Sunday's Readings: First Reading:  Jeremiah 1:4-5,17-19 Psalm:  Psalm 71: 1-6,15-17 Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 Gospel:  Luke 4:21-30

Here are a couple of commentaries on these readings:

• St. Charles Borromeo Lectionary Site (PDF)


• Prophet to the Nations (Also available to be heard as an MP3) from St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology


• Why Prophets Aren't Popular from The Crossroads Initiative

Prayers for Priests contains a collection of prayers, novenas, holy hours, and a rosary for priests. You can submit priests' names for prayer and you can become a PrayerWarrior for Priests.

This is an appropriate site for the Year for Priests and worth a visit to select prayers to use for this purpose.

From Catholic Culture.

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This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

St. Angela Merici

The Church celebrates the feast day of St. Angela Merici on January 26th.

Angela Merici was born on March 21st, 1474, at Desenzano on Lake Garda; left an orphan at the age of ten she was brought up by her uncle and on his death went to live with her brothers. She was a devout girl and, having joined the Third Order of St. Francis, devoted herself to teaching children. As her work became known she was asked to go to Brescia where a house was put at her disposal and a number of women came to join her; she was thus enabled to establish a religious association of women, under the patronage of St. Ursula, who, remaining in the world, should devote themselves to every sort of corporal and spiritual work of mercy; but the particular emphasis was on education. Angela's methods were far removed from the modern idea of a convent school; she preferred to send her associates to teach girls in their own families, and one of her favorite sayings was, 'Disorder in society is the result of disorder in the family'. It was by educating children in the milieu in which they lived that she strove to effect an improvement in social conditions.

Angela Merici is known now as the foundress of the Ursuline nuns—and so she was, but despite her own inclinations. In reality she was in advance of her own times. Her plan of religious women without distinctive habit, without solemn vows and enclosure, was directly contrary to prevailing notions at her period, and under the influence of St. Charles Borromeo at Milan and subsequent papal legislation (under St. Pius V) the Ursulines were obliged to adopt the canonical safeguards then required of all nuns.

From EWTN

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Moral Life and the Magisterium of the Church, Part 1

What is the authority of the Church to teach on moral matters? The Catechism takes up this question in its teaching on the moral life and the Magisterium of the Church.

2032   "The Church, the "pillar and bulwark of the truth," "has received this solemn command of Christ from the apostles to announce the saving truth." "To the Church belongs the right always and everywhere to announce moral principles, including those pertaining to the social order, and to make judgments on any human affairs to the extent that they are required by the fundamental rights of the human person or the salvation of souls."

2033   The Magisterium of the Pastors of the Church in moral matters is ordinarily exercised in catechesis and preaching, with the help of the works of theologians and spiritual authors. Thus from generation to generation, under the aegis and vigilance of the pastors, the "deposit" of Christian moral teaching has been handed on, a deposit composed of a characteristic body of rules, commandments, and virtues proceeding from faith in Christ and animated by charity. Alongside the Creed and the Our Father, the basis for this catechesis has traditionally been the Decalogue which sets out the principles of moral life valid for all men.

2034   The Roman Pontiff and the bishops are "authentic teachers, that is, teachers endowed with the authority of Christ, who preach the faith to the people entrusted to them, the faith to be believed and put into practice." The ordinary and universal Magisterium of the Pope and the bishops in communion with him teach the faithful the truth to believe, the charity to practice, the beatitude to hope for.

2035   The supreme degree of participation in the authority of Christ is ensured by the charism of infallibility. This infallibility extends as far as does the deposit of divine Revelation; it also extends to all those elements of doctrine, including morals, without which the saving truths of the faith cannot be preserved, explained, or observed.

2036   The authority of the Magisterium extends also to the specific precepts of the natural law, because their observance, demanded by the Creator, is necessary for salvation. In recalling the prescriptions of the natural law, the Magisterium of the Church exercises an essential part of its prophetic office of proclaiming to men what they truly are and reminding them of what they should be before God.

Catechism of the Catholic Church

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The Divine Praises

The month of January is dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus.

Blessed be God.
Blessed be His Holy Name.
Blessed be Jesus Christ, true God and true Man.
Blessed be the Name of Jesus.
Blessed be His Most Sacred Heart.
Blessed be His most Precious Blood.
Blessed be Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar.
Blessed be the Holy Spirit, the Consoler.
Blessed be the great Mother of God, Mary most Holy.
Blessed be her Holy and Immaculate Conception.
Blessed be her Glorious Assumption.
Blessed be the Name of Mary, Virgin and Mother.
Blessed be St. Joseph, her most chaste spouse.
Blessed be God in His Angels and in His Saints.

From The Holy Name Society

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The following are highlights from this Sunday's bulletin. To read the entire parish bulletin for January 24, 2010, click here.

NEED FOR ALTAR SERVERS:  There is an immediate need for Altar Servers for the 5:00 p.m. Saturday Mass. Individuals should be willing to serve 1-2 times per month. If you are between the ages of 9 to 90, please consider this important ministry. Training will be provided. Please call Jim Morrisard at 973-6570 if you are interested.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS: Charlottesville Catholic School is currently accepting applications for the 2010-11 school year.  Please visit our website for comprehensive information and for details about our application process. Applications must be received by February 8th to be considered in the first round of enrollment contract offers.  If you would like to have a tour of our school, please call Ann Michel, Admissions Coordinator, at 964-0400.  Limited seats are also available for this school year.

CAN YOU HELP?:  Holy Comforter has a group of Sacristans that take turns during the week preparing for the upcoming Masses. Each Sacristan signs up for one or two months of the year. During the assigned months, it takes one hour a week at the Church doing some easy, but essential tasks. If you can spare the time to help in the preparation for our Masses, it would be a great help. Training is provided. Another area in which we are in need of a volunteer is in the washing and ironing of the Church linens. If you can help with either of these important ministries or for more information, please contact Barbara Battiston at 244-0185.

