DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

SATURDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER (Year C)

Mystery of the day: Joyful

Reflection for the day

Theme: It is I, do not be afraid.

 "It is I; do not be afraid." Then they were glad to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going. (John 6:20-21)

Beloved friend(s) in Christ, when we are in despair we often expect a message of hope. When we are caught up in the web of confusion we look forward to hear some words of consolation.

In the light of this expectancy that Christ said in today's Gospel pericope:

 "It is I; do not be afraid." Then they were glad to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going. (John 6:20-21)

This admonition borne out of His loving kindness upon humanity. We need Him to talk to our wailng minds, to say to the storms of our life "be calm, let there be peace" and peace will certainly find its way to our hearts. Indeed, fear not for the storm is over. Fear not, and be still for I am Your God, He says.

Peace, be with you!

Let us pray

O God, who willed that through the paschal mysteries the gates of mercy should stand open for your faithful, look upon us and have mercy, that as we follow, by your gift, the way you desire for us, so may we never stray from the paths of life. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your son who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

Saint of the day:

St. Pius V

He was born on January 17, 1504 in Bosco, Italy. His birth name was Antonio Ghislieri. He entered the Dominican Order when he was 14 years old and took the name Michele. He was ordained a priest in 1528 and he taught theology for sixteen years before becoming master of novices and prior of many Dominican Houses. Pope Pius-IV consecrated him bishop on September 14, 1556 and made him cardinal on March 15, 1557. In spite his closeness with pope Pius-IV, he opposed the pope Pius-IV when the pope tried to make one of his relative aged 13 years as cardinal. After the death of pope Pius-IV, Michele was elected pope on January 7, 1566 and took the name Pius-V. After becoming pope he continued to wear the Dominican white cassock that led to popes wearing white cassocks. He deprived himself of many customary luxuries of popes and spent long time in prayer. He observed the spirit of Dominican Rule throughout his life. When Emperor Maximilian-II of Germany tried to abolish clerical celibacy, he opposed that idea and defeated the emperor’s proposal. He also excommunicated Queen Elizabeth-I of England for her persecution of English Catholics. He took efforts for the formation of Holy League of Nations, an alliance of Catholic nations and defeated the Ottoman Turks at the battle of Gulf of Lepanto on October 7, 1571. The pope attributed the victory to the intercession of Blessed Virgin Mary and started a feast of Our Lady of Victory in 1571. But the feast was changed as the 'feast of the Holy Rosary' by pope Gregory-XIII in 1573.

Pope Pius-V was beatified by pope Clement-X on May 1, 1672 and canonized by pope Clement-XI on May 22, 1712.

© The ARCHIVE            30042022

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER (Year C)

Mystery of the day: Luminous

Saint of the day:

St. Peter Chanel

He was born on July 12, 1803 in Montrevel, France to Claude-Francois Chanel and Marie-Anne Sibellas. He was ordained a priest on July 15, 1827. In 1831 he joined the Society of Mary (Marists). He travelled to many places and then arrived at Futuna, an island in Pacific Ocean. The king of the island Niuliki received the missionaries well and helped in their work. The king became very angry with Peter and his missionaries, when the king’s son Meitala wanted to join in Christianity and to get baptism. The king sent his son-in-law Musumusu to deal with this matter. Musumusu tried to change the mind of Meitala, the son of the king. When his persuasion failed, Musumusu fought against Meitala but could not win him. So Musumusu took an axe and clubbed Peter Chanel in his head to death on April 28, 1841at the Futuna Island. The death of Peter Chanel reached outside world only after several months. After some period missionaries also returned to the island but found that most of the people in the island became catholic Christians, including Musumusu, who killed Peter Chanel. When in death bed, Musumusu expressed his desire to be buried in a place outside the church at Poi, so that people who would come to revere Peter Chanel in the church would walk over his grave to get into it.

He was beatified by pope Leo-XIII on November 17, 1889 and canonized by pope Pius-XII on June 12, 1954.

Reflection for the day

Theme: Bearing witness to the Truth.

"He who believes in the Son has eternal life; he who does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God rests upon him." (John 3:36)

The joy of being a true witness or follower is when one is able to withstand persecution and tribulation because of his faith in what he believes in. As Christians, our firm hope hinges on God.

Though, sometimes we are being caught up in the web of doubt and despair in the course of bearing witness to the Truth - which is Christ our Lord due to the challenges or circumstances we find ourselves.

However, Evangelist John in today's Gospel pericope gave account on this saying:

"He who believes in the Son has eternal life; he who does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God rests upon him." (John 3:36)

This called for authentic witness devoid of any condition we may experience in the course of living out our Christian call. 

In the first reading of today, we saw the faith of the early Apostles/Disciples as led by St. Peter who publicly said: "It is better to obey God rather than men." (cf.Acts 5:27-33).

This Peter's stance borne out of his deep faith and other disciples in Christ, despite the opposition, they stood firm till the last breath. Their eagerness to preach in the name of Jesus spurred from their believe in Him. 

Dearest friend(s) in Christ, what is the level of our believe in God especially when the going is tough? Just as the Apostles in the first reading of today, let our hope and trust be in God as the Apostles who atood firm in their witness to the Truth. When we do this, we will not only to by the ne Christians but will certainly live-out authentic Christian life.

Peace, Be with you!

Let us pray

O God, who for the salvation of the world brought about the paschal sacrifice, be favourable to the supplications of your people, so that Christ our High Priest, interceding on our behalf, may by his likeness to ourselves bring us reconciliation, and by his equality with you free us from our sins. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who live sand reigns forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE         28042022

 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER ( Year C)

Mystery of the day: Glorious

Saint of the day: St. Louis Mary de Montfort

He was born on January 31, in Montfort-Sur-Meu, Brittany, France. His father was Baptiste Grignion, a notary and mother Jeanne Robert. At age 12, he entered the Jesuit College of St. Thomas Becket in Rennes. He was ordained a priest in the year 1700 and worked in Nantes. He was frustrated with the priest service because he did not get the opportunity to preach the poor people. So after four months of ordination, he joined in the Third Order of the Dominicans in November 1700. He preached the Gospel throughout France and founded many congregations. He founded the Missionary of the Company of Mary for both priests and brothers and the Daughters of Wisdom to care specially for the destitute and sick people. He also founded the Montfort Missionaries and the Brothers of St. Gabriel. He did research on the writings of the church fathers and saints related to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He was considered as one of the greatest apostles of rosary in his days. He wrote a book named The Secrets of Rosary, which is a very inspiring work on rosary. He was very much devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is believed that the declaration of Virgin Mary as the Mediatrix and Co-Redemptrix in the redemption of humanity by pope Leo-XIII was based on the spirit of the writings of Montfort about Virgin Mary. He fought against Jansenism- a theological system named after its proponent Cornelius Jansenius, a bishop in Belgium. He died due to natural causes on April 28, 1716 at Saint-Laurent-sur-Sevre. His statue is placed at the Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican. 

