Adult and Senior Care Services for Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia, I managed
a program of vulnerable older adults who were lost in a society by abuse, neglect, and
exploitation. It was one of the most humbling experiences of my life. I was graced to serve a
demographic of whom I have a deep passion for serving. But in the process of serving these
seniors, I felt like I was being served. I learned how to be more compassionate, loving and non
judgmental. Praise God for this lifetime lesson!

In Isaiah 1: 17, we are asked to make justice our aim; redress the wronged orphans plea, and
defend the widow. We are called to help and protect each other. Catholic Charities USA and
Catholic Charities organizations across the United States make the wrong right and seek justice
and peace for all mankind. I pray for the staff and mission of Catholic Charities; may we set
forth the fire of God's love in the world through our actions and deeds.

Ponder deeply these questions this Lenten season:
1. How can I be more humble?
2. Can I make a wrong situation right?
3. What can I do to seek justice and peace for all mankind ?

Kim Walker
St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Smyrna GA

March 17, 2014
Monday of the Second Week of Lent
Daniel 9: 4b-10; Psalm 79: 8, 9, 11, 13; Luke 6: 36-38

Lent is a time for repentance. And we, just like the men of Judah in Daniel, should repent; we should
regret our past actions towards God. Have we rebelled, disobeyed, sinned? Yes, probably. After all, we
are human and although we strive for perfection, we often fall short and regret our actions and feel low
with remorse.

Remember not against us the iniquities of the past; may your compassion quickly come to us for we are
brought very low. (Psalm 79:8)

In todays Psalm, we ask God to remember not our faults, our failures, our falling short. We ask for
forgiveness and compassion so that we can brush ourselves off, stand tall, and do the right thing.
However, the real challenge may not be in asking forgiveness from God. The challenge could be in
asking forgiveness of those whom we have failed.
Which separated relationships must we let go of? Who do we judge harshly? Have we measured others
with a different standard than we wish to be judged? Jesus tells us to stop judging, stop condemning,
forgive and give. He reminds us, For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured
out to you (Luke 6: 38).
Our relationships with others should mirror our relationship with God. What we desire from God is what
we should offer to our friends, relatives, clients, and co-workers--forgiveness. We all want to stand tall
and do the right thing, but when we lack compassion and our inequities are not forgiven, how can move
forward? Jesus promises that when we offer compassion and forgiveness, God will respond accordingly
to us. In fact, this mercy will be overflowing and fall into our laps (Luke 6: 38a).
1. How can we this day, this week, this Lent, repair broken relationships by offering compassion?

2. How can we this day, this week, this Lent, repair broken relationships by seeking forgiveness from
God and others?

Kristina Batalden
Member of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Section and Saint John Paul II Parish
Idaho Falls, ID

March 16, 2014
Second Sunday of Lent
Genesis 12: 1-4a, 2 Timothy 1:8b-10, Matthew 17: 1-9
We are always surprised when a person up in years dares to make a new beginning. We
usually expect that as people age, they deserve to settle undisturbed into a chosen pattern of
life. But Brother Florentine Federspiel, S.D.S. was different.

A carpenter by trade, Brother Florentine volunteered to serve in the Tanzanian missions when he
was 69 years young. He oversaw the building of many churches which continue to serve the
faithful to this day. His late career accomplishments were not unlike Abrams in todays First
Reading.
Lent is a time to open ourselves anew to Gods call in our lives. Abraham was open to Gods
call. He was asked to leave behind kinsfolk and to set off for an unknown place at 75! What if
God should call us to something as dramatic? This prospect makes the Lenten project of opening
ourselves to the Lords call a most unsettling one.
Christian faith both comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable. But since we prefer the
comforting, we tend to pass over our need for afflicting, the unsettling. Like the apostles in
todays Gospel, we prefer the comforting vision of the Transfigured Christ to the unsettling
insight that such glory comes only because of and through suffering, through the cross. We want
to arrive at the Promised Land without ever having to leave Horan; we prefer Easter to Good
Friday and Lent. But, we cannot celebrate glory unless we first accept the cross.
1. Instead of trying to detect Gods call in our lives, have we been too quick to exempt
ourselves from being called in the first place?