BOOK CLUB:  Are you looking for a chance to deepen your understanding of your faith? To share your views with other parishioners?  If you are, we invite you to read the book "A Key to The Doctrine of The Eucharist" by Abbot Vonier and to come to the next meeting of the book club on Tuesday, March 2nd from 4:00-5:30 p.m. at 150 Bennington Road.  For questions or to get directions, contact Therese Stong at 296-9961 or trstong@embarqmail.com.

FIRST RECONCILIATION CLASS SCHEDULE:  First Reconciliation classes for all parish second grade students will be held on January 24, 31, and February 7. All classes meet in the chapel from 9:30 - 10:45 a.m. A parent must attend each class with his/her child. First Reconciliation is Saturday, February 13th at 11:00 a.m.

IMPACT:  During the recent bitterly cold weather much has been said about providing shelter for the homeless.  Making sure that everyone has a warm place to stay in the winter is critical.  But there are systemic problems that create homelessness in the first place.  So while congregations in the area are providing immediate aid through PACEM, the IMPACT congregations, most of whom support PACEM, are working on the justice issues that contribute to homelessness.  Learn about what IMPACT is accomplishing at the Rally on February 25th at 7:00 p.m. at the Church of the Incarnation.

PANTRY:  LOTION!  During the winter dry skin can be a problem for many people.  For the elderly, winter-related dry skin can be very painful.  For elderly people living on limited incomes, soothing lotions can be an out-of-reach luxury.  The next time you're making a purchase for the pantry, think LOTION!

EARTHQUAKE UPDATE:  Many thanks to all who are praying for our brothers and sisters in Haiti. Saltadère felt the earthquake but its people and buildings are okay. We have news that other twinning parishes with twins in the capitol have lost Haitian friends there. Our own Pere Blot has lost three nieces who were in Port-au- Prince. All parts of Haiti are feeling the impact however, as relatives move from the capitol back to the country. Shortages of food and fuel in the capital are causing a rise in price of a scarce commodity. Thank you for supporting the diocesan collection for Haiti last weekend and this weekend. Haiti’s needs are many but the Haitian people have resilience as they place their trust in God. Let us pray with them that God will be their refuge and their strength. Updates on the earthquake and Haitian friends are posted on Saltadère.org

BI-PARISH HAITI COMMITTEE:  The committee next meets at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 24th at St. Thomas Aquinas. All are welcome. To learn more, contact Laurie Duncan at Laurie Duncan.

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Parishioner offers to shave beloved locks to help

The sorrow of the loss of a loved one is always great. However, in many cases that sorrow can be compounded by the circumstances surrounding the loss.

One of our own parishioners, James Halfaday, lost his brother-in-law Randall on the first day of this new year. The loss of Randall has left James' sister, who lives in Ohio, as the single parent of four children under the age of 5.

To help make a financial contribution to his sister, James is asking people to bid for shaving off his hair. Those who know James, know that this is a sacrifice for him because of how much he appreciates and cares for his hair.

Of course, this also shows that this gesture comes from his heart as he helps his sister and her children during this difficult time for them. If you would like to help, you can make a bid by clicking here.

Sunday's Readings: First Reading:  Nehemiah 8:2-6,10 Psalm:  Psalms 19:8-10,15 Second Reading:  11 Corinthians 12:12-30 Gospel:  Luke 1:1-4, 4:14-21

Here are a couple of commentaries on these readings:

• St. Charles Borromeo Lectionary Site (PDF)


• New Day Dawns (Also available to be heard as an MP3) from St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology


• Catholics and Bible Study (Also available to be heard as an MP3) from The Crossroads Initiative

March for Life Links

Today is the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. Thousands upon thousands of men, women, and children will be in our nation's capitol to march as faithful witnesses to the Culture of Life.

Here are some links for the March for Life:

• March for Life Web site (Official)


• Priests for Life


• EWTN (watch live online)

The Confraternity of Penitents is a private Catholic association of the faithful whose Rule of Life is based on a Rule given by St. Francis of Assisi to the laity in 1221. It differs from Catholic Third Order groups in that it is not directly affiliated with any specific Order. The focus of the Confraternity is "not on the charism of a certain founder but rather on penance as practiced by all the saints and preached by Christ."

From Catholic Culture.

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March for Life

The annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. will take place on January 22, 2010. Visit the March for Life Web site for more information.

Late in October 1973, grassroots prolife leaders became concerned that January 22, 1974, might come and go without properly memorializing the Supreme Court's infamous abortion decisions and without petitioning Congress for redress.

No established right-to-life organization was prepared to undertake the planning, financial and operational responsibilities for a high impact prolife March on the U.S. Capitol. But, grassroots prolifers wanted to march! About thirty prolife veterans resolved themselves into a committee and began making plans for the first March for Life.

On January 22, 1974, the first March for Life was held on the West Steps of the Capitol. An estimated 20,000 committed prolife Americans rallied that day on behalf of our preborn brothers and sisters.

In 1974, the March for Life was incorporated as a non-profit, non-partisan, non-sectarian organization.

Our numbers have gradually risen through the years despite reduced numbers from the snow in 2000 and the terrible 9/11 attacks just months before the March 2002. These growing numbers give testimony to the increasing ranks of prolife Americans and to the importance of the March's work.

Today, in addition to the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., there is a corresponding West Coast event--the Walk for Life which is held in San Francisco, CA. This year the sixth annual Walk for Life will be held on January 23, 2010. More information about the Walk for Life can be found on the Walk for Life Web site.

From March for Life

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Christian Holiness

Is the call to holiness only for priests and nuns? Or are other people called to live lives of holiness? The Catechism takes up this question in its teaching on Christian holiness.