He was beatified on January 22, 1888 by pope Leo-XIII and canonized by pope Pius-XII on July 20, 1947.

Reflection for the day

Theme: For the love of humanity...

"God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; that whoever believes in him should have eternal life." (John 3:16)

In the creation account, man enjoyed the fulness of creation compared to every other creatures. (cf. Genesis 1:26ff.) 

For every other creatures were the products of Words (only) but that of man had a tripartite nature. 

Firstly, God invited "Heavenly Host" saying: "Come let us create man in our own image".

Secondly, a breath of life was poured upon man.

Thirdly, a mandate was given to man to be in charge of every other creatures.

What an unconditional love for humanity!

In today's Table of the Word, we reflect with Evangelist John in the Gospel pericope:

"God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; that whoever believes in him should have eternal life." (John 3:16)

These Words were addressed to Nicodemus by our Lord Jesus in the second part of the invitation to conversion. Reminding him of the unfathomable love of God and His mercies. 

Beloved in Christ, this "Act of Divine Love" goes beyond human understanding. God cares for each and every one of us right from moment of conception, at birth; our growth and development are the products of His loving gestures.

Therefore,  absolutely nothing is difficult before Him for our sake. No matter the situation, His love for us cannot be shaken. He loves us beyond measure. Cast your cares and worries upon His shoulder, and our burdens will be made light.

  Peace, be with you!

Let us pray

As we recall year by year the mysteries by which, through the restoration of its original dignity, human nature has received the hope of rising again, we earnestly beseech your mercy, Lord, that what we celebrate in faith we may possess in unending love. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                    27042022

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER (Year C)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful

Saint of the day:

St. Pedro de San José Betancur

He was born on May 16, 1619 in Vilaflor on the island of Tenerife. He worked as a shepherd until age 24 years and after that he went to Guatemala to seek a job. He later enrolled in a local Jesuit College to become a priest. But he could not become a priest. Then he became a Franciscan Tertiary at the convent of Costa Rica and took the name 'Peter of Saint Joseph'. He opened a hospital named “Our Lady of Bethlehem” to take care of the poor sick people. Later, he also founded a shelter for homeless people and a school for the poor children. He also founded an inn for the use of the priests. He is credited with originating the Christmas Eve Posadas Procession in which people representing Joseph and Mary and go house to house to seek night lodging. This they did as a remembrance of the Biblical incident wherein Virgin Mary and Joseph requested resting place for Mary when she suffered labor pain, while carrying Jesus in her womb. 'Posada' in Spanish means lodging or accommodation. This procession is now celebrated in Mexico and other cities for nine days from 16th to 24th December as a novena representing nine months of Mary’s pregnancy. He died in Antigua, Guatemala on April 25, 1667.

He was beatified on June 22, 1980 and canonized on July 30, 2002 both by Pope John Paul-II.

Reflection for the day

Theme: The Spirit blows wherever it wills.

"At that time: Jesus said to Nicodemus, 'You must be born anew.' The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know whence it comes or whither it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit."  (John 3:7-9)

In the Sacramemt of Baptism, there is a re-birth among the believers. This springs from the power of the Holy Spirit who instructs, counsels and teaches. 

In the light of this, the Gospel pericope of today reminded us of the power of the Spirit among believers as Christ called on Nocodemus to a new life.

"At that time: Jesus said to Nicodemus, 'You must be born anew.' The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know whence it comes or whither it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit."  (John 3:7-9)

This invitation cuts across every believer who desires peace. For God alone is the source of peace and solace as St. Augustine avers: "Our souls are restless, until it rest in God."

Our restlessness borne out of unnecessary wants not even needs. The seeking of comfort outside God, being enriched and satisfied without God. These desires if not from God will amount to depression and regret. That is why, Christ told Nicodemus to seek for a new life so as to be comforted and satisfied. We on the other hand need the same ontological change in our lives. If we do so, the Spirit which blows wherever it wills will meet us in our needs to teach, counsel and comfort us in our sorrows. 

Peace, be with you!

Let us pray

Merciful Lotd, Yours is the earth and its fulness. Thank You for the gift of this day, as we keep in watch of the return of Your Son, grant us the grace to persevere in our trials and may the Spirit directs our thoughts, words and actions. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                    26042022

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER (Year C)

Mystery of the day: Joyful

Celebration: Feast of St. Mark (Evangelist)

We read a passage in the Gospel of Mark (14:51, 52) 'And a certain young man was following him (Jesus), clothed in a linen sheet over his naked body. And they tried to seize him, but he left the linen sheet and escaped naked'. This incident occurred at the Garden of Gethsemane. Whether this young man was Mark? Many researchers say that the young man escaped naked was Mark only, which clearly shows that Mark was closely associated with Jesus and his last hours in the world. How Mark was able to follow Jesus and his apostles to the Garden of Gethsemane? The chance must be that the Last Supper celebrated by Jesus, was in the house of Mark and he might have followed the apostles and Jesus to the garden. He lived in the first century A.D. and is considered as the author of the Gospel of Mark. He wrote the Gospel in Greek before the year 60 A.D. Historians say that Mark wrote what St. Peter preached or told. He was the son of the Jewish father Aristopolos and mother Mary. His house was used by the early Christians for prayer. It appears that after the death of the father of Mark, St. Peter took care of Mark and for this reason only St. Peter once referred to Mark as his son in faith. Mark also functioned as the interpreter to St. Peter in the preaching of St. Peter. St. Peter, when escaped from the jail by a miracle, went only to the house of Mary, the mother of Mark. There is a belief that Mark was one of the servants at the marriage of Cana and poured water that Jesus turned into wine. He was one of the seventy apostles sent out by Jesus Christ (Luke 10:1).He was the founder of the church of Alexandria and also its bishop. He also founded the first theological school in Alexandria. Three churches claim to be the direct heir of the original church of Alexandria. They are Coptic Orthodox church of Alexandria, Greek Orthodox Church of Alexandria (Eastern Orthodox Church) and Coptic Catholic Church (Western Orthodox Church of Alezandria). He is also honored as the founder of Christianity in Africa. He was associated with St. Paul and St. Barnabas on their missionary work. He was killed by the pagans of Alexandria by placing a rope around his neck and dragged him through the street with a horse, till death, on April 25, 68.His head is now in a church at Alexandria, which is named after him

He is the patron of Barristers and Notaries.

