Week: 4.22.23

Lectionary: 272

Reading 1 ACTS 6:1-7 ------------------------------------------------------ As the number of disciples continued to grow, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, "It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." The proposal was acceptable to the whole community, so they chose Stephen, a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit, also Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicholas of Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the Apostles who prayed and laid hands on them. The word of God continued to spread, and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly; even a large group of priests were becoming obedient to the faith. ------------------------------------------------------ Responsorial Psalm PS 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19 R. (22) Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. or: 1. R. Alleluia. Exult, you just, in the LORD; praise from the upright is fitting. Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises. 2. R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. or: 3. R. Alleluia. Upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full. 4. R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. or: 5. R. Alleluia. See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, To deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine. 6. R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. or: 7. R. Alleluia. ------------------------------------------------------ Alleluia R. Alleluia, alleluia. Christ is risen, who made all things; he has shown mercy on all people. R. Alleluia, alleluia. ------------------------------------------------------ Gospel JN 6:16-21 When it was evening, the disciples of Jesus went down to the sea, embarked in a boat, and went across the sea to Capernaum. It had already grown dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea was stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they began to be afraid. But he said to them, "It is I. Do not be afraid." They wanted to take him into the boat, but the boat immediately arrived at the shore to which they were heading. ------------------------------------------------------- SAINTS: Remembrances as the official ecclesiastical declaration

Within our traditional religious belief, The Saints are those who are recognized as having an exceptional degree of holiness, likeness, or closeness to God during their lifetime here on Earth.

Folk saint: recognized as ancestors or the way of wisdom of the Elders: who give guidance to those still here on Earth as spiritually messengers entities within knowledge as also known as indigenous spirits venerated as saints, Folk saints are considered intercessors with God, but many are also understood to act directly in the lives of their devotees. And also are sent petitions from the living until the those who have passed away. Their ranks are filled by folk healers, indigenous spirits, and folk heroes, similar to that of the angelic realms. They are remembered as passed down through oral traditions, by the storytellers of our families. Family members and friends pray at someone's tomb, perhaps lighting candles and leaving offerings. Due to colonist influences many of our folk traditions have been intertwined with the Roman Catholic Faith. Their community character as saints tend to come from the same communities as their followers. In death, they are said to continue as active members of their communities, remaining embedded within a system of reciprocity that reaches beyond the material realms.

Next weeks biblical studies will continue on our journey of the Saints.

Peace be with you,

𖢖 Ecclesia Orators

~ Star Church