March 18, 2018 

Fifth Sunday of Lent

Saint of the day

Saint Cyril of Jerusalem (c.315-386)

Saint Cyril, the archbishop of Jerusalem, was caught up in a heated controversy. He was accused of insubordination and selling Church property, even though he used the money to assist the poor. Even though helping the poor is very important, it was Cyril's responsibility to look after and care for the Church's property. These harsh charges may have been handed out because there was conflict between Cyril and Acacius, a neighboring bishop and believer in the Arian heresy. Cyril was exiled from Jerusalem, but was later pardoned and allowed to return. He attended the First Ecumenical Council of Constantinople, where the amended form of the Nicene Creed was made public. Cyril accepted the new Creed and was called a champion of orthodoxy against the Arians by the bishops of the council.

Reflection

Saint Cyril was very dedicated to assisting the poor. Do you look for opportunities to serve the poor? Check with your family, friends, parish, school, and other organizations to see if there are any service opportunities that you can take part in. Pray for God's help in becoming a more dedicated servant of the Lord.

Prayer

Dear God, please help me to care for the poor in my community.

Liturgical season information

Lectionary:

Place in Year: Lent

Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Violet

View complete readings on USCCB.org
  1. Sunday
  2. Monday
  3. Tuesday
  4. Wednesday
  5. Thursday
  6. Friday
  7. Saturday