Reflection

Theme: Be humble...

"Beloved: Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that in due time he may exalt you." (I Peter 5:5-14).

One of the difficult virtues to be practised my man is humility; especially when he sees himself in a spec better than the other. At this point he suddenly forgets that, all that he has acquired, where he is, and who he think he is, are all the products of God. For without God we are nothing but a mere shadow.

From today's Table of the Word, St. Peter avers:

"Beloved: Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that in due time he may exalt you." (I Peter 5:5-14).

This is a call to re-examine ourselves with reference to this costly virtue called "humility". 

However, in one of his thoughtful thinking Fr. Basil Okonkwo, SMMM once said: " [In this life] something must humble a man." 

We must not wait to be humbled by anything, rather we walk towards being humble in any way we can. As St. Peter says, our humility will bring us exaltation before God, but when we exalt ourselves, we will be humbled. Since God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

Dearest friend(s), in the Lord let us in our daily endeavours strife to be humble more than being proud. Let that ancient and humble prayer of St. Francis of Assisi sticks to our lips 

"... O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, 

to be understood as to understand,

to be loved as to love. 

For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen."

A deep reflection on this, gives the summary of a humble man who never seek his comfort or being proud of what he knows it was not his rather God's. 

Finally, let our thoughts, words and actions be expressed with humility.

Peace, be with you!

Let us pray

O God, who raised up Saint Mark, your Evangelist, and endowed him with the grace to preach the Gospel, grant, we pray, that we may so profit from his teaching, as to follow faithfully in the footsteps of Christ. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE     25042022

The RETURN of DIVINE WHISPERS

With the just concluded Solemn Vesper, which marks the end of Easter Octave. The General Editor of your favourite Daily E-Spiritual Digest - DIVINE WHISPER wish to inform you of the return of the series. Meanwhile, I am grateful to you for journeying with us throughout the Lenten season with Lenten Digest.

As we continue the day-to-day spiritual journey again tomorrow; with the spirit of this joyful Eastertide I pray the good Lord to bless and keep you in hollow of His hand both now and forever more. Amen.

Peace, be with you!

Fr. PiusRalph Effiong, SMMM

General Editor

THE LESSONS OF EASTER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

THE LESSON OF EASTER AND THE REST OF US - REV. FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

In the New Testament account, the resurrection of Jesus Christ which the solemn Easter feast celebrates, is a foundation of our Christian faith. The resurrection established Jesus as the powerful Son of God and is cited as a proof that God will judge the world in righteousness; the event has also given Christians a new birth into a living hope.

 The outstanding theological implication of this great and important salvific experience is that, through faith in the working of God we (Christians) are spiritually resurrected with Jesus so that we may walk in a new way of life. It is against this backdrop, that we are going to reflect on the lesson of this solemn and unique feast – the Eastertide.

A circumspective look at the term “Easter” shows that it is in the modern English form, cognate to modern German ostern, developed from an Old English word that usually appears in the form Eastrun. It is also called Pasch (derived, through Latin: Pascha and Greek Πάσχα Paskha, from Aramaic: פסחא‎, cognate to Hebrew: פֶּסַח‎ Pesaḥ), or Resurrection Sunday. It is a festival and holiday celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred three days after his crucifixion by Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD (cf. Ferugson, Everett, Baptism in the Early Church: History, Theology, and Liturgy in the First Five Centuries, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 2009, p. 351 ).

In the Christian tradition the term ‘Pascha’, which originally denoted the Jewish festival, known in English as Passover, commemorating the story of the Exodus is employed to mean the festival of Christ’s Resurrection (cf. Exodus 12:1 ff.). Already in the early 1st century, Paul, on his third missionary journey writing from Ephesus to the Christians in Corinth, applied the term to Christ, and it is unlikely that the Ephesian and Corinthian Christians were the first to hear the term within the context of Exodus chapter 12 being interpreted as speaking about the death of Jesus, not just about the Jewish Passover ritual. This solemn Easter Triduum began on Maundy Thursday which is officially referred to as ‘Holy Thursday’ the commemoration of the Lord’s last supper followed by Good Friday – which commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus and reached its apogee on Holy Saturday with Easter vigil.

Having gone through thick and thin of genesis of this great festival of our salvation, it is therefore of great importance to elucidate the spiritual imports this ancient event; but with new and deeper meaning it has for us. Over two thousand years ago, sprout from the tribe of David came a child whose birth, life and death surrounded with mysteries beyond man. His coming was foretold by the prophets in the Old Testament account. 

According to a renowned Jewish Rabbi and Physician Moses Maimonides, the expectation of the arrival of the Messiah forms part of the twelfth article of faith for the Jews which says - “I firmly believe in the coming of the Messiah and even if he comes late, I wait everyday for his arrival.”  For them the expected Messiah would have political aspiration and mission favourable to them. Not one who dine and wine with sinners (Lk 19:70); touches lepers (Lk 5:12-16); not one who saves others but cannot save himself (Lk 23:35) like Jesus. Their expectation was untimely put to death with the coming of a Messiah whose life was shrouded with mystery beyond humanity. One whose greatness consists on his immeasurable meekness and humility towards all but especially the anawims of the society, that is the retarded and the abandoned; those who needed to be regarded and treated as ‘sons of Abraham’ and ‘sons of God’ – the orphans, the widows, the down trodden, the accused, etc. the one who above all conquered death in a unique way, through the way of the cross and through His glorious Resurrection to life. (cf. Okoronkwo C., Lecture Notes on Fundamental Scripture, unpublished, p. 35). Among the Christians, this same Jesus is seen as one with the Father (Jn 10:30) and who is the ‘Anointed’ of the Holy Spirit (Lk 4:8), the Redeemer and Comforter of the afflicted.

 It is this same man that Simeon cried out at his presentation as the fulfillment of God’s promise, which made himself manifested as the light to the Gentiles (Lk 2:29 ff.).

Consequently, Christ’s death gave a new and deeper meaning to man. Easter according to Biblical scholars is linked to the Passover and Exodus from Egypt recorded in the Old Testament through the Last Supper and crucifixion that preceded the resurrection. According to the New Testament, Jesus gave the Passover meal a new meaning, as he prepared Himself and His disciples for His death in the upper room during the Last Supper. He identified the matzah and cup of wine as his body soon to be sacrificed and his blood soon to be shed. Paul states "Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast - as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed"; this refers to the Passover requirement to have no yeast in the house and to the allegory of Jesus as the Paschal lamb. This solemn experience was foretold by the prophets accorded with many wonderful things about the Passover mystery which is Christ.