2012   "We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him . . . For those whom he fore knew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the first-born among many brethren. and those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified."

2013   "All Christians in any state or walk of life are called to the fullness of Christian life and to the perfection of charity." All are called to holiness: "Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."

In order to reach this perfection the faithful should use the strength dealt out to them by Christ's gift, so that . . . doing the will of the Father in everything, they may wholeheartedly devote themselves to the glory of God and to the service of their neighbor. Thus the holiness of the People of God will grow in fruitful abundance, as is clearly shown in the history of the Church through the lives of so many saints.

2014   Spiritual progress tends toward ever more intimate union with Christ. This union is called "mystical" because it participates in the mystery of Christ through the sacraments - "the holy mysteries" - and, in him, in the mystery of the Holy Trinity. God calls us all to this intimate union with him, even if the special graces or extraordinary signs of this mystical life are granted only to some for the sake of manifesting the gratuitous gift given to all.

2015   The way of perfection passes by way of the Cross. There is no holiness without renunciation and spiritual battle. Spiritual progress entails the ascesis and mortification that gradually lead to living in the peace and joy of the Beatitudes:

He who climbs never stops going from beginning to beginning, through beginnings that have no end. He never stops desiring what he already knows.

2016   The children of our holy mother the Church rightly hope for the grace of final perseverance and the recompense of God their Father for the good works accomplished with his grace in communion with Jesus. Keeping the same rule of life, believers share the "blessed hope" of those whom the divine mercy gathers into the "holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband."

Catechism of the Catholic Church

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The Jesus Prayer

The month of January is dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus.

Many religious cultures use litanies as a method of praying. The word "litany" literally means, "petition" - or "rogation" in Latin. Litanies are made to be repeated; single or like phrases recited, sometimes chanted over and over again ("re-petition") so that the person praying is caught up in the prayer itself. During the recitation of the Divine Praises, for example, the celebrant says, "Blessed be the name of Jesus," which is echoed by the faithful.

The Orthodox call this "prayer of the heart" - prayer that fills the entire consciousness; spontaneously offered by the whole being and not forced by only the lips or the intellect. If recited continually and with perseverance and recollection, the heart and intellect become one and the prayer in a sense offers itself. The constant repetition of the name Jesus or "Invocation of the Name" is now known as simply, The Jesus Prayer.

"Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner" - this drawn from the publican's prayer from the parable in Luke's gospel (Lk 18:13). The Catechism (CCC 2667) has this to say about the prayer: "By it the heart is opened to human wretchedness and the Savior's mercy."

We could do well by acknowledging our human weakness in imitation of the faith and humility of blind Bartimaeus as he similarly called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!" and when asked what he wished, replied simply: "Lord, that I may see." (Mk 10:46-52)

From The Holy Name Society

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The 2010 March for Life is on Friday, January 22

The annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. is this Friday. This event has taken place annually since 1974 in order to encourage our nation and her political leaders to support a culture of life rather than embracing a culture of death. The march occurs on the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision in Roe vs. Wade (1973) which decriminalized abortion throughout the United States.

People from all walks of life, political views, and religious beliefs come together in solidarity in our nation's capitol in order to peacefully promote the protection of human life from conception to natural death. This year, our Bishop will be a concelebrant at the March for Life Youth Mass at 10:00 a.m. on the day of the march. For more information about all of the events surrounding this year's march, visit the March for Life Web site.

Parishioners from Charlottesville are invited to participate in the march. A bus will be traveling from Charlottesville to Washington, D.C. on the morning of January 22nd. The bus will leave at 8:00 a.m. from the Church of the Incarnation, and the bus is scheduled to return at 8:00 p.m. the same day. For more information, contact contact Robbie Gibson (434-963-7952 or robbie_oc_gibson@yahoo.com ).

Why was Eve formed from Adam's Rib?

In a new feature, messages from the Holy Father will be featured on a regular basis. These words of wisdom will include quotes from addresses by the Holy Father along with a link to learn more about the full text and context of the address.

This installment is from the Holy Father's Wednesday Audience on December 30, 2009. His address focused on Peter Lombard and the impact that this Twelfth Century theologian had and continues to have especially through his seminal work known as The Sentences. In this quote, Benedict XVI illustrates the reason that here is still interest today in Peter Lombard's work.

"Inspired by St Augustine's Commentary on the Book of Genesis, Peter wonders why woman was created from man's rib and not from his head or his feet. And Peter explains: 'She was formed neither as a dominator nor a slave of man but rather as his companion' (Sentences 3, 18, 3). Then, still on the basis of the Patristic teaching he adds: 'The mystery of Christ and of the Church is represented in this act. Just as, in fact, woman was formed from Adam's rib while he slept, so the Church was born from the sacraments that began to flow from the side of Christ, asleep on the Cross, that is, from the blood and water with which we are redeemed from sin and cleansed of guilt' (Sentences 3, 18, 4). These are profound reflections that still apply today when the theology and spirituality of Christian marriage have considerably deepened the analogy with the spousal relationship of Christ and his Church."

-- Wednesday Audience, December 30, 2009.

From Zenit.

The bulletin for January 3, 2010 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

NEED FOR ALTAR SERVERS:  There is an immediate need for Altar Servers for the 5:00 p.m. Saturday Mass. Individuals should be willing to serve 1-2 times per month. If you are between the ages of 9 to 90, please consider this important ministry. Training will be provided. Please call Jim Morrisard at 973-6570 if you are interested.

CHARLOTTESVILLE CATHOLIC SCHOOL (CCS) OPEN HOUSE: Parents of prospective students are invited to attend Charlottesville Catholic School’s Winter Open House on Wednesday, February 3rd from 9:00 –11:00 a.m. Join us to learn more about what CCS has to offer students, from challenging academics to strong community life where faith is integrated in all we do and celebrated every day.

THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS:  The next meeting of Father Louis A. Rowen Council 3670 will be held on Monday, January 18th at the Church of the Incarnation’s Stone Chapel. The Church of the Incarnation is located on Route 29 North behind Toys’R'US. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7:15 p.m. followed by the meeting at 7:30 p.m. Plan to attend and bring a brother Knight.

FIRST RECONCILIATION CLASS SCHEDULE:  First Reconciliation classes for all parish second grade students will be held on January 24, 31, and February 7. All classes meet in the chapel from 9:30 - 10:45 a.m. A parent must attend each class with his/her child. First Reconciliation is Saturday, February 13th at 11:00 a.m.

IMPACT:  At the IMPACT Rally to be held at Incarnation Church on February 25th, we will learn what the research committees are planning to seek at the Nehemiah Action Assembly on March 22nd. It is hoped that the enthusiasm generated at the Rally will inspire us to bring ourselves and as many others as possible to the Nehemiah Action. The average weekly worship attendance at Holy Comforter is about 600. Can we bring 100 to Nehemiah?

PANTRY:  During this unusually cold winter there are people in our community who are having a tough time providing shelter and heat for their families. Often the food budget suffers as a result of this. Fortunately the generous people of Holy Comforter parish can help by providing generous pantry bags filled with nourishing food, soap, toilet paper, shampoo, deodorant, tooth paste and tooth brushes. On behalf of these needy people -- Thank You!

BI-PARISH HAITI COMMITTEE:  The committee next meets at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 24th at St. Thomas Aquinas. All are welcome. To learn more, contact Laurie Duncan at Laurie Duncan.

TRAVEL TO HAITI:  Several trips to visit our twin parish of St. Michel are being planned in the coming months. If you are interested in traveling with one of these groups, please contact Paul Harnois at lphmch@embarqmail.com.

For more information about Holy Comforter's twinning work with St. Michel parish, visit Saltadère.org

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Sunday's Readings: First Reading:  Isaiah 62:1-5 Psalm:  Psalm 96:1-3, 7-10 Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 12:4-11 Gospel:  John 2:1-12

Here are a couple of commentaries on these readings:

• St. Charles Borromeo Lectionary Site (PDF)


• In the Wedding (Also available to be heard as an MP3) from St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology


• Wedding Feast at Cana from The Crossroads Initiative

This extensive site covers the art, history and architecture of the Vatican Basilica. It includes numerous pictures, an interactive floor plan map and the entire text of several books and scholarly articles. If you have ever wondered which saint was on top of the Colonnade or are doing historical research, St. Peter's Basilica.org is the place to visit for this and much more.

St. Peter's is not only home to the Pope, but is our spiritual home, where the Church has nurtured and raised Christians through her two thousand year history. However, for many of us St. Peter's is too far away to visit. This website is a wonderful way to experience her beauty and richness from your own home.

From Catholic Culture.

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This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

For more information about the specific situation in Saltadère after the January 12th earthquake, visit the the Web site sponsored by friends of Saltadère, Haiti in the Charlottesville, Virginia area.

Note, our bishop, Bishop DiLorenzo has asked that a special collection be taken up during the Sunday masses on the weekend of January 23-24 for the specific designation of providing relief from the devastation caused by the earthquake. Parishioners should mark all donations as "Haiti Relief".

Litany of the Most Holy Name of Jesus

The month of January is dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus. This litany, which is over five centuries old, expresses the beauty of the Lord through His many holy names.

Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, hear us.
Jesus, graciously hear us.

God, the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Son of the living God, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Splendor of the Father, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Brightness of eternal Light, have mercy on us.
Jesus, King of Glory, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Sun of Justice, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Son of the Virgin Mary, have mercy on us.
Jesus, most amiable, have mercy on us.
Jesus, most admirable, have mercy on us.
Jesus, the mighty God, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Father of the world to come, have mercy on us.
Jesus, angel of great counsel, have mercy on us.
Jesus, most powerful, have mercy on us.
Jesus, most patient, have mercy on us.
Jesus, most obedient, have mercy on us.
Jesus, meek and humble of heart, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Lover of Chastity, have mercy on us.
Jesus, our Lover, have mercy on us.
Jesus, God of Peace, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Author of Life, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Model of Virtues, have mercy on us.
Jesus, zealous for souls, have mercy on us.
Jesus, our God, have mercy on us.
Jesus, our Refuge, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Father of the Poor, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Treasure of the Faithful, have mercy on us.
Jesus, good Shepherd, have mercy on us.
Jesus, true Light, have mercy on us.
Jesus, eternal Wisdom, have mercy on us.
Jesus, infinite Goodness, have mercy on us.
Jesus, our Way and our Life, have mercy on us.
Jesus, joy of the Angels, have mercy on us.
Jesus, King of the Patriarchs, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Master of the Apostles, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Teacher of the Evangelists, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Strength of Martyrs, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Light of Confessors, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Purity of Virgins, have mercy on us.
Jesus, Crown of all Saints, have mercy on us.

Be merciful, spare us, O Jesus!
Be merciful, graciously hear us, O Jesus!

From all evil, deliver us, O Jesus.
From all sin, deliver us, O Jesus.
From your wrath, deliver us, O Jesus.
From the snares of the devil, deliver us, O Jesus.
From the spirit of fornication, deliver us, O Jesus.
From everlasting death, deliver us, O Jesus.
From the neglect of your inspirations, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through the mystery of your holy Incarnation, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Nativity, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Infancy, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your most divine Life, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Labors, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Agony and Passion, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Cross and Dereliction, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Sufferings, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Death and Burial, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Resurrection, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Ascension, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Institution of the Most Holy Eucharist, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Joys, deliver us, O Jesus.
Through your Glory, deliver us, O Jesus.

