If That Isn't Love" by Elvis: A Song for Good Friday

10 Quotes from Saints about Good Friday

Good Friday stands as one of the most solemn and sacred days in the Christian calendar. It marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and serves as a poignant reminder of the depth of His love for humanity. 

Throughout the centuries, saints and spiritual leaders have reflected on the significance of Good Friday, offering wisdom and insight that continue to inspire believers today. 

Here are 10 quotes from saints about Good Friday, illuminating the profound mystery of Christ's sacrifice and the hope it brings to the world.

St. John Chrysostom:

"The cross of Christ is the door to heaven, the key to paradise, the downfall of the devil, the uplifting of mankind, the consolation of our imprisonment, the prize for our freedom."

St. Augustine:

"The cross was the devil's mousetrap; the bait by which he was caught was the Lord's death."

St. Teresa of Calcutta:

"Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone but in every leaf in springtime."

St. Francis of Assisi:

"We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world."

St. Padre Pio:

"In order to be like Jesus, it is necessary to imitate him in his virtues, and above all in his love of suffering."

St. Thomas Aquinas:

"The cross exemplifies every virtue. If you seek patience, you will find no better example than the cross. Great patience occurs in two ways: either when one patiently suffers much, or when one suffers things which one is able to avoid and yet does not avoid. Christ endured much on the cross, and did so patiently, because when he suffered he did not threaten; he was led like a sheep to the slaughter and he did not open his mouth."

St. Therese of Lisieux:

"I am not capable of doing big things, but I want to do everything, even the smallest things, for the greater glory of God."

St. Ignatius of Loyola:

"If God gives you an abundant harvest of trials, it is a sign of great holiness which He desires you to attain. Do you want to become a great saint? Ask God to send you many sufferings. The flame of Divine Love never rises higher than when fed with the wood of the Cross, which the infinite charity of the Savior used to finish His sacrifice."

St. Catherine of Siena:

"Every virtue is tested by temptation, and the soul is purified by trial."

St. Pope John Paul II:

"We are the Easter people and 'Alleluia' is our song."

These quotes from saints about Good Friday encapsulate the essence of this sacred day – a day of profound sacrifice, redemption, and hope. 

As we reflect on the passion and death of Christ, let us draw inspiration from their words and strive to embrace the cross in our own lives. 

May Good Friday serve as a reminder of the immeasurable love of God and the promise of salvation that shines brightly through the darkness. 

Amen.

Palm Sunday - The Journey to Calvary Starts Here

As the Lenten season reaches its crescendo, Palm Sunday emerges as a poignant milestone in the Christian calendar, marking the beginning of Holy Week. 

This solemn occasion commemorates Jesus Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, setting in motion the events that would ultimately lead to His crucifixion and resurrection. 

Palm Sunday serves as a profound reminder of the transformative journey of faith, sacrifice, and redemption that lies at the heart of Christianity.

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The biblical narrative of Palm Sunday unfolds in the Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. According to these accounts, as Jesus approached Jerusalem, 

He instructed His disciples to fetch a donkey and its colt, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah: "Say to Daughter Zion, 'See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'" (Matthew 21:5, NIV) 

This humble mode of transportation symbolized Jesus's humility and kingship, contrasting sharply with the pomp and grandeur associated with earthly rulers.

As Jesus entered Jerusalem, crowds of people gathered to welcome Him, laying their cloaks and palm branches on the road before Him, shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!" (Matthew 21:9, NIV) The cries of "Hosanna" echoed through the streets, signifying adoration, praise, and a fervent plea for salvation.

The imagery of palm branches holds profound significance in Jewish and Christian traditions. 

In ancient times, palm branches symbolized victory, triumph, and peace. The waving of palms as Jesus entered Jerusalem symbolized the people's acknowledgement of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the King of Israel, who would deliver them from oppression and establish God's kingdom on earth. 

However, their perception of a triumphant earthly king would soon be challenged as Jesus revealed His true mission—to offer Himself as a sacrificial lamb for the salvation of humanity.

Palm Sunday encapsulates the paradoxical nature of Jesus's kingship—a kingship marked by humility, servanthood, and sacrificial love. 