 Bearing this in mind, Melito of Sardis, one of the leading ancient writers of the church in his homily on the Pasch; sees Christ as: the Passover of our salvation, who was present in many so as to endure many things. In Abel he was slain; in Isaac bound; in Jacob a stranger; in Joseph sold; in Moses exposed; in David persecuted; in the prophets dishonoured. He became incarnate of the Virgin. (cf. Homily of Melito of Sardis on the Pasch Nn. 65-71, The Divine Office vol. II, p. 284) With this symbolic representation Jesus Christ, is seen as the mediator between God and man. His coming was very necessary for the salvation of human race. The account of Jesus’ death and resurrection as reported by the Evangelist was not to play on our emotions, but to show us the unconditional love of God upon humanity by giving out His only begotten son for our salvation (cf. Jn. 3:16).

The joy of Easter cannot be over emphasized; the pictorial presentation of Jesus as the man wrapped in grief, nailed to that barren wood and suffered bitter pains has given to the entire human race a sure hope of salvation. With His death the tree of life is made with the branches of unfailing yield. Indeed by His Resurrection the chain of slavery has been broken, the gate of comfort let loosed, man regained his rightful position after the fall of the first Adam. This salvific event called us to a deeper attitude of great joy and hope as Easter people. With joy and hope in the risen Lord, we encounter a different perception of our daily troubles, hardships and sufferings we experience in our daily journey of life. It is with the spirit of this unique festival and undoubtable faith in Him, whom we live, move and have our being that we will be at peace and experience serenity because of the Risen Lord.

Finally, Easter is the primary act that fulfills the purpose of Christ's ministry on earth, which include: to defeat death by dying on the cross and to purify and exalt humanity from the dungeon of sin and give hope for everlasting life beyond this mortal life that will one day  whiter off. As we will patiently wait with great anticipation of the paraclete in the next fifty days, let us be mindful of the fact that; Christ’s passion, death and resurrection has purchased for us a life devoid of pains and the present challenging situation we face in this present life. And as Easter people may Alleluia continue to be on our lips as we patiently carrying our daily crosses of life through Christ our Lord, Amen. 

Happy Easter to you all...

                                                                                   

                                               

The Spirit of HOLY WEEK: Its Tradition and Spiritual Imports REV. FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

The Spirit of HOLY WEEK: Its Tradition and Spiritual Imports

   REV. FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

piusralphe@gmail.com

Introduction

The last three days of the forty days’ spiritual journey with the Lord through fasting, prayer and almsgiving usually launch us into the solemn atmosphere of recalling the events surrounding the salvific mystery of humanity. Right from antiquity, these days were designated as “Holy” and were set-aside for the commemoration of the paschal mystery of our Lord which reached its apogee with the service of Easter vigil on Holy Saturday. It is often the long awaited moment in the spiritual life of the Church. The week reflects the tender and humble nature of our Lord and Redeemer. It always comes with mixed feelings of sorrow and joy; sorrow in the sense that we recalled the sorrowful passion of our Lord, watching him dying slowly in pains and agony for the atonement of our sins. On the other hand, we experience an aura of joy and relief as our iniquities have been expiated. The celebration of Holy week begins with Passion (Palm) Sunday of the Lord, commemorating the entrance of Christ the Lord into Jerusalem to accomplish His paschal mystery.  In the light of this celebration of memorial of our redemption, that the Church invites us to tune-in with the spirit of this season, reflecting soberly over the agony that Christ - our Redeemer went through to salvage us from the web and shackle of sins and total damnation.

It is therefore on account of this that we are going to take a cursory look into the tradition and the spiritual significance of this solemn week as well as the Church’s teaching with regards to the liturgical celebration of this season.

Historical Evolution

“Holy Week” according to the New Catholic Encyclopedia is referred to as ‘major’ or ‘greater’ week, because great deeds were done by God during this week. Among the Germans it is called Karwoche (meaning: sorrowful or mourning week). In earlier century the week was designated as ‘passion week’ since in Christian antiquity the notion of Passion always included the resurrection. Also the Milanese rite refer to it as ‘authentic week,’ which is allusion to the events celebrated during these days.  Because public sinners were absolved of their sins on Holy Thursday. Amidst these variations there were other names given to this week namely: the week of remission, painful week, week of salvation, et cetera.

However, the first recorded reference to the Holy Week is in St. Athanasius’ Festal letters of announcing the date of Easter. The letter further stated that the original nucleus of Holy Week was the annual celebration of the Paschal Feast, which was then a 3-day (triduum) commemoration beginning on Friday and ending on the morning of Easter Sunday. The service of Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday was added by at least the 4^th century. The entire week was rounded out at some time in the 5^th and 6^th century. Many of the Holy Week observances as we have today came originally from Jerusalem and spread through the West.  In 1955 Pope Pius XII officially restored Holy Week to the prominence it had in ancient and medieval times in the decree Maxima Redemptoris published on November 16, 1955. In effect, the restoration of the liturgy of the Holy Week gave it a status of centrality in the heart of the Church’s liturgical year. . (cf. O’shea W. J., “Holy Week”, New Catholic Encyclopedia, Palatine: Jack Heraty & Associates, Inc. 1981, p. 107).

The Church Directive on the Celebration of the Holy Week

“Paschal Triduum’’ or “Triduum” of the Passion and Resurrection of our Lord is the summit of the Church’s liturgical year. During this solemn period of Triduum, the Mother Church all over the world commemorates the most important events in the life of our Lord, which is the foundation of the salvation history of humankind. In the light of this moment in the Church, each celebration of the Paschal Triduum contains its particular characteristics. It all begins with service of Palm or Passion Sunday, which launch us into the Easter Triduum proper. Passion Sunday make present the triumphal entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem to begin his final week and initiate his Passion. All four Gospels recount this triumphant entry that Sunday Morning. This followed by Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of the Holy Week. But our concern here is a circumspective look into the Triduum proper which begins in strict sense with the Mass of the Holy (Maundy) Thursday which commemorates the institution of the Holy Eucharist. In the early hours of this same day, except for pastoral reason(s), (that is, other days within the Holy week)  the bishop consecrates the Chrism oil, blesses the oil of catechumens and oil of the sick for baptism,  confirmation, ordination, consecration, and anointing of the sick. They are used in celebrating the sacraments during the liturgical year; and then the Mass of the Last Supper later in the evening. 