Lamb of God, who take away the sins of the world, spare us, O Jesus!
Lamb of God, who take away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Jesus!
Lamb of God, who take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us, O Jesus!

Jesus, hear us.
Jesus, graciously hear us.

Let us pray.

O Lord Jesus Christ, you have said, "Ask and you shall receive; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you"; mercifully attend to our supplications, and grant us the grace of your most divine love, that we may love you with all our hearts, and in all our words and actions, and never cease to praise you.

Make us, O Lord, to have a perpetual fear and love of your holy name, for you never fail to govern those whom you solidly establish in your love. You, who live and reign forever and ever. R. Amen.

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Merit, Part 2

In stark contrast to some other theologies, the Catholic doctrine on merit teaches that a person who is in the state of grace can actually lay claim to a supernatural recompense for good works. The Catechism takes up the topic of merit following the discussion on justification and grace. Part 1 can be read here.

2009   Filial adoption, in making us partakers by grace in the divine nature, can bestow true merit on us as a result of God's gratuitous justice. This is our right by grace, the full right of love, making us "co-heirs" with Christ and worthy of obtaining "the promised inheritance of eternal life." The merits of our good works are gifts of the divine goodness. "Grace has gone before us; now we are given what is due.... Our merits are God's gifts."

2010   Since the initiative belongs to God in the order of grace, no one can merit the initial grace of forgiveness and justification, at the beginning of conversion. Moved by the Holy Spirit and by charity, we can then merit for ourselves and for others the graces needed for our sanctification, for the increase of grace and charity, and for the attainment of eternal life. Even temporal goods like health and friendship can be merited in accordance with God's wisdom. These graces and goods are the object of Christian prayer. Prayer attends to the grace we need for meritorious actions.

2011   The charity of Christ is the source in us of all our merits before God. Grace, by uniting us to Christ in active love, ensures the supernatural quality of our acts and consequently their merit before God and before men. the saints have always had a lively awareness that their merits were pure grace.

After earth's exile, I hope to go and enjoy you in the fatherland, but I do not want to lay up merits for heaven. I want to work for your love alone.... In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands, for I do not ask you, Lord, to count my works. All our justice is blemished in your eyes. I wish, then, to be clothed in your own justice and to receive from your love the eternal possession of yourself.

Catechism of the Catholic Church

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St. Hilary of Poitiers

The Church celebrates the feast of St. Hilary of Poitiers on January 13th.

Bishop, born in that city at the beginning of the fourth century; died there 1 November, according to the most accredited opinion, or according to the Roman Breviary, on 13 January, 368. Belonging to a noble and very probably pagan family, he was instructed in all the branches of profane learning, but, having also taken up the study of Holy Scripture and finding there the truth which he sought so ardently, he renounced idolatry and was baptized. Thenceforth his wide learning and his zeal for the Faith attracted such attention that he was chosen about 350 to govern the body of the faithful which the city had possessed since the third century. We know nothing of the bishops who governed this society in the beginning. Hilary is the first concerning whom we have authentic information, and this is due to the important part he played in opposing heresy. The Church was then greatly disturbed by internal discords, the authority of the popes not being so powerful in practice as either to prevent or to stop them. Arianism had made frightful ravages in various regions and threatened to invade Gaul, where it already had numerous partisans more or less secretly affiliated with it. Saturninus, Bishop of Arles, the most active of the latter, being exposed by Hilary, convened and presided over a council at Béziers in 356 with the intention of justifying himself, or rather of establishing his false doctrine. Here the Bishop of Poitiers courageously presented himself to defend orthodoxy, but the council, composed for the most part of Arians, refused to hear him, and being shortly afterwards denounced to the Emperor Constantius, the protector of Arianism, he was at his command transported to the distant coasts of Phrygia.

But persecution could not subdue the valiant champion. Instead of remaining inactive during his exile he gave himself up to study, completed certain of his works which he had begun, and wrote his treatise on the synods. In this work he analyzed the professions of faith uttered by the Oriental bishops in the Councils of Ancyra, Antioch, and Sirmium, and while condemning them, since they were in substance Arian, he sought to show that sometimes the difference between the doctrines of certain heretics and orthodox beliefs was rather in the words than in the ideas, which led to his counseling the bishops of the West to be reserved in their condemnation. He was sharply reproached for his indulgence by certain ardent Catholics, the leader of whom was Lucifer, Bishop of Cagliari. However, in 359, the city of Seleucia witnessed the assembly in synod of a large number of Oriental bishops, nearly all of whom were either Anomoeans or Semi-Arians. Hilary, whom everyone wished to see and hear, so great was his reputation for learning and virtue, was invited to be present at this assembly. The governor of the province even furnished him with post horses for the journey. In presence of the Greek fathers he set forth the doctrines of the Gallic bishops, and easily proved that, contrary to the opinion current in the East, these latter were not Sabellians. Then he took part in the violent discussions which took place between the Semi-Arians, who inclined toward reconciliation with the Catholics, and the Anomoeans, who formed as it were the extreme left of Arianism.

