3 Dec
Wed
Feast of St Francis Xavier
Patron of Missions
1 Cor. 9:16-19,22-23
Ps. 117(116): 1-2
Mk. 16:15-20
(Ps Wk I)
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A charge to go and preach to all nations was given by Christ to His Apostles. This commission has been faithfully carried out down to this present time; and in every age God raises men and women who are filled with His Holy Spirit to carry out the important function of bringing the people of the nations to the fold of Christ. This conversion of nations according to the divine commission is the prerogative of the Catholic Church. Among those who in the sixteenth century laboured most successfully was St. Francis Xavier, whose feast we celebrate today.

As the early Christians were filled with joy, unflagging courage and zeal in proclaiming the Gospel so are we challenged to do the same. Some people nowadays console themselves by saying that things are not as easy as they used to be. History tells us that the early Christians did not have it easy during the time of the Roman Empire. The situation then was not conducive to the Gospel message! Thus, the early Christians had to struggle for justice and the defense of human dignity. And in every period of history, we find the presence of human weakness, self-absorption, complacency and selfishness, to say nothing of the concupiscence which preys upon us all. Therefore, let us not say, that things are harder today; they are simply different, (cf. JG No. 263).




Lord give us the courage to overcome the difficulties of our day with the joy of the Gospel and to proclaim Your message of Love.




DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That the birth of the Redeemer may bring peace and hope to all people of good will.
Elaboration

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