2. In our ministry with Catholic Charities, how are we using this Lenten season to prepare
ourselves spiritually to serve the poor in response to Gods call?

Very Rev. David J. Bergner, S.D.S.
Executive Director, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee
March 15, 2014
Saturday of the First Week of Lent
Deuteronomy 26: 16-19, Matthew 5: 43-48

In a world where extremism seems to be the norm, relationships are getting lost. Our human
dignity begins to lose its sacredness, when we hold onto a world view that is focused on the self
and sees the other as bad or not worthy.
Its too easy to hold the life of a person cheaply. If groups become insular, they can trend toward
hating others because they do not agree with their thoughts or norms. This thought process
allows governments to justify violence for its own protection. We will strike first so that we are
not the victim.
The greatest commandment is that we love God, our neighbor and ourselves. This
commandment calls us to be in right relationship with God, each other and even ourselves. We

must love ourselves before we can love our enemy. And we must accept that God loves us in
spite of our sins and flaws. The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church (#4) states
Discovering that they are loved by God, people come to understand their own transcendent
dignity, they learn not to be satisfied with only themselves but to encounter their neighbor in a
network of relationships that are ever more authentically human.
We must ask ourselves how we are building up relationships and not tearing them apart. We
share the love of God when we see our enemies as a neighbor and not a threat. How does loving
our enemies as a neighbor celebrates the dignity of all humanity? When we pray for our
enemies, we are transforming ourselves. We are responding to extremism with love. It is
through this transformation in us that we can share the love of God and bring peace to a troubled
world.
1. What hates do I carry within me? What transforming prayer do I need to lift up to God?
2. What steps can I take to create sacredness in my relationships, especially with people
who are enemies?

C. Diane Zbasnik, MAPM
Director, Catholic Commission of Summit County, Cleveland Catholic Charities
March 14, 2014
Friday of the First Week of Lent
Ezekiel 18: 21-28; Matthew 5:20-26

Todays readings transported me back to Vanderbilt University in the late 1970s-early 1980s and
its Catholic chaplain at the time, the late Father Jack Hickey, O.P.

No matter what the readings for a given Sunday might be about, it seemed as if Father Jack was
always preaching to you personally. It did not matter how many were present, I learned later, we
all felt the same way, It was as if he was just talking to me.

Todays readings would have made great fodder for a Father Jack sermon. I suspect that we all
tend to think of ourselves as fairly virtuous people. Oh sure, we have some rough edges here and
imperfections there, but, all-in-all, were not really bad.

We certainly cant be as bad as the wicked man we read about in Ezekiel today. Given all the
sins he committed and the crimes he committed there is no way that, even with our minor
discretions, we could be considered as bad as we might think him to be.

Then comes the Father Jack gotcha moment. From Ezekiel 18: 24, If the virtuous man turns
from the path of virtue to do evil, the same kind of abominable things that the wicked man does

we read none of his virtuous deeds shall be remembered because he has broken faith and
committed sin.

We are no better than the wicked man to whom we thought ourselves superior. In fact we may be
worse.

After all, he is going to get to get the prize we yearn for, eternal life with the Father.

Why? As we read, the wicked man turned away from all the sins he committed and did what is
right and just and, as a result, he surely shall live, he shall not die.

Those rough edges, we are reminded today in Matthew, might not be soft as we think. True,
theres been no killing in a literal sense, but how about emotional killing? The kind of spirit-
killing that might come from anger at a brother (or a spouse or a child or a parent or a coworker
or a neighbor or that guy that just cut me off on the drive to work.).

According to Matthew 5: 23, before formally presenting our gift at the altar, we are told to leave
the gift there at the altar and become reconciled with the one with whom we are separated. Then
we will be ready to properly present our gift.

Those soft edges might be fairly rough after all. You were talking to me, Father Jack, werent
you?

1) Do I ever approach the altar with my gift without being properly reconciled with my
brother?
2) Why might ill-treatment of others be considered a transgression against the Fifth
Commandment (you shall not kill)?
3) Is there someone in your life with whom you should be reconciled?