While the crowds hailed Him as their Messiah, Jesus knew that His journey would lead Him to the cross, where He would endure unimaginable suffering and death for the sins of the world. 

Yet, He embraced His mission with unwavering resolve, guided by His profound love for humanity and obedience to the Father's will.

For Christians, Palm Sunday serves as a poignant invitation to embark on the journey of Holy Week—a spiritual pilgrimage that invites us to accompany Jesus in His passion, death, and resurrection. It is a time of introspection, prayer, and contemplation as we enter into the profound mystery of Christ's redemptive sacrifice.

The palm branches blessed on Palm Sunday serve as tangible reminders of our call to follow Jesus with faith and devotion. 

Just as the crowds welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem with shouts of praise, we are called to welcome Him into our hearts and lives as our Lord and Savior. 

However, our allegiance to Christ must extend beyond mere words or fleeting emotions—it must be reflected in our actions, attitudes, and relationships.

As we journey through Holy Week, we are invited to walk alongside Jesus in His passion, sharing in His suffering and embracing the cross as the path to true freedom and new life. 

The events of Holy Week challenge us to confront our own sinfulness, to repent of our transgressions, and to surrender ourselves entirely to God's mercy and grace.

Palm Sunday also reminds us of the fickleness of human nature—the same crowds that hailed Jesus as their king would soon cry out for His crucifixion. 

Their betrayal and denial serve as cautionary tales, prompting us to examine our own hearts and to remain steadfast in our commitment to Christ, even in the face of adversity or persecution.

As we commemorate Palm Sunday, let us enter into the spirit of the liturgy with reverence and awe, allowing its sacred symbols and rituals to deepen our understanding of Christ's paschal mystery. 

Let us unite ourselves with the universal Church as we journey together towards the celebration of Easter, the triumph of light over darkness, and the victory of life over death.

Palm Sunday beckons us to embrace the paradox of the Christian faith—to find strength in weakness, hope in despair, and life in death. 

It reminds us that the journey to Calvary starts here, but it does not end there—for beyond the cross lies the empty tomb, the promise of resurrection, and the hope of eternal life in Christ.

Palm Sunday: A Day of Paradox and Promise

Palm Sunday, this Sunday before Easter, marks the beginning of Holy Week – a week steeped in both immense joy and profound sorrow. 

It's a day of paradox, a day where triumphant cheers for a conquering king mingle with the sombre awareness of the suffering that awaits him.

A Triumphal Entry

The Gospel narratives paint a vivid picture of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem.  Crowds gather, waving palm branches and proclaiming, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" (John 12:13).   

They see Jesus riding a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah: "Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout for joy, O daughter Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of an donkey" (Zechariah 9:9).

This jubilant celebration foreshadows the arrival of a long-awaited Messiah. The crowd envisions a powerful king who will liberate them from Roman rule. But Jesus' message is one of peace, not earthly conquest.  

The donkey, a symbol of humility, signifies a different kind of king – a king who comes to serve, not to be served.

Beyond the Palms: A Glimpse of the Passion

Despite the outward celebration, there's an undercurrent of tension. Some Pharisees question Jesus' authority (John 12:34).  The very word "Hosanna" can also carry connotations of a plea for salvation, hinting at the knowledge that suffering awaits Jesus.

The Gospel of John even places the account of the raising of Lazarus – a powerful display of Jesus' mastery over death –  on the very same day as the triumphal entry (John 12:1-19). This juxtaposition reminds us that Jesus' journey to Jerusalem is also a journey towards his own Passion and death.

The Significance of Palms

Palm branches hold symbolic meaning in many cultures, representing victory, peace, and eternal life.  In the context of Palm Sunday, they signify both the joyous welcome given to Jesus and the coming victory over death that his sacrifice will bring.

Palm Sunday Traditions

Catholics around the world celebrate Palm Sunday with a procession. Parishioners gather, holding blessed palm branches, and process into the church, remembering Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.  The palms are then often kept at home throughout the year as a reminder of both the joy of Jesus' arrival and the sacrifice that followed.