The major features at the Mass of the Last Supper are: washing of the feet, procession to the Altar of repose and adoration until midnight with prayer remembering the Lord Jesus, whose agony, death and resurrection saves us.

On Good Friday, as the name implies, it is good for on this day that God did wonderful things for human race. A day which His only begotten son accepted death on the cross for the salvation of humanity. It is a day of fasting and abstinence as stipulated by the Church’s law. Following the tradition of the Church, on this day Holy Mass is not celebrated, and in the later part of the day a service of the Passion of the Lord is celebrated by 3:00 p.m. This is followed by the liturgy of the word, veneration of the Cross and reception of the Holy Communion. The day ends with a solemn silence till the evening of the following day – Holy Saturday.

On this day there is to be only one celebration in each church.  Here the faithful gather to celebrate the Easter vigil at dusk, the vigil of all vigils. We all gather in darkness and light the Easter fire which reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world. We enter into the church and attentively listen to events describing God’s saving work of the past and his salvific plan for the humanity in the scripture. Suddenly, the church lights are lit and the Gloria is sung accompanied with the Church bell, as well as decoration of the Altar as we celebrate the moment of Christ’s resurrection. As a Church we sing ‘Alleluia’ for the first time in forty days. In the joy of the resurrection we then celebrate the Sacraments of Baptism, our Catechumens who have prepared for many weeks for this night; and renewal of the baptismal vows for those who have already had baptism. At this moment we all become the “Easter People with Alleluia on our lips.” Notably, it is in this solemn Paschal vigil that we relive the glorious event of the Resurrection of our Redeemer. Due to the importance of this event, the Holy See insist on the active participation of the people in the Holy Week rites so that the whole church is drawn closer to the celebration.

The Spiritual Significance of the Celebration

The significance of this great salvific event is summarized in the ancient homily of Melito of Sardis on the Pasch. In his homily he avers: “He is the Passover of our salvation. He was present so as to endure many things. In Abel he was slain; in Isaac bound; in Jacob a stranger; in Joseph sold; in David persecuted; in the prophets dishonoured.”(cf. A Reading from the Homily of Melito of Sardis on the Pasch Nn. 65-71, The Divine Office, Vol. II Lent and Easter, p.284).

In the light of this allusion made by Melito we have seen vividly that Christ has cut across all ages. He suffered all things for us to be free. Christ’s Resurrection was “miracle of miracles” as Bishop Anthony Gogo Nwedo observed. In his word he says: “The Resurrection of Christ was an

incontrovertible historical event, a definite triumph over the Devil and death, the cause and model of our own resurrection.” (Nwedo, A. G., Preparation for Resurrection, Lenten Pastoral, 1980, p. 20).

Having gone through thin and thick of genesis of this great festival of our salvation, it is therefore of great importance to elucidate the spiritual imports this ancient event; but with new and deeper meaning has for us as Christ’s witnesses. Over two thousand years ago, sprout from the tribe of David came a child whose birth, life and death surrounded with mysteries beyond man; whose coming was foretold by the prophets in the Old Testament account.

 According to a renowned Jewish Rabbi-Physician Moses Miamonides, the expectation of the arrival of the Messiah forms part of the twelfth article of faith for the Jews which says - “I firmly believe in the coming of the Messiah and even if he comes late, I wait every day for his arrival.”  

For them the expected Messiah would have political aspiration and mission favourable to them. Not one who dine and wine with sinners (Lk 19:70); touches lepers (Luke 5:12-16); not one who saves himself and not others (Luke 23:35) like Jesus. Their expectation was untimely put to death with the coming of a Messiah whose life was shrouded with mystery beyond humanity. One whose greatness consists on his immeasurable meekness and humility towards all but especially the ‘anawims’ of the society, that is the retarded and the abandoned; those who needed to be regarded and treated as ‘sons of Abraham’ and ‘sons of God’ – the orphans, the widows, the down trodden, the accused, etc. the one who above all conquered death in a unique way, through the way of the cross and through His glorious resurrection to life. (cf. Okoronkwo C., Lecture Notes on Fundamental Scripture, unpublished, p. 35)

Among the Christians, this same Jesus is seen as one with the Father (John 10:30) and who is the ‘Anointed’ of the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:8), the redeemer and comforter of the afflicted. It is this same man that Simeon cried out at his presentation as the fulfillment of God’s promise, which made himself manifest as the light to the Gentiles (Luke 2:29 ff.).

With the Resurrection of our Lord, He has left the tomb and now dwells in our heart.

We are no longer lost in our iniquities, the precious blood shed on the wood of the cross has purged us. Christ has fulfilled his mission among us, the Holy Week liturgy which culminated with service of the Easter vigil points to the unfathomable love of God on humanity without reservation. Now that we are the Easter people, let us live as such bearing witness and become touch bearers to all nations proclaiming the Resurrected Christ. This therefore calls for genuine display of our faith, in words and action. Since Holy Week means accompanying Christ on His final journey, bearing our own crosses.

Conclusion   

The joy of Easter cannot be over emphasized; the pictorial presentation of Jesus as the man wrapped in grief, nailed to that barren wood and suffered bitter pains has given to the entire human race a sure hope of salvation. With His death the tree of life is made with the branches of unfailing yield. 

Indeed, by His resurrection the chain of slavery has been broken, the gate of comfort let loosed, man regained his rightful position after the fall of the first Adam. This salvific event called us to a deeper attitude of great joy and hope as Easter people. With joy and hope in the risen Lord, we encounter a different perception of our daily troubles, hardships and sufferings we experience in our daily journey of life. It is with the spirit of this unique festival and undoubtable faith in Him, whom we live, move and have our being that we will be at peace and experience serenity because of the Risen Lord.

Finally, Easter is the primary act that fulfills the purpose of Christ's ministry on earth, which include: to defeat death by dying on the cross and to purify and exalt humanity from the dungeon of sin and give hope for everlasting life beyond this mortal life that will one day whither-off. As we will patiently wait with great anticipation of the paraclete in the next fifty days, let us be mindful of the fact that; Christ’s passion, death and resurrection has purchased for us a life devoid of pains and the present challenging situation we face in this present life. And as Easter people may Alleluia continue to be on our lips as we patiently carrying our daily cross of life through Christ our Lord, Amen.