Mark Barry
Director of Marketing, Catholic Charities of Tennessee

March 13, 2014
Thursday of the First Week of Lent
Esther C 12, 14-16, 23-25, Matthew 7: 7-12

In the last few months, it seems that more of the people who contact the agency for help need
assistance with problems and issues that do not fall neatly into our program parameters. I am ashamed
to admit that at times the temptation to turn them away is strong. There are so many people who need
assistance with exactly the things we provide, it seems easy to rationalize giving these others a phone
number and sending them on their way.

Todays readings remind me that God responds to those who call on him, and he expects us to do the
same. Queen Esther, when faced with the destruction of her people, is seized with mortal anguish
(Esther C 12),just like the elderly woman I spoke to recently who couldnt pay her $450 electric bill.

Like the queen, this woman was alone and turned to Catholic Charities for help because there was no
one else. We were challenged to see beyond our program guidelines to find a way to help her. Indeed,
as servants of Christ, how could we not search for a way to make it work? Would any of us hand his
son a stone when he asked for a loaf of bread.. (Matthew 7: 9)? Who among us would want our
desperate request for assistance to be denied?

I hope that none of you are as hard-hearted as I have sometimes been, but I suspect that there are times
when you may be tempted. When that happens, let the words of the Psalmist give you courage for on
the day I called for help, you answered me.you built up strength within me (Psalm 138: 3a). The
kindness of the Lord endures forever.

Our Lord does not forsake us. We have but to ask, seek or knock and our Father will give us good things.
And if our prayers are answered, how can we turn a deaf ear to the pleas of others?


1. Have you had to seek forgiveness for a time that you turned your back on one in need? How did it
feel to be to have a relationship restored?
2. Is there a time when you advised another to Do onto others as you would have them do onto you
(Matthew 7: 12). How did this advice shake out?

Ruslyn Case-Compton
Director, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Lexington (Kentucky)

March 12, 2014
Wednesday of the First Week of Lent
Jonah 3: 1-10, Luke 11: 29-32

Oh! Man a live! How I like Brother Jonah. What an imagerun from Godand God will send
the whales after you!!!
Nineveh in the land that United States recently conducted one of its wars was allegedly a
massive city even by todays standard. Perhaps we can learn from Gods word to us in Jonah.
What caught my minds eye was not Jonah but the unnamed King of Ninevehwhen the news
reached the king of Nineveh (bingo) he laid aside his robe, put on sackcloth, sat in ashes and
then ordered everyone to do Lent. Can you name one official today that acts like him?
Pause.
And brother Luke says to methe queen of the south (aka Sheba) and Solomon and the men of
Ninevehthey will all judge this generation but.there is something greater here, the
Incarnation of God in Jesus!!!!! And Jesus is a merciful Lord. Thanks be to God!!!

So for Lent 2014, may I be agitated, as one who calls Jesus Lord, because I am not acting like
Sheba or the men of Nineveh (sorry, biblical chauvinism) and taking the news to our officials.
That news is the Good News that Jesus is Lord, that our neighbors are our brothers and sisters,
and that our officials need to act like the king of Nineveh. And perhaps they will when we act
like the people and the prophet Nehemiah and call our officials to accountability (Nehemiah 5:
1-13).
The Lord be with you!
1. Can you recall a time in your life when you demonstrated repentance as obviously as the
King of Nineveh? If so, how is your relationship with the one you were so separated
from today?
2. Have you ever thought that Jesus suspected you of not getting it, as he classifies some
of his audience in this chapter from Luke. How have you matured and moved beyond the
life life of a nonbeliever?
David Dutschke
Director Parish & Community Engagement/Housing Development, Catholic Charities of
Louisville, Inc.

March 11, 2014
Tuesday of the First Week of Lent
Isaiah 55: 10-11; Psalm 34: 4-5, 6-7, 16-17; Matthew 6: 7-15
How blessed we are to have todays readings! I am one who often overcomplicates my spiritual
thinking, trying to search deeply for nuance and meaning. Thats not necessarily a bad thing, but
it must not get in the way of recognizing that sometimes the deeper truth isnt so deep, and that
we dont need to work so hard to get it.