A Call to Discipleship

Palm Sunday is a call to discipleship.  As we join the crowds in waving palms and proclaiming "Hosanna," we are also called to follow Jesus on his path – a path that leads not just to triumphal entries, but also to suffering and sacrifice.

From Hosanna to Hosanna in the Highest:

The joy of Palm Sunday is not a naive celebration that ignores the suffering to come. It's a recognition that even in the face of darkness, hope remains. We celebrate Jesus as king, knowing that his reign is not of this world, but a kingdom of love, peace, and justice.

The cheers of "Hosanna" on Palm Sunday eventually turn into the mocking cries of "Crucify him!" on Good Friday. Yet, the story doesn't end there.  The final "Hosanna" awaits us on Easter Sunday, a joyous celebration of Christ's victory over death and the promise of eternal life.

Living the Lessons of Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday reminds us that faith is a journey, not a destination. It's a journey that involves both moments of joy and moments of sorrow.  As we celebrate Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, we commit ourselves to following him, wherever that path may lead.

Here are some ways to carry the spirit of Palm Sunday beyond this one day:

Reflect on the meaning of Jesus' sacrifice. Take time to meditate on the Passion narratives and contemplate the depth of Jesus' love for us.

Examine your own commitment to discipleship. What does following Jesus mean in your daily life? How can you live out his message of love and service?

Prepare your heart for Holy Week. Use this week as a time for focused prayer, reflection, and repentance.

Palm Sunday is a pivotal moment in the liturgical calendar. It's a day that invites us to celebrate, to ponder, and to prepare ourselves for the transformative events of Holy Week.  By embracing the paradox and promise of Palm Sunday, we can deepen our faith and journey closer to Christ.

The Holy Spirit: Our Guide and Comforter in Times of Need

Life's journey can be a winding path, filled with moments of joy and sorrow, triumph and tribulation. In the midst of these uncertainties, the Catholic Church teaches that we are not alone. 

We have the unfailing presence of the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Holy Trinity, to guide and comfort us on our way.

The concept of the Holy Spirit can sometimes feel abstract. Yet, the Spirit's presence is as real and tangible as the love of a close friend or the strength that carries us through hardship. Understanding the various roles of the Holy Spirit empowers us to tap into this divine wellspring of comfort and guidance.

The Comforter and Counsellor

Perhaps the most comforting aspect of the Holy Spirit is its role as our Comforter and Counsellor.  

Jesus, in his farewell discourse to his disciples, promised the Holy Spirit as an advocate, using the Greek word "parakletos," which implies someone called alongside to help [John 14:16].

The Holy Spirit understands our struggles because it dwells within us. It provides solace in times of grief, whispers strength during moments of doubt, and offers a calming presence when anxieties threaten to overwhelm us.  

The  Spirit doesn't erase our problems, but it equips us with the inner strength and resilience to face them head-on.

The Teacher and Guide

The Holy Spirit is not just a source of comfort; it is also a wellspring of wisdom and guidance.  Jesus assures us, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you" [John 14:26].

The Holy Spirit enlightens our minds to understand the teachings of Christ and the Scriptures. It nudges us towards the right decisions, gently correcting our course when we stray from the path of righteousness. 

Through prayer, reflection, and participation in the Sacraments, we become more attuned to the subtle promptings of the Spirit, allowing it to guide our steps.

The Advocate and Intercessor

The Holy Spirit is also our advocate and intercessor.  Romans 8:26-27 beautifully describes this role: "For in our weakness the Spirit intercedes for us. For we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words."

There are times when words fail us, and the weight of our burdens feels too heavy to bear.  The Holy Spirit steps in during these moments, interceding on our behalf before God. It expresses the deepest longings of our hearts, even when we cannot articulate them ourselves.

The Fire and the Dove

The Holy Spirit is often depicted in two symbolic forms: fire and a dove. 

Fire symbolizes the Spirit's transformative power. It burns away impurities, refines our faith, and ignites a passion for God's love within us. 

The dove represents peace, gentleness, and guidance. It signifies the comforting presence of the Spirit that soothes our anxieties and leads us towards tranquillity.

How to Experience the Holy Spirit More Fully

So, how can we cultivate a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit and experience its guidance and comfort more fully in our daily lives?