                                                                    

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE HOLY WEEK

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful

Theme: The mission of the servant

"...I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth." (Isaiah 49:6)

In the messianic mission of Jesus Christ, He personified Himself in the image of a servant who sets out to carryout the mission entrusted to His care by the Master - God (His Father).

And the mission entrusted to His care is reconciling of humanity with God after the great fall. That is why Prophet Isaiah in the first reading highlighted this mandate:

"...I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth." (Isaiah 49:6)

This text replicates itself in the first song of the servant (cf. Isaiah 42:1ff.); Prophet Isaiah gave allusion to Jesus as the 

 "seal of covenant" made by God as His beloved Son. The scenario which repeated itself during Christ's Baptism and Transfiguration..

Beloved in Christ, let us choose this day, a light which has come to us in Christ to dispel the darkness which has over the time veiled us. Truly, His salvation will reach our homes this season. Trust and hope in God. Peace! Be with you.

Let us pray 

May your mercy, O God, cleanse the people that are subject to you from all seduction of former ways and make them capable of new holiness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE            12042022

 

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE HOLY WEEK

Mystery of the day: Joyful

Theme:... the Light that dispels darkness.

 "...I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness." (Isaiah 42:6)

Man is always at the mercy of God, as a result of his short-coming and fragility. And the only way to get rid of this, is to depend on God. This dependency hinges on Christ who is the light of the world, which Prophet Isaiah in the first reading prophesied about the Messiah who is Christ saying:

 "...I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness." (Isaiah 42:6)

This prophecy which forms part of the first song of the servant made itself manifested in the Gospel pericope of Luke 4:16 where he gave an account of Christ opening the scroll and read His mission statement. 

This mission statement is where our hope lies, for His coming was to dispel darkness, liberate the captives, heal the sick and comforting the sorrowful.

Consequently, as we move towards the celebration of this salvific event of humanityy redemption, let us know that, God is always there for us, to guide and protect us. 

Peace! Be with you.

Let us pray

May your protection, O Lord, we pray, defend the humble and keep ever safe those who trust in your mercy, that they may celebrate the paschal festivities not only with bodily observance but above all with purity of mind. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                 11042022

 

PASSION SUNDAY CELEBRATION: Its Historicity, Significance and Spiritual Imports

PASSION SUNDAY CELEBRATION: Its Historicity, Significance and Spiritual Imports

Introduction

Palm Sunday in the Christian tradition is the first day of Holy Week, a Christian moveable feast that falls on Sunday before Easter; which commemorates Jesus Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This solemn procession is one of the six processions expected with the Holy week and the Holy Triduum proper. These processions are: 

The procession with the blessed palms.

Procession with the Holy Oils during the Chrism Mass.

Procession with the Eucharistic Lord to the Altar of repose.

Procession with the Holy Cross for veneration on Good Friday.

Procession with Eucharistic Lord from the Altar of repose to the main Altar for reception by the faithful.

Procession with the Paschal Candle into the Church on Holy Saturday.

Historical Background

However, the event of Palm Sunday associated in many churches with the blessing and procession of palms (leaves of the palm or twigs from locally available trees). These special ceremonies were taking place toward the end of the 4th century in Jerusalem and are described in the travelogue Peregrinatio Etheriae (The Pilgrimage of Etheria). 

In the West the earliest evidence of the ceremonies is found in the Bobbio Sacramentary (8th century). During the European Middle Ages, the ceremony for the blessing of the palms was elaborate: the procession began in one Church, went to a church in which the palms were blessed, and returned to the church in which the procession had originated for the singing of the liturgy. The principal feature of the liturgy that followed the procession was the chanting by three deacons of the account of the Passion of Christ (Matthew 26:36–27:54). 

Musical settings for the crowd parts were sometimes sung by the choir. After reforms of the Roman Catholic liturgies in 1955 and 1969, the ceremonies were somewhat simplified in order to emphasize the suffering and death of Christ. The day is now called officially Passion Sunday; the liturgy begins with a blessing and procession of palms, but prime attention is given to a lengthy reading of the Passion, with parts taken by the priest, lectors, and the congregation.

In the Byzantine liturgy, the Eucharist on Palm Sunday is followed by a procession in which the priest carries the icon representing the events being commemorated and in the Anglican churches some of the traditional ceremonies were revived in the 19th century. 

Its Symbolism and Spiritual Imports

The religious importance and significance of Passion Sunday (Palm Sunday) cannot be over emphasized. This unique feast commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, an event mentioned in all the four canonical Gospels. In many of the Christian Churches, Palm Sunday is marked by the distribution of palm leaves (often tied into crosses) to the assembled worshippers. In some places where unfavourable climates make it difficult to procure palms, it is being substituted by boughs of box, yew, willow, olive, or other native trees. That is why this particular Sunday was designated by the names of these trees as Yew Sunday, or by the general Branch Sunday. Following the four canonical Gospels, Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem takes place about a week before His resurrection. The biblical account of Palm Sunday can be found in these scriptural texts: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; and John 12:12-19.

However, the symbolism of this great feast is captured in Zechariah 9:9 “Rejoice, rejoice, people of Zion! Shout for joy, you people of Jerusalem! Look, your King is coming to you! He comes triumphant and victorious, but humble and riding on a donkey - on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” It was perceived that Jesus was declaring the King of Israel to the anger of Sanhedrin.  

According to the Gospels account, Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem, and the celebrating people there lay down their cloaks in front of Him, and also lay down small branches of trees. The people sang part of Psalms 118:25-26 “… Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. We bless you from the house of the Lord….” The symbolism of the donkey during the triumphal narrative may refer to the Eastern tradition that it is an animal of peace, with reference to the horse which is referred to as animal of war. This is a depiction that a King came riding upon a horse when he was bent on war and rode upon a donkey when he wanted to point out he was coming in peace. Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem would thus symbolize His entry as the Prince of peace, and not as a war-waging king.

In many lands in the near East, it was customary to cover in some way the path of someone thought worthy of the highest honour.  In 2Kings 9:13 it was reported that Jehu son of Jehoshaphat was treated this way. Both the synoptic Gospels and Gospel of John reported that people gave Jesus this form of honour. In the synoptic Gospels they are only reported as laying their garments and cut rushes on the street, whereas John in his Gospel account specifies fronds of palm, which is referred to as phoenix in Greek. In Jewish tradition, the palm is one of the four species carried for sukkot as prescribed for rejoicing as contained in Leviticus 23:40. Also in Greco-Roman Culture of the Roman Empire, and it became the most common attribute of the goddess Nike or Victory.

