Featured Saint: Pope St Gregory the Great (540ca – 604)
Pope St Gregory was born into a wealthy family in Rome. His father was Senator and Prefect of the City of Rome. He lived his youth at a time of great turmoil including famine, rioting and panic, resulting from plague which wiped out one third of the population in parts of the City. He was well educated and excelled in his extensive studies. He became a government official and quickly progressed to Prefect, the highest civic office rank.
After his father’s death, Pope St Gregory converted his home to a monastery, dedicating it to St Andrew, and he became a Priest. St Gregory planned a monastic retirement and when appointed Pope he is said to have “bemoaned the burden of office and mourned the loss of the undisturbed life of prayer that he had once enjoyed as a monk.”
As Pope, St Gregory re-energised missionary work across Europe, revised Church liturgy and, among many other achievements, established the Gregorian chant. He was known as “the Father of Christian Worship” because of his liturgy revisions. He is a Doctor of the Church and Patron Saint of musicians, singers, students and teachers.
+ In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen +
Short Quote: Jesus, standing in a boat, preached to a crowd gathered at the water’s edge. When he had finished, he asked Simon to cast his nets out into the deep. Simon was hesitant since, they had been fishing all night and caught nothing but, when they did so, their nets were at breaking point with the number of fish caught; they needed a second boat to help them.
Simon fell at Jesus’ knees saying, “Go away from me Lord for I am a sinful man”. (Luke 5:8)
Thought: When Simon was asked to cast his nets, once again into the sea, he probably thought, what a waste of time and energy! However, when the fishing nets were at breaking point, he embarrassingly realised that his doubt in Jesus, had been greatly misplaced and he was not worthy to be associated!
How often do I doubt, only to be reawaken!
Reflection: Lord Jesus, as I go about my daily work, may I relish doing as you ask, in the shadow of your wings. Holy Spirit, through the power of your grace, protect me.
Prayer: Most Holy Spirit
Most Holy Spirit, beloved of my soul, I adore You.
Enlighten me, guide me, comfort me, console me.
I promise to submit myself to all You desire of me,
And permit all You wish to happen to me.
Give me Your help, tell me what to do.
Most holy Spirit, bring peace to my world. Amen.
St Gregory the Great: Pray for Us
Today’s Music Suggestion: You Raise Me Up
+ In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen +
[To view and enjoy the full Readings for today TAP HERE – Opens in a new Window]
(3rd September 2015 ~ Luke 5:1-11)
