Catholics are exposed to Scripture primarily through the Sunday readings from a book known as the Lectionary. The Lectionary is a book of selected passages from the Bible set in the context of a liturgical season, such as Advent, Lent, or Ordinary Time. There are four readings assigned to any Sunday: the first reading (usually from the Old Testament), the responsorial psalm, the second reading (usually from a New Testament letter), and the Gospel reading.

These readings together give them a new context. The selected readings relate to one another in a unique manner that is not present in the Bible text itself. In close proximity to each other, these readings now have the opportunity to converse with each other in a way that would have not been possible before. A homilist pays attention to all four readings, preparing a reflection that speaks of this conversation among the readings. Thus, the homily can be a good way of connecting the readings, enabling us to zero in on what this unique combination of God's word has to say to us this particular Sunday. Next time that you celebrate Sunday liturgy, prepare by reading the Scripture ahead of time and see how this new relationship among the readings addresses and challenges you to be a better Christian here and now.

The ultimate test of your greatness is the way you treat every human being, but especially the weakest and most defenseless. If you want equal justice for all and true freedom and lasting peace, then America, defend life.

The irony is that many people think of us Catholics as people of No -- don’t do this, don’t do that. In reality we are the people of Yes -- yes to God, yes to life, yes to compassion for the poor and suffering, yes to the solidarity and community that make us messengers of joy even in a valley of tears.

The Good Friday Pontifical Collection Provides: Pastoral care for parishes in the Holy Land Housing and health care for the poor and elderly. Care for the shrines and chapel Schools often at no charge to students. Thank you for your generosity.

Parents who are sitting in the choir loft with their children, are asked NOT to sit in the first row due to safety issues. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated.

Know a Marriage That Needs Help?  Throw them a lifeline and tell them about Retrouvaille, an international program that helps couples who are experiencing marital difficulties. This program is for all couples, at any stage of marriage that needs help to communicate with each other in a more attentive and loving manner. The next program in the Scranton Diocese begins Feb. 26-Feb. 28, 2016, at The Ramada Inn, Clarks Summit, PA. Please call 800-470-2230 for more information or to register or visit the website at www.helpourmarriage.org.

God blesses those who come to the aid of the poor and rebukes those who turn away from them: “Give to him who begs from you, do not refuse him who would borrow from you.” The Church’s love for the poor…is a part of her constant tradition. This love is inspired by the Gospel of the Beatitudes, of the poverty of Jesus, and his concern for the poor. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #2443) The works of mercy (spiritual and corporal) are charitable actions by which we come to the aid of our neighbor in his/her spiritual and bodily necessities. (#2447)

Spiritual Works of Mercy

1. To instruct the ignorant
2. To counsel the doubtful
3. To admonish sinners
4. To bear wrongs patiently
5. To forgive offenses willingly
6. To comfort the afflicted
7. To pray for the living and the dead

Corporal Works of Mercy

1. To feed the hungry
2. To shelter the homeless
3. To give drink to the thirsty
4. To clothe the naked
5. To visit the sick and imprisoned
6. To ransom the captive
7. To bury the dead

The time we spend in having our daily audience with God is the most precious part of the whole day. ~Blessed Teresa of Calcutta