December 14, 2017 

Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor of the Church

Saint of the day

Saint John of the Cross (c.1541-1591)

Saint John of the Cross, a 16th-century mystic, was responsible for reforming the Carmelite Order. He was a person who lived an austere life, renouncing many of the things of the world. John was a man of intense prayer who often prayed to Jesus as his Savior and had great dedication to the cross of Christ. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")

Reflection

Today we need to be saved from the materialistic values of the world. We are bombarded with “things”—things we want for ourselves, things we want to buy for others. How can you simplify your life as you prepare to celebrate Christmas? (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)

Prayer

Lord Jesus, empower us to simplify our lives as John of the Cross did. Strengthen us to remember poor people at this time of year and to use our resources to bring joy to their lives. (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)

Liturgical season information

Lectionary: 184

Place in Year: Advent

Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Violet

Daily readings

Reading 1: Isaiah 41:13-20

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145:1 and 9, 10-11, 12-13ab

Alleluia: See Is 45:8

Gospel: Matthew 11:11-15

View complete readings on USCCB.org
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