This week’s Gospel message for Sunday, November 5th is from Matthew 23:1-12.
Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. . .All their works are performed to be seen. . .The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Reflection
“When those in positions of authority treat themselves as superior to the people in their care, it poisons the atmosphere for everyone. The deadly sins of pride and envy are invited to fester. The sense of entitlement can lead to abuse of those without power. Jesus’ lesson for all of us is to realize that we are all called to serve.” SOURCE: Pastoral Patterns, Autumn 2023
DAILY READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Monday Romans 11:29-36; Luke 14:12-14
Tuesday Romans 12:5-16b; Luke 14:15-24
Wednesday Romans 13:8-10; Luke 14:25-33
Thursday Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12; 1 Corinthians 3:9c-11, 16-17; John 2:13-22
The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica (Feast) – The cathedral church of Rome (the pope’s local parish as bishop of Rome) was dedicated by Pope Sylvester I in 324. Originally called the Most Holy Savior, it is called St. John Lateran because it was built on property donated by the Laterani family and its baptistry is named after St. John. It is ‘the mother and head of all churches of the city and the world.’
Friday Romans 15:14-21; Luke 16:1-8
Saint Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church (Memorial) – As pope, Leo the Great was known for his peacekeeping efforts, in particular for his encounter with Attila the Hun, whom he persuaded not to plunder Rome. His writings include pastoral sermons on faith and charity and on the incarnation.
Saturday Romans 16:3-9, 16, 22-27; Luke 16:9-15
Saint Martin of Tours, Bishop (Memorial) – As bishop of Tours [France], he worked ceaselessly to spread the faith. An excellent administrator, he invented the division of dioceses into parishes. SOURCE: Living with Christ, November 2023