Some of this involves trust, believing that God only needs us to accept that He has this under
control, and to allow His work to play out. We read in Isaiah that Gods word will go out, and
shall not return fruitless. Gods word is available to all, and it will achieve the end for which
God intended it. And todays Psalm follows the First Reading like a little dessert after a
wonderful meal, from all their distress, God rescues the unjust (Psalm 34: 18b).
It is a great comfort that we are in the midst of Gods great design. What a relief to not have to
rely solely on ones limited gifts for success (you name it--Catholic Charities in my
Archdiocese, our next Gala, our new program opening, or anything else I endeavor)!! In His
wisdom, then, Jesus shares with us the prayer of prayers, the Our Father.

Again, God is not asking abundant eloquence to reach him. Rather, He teaches us how to pray.
Yet, because of my superficial familiarity with this prayer, how often have I thought after weve
opened or closed a meeting with just an Our Father rather than some in-the-moment-focused
free flow prayer. Havent I thought that we missed an opportunity to be heard because of our
many words?

Composing this reflection made me hear, see, and appreciate again, just what God says in this
passage: God doesnt need our words; He needs our prayer and our humility. He invites us to
take each phrase of the Our Father with the richness Jesus intended. May we, through our work
or association with Catholic Charities, be the Lords eyes for the just and ears for their cry.
1. The next time that you pray the Our Father, let each line dwell in your mind and heart.
Hear the prayer again, with new eyes, ears, and heart. Why do you think this is the perfect
prayer? How can you make yourself more open to its beauty?
2. The Responsorial Psalm is a wonderful reflection for our Catholic Charities. It begins with
giving glory to the Lord, and then states that the Lord is the source of our relief. Does our
ministry allow the Lords peace to reach our clients, or do we make it our work? Are we
allowing the Lord work through us? Examine your call to serve and see if there are ways you can
do a little bit more letting go of your own control while trusting that the Lords word will achieve
the end for which it was sent.
3. Are we also open to the reality that God has sent those who come to our Catholic Charities
to minister in mysterious ways to us? Are we open to the Lords word coming to us from
unexpected sources?
Patrick J. Raglow
Executive Director, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City

March 10, 2014
Monday of the First Week of Lent
Levitcus 19: 1-2, 11-18; Matthew 25: 31-46
He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left, Matthew 25: 31-46.
Many of us say that we do certain things in the name of our LORD, but we may be goats and
not allow ourselves to know it. However, those whose nature it is to serve without first checking
to see what personal gain can be made through an act of service to others, truly are the servants
of the LORD, and that is the nature which the LORD rewards with everlasting life.
Just because we may be employed in positions directly connected to the Church does not mean
we are true servants of the LORD. Although we do have the potential to give much, we must

also posses good intentions and love, which are required for any work done in service to our
LORD. To work without love is to give without joy and it is not a sufficient offering.
We must all be careful, those of us who believe we are sheep, we must be mindful of our
intentions and of the work we do in the name of the LORD. Remember that both the sheep and
the goats were confused as to when Jesus came to them in need of assistance; the sheep had not
known they had served Him and the goats had not known they had missed the opportunity to
serve Him. So let it be our nature to serve. Let us trust in the LORD and give with humble
hearts. Let us be aware of our intentions and let us probe our hearts for sincerity in the work we
offer up to the LORD in the name of love.
1. Take a moment to pray over Fr. Willard Jabuschs Whatsoever you Do hymn.
2. When were you a sheep in your life? When were you a goat?
Christina Schoonover, Development Coordinator, Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of San
Antonio, Inc.

March 9, 2014
First Sunday of Lent, Rite of Election
Genesis 2: 7-9, 3: 1-7, Romans 5: 12-19, Matthew 4: 1-11

At that time Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. He fasted for
forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was hungry. (Matthew 4:1)

Jesus fasted for forty days and nights and then he was tempted. Lest we conclude that this was a
symbolic or ritualistic practice, the evangelist makes it clear that this was for real: the fast made
Jesus feel hungry. And it was while feeling that hunger that Jesus was tempted.

When it comes to fasting, I have every excuse in the book not to do it--I get headaches, I feel
shaky, because of my age I am no longer canonically required to do it, and most importantly, I
cant think straight if I dont have all my meals. Logic tells me that after fasting, I would not
have the strength to resist the temptations I might have to face.

