Feria

On May 22, 2025, the Church celebrates a Feria during the Time after Epiphany according to the traditional 1962 Roman Missal. This day holds a particular significance as it is a time of reflecting on the revelations of Christ following His birth, emphasizing the manifestation of His light to the Gentiles. While there are no specific feasts or commemorations on this day, the Feria invites the faithful to engage in the ongoing journey of spiritual growth and understanding that is characteristic of this liturgical season.

The readings for today offer rich spiritual nourishment, inviting families to contemplate the gifts that come from God and the importance of aligning their wills with His. St. James reminds us that every good gift is a reflection of the Father’s unwavering love, encouraging families to recognize and appreciate the blessings in their lives. The Gospel passage from John speaks to the comfort and guidance of the Holy Spirit, which is especially pertinent as families navigate their daily challenges. Together, these themes call for a heartfelt response to God’s grace, urging families to foster unity and love in their homes as they seek to live out their faith in a world often filled with distractions.

Historical Background and Life Story: St. Rita of Cascia was born in 1381 in the small town of Roccaporena, Italy. From a young age, she felt a deep calling to the religious life, but due to her parents' wishes, she married a man named Paolo, who was known for his violent temper. Despite the challenges of her marriage, including Paolo's tumultuous life and eventual murder, Rita remained steadfast in her faith, eventually becoming a widow and joining the Augustinian order in Cascia.

Main Virtues and Spiritual Contributions: St. Rita is best known for her remarkable virtues of patience, compassion, and forgiveness. Throughout her life, she exemplified the power of prayer and the importance of reconciliation, often interceding for her family and community. Her deep love for God and commitment to living a life of peace made her a powerful advocate for those facing difficult situations.

Canonization and Significance to the Church: St. Rita was canonized in 1900 due to her extraordinary life of virtue and the many miracles attributed to her intercession. She is often referred to as the "Saint of the Impossible," highlighting her ability to inspire hope and healing in those facing seemingly unresolvable challenges. Her life and legacy continue to resonate within the Church, especially among those seeking peace and forgiveness.

Lessons for Catholic Families Today: Catholic families can learn from St. Rita's example by embracing forgiveness and demonstrating love even in difficult circumstances. Her life encourages us to face challenges with grace and to uphold the values of compassion and mercy in our everyday interactions. By cultivating a spirit of reconciliation, families can foster deeper connections and reflect Christ's love in their homes.

Closing Prayer: Dear St. Rita, intercede for us and help us to embrace the virtues of patience and forgiveness in our lives. May we seek your guidance in moments of hardship and strive to be beacons of hope for one another. Amen.

In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound gifts that come from God and the essential role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Gospel from John highlights Jesus’ promise of the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit, who will guide us into all truth (John 16:5-14). This theme resonates with what the Catechism teaches about the Holy Spirit's role in the Church and in our personal lives. According to the Catechism, the Holy Spirit is the "first gift of the Father" (CCC 733), and through Him, we receive the grace necessary to live out our faith. Just as Jesus promised His disciples that the Spirit would teach them and remind them of His teachings, we too can rely on the Holy Spirit to illuminate our understanding of God’s will, especially during challenging moments.

St. James emphasizes the importance of receiving God’s word with humility and acting upon it, reminding us that it is through our response to His gifts that we grow spiritually (James 1:17-21). The Catechism echoes this by stating that "the Word of God is the source of all life" (CCC 102), calling us to be attentive and receptive to God’s revelations. Families can take this message to heart by creating a space for prayer and reflection in their daily lives. By setting aside time to read Scripture together, discussing its meaning, and encouraging one another to act with love and kindness, families can cultivate an environment where God’s gifts are recognized and appreciated.

In practical terms, families can foster unity by practicing patience and understanding, reflecting the exhortation of St. James to be "swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger" (James 1:19). This can begin with simple daily rituals, such as sharing gratitude for each other and the blessings received. As families navigate their daily challenges, they can invoke the Holy Spirit’s guidance through prayer, asking for wisdom and grace to respond lovingly and justly in their interactions. By doing so, they not only deepen their connection to each other but also to God, allowing His light to shine through their actions in a world that often pulls them in different directions.