Memorial of Saint Benedict, Abbot

My son, if you receive my words
and treasure my commands,
Turning your ear to wisdom,
inclining your heart to understanding;
Yes, if you call to intelligence,
and to understanding raise your voice;
If you seek her like silver, 
and like hidden treasures search her out:

Then will you understand the fear of the LORD;
the knowledge of God you will find;
For the LORD gives wisdom,
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
He has counsel in store for the upright,
he is the shield of those who walk honestly,
Guarding the paths of justice,
protecting the way of his pious ones.

Then you will understand rectitude and justice,
honesty, every good path.

— Proverbs 2:1-9


The peace of the Lord be with you. Today is the feast day of Saint Benedict, founder and Abbot of the Benedictine religious order. Bishop Barron says that that Benedict was very important in preserving and bringing Christianity back to its roots in Europe, which in turn, had a significant impact on Christianity throughout the world. It is said that Saint Benedict had a strong calling from his early youth, and even though he was born into a wealthy family, he rejected worldly comforts in order to seek God without distraction.

The reading from Proverbs today reminds us of the importance of taking time for contemplation and listening for the voice of the triune God. These times of quiet and reflection lead us more deeply into the mystery of God, help us to properly order our lives, and assist us in becoming agents for justice. The lives of the Saints remind us of the varied ways that God has called people over the course of salvation history and they inspire us to seek out the unique mission that God has intended for each of us.

May the intercession of Saint Benedict and the communion of Saints strengthen us on our journey. In  the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Readings for Saturday, July 11, 2020


Free today! Watch St. Benedict: The Monk
(Part of Catholicism: The Pivotal Players series, from Word on Fire with Bishop Barron.)