After the council, which had no result beyond the wider separation of these brothers in enmity, he left for Constantinople, the stronghold of heresy, to continue his battle against error. But while the Semi-Arians, who were less numerous and less powerful, besought him to become the intermediary in a reconciliation between themselves and the bishops of the West, the Anomoeans, who had the immense advantage of being upheld by the emperor, besought the latter to send back to his own country this Gallic bishop, who, they said, sowed discord and troubled the Orient. Constantius acceded to their desire, and the exile was thus enabled to set out on his journey home. In 361 Hilary re-entered Poitiers in triumph and resumed possession of his see. He was welcomed with the liveliest joy by his flock and his brothers in the episcopate, and was visited by Martin, his former disciple and subsequently Bishop of Tours. The success he had achieved in his combat against error was rendered more brilliant shortly afterwards by the deposition of Saturninus, the Arian Bishop of Arles by whom he had been persecuted. However, as in Italy the memory still rankled of the efforts he had made to bring about a reconciliation between the nearly converted Semi-Arians and the Catholics, he went in 364 to the Bishop of Vercelli to endeavor to overcome the intolerance of the partisans of the Bishop Lucifer mentioned above. Almost immediately afterwards, that it might be seen that, if he was full of indulgence for those whom gentleness might finally win from error, he was intractable towards those who were obstinate in their adherence to it, he went to Milan, there to assail openly Auxentius, the bishop of that city, who was a firm defender of the Arian doctrines. But the Emperor Valentinian, who protected the heretic, ordered Hilary to depart immediately from Milan.

He then returned to his city of Poitiers, from which he was not again to absent himself and where he was to die. This learned and energetic bishop had fought against error with the pen as well as in words. The best edition of his numerous and remarkable writings is that published by Dom Constant under the title: "Sancti Hilarii, Pictavorum episcopi opera, ad manuscriptos codices gallicanos, romanos, belgicos, necnon ad veteres editiones castigata" (Paris, 1693). The Latin Church celebrates his feast on 14 January, and Pius IX raised him to the rank of Doctor of the Universal Church. The Church of Puy glories in the supposed possession of his relics, but according to one tradition his body was borne to the church of St-Denys near Paris, while according to another it was taken from the church of St-Hilaire at Poitiers and burned by the Protestants in 1572.

From the Catholic Encyclopedia

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Sunday's Readings: First Reading:  Isaiah 42:1-4,6-7 Psalm:  Psalm 29:1-4, 9-10 Second Reading:  Acts 10:34-38 Gospel:  Luke 3:15-16, 21-22

Here are a couple of commentaries on these readings:

• St. Charles Borromeo Lectionary Site (PDF)


• The Anointing from St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology


• Baptism of the Lord and the Sacrament of Confirmation (en español La Fiesta del Bautizo del Senor) from The Crossroads Initiative

This website was launched by the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy and allows researchers to access Bible verses with exegesis from doctors of the Church or cross reference liturgical texts with commentaries from Church Fathers. The site offers six categories in nine languages. It also gives the option of downloading the site's content.

The nine translations of the Bible, including Hebrew and Greek, can be read side-by-side, as can the Eastern and Latin Codes of Canon Law.

From Catholic Culture.

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Merit, Part 1

In stark contrast to some other theologies, the Catholic doctrine on merit teaches that a person who is in the state of grace can actually lay claim to a supernatural recompense for good works. The Catechism takes up the topic of merit following the discussion on justification and grace.

You are glorified in the assembly of your Holy Ones, for in crowning their merits you are crowning your own gifts.

2006   The term "merit" refers in general to the recompense owed by a community or a society for the action of one of its members, experienced either as beneficial or harmful, deserving reward or punishment. Merit is relative to the virtue of justice, in conformity with the principle of equality which governs it.

2007   With regard to God, there is no strict right to any merit on the part of man. Between God and us there is an immeasurable inequality, for we have received everything from him, our Creator.

2008   The merit of man before God in the Christian life arises from the fact that God has freely chosen to associate man with the work of his grace. the fatherly action of God is first on his own initiative, and then follows man's free acting through his collaboration, so that the merit of good works is to be attributed in the first place to the grace of God, then to the faithful. Man's merit, moreover, itself is due to God, for his good actions proceed in Christ, from the predispositions and assistance given by the Holy Spirit.

Catechism of the Catholic Church

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St. Joseph's Oil

St. Joseph's Oil is associated with Bl. André Bessette whose feast day is January 6th. On December 19, 2009. Pope Benedict XVI promulgated a decree which recognized a second miracle that has been attributed to the intercession of Brother André. This opens the door for his canonization.

The tradition of anointing with sacred oil is very old indeed. It is used in sacraments and also, in some places, as a devotional practice. Brother André used to invite some of the sick people who came to him to apply oil on the part of their body they wanted healed but, as they did so, he always told people to pray to Saint Joseph. He always insisted on the fact that the oil itself did not have any miraculous power. He would remind people that it is God who has the power to heal. He underlined the fact that prayer and a gesture of faith, like applying oil, are important ways for us to express our faith in God's power.

As it has been done since Brother André's time, the oil is placed in front of the statue of Saint-Joseph and burns for sometime before it is bottled and offered to pilgrims. The Oratory invites people to use this oil as a symbol of faith and, at the same time, to pray for the grace they solicit. There is no special prayer to be used. Each one can pray in his own way or use a prayer he or she likes.

The Fr. Claude Grou, c.s.c of the Oratory says that they receive many letters from people who say that they have been cured after using the oil and praying to Brother André and Saint Joseph.

The oil may be obtained from the Oratory:

Saint-Joseph's Oratory 3800, Chemin Queen Mary Montreal (Quebec) Canada H3V 1H6
Telephone: (514) 733-8211 Free phone number: 1-877-672-8647 Fax: (514) 733-9735

For information or any other questions fatherweb@saint-joseph.org.

From Catholic Culture.

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Family is an Icon of God

In a new feature, messages from the Holy Father will be featured on a regular basis. These words of wisdom will include quotes from addresses by the Holy Father along with a link to learn more about the full text and context of the address.

This installment is excerpts taken from the Holy Father's address during the praying of the Angelus on the Feast of the Holy Family on December 27, 2009. The Gospel reading upon which part of his address is based on the account of the twelve-year-old Jesus remaining behind in the Temple unbeknownst to his parents.