In ancient Egyptian religion, the palm was carried in funeral processions and represented eternal life. The palm branch later became a symbol of Christian martyrs and their spiritual victory or triumph over death; which the ashes gotten from it is being used during the service of Ash Wednesday to remind the faithful of their mortality. 

The symbolism of the palms also reflected in the scriptural passage of Revelation 7:9 “…the white-clad multitude stand before the throne and Lamb holding palm branches.” In the 16th and 17th centuries, Palm Sunday was marked by the burning of Jack-o-Lent figures. This was a straw effigy which would be stoned and abused. Its burning on Palm Sunday was often supposed to be a kind of revenge on Judas Iscariot who had betrayed Christ. It could also have represented the hated figure of winter whose destruction prepares the way for spring. In our context, the celebration is the advent of wet season which spells life in both plants and animals.

Following Leela Ramdeen, chair of the Catholic Commission for Social Justice, the Jewish people most likely picked up the practice of using and waving palms in celebrations and coronations from the Romans. Ramdeen further explained that, “The waving of palms was significant in those days in Jerusalem because the Romans used to give palms to those who were victorious in their games, example chariot races, gladiatorial games, military conquests and the crowning of Ceasers.”

A look into some of the Orthodox Churches, Palm Sunday is one of the twelve great feasts of the liturgical year, and is the beginning of Holy week. The day before this Sunday is known as Lazarus Saturday, and commemorates the resurrection of Lazarus from the dead. Unlike the West, Palm Sunday is not considered to be a part of Lent, the Eastern Orthodox great fast ends on the Friday before Lazarus Saturday. Lazarus Saturday, Palm Sunday and Holy week are considered to be a separate fasting period. On Lazarus Saturday, believers often prepare palm fronds by knotting them into crosses in preparation for the procession on Sunday. The hangings and vestments in the Church are changed to a festive colour – gold in the Greek tradition and green in the Slavic tradition, unlike the Roman Catholic tradition where the vestment will be scarlet red as used on the feast of martyrs and feast of Pentecost.

In the Catholic tradition, Passion Sunday involves the service of the blessing of palms. These palms are saved in many Churches to be burned the following year as the source of ashes used in Ash Wednesday service. The Catholic Church considers the blessed palms to be sacramentals. The vestments for the day are deep scarlet red, the colour of blood, indicating the supreme redemptive sacrifice made by Christ as He was entering the city to fulfill His passion and Resurrection in Jerusalem. Many Christians keep the palm crosses which are distributed during this great event and hang them in their houses through the year.

Conclusion

The utmost significant of this liturgical celebration symbolizes not only in the humility of Jesus Christ, but peace. He did not come for war like warriors who waved palms. The solemn procession during this celebration is our public demonstration of our faith and belief in the risen Christ. As we are professing our faith publicly on this great day of our Lord, let us not forget that Jesus was praising as the universal king and the next moment they had Him exchange for Barabbas and crucified. The spiritual import of this great event transcends the pictographic representation of the rites and goes deeper into the very marrow of our spiritual existence. It is on this note that St. Andrew of Crete in his famous address called on us to a deeper understanding of this celebration by inviting us to spread ourselves under Christ’s feet on this day instead of coats or lifeless branches or shoots of trees, which will delight the eye only for a few hours and wither away. (cf. The Office Readings, Vol. II, PP. 254-255). 

Therefore, my brethren on this sacred day in the life of the Church, let us reflect on the Gospel values of this celebration and live to our calling not only as acclaimed Christians but real Christians in thoughts and in deeds during this Holy week and the rest of our lives here in this ephemeral world; with the hope of beholding that beatific vision we are always hope for. Peace be with you!

Rev. Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

piusralphe@gmail.com

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF FIFTH WEEK IN LENT

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful

Theme: Our hope in God will never be in vain

"Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in distress. Deliver me from the hands of my enemies and those who pursue me. O Lord, let me never be put to shame, for I call on you." (Ps 31:10.16.18)

The eventful story of a man caught in the web of a cross-road of life with no help is better told than experienced. 

At this point in time, all hope seems to be veiled with darkness that no light can penetrate. He is being left in the ocean of hopeless hope but God whose magnanimity goes beyond bound turned His gaze upon him; having listening to his plea as the Psamist says: 

"Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in distress. Deliver me from the hands of my enemies and those who pursue me. O Lord, let me never be put to shame, for I call on you." (Ps 31:10.16.18)

Indeed, the steadfast love of God cannot cease, it is renewed every now and then. Similar is the case of Prophet Jeremaiah in today's first reading (cf. Jeremiah 20:10-13) where despite the rejection He stood firm and trusted in God. Thus, he said:  "For he has delivered the life of the needy from the hand of evildoers." (Jeremiah 20:13).

Let us dearest friend(s) in Christ hold on to God no matter the situation, for He is there to see us through. Peace, be with you!

Let us pray

Grant, we pray, almighty God, that your servants who seek the grace of your protection may be free from every evil and serve you in peace of mind. Through Christ our Lord. Amen

© The ARCHIVE               08042022

 

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK IN LENT

Mystery of the day: Luminous

Theme: I will make you exceedingly fruitful.

"He remembers his covenant for ever: the promise he ordained for a thousand generations, the covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac." (Psalm 105)

It was Mother Mary Charles Walker who said: "After what God has done in the last, I have no fear for the future." 

This thought of her formed the main focus of our reflection as we gradually folding up our Lenten walk with the Lord. God right from time immemorial has not failed humanity despite the act of disobedience exhibited by man. 

He kept to His promise unconditionally. That is why the Psalmist reechoed:

"He remembers his covenant for ever: the promise he ordained for a thousand generations, the covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac." (Psalm 105)

This therefore summarised the first reading, which gives account of God's promise to Abraham and his descendants; to make him exceedingly fruitful in eternity (cf. Genesis 17:3-9).

Consequently, this is a quick reminder to each and everyone of us, that God cannot fail us no matter the situation. His promise to the descendants of Abraham which we are part of is still remains effective till our age and in eternity. What require of us is a little push of faith; and the rest will be done. 

Keep high your hope in God, and you will not be disappointed. Peace! Be with you.

Let us pray

Be gracious to your people, Lord, we pray, that, as from day to day they reject what does not please you, they may be filled instead with delight at your commands. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

© The ARCHIVE                 07042022

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK IN LENT

Mystery of the day: Glorious

Theme: Steadfastnes in faith

"Blessed are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience." (Luke 8:15)

"Faith is the assurance that the things revealed and promised in the Word are true, even though unseen, and gives the believer a conviction that what he expects in faith, will come to pass."