Jesus, on the other hand, came out stronger rather than weaker after the 40 days and nights of
fasting. Puzzled, I go back to the gospel text. I am struck by another phrase: Jesus was led by
the Spirit into the desert (Matthew 4: 1). Now key elements are identified: Led by the Spirit,
into the desert, Jesus fasted and then was tempted.

We have all first become aware of the Holy Spirit in different circumstances in our lives. In my
case it happened in my childhood days in Accin Catlica (Catholic Action) in Cuba, my country
of origin, when I was first awed by this prayer: Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful
and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And
You shall renew the face of the earth.

Just as Jesus felt hunger, we too will feel hunger. Our voluntary fast should motivate us to take
measures to alleviate, if not eliminate, the food insecurity imposed on so many members of our
human family, both here and abroad.


1. Participate in CRS Rice Bowl to live Lent prayerfully in solidarity with people in need
throughout the world.

2. Participate in a CRS Helping Hands meal packing or similar event.

Elena Muller Garcia
Parish Social Ministry/CRS/CCHD, Catholic Charities Diocese of Palm Beach

March 8, 2014
Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Isaiah 58: 9b-14, Luke 5: 27-32

Deutero Isaiah (the alleged author of Isaiah 44-60, so named because the work was composed
so much later than Isaiah 1-43) wrote sometime after the restoration of the Jewish people
following the fall of the Babylonians, If you bestow your bread on the hungry and satisfy the
afflicted; the light shall rise for you in the darkness, and the gloom shall become for you like
midday; then the Lord will guide you always and give you plenty even on the parched land.
(Isaiah 58: 10-11a). St. Basil (d. 379) wrote in part, "The bread that you do not use is the bread
of the hungry Yes! Magazine noted in spring 2014 that the average U.S. adult consumes 400
more calories per day than needed, that 18,000,000 Americans are chronically hungry, and that
33.8 million people could be entirely fed by surplus calories consumed by Americans aged 18-
64.

So what do a Before Common Era biblical writer, Father of the Church, and editors of a secular
magazine devoted to building a more just and sustainable world have in common? We dont
have a food supply problem; we have a food distribution problem.

Catholic Charities USA and Catholic Relief Services, as members of Caritas Internationalis,
helped launch a one year plus campaign One Human Family: Food for All less than three
months ago. Lent is a time marked time for fasting, almsgiving, and increased prayer. Visit
these suggestions to learn how you can bestow your bread on the hungry and satisfy the
afflicted this Lent.



March 7, 2014
Friday after Ash Wednesday
Isaiah 58: 1-9a; Matthew 9: 14-15

Isaiah describes in very certain terms the meaning of true (or complete) fasting. Matthew
demonstrates the value of being in the presence of Jesus as a bridegroom at a wedding
celebration. Together, they remind me of the importance of the and in our Catholic life, a
wisdom point that I have gleaned from Fr. Bryan Hehir. Think of all the ands in our articles
of faith.

Here, especially in the First Reading, we are called to fast AND loosen injustices chains, fast
AND provide nourishment for persons who are hungry, and clothe persons needing clothing
AND Gods glory will thus be revealed to all around us. AND God will be honored AND in
varied provident ways will respond to our cries for help. When we are in Jesus presence, doing
such good is easier; is it harder to do later?

We are called to engage in the type of fasting Isaiah describes--as individuals AND families,
friends and co-workers AND our larger society. Our U.S. Bishops also noted in Economic
Justice for All: Pastoral Letter on Catholic Social Teaching and the U.S. Economy that the
measure of a society is precisely how well we are loosening chains and sharing food and
resources beyond ones own personal power or that of those in my immediate circles of family
and friends.

Who of us could do all the good in these smaller realms that we can do together through Catholic
Charities, Catholic Charities USA, Catholic Relief Services, Catholic Campaign for Human
Development, and or our state Catholic Conference? Or through various good public policy
goals? Todays readings call us to greater integrity of faith, word AND deed.

I propose that a reflection on our various and opportunities be a wholesome Lenten reflection!


What are the instances in our personal and or parish/agency lives that demonstrate the integration
of faith, word AND deed?