"God wished to reveal Himself by being born in a human family, and hence the human family has become an icon of God."

"God is Trinity. He is communion of love, and the family - with all the difference that exists between the Mystery of God and His human creature - is an expression thereof which reflects the unfathomable mystery of God-Love. ... The human family is, in a certain sense, the icon of the Trinity because of the love between its members and the fruitfulness of that love."

"Jesus' decision to remain in the Temple was above all the fruit of his intimate relationship with the Father, but also the fruit of the education received from Mary and Joseph."

"Here we may catch a glimpse of the authentic meaning of Christian education. It is the result of a collaboration that must always be sought between the educators and God. The Christian family is aware that children are God's gift and project. Hence it cannot consider them as it own possessions but, serving God's plan through them, is called to educate them in the greatest of freedoms which is that of saying 'yes' to God in order to accomplish His will."

"God, by having come into the world in the bosom of a family, shows that this institution is a sure way to meet and know Him, and a permanent call to work for the loving unity of all people. Thus, one of the greatest services which we as Christians can offer our fellow men and women is to show them the serene and solid witness of a family founded upon marriage between a man and a woman, defending it and protecting it, because it is of supreme importance for the present and future of humankind."

"In truth, the family is the best school in which to learn to live the values that dignify individuals and make peoples great. There too sufferings and joys are shared, as everyone feels cloaked in the affection that reigns in the home by the mere fact of being members of the same family."

-- Sunday Angelus, December 27, 2009.

From VIS.

Epiphany

The Solemnity of Epiphany is celebrated this year on January 3rd.

Introduction

Officially called "The Epiphany of the Lord," this feast celebrates the epiphany (manifestation) of Christ to the Gentiles, symbolized by Christ's manifestation to the Magi (Wise Men). The feast originally was more closely connected to Jesus' baptism, the primary theme of the feast in Eastern Churches to this day. In addition, other manifestations of Christ were often commemorated during Epiphany, including the miracle at Cana. In fact, it has been asserted that the Baptism of the Lord, the adoration of the infant Jesus by the Magi, and the miracle at Cana all historically occurred on January 6 (see Abbot Gueranger's works). Whether this is true is contested, but either way, the Epiphany solemnity is celebrated on January 6, which falls within Christmastide. In some Catholic regions, the feast is translated to a Sunday. The Eastern Churches often call the holiday Theophany, which means "manifestation of God." Eastern Christians also refer to the Epiphany as "Holy Lights" because they baptize on this day, and baptism brings about illumination. Traditionally, Epiphany marked the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas.

The story of the Magi traveling from the East to see the Christ child appears only in the Gospel According to St. Matthew. The word Magi, in Greek magoi, comes from the Latin word meaning "sage." These particular sages were possibly Zoroastrian astrologers from Persia. Upon seeing a star rising in the East (the Star of Bethlehem), they realized it was a sign that the king of the Jews had been born. According to St. Ignatius of Antioch (d. AD 107), the star shone with an inexpressible brilliance, and the sun, moon, and other stars all formed a chorus around the special star (Letter to the Ephesians, 19). The wise men followed the star to Bethlehem of Judea, and to Jesus' dwelling there. Having arrived, they worshiped the infant Jesus, and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

There have been numerous traditions that have grown up about the Wise Men. Typically we think of there being three wise men because of the number of gifts, but Matthew doesn't tell us the exact number. Since the 3rd century, Christian writers have referred to them as kings, even though Matthew doesn't specifically tell us that they were royalty. Their names in the West, Gaspar (or Caspar), Melchior, and Balthasar date to the 6th century. The names mean: Master-of-Treasure, King, and Protect-the-King, respectively. The Syrian Church has given them the following Persian names: Larvandad, Hormisdas, and Gushnasaph.

St. Bede the Venerable fills in a few gaps, providing colorful details about the Magi:

The first was called Melchior. He was an old man, with white hair and a long beard; he offered gold to the Lord as to his King. The second, Gaspar by name, young, beardless, of ruddy hue, offered to Jesus his gift of incense, the homage due to Divinity. The third, of black complexion, with heavy beard, was middle-aged and called Balthasar. The myrrh he held in his hand prefigured the death of the son of Man (see The Catholic Source Book).

St. Bede hints that the magi represent different races, an idea that was further developed around the 14th century, in which the wise men were said to represent the three known races of the time, European, Asian, and African. According to another legend, St. Thomas the Apostle visited the Magi, and after catechizing them, he initiated them into the Christian faith. Eventually the Wise Men were ordained priests and then bishops. Near the end of their lives, the Christmas Star revisited them, this time bringing them together for a final reunion. The information provided by Bede, and this legend, are interesting but historically unreliable.

History

Epiphany is an ancient feast, dating to the 3rd century in the East. In the East, the Epiphany feast pre-dates the Christmas feast, although the West knew of the Nativity Feast before the Epiphany feast. Originally the Epiphany celebrated the Baptism of Christ. The birth of Christ was often tied to the Epiphany. The Church in Jerusalem celebrated Christ's Nativity on January 6 until AD 549. St. Epiphanius (d. AD 403) also lists the Epiphany as the date of the celebration of Christ's birth. However, the Apostolic Constitutions (c AD 380) mandates the celebration of Christ's birth on December 25th, and his Epiphany on January 6 (see Book V:III:XIII). In the Armenian Church today, January 6 is the only day celebrating Christ's Incarnation. The Epiphany feast was introduced in the Western Church by the 4th century, but the connection between the feast and Christ's baptism was gradually lost. The Western observance of the feast soon became associated with the visit of the Wise Men. In the West, the Feast of Jesus' baptism is a separate holy day, and currently falls on the Sunday following Epiphany. In the East, the feast of the Nativity and the Epiphany gradually became two distinct feasts.