Prayer: Regular prayer, both formal and informal, opens a channel of communication with the Holy Spirit. Spend time in quiet reflection, expressing your joys, sorrows, and needs.

Scripture Reading: The Bible is filled with the wisdom and teachings inspired by the Holy Spirit. Daily scripture reading allows the Spirit to speak to your heart and guide your steps.

The Sacraments: The Sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Confession, are channels of God's grace. Participating in them with a prayerful heart allows us to receive the strengthening and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Discernment: Pay attention to the gentle promptings you receive during prayer, reflection, or even through encounters with others. The Holy Spirit often guides us in subtle ways, and by being attentive, we can discern its direction.

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By incorporating these practices into our lives, we become more receptive to the Holy Spirit's presence. 

As we open ourselves to its guidance and comfort, we embark on a deeper and more fulfilling journey of faith. 

Remember, the Holy Spirit is always with us, a constant source of strength, wisdom, and love, guiding us through life's uncertainties and leading us closer to God.

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Sources

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filioque

valeriemurray.com/why-does-god-give-christians-the-gift-of-the-holy-spirit/

Unveiling the Mystery: Why the Date of Easter Changes Every Year

As one of the most significant feasts in the Christian calendar, Easter holds a central place in the hearts of believers around the world. 

Yet, unlike fixed-date holidays such as Christmas, the date of Easter varies from year to year, leaving many to wonder: Why exactly does the date of Easter change? 

Unravelling this mystery requires delving into both the historical and astronomical foundations of Easter dating, as well as understanding the unique traditions of the Christian Church.

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At the heart of the matter lies the determination of Easter Sunday, the day on which Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Traditionally, Easter falls on the first Sunday following the full moon that occurs on or after the vernal equinox, which is typically on March 21st. 

This method of calculating Easter's date is known as the "ecclesiastical computation."

The origins of this method can be traced back to the early centuries of Christianity when various Christian communities observed Easter on different dates. 

In an effort to unify the celebration of Easter, the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD established a standard method for determining the date of Easter. 

This method, based on the lunar calendar and the vernal equinox, aimed to align Easter with the Jewish Passover, which commemorates the Exodus from Egypt.

The lunar calendar plays a crucial role in the calculation of Easter's date due to its influence on the timing of the full moon. 

Unlike the solar calendar, which is based on the Earth's orbit around the sun, the lunar calendar follows the phases of the moon. 

As a result, the date of Easter can vary within a range of 35 days, from March 22nd to April 25th.

To further complicate matters, different Christian denominations follow different ecclesiastical computations for determining the date of Easter. 

The Western Christian Church, which includes Catholicism and most Protestant denominations, uses the Gregorian calendar to calculate Easter. 

Meanwhile, the Eastern Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, resulting in a discrepancy between the dates of Easter in the Eastern and Western traditions.

Despite these variations, the underlying principle remains the same: Easter is celebrated on the Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox. 

This method ensures that Easter occurs during the spring season, symbolizing the renewal of life and the victory of light over darkness.

While the ecclesiastical computation provides a reliable method for determining the date of Easter, it is not without its challenges. The complexity of lunar cycles and calendar systems can lead to discrepancies and disagreements among different Christian communities. 

Additionally, the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in the 16th century introduced further adjustments to the calculation of Easter, resulting in occasional differences between the Eastern and Western dates.

Despite these challenges, the variability of Easter's date serves as a reminder of the diverse traditions and rich history of the Christian faith. 

Rather than a source of division, the varying dates of Easter highlight the unity and diversity of the global Christian community, as believers around the world come together to celebrate the central mystery of the Christian faith—the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In conclusion, the changing date of Easter is rooted in both historical tradition and astronomical phenomena. 

By following the ecclesiastical computation based on the lunar calendar and the vernal equinox, Christians commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the Sunday following the first full moon of spring. 

While the calculation of Easter's date may be complex, its significance remains unchanged—a celebration of new life, hope, and the triumph of light over darkness.

When It's the Same Sins Over and Over Again, Maybe You Need To Walk Down A Different Road

As Catholics, we strive to live according to the teachings of Christ and the moral guidelines set forth by the Church. 