Sr. Mary Schmuck, RSM
Parish Social Ministry Coordinator, Catholic Charities of Louisville (Nazareth Office)

March 6, 2014
Thursday after Ash Wednesday
Deuteronomy 30: 15-20; Luke 9:22-25

Each of todays readings is relatively brief. In Deuteronomy, I am struck once again that the
powerful and all encompassing choose life (Deuteronomy 30: 19b). In addition, I am struck
by the concept of holding fast (Deuteronomy 30: 20)--firmly grasping, not desperately but
resolutely; not transiently but in perseverance; not impersonally or anonymously but holding fast
(oh, my goodness!) to God and not ever letting go. That is trust--that is receiving ones life by
giving it freely to God.

In the Gospel of Luke, I hear in a louder voice take up his cross daily and follow me (Luke 9:
23). Not just big, once-in-awhile, obviously life-changing crosses like school/job failure or
chronic illness or death but inconvenient, tedious, frustrating and vexing everyday crosses, too. I
also hear whoever loses his life for my sake will save it (Luke 9: 24b). That is the call to
choose life, to give life in order to have Life.

So, I am called to choose life and I dont get to choose my crosses. Still, I can turn crosses into
opportunities for grace by the choices that I make. Is it really up to me? Am I really that
powerful? Is the choice mine? YES! I cant give that responsibility away; I must name it and
claim it. I will choose life and give life.

Prayer: God of goodness who has loved us into being and sustains us; I choose to live with you
in that love and out of that love here, now. In these days of the churchs renewed attention to
repentance, forgiveness, renewal, I choose to open my heart and my will and my actions to your
life-giving grace in communion with you and your people.


1. To what do I hold fast in my daily life?
2. What do I need to let go of to free myself to choose and give life?
3. What will I do today (and then tomorrow) to assure that my actions choose life?

Kathleen Walsh, MSW
Retired Diocesan Director of Catholic Charities of Raleigh

March 5, 2014
Ash Wednesday
Joel 2: 12-18, 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2, Matthew 6: 1-6, 16-18

But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door Matthew 6:6

When I would go to my listening place,
closing the door to be alone in the quiet,
the whole world would come knocking,
banging to be let in.

The more I resisted,
the louder the knocking,
till one night, I relented.

Throwing wide the door I spoke to the night air,
Come on in, theres room enough in here!

To my surprise I found there was ample room on the inside,
and along with the worlds woes came wonders
and I was visited by the sacred silence I had sought.

return to me with your whole heart,
with fasting, and weeping, and mourning;
Rend your hearts, not your garments
Joel 2: 12-13

The discipleship path,
the way of the cross, is not a dissecting path.
It is an intersecting path.

It is a delusion to suppose that the disturbing questions will,
if ignored, go away, if suppressed be forgotten,
or that by hiding ourselves like naked Adam (and Eve) we can escape them.
Alan Eccelstone

As we turn our lives to the crosswalk
of Lents dark journey,
let us locate ourselves in the intersection
and there open a holding space
to welcome the world.

Over these next weeks
exercise your holding heart
and make room for the world.

Go to your listening place.
Open up, within you,
open up around you,
a space wide and deep.

And in the quiet,
let the whole world
tumble in.

All the hurts and hopes of loved ones,
of enemies, of neighbors,
let them all in.

The complex tangles

of struggles personal and global,
let them in.

Summon the most ravaged and despairing.
Find room for those who are sorely afflicted.
Let them all come. Bar none!

Let this space hold and enfold them!
Let the expansive mystery of Gods love envelop
all that is confounding, disturbing, unresolved or unrealized.

Hold it, hold it all till it fills you.

Lift the brimming pitcher
and empty yourself into the vast vessel,
that is the Sacred Heart.

Then the LORD was stirred to concern for the land
and took pity on the people. Joel 2: 18

Kyrie, Christe, Kyrie Eleison!


1. What and who will you be holding this Lent?
2. Of what do you think Paul McCartney was thinking when he wrote Let Em In?

Joe Grant
Director of Programs, JustFaith Ministries
Louisville, KY

2014 Lent/Easter CCUSA Reflections

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