With the above submission, we come to the understanding that, though faith is an invisible reality, it is a spiritual concrete term, where every believer holds on to. In our reflection today, the Psalmist in the gospel acclamation avers:

"Blessed are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience." (Luke 8:15)

The same Word the three young men in the fiery furnace: Shedrach, Meshach and Abendego expressed before King Nebuchadnezzar (cf.Daniel 3:14-20.24-25.28). This spiritual "push" gave them the unction to be steadfast in faith, hoping that God whom they were serving will never abandon them. 

Sometimes, in moment of our difficulties, we tend to lose hope in God over slightest event, not remembering the boundless love He showered upon us. 

Beloved in Christ, let the Word of God which we have heard be fruitful in our hearts as it was in those three young men, that no matter the pressure or challenges we will continue to hold the fort. For He remains a faithful God in eternity. Peace! Be with you.

Let us pray

Attend, almighty God, to the prayers of your people, and, as you endow them with confident hope in your compassion, let them feel as ever the effects of your mercy. Through Christ our Lord. Amen

© The ARCHIVE            06042022

 

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALOH EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK IN LENT

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful

Theme: Waiting upon the Lord

"Wait for the Lord; be strong; be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!" (Ps 27:14)

Beloved in Christ, as we continue our lenten walk with the Lord, the Psalmist in today's entrance antiphon avers: 

"Wait for the Lord; be strong; be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!" (Ps 27:14).

This admonition is built on hope, not "hopeless hope" but a "convincing hope" in God. We must have tarried all-night long with tears and disappointment but the Scriptures say: "Joy comes at dawn".

The joy here is beyond human telling. It is a joy that endures, and not a timely joy but joy in eternal. Thus, the invitation by the Psalmist to bank on the Lord as the Israelites in the first reading of today asked Moses to beg God on their behalf as they have acknowledged their shortcomings; and being bitten by the fiery serpent (cf. Numbers 21:4-9).

They knew that God is too faithful to disappoint them and their hope hinges on Him and Him alone. And God did not pay deaf hear to them, rather He manifested His loving kindness towards them with instruction to Moses. 

Therefore, let us be conscious of who we are as fragile creature that solely depend on God. For without God we are worthless and shadow in the night. Peace! Be with you!

Let us pray

Grant us, we pray, O Lord, perseverance in obeying your will, that in our days the people dedicated to your service may grow in both merit and number. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE             05042022

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK IN LENT

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Theme: He is always there to save us 

"Have mercy on me, O God, for people assail me; they fight me all day long and oppress me." (Cf. Psalm 56:2)

The Psalmist in the entrance antiphon gives a prelude to the first reading of today, which summarizies the painful expression of Susanna after being falsely accused by the two elders ( Cf. Daniel 13:1-9.15-17.19-30.33-62). 

At the first instance, Susanna lost hope when she come to reality that with the witness of these two men (as Jewish law established), there is no escape route for her; but God who sees the securet thought of His children manifested Himself through the little boy called "Daniel" to the bewilderment of the crowd. 

In the light of this agony that the Psalmist avers:

"Have mercy on me, O God, for people assail me; they fight me all day long and oppress me." (Cf. Psalm 56:2)

And God who is all and all stood with her through the intervention of Daniel whom He used as a channel to prove Himself.

On the other hand, the Responsirial Psalm of today reassures us of His fatherly care as a "Good Shepherd" highlighting His readiness to lead us to the greener pasture.

Finally, Prophet Ezekiel reminded us of our duties in as much as God desires to save us, that we need to make ends so that we will be reconciled with Him for He says:

"I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, says the Lord, but that he turn from his way and live." (Ezekiel 33:11)

When we hearken to these beautiful Words of God and act upon it, the accuser of the brethren will be thrown down.

Peace! Be with you.

Let us pray

O God, by whose wondrous grace we are enriched with every blessing, grant us so to pass from former ways to newness of life, that we may be made ready for the glory of the heavenly Kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                04042022

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

SATURDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK IN LENT

Mystery of the day: Joyful

Theme:... and He heard my cry.

"The waves of death rose about me; the pains of the netherworld surrounded me. In my anguish I called to the Lord and from his holy temple he heard my voice." (Cf. Ps 18:5.7)

In the light of human existence, trouble, disappointment, frustration etc. encompassing man. Though some are self-made or being inflicted by enemies.

The Psalmist today in the entrance antiphon seen himself in the dungeon of pains, and cried out with hope in God:

"The waves of death rose about me; the pains of the netherworld surrounded me. In my anguish I called to the Lord and from his holy temple he heard my voice." (Cf. Ps 18:5.7).

This is therefore a sure reminder of our dependency on God. For we cannot do anything without the help of God. He remains our begining and the end. 

However, let us be reminded that He had promised before hand that He will fight our battles, and that we only need to be silent (cf. Exodus 14:14).

Therefore, let us put our trust in God for He is too faithful to disappoint us. Keeping in mind that, trust hinges on faith, so a little of faith urges us on.

Peace! Be with you

Let us pray

May the working of your mercy, O Lord, we pray, direct our hearts aright, for without your grace, we cannot find favour in your sight. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                  02042022

LENTEN DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY IN THE FOURTH WEEK OF LENT

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful

Theme: Let us encompass him

"Ungodly men reasoned unsoundly, saying to themselves, "Let us lie in wait for the righteous man, because he is inconvenient to us and opposes our actions; he reproaches us for sins against the law, and accuses us of sins against our training." (Wisdom 2:1.12)

Every act of righteousness challenges our enemies, for they don't want us to be closer to God. As the Scripture says:  "... they accuse us day and night before our God..." (cf. Revelation 12:10). 

In another part, the Book of Wisdom in the course of today's liturgy of the Word reminded us of the plan of the evil one against God's children:

"Ungodly men reasoned unsoundly, saying to themselves, "Let us lie in wait for the righteous man, because he is inconvenient to us and opposes our actions; he reproaches us for sins against the law, and accuses us of sins against our training." (Wisdom 2:1.12).

Therefore, this is a reminder for us to watch our steps, thoughts, words and actions as we continue our penitential walk with the Lord.

Let our hearts remain the seat of judgment where conscience directs every deed. If this happens, they will oppose us, but they won't succeed, they will encompass us, and we will triumph; for the blood of the Lamb has spoken on our behalf.

Peace! Be with you.

Let us pray

O God, who have prepared fitting helps for us in our weakness, grant, we pray, that we may receive their healing effects with joy, and reflect them in a holy way of life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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