Various customs have developed around Epiphany. In the East, there is a solemn blessing of water. In the West, in the Middle Ages, houses were blessed on Epiphany. Holy water was sprinkled in each room. The whole family was involved. The father led the procession with a shovel of charcoal on which he burned incense and the oldest son had the bowl of holy water. The rest of the family followed along saying the rosary and/or singing hymns. While the father and oldest son were incensing and blessing the house, the youngest child carried a plate of chalk. The chalk had been blessed with a special blessing after morning Mass. The father took the blessed chalk and wrote over every room that led outside: 20 + C + M + B + 08 which stands for "Anno Domini 2008 -- Caspar, Melchior, Balthasar" and means "The three Holy Kings, Caspar, Melchior, Balthasar, in the year of Our Lord, 2008" or whatever the year may be. The letters C, M, and B are also thought to stand for Christus mansionem benedicat, meaning "Christ bless this home." This tradition of blessing the doorways symbolizes the family's commitment to welcome Christ into their homes on a daily basis through the year.

Today many Christians celebrate Epiphany, including Catholics, Orthodox, Anglicans, Lutherans, and Methodists. However, many Christians have yet to be introduced to the Epiphany feast, as it falls in the empty space between Christmas and Easter that exists in many non-Catholic churches.

From ChurchYear.Net

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Sunday's Readings: First Reading:  Numbers 6:22-27 Psalm:  Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8 Second Reading:  Galatians 4:4-7 Gospel:  Luke 2:16-21

Here are a couple of commentaries on these readings:

• St. Charles Borromeo Lectionary Site (PDF)


• Epiphany Revealed (en español Epifanía) from The Crossroads Initiative

The bulletin for January 3, 2010 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

SOPRANOS, TENORS, AND BASSES NEEDED:  The choir is in need of additional singers. Please contact Bill Polhill at gwp@holycomforterparish.org or speak to him after Mass if you are interested!!

NEED FOR ALTAR SERVERS:  There is an immediate need for Altar Servers for the 5:00 p.m. Saturday Mass. Individuals should be willing to serve 1-2 times per month. If you are between the ages of 9 to 90, please consider this important ministry. Training will be provided. Please call Jim Morrisard at 973-6570 if you are interested.

CHARLOTTESVILLE CATHOLIC SCHOOL (CCS) OPEN HOUSE: Parents of prospective students are invited to attend Charlottesville Catholic School’s Winter Open House on Wednesday, February 3rd from 9:00 –11:00 a.m.  Join us to learn more about what CCS has to offer students, from challenging academics to strong community life where faith is integrated in all we do and celebrated every day.

BOOK CLUB:  The book club is growing! The next meeting of the book club will be Tuesday, January 12th at 4 PM at 150 Bennington Road . We will discuss Pope John Paul II's Crossing the Threshold of Hope. You are invited to use the quieter after Christmas weeks to read this book and to join fellow parishioners in exploring the issues it raises. For more information, contact Therese Stong at 296-9961 or trstong@embarqmail.com.

PHILOSOPHY CLUB:  The Philosophy Club will not meet in January.  The next meeting will be Sunday, February 14th at 6:00 p.m. at which time we will discuss "An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding" by David Hume. For information, please contact Suzanne Bailey at 296-5033 or Suzanne Bailey.

FIRST RECONCILIATION CLASS SCHEDULE:  First Reconciliation classes for all parish second grade students will be held on January 10, 24, 31, and February 7. All classes meet in the chapel from 9:30 - 10:45 a.m. A parent must attend each class with his/her child. First Reconciliation is Saturday, February 13th at 11:00 a.m. Students are to prepare for the first class by having read Chapter 17 of the textbook.

IMPACT:  This is the time of year when most of us make resolutions to improve ourselves during the next months.  Most of these resolutions are soon put aside.  How about a few resolutions that are easy to keep? 
1.  Resolve to help the less fortunate.  Regular contributions to our food pantry do just that.  Grocery lists are passed out monthly in the Reverse Collections.  If you can't remember to get a list, toilet articles are always welcome.
2.  Resolve to work for justice.  In addition to voting and being a law-abiding citizen, there are two easy ways to work for justice.  Attend the IMPACT Rally on February 25 at Incarnation Church, and attend the big Nehemiah Action Assembly at U-Hall on March 22.  Bringing others with you to the Nehemiah Action will add to the impact of IMPACT.

BI-PARISH HAITI COMMITTEE:  The committee next meets at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 24th at St. Thomas Aquinas. All are welcome. To learn more, contact Laurie Duncan at Laurie Duncan.

TRAVEL TO HAITI:  Several trips to visit our twin parish of St. Michel are being planned in the coming months. If you are interested in traveling with one of these groups, please contact Paul Harnois at lphmch@embarqmail.com.

For more information about Holy Comforter's twinning work with St. Michel parish, visit Saltadère.org

CHRISTIAN FORMATION HOLIDAY SCHEDULE:

Sunday, January 3rd	CLASSES RESUME

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Saint Josemaría Escrivá is one of the great saints of the 20th century and the founder of Opus Dei. This beautiful, well-designed site provides a plethora of information about Saint Josemaría, his writings, his teachings, and his works. You will also find sections on Opus Dei, prayers and devotions, news, and testimonies. This is an excellent resource on a great Saint of our time.

From Catholic Culture.

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Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of containing God's gift of Himself. - Bl. Teresa of Calcutta

The Holy Father's prayer intentions for January are:

General:   That young people may learn to use modern means of social communication for their personal growth and to better prepare themselves to serve society.

Mission:   That every believer in Christ may be conscious that unity among all Christians is a condition for more effective proclamation of the Gospel.

Pro-Life Prayer Intention

For the success of the Annual March for Life in Washington and Walk for Life in San Francisco.