However, despite our best efforts, many of us find ourselves grappling with the same sins repeatedly. 

Whether it's anger, jealousy, greed, or lust, facing the same sins over and over again can be disheartening and discouraging. 

So, how do we deal with this cycle of sin and overcome it in our spiritual journey?

Recognise the Pattern:

The first step in addressing recurring sins is to recognize the pattern. Take a moment to reflect on the sins that seem to plague you repeatedly. Are there particular triggers or situations that lead you to fall into these patterns? Identifying the root causes of your sinful behaviour can help you better understand why you continue to struggle in these areas.

Examine Your Heart:

Once you've identified the patterns of sin in your life, it's essential to examine your heart and motivations. Ask yourself why you are drawn to these sins and what underlying desires or fears may be driving your behaviour. Often, recurring sins are symptomatic of deeper issues such as insecurity, pride, or a lack of trust in God's providence. Honest self-examination can reveal areas where you need healing and transformation.

Turn to God in Prayer:

In moments of weakness and temptation, turn to God in prayer for strength and guidance. Ask Him to help you overcome the sins that entangle you and to grant you the grace to resist temptation. Pour out your heart to God, confessing your struggles and shortcomings, and trust in His mercy and love to sustain you. Through prayer, you invite God into your struggle and open yourself to His transformative power.

Seek the Sacrament of Reconciliation:

The sacrament of reconciliation, or confession, is a powerful means of receiving God's forgiveness and grace. Approach the confessional with humility and sincerity, confessing your sins to God through the priest. Be honest and open about your struggles, knowing that God's mercy knows no bounds. Receive absolution with gratitude and allow the grace of the sacrament to strengthen you in your resolve to overcome sin.

Cultivate Virtue:

Instead of focusing solely on avoiding sin, strive to cultivate virtue in your life. 

Virtue is the habitual disposition to do good and avoid evil, and it counteracts the vices that lead us into sin. Identify virtues that are opposed to your recurring sins and make a concerted effort to cultivate them in your daily life. 

For example, if you struggle with anger, cultivate the virtue of patience. If you struggle with greed, cultivate the virtue of generosity. 

By intentionally practising virtue, you weaken the hold that sin has on your life and become more aligned with God's will.

Utilise Spiritual Resources:

Take advantage of the spiritual resources available to you within the Catholic Church to support you in your struggle against sin. 

Attend Mass regularly, receive the Eucharist, pray the Rosary, meditate on Scripture, and seek the intercession of the saints. 

Engage in spiritual reading and study to deepen your understanding of Catholic teachings and moral principles. Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow believers who can encourage you on your journey of faith.

Need some encouragement now? Here's a poem, entitled Stages of change which you might find useful.  

I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost… I am hopeless.
It isn’t my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don’t see it.
I fall in again.
I can’t believe I am in this same place.
But it isn’t my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it there.
I still fall in… it’s a habit… but, my eyes are open.
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.

I walk down another street.

Acknowledgement: Stages of change: A poem

Practice Self-Discipline:

Developing self-discipline is crucial in overcoming recurring sins. Learn to recognise the warning signs of temptation and take proactive steps to avoid situations that may lead you into sin. 

Practice self-control in your thoughts, words, and actions, and cultivate habits of prayer and virtue that strengthen your resolve. 

Remember that self-discipline is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and ask God to help you develop this essential virtue in your life.

Persevere in Hope:

Above all, persevere in hope, knowing that God's grace is sufficient for you. Despite your weaknesses and failures, God never gives up on you. He offers you forgiveness and mercy time and time again, inviting you to rise from your sins and start anew. 

Trust in God's unfailing love and remain steadfast in your commitment to following Him. Even in the face of recurring sins, cling to the hope of redemption and transformation that is found in Christ alone.

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Facing the same sins over and over again is a common struggle for many Catholics. 

However, by recognizing the pattern, examining your heart, turning to God in prayer, seeking the sacraments, cultivating virtue, utilizing spiritual resources, practising self-discipline, and persevering in hope, you can overcome these recurring sins and grow closer to God in holiness. 

With God's grace and your steadfast determination, victory over sin is possible, and true spiritual freedom awaits.