Feria

On May 30, 2025, the Church observes a Feria within the Time after Epiphany, according to the 1962 Roman Missal. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey of faith that follows the joyful seasons of Christmas and Epiphany, emphasizing the importance of living out our faith in everyday life. Although there are no major feasts celebrated today, the commemoration of St. Felix I, a Pope and martyr of the early Church, invites us to reflect on the steadfastness and courage displayed by the saints, who faced persecution for their beliefs and exemplified the call to holiness inherent in the Christian life.

The readings for this day highlight the call to authentic discipleship and active faith. St. James urges us to be doers of the Word, challenging families to consider how they can put their faith into action through love, service, and community involvement. The Gospel from St. John reassures us of the power of prayer in Jesus’ name, reminding us that our requests to the Father can lead to true joy. As families gather to reflect on these themes, they are encouraged to contemplate how they can embody the joy of the Gospel in their daily lives, supporting one another in both prayer and action, just as St. Felix exemplified in his own life of service to God and the Church.

St. Joan of Arc: A Heroine for Families

Historical Background and Life Story St. Joan of Arc, born around 1412 in Domrémy, France, emerged as a courageous figure during the Hundred Years' War between France and England. At just 17 years old, she felt called by God to lead her country’s troops to reclaim their land, ultimately inspiring the French army and helping to crown Charles VII as king. Tragically, Joan was captured by enemy forces, tried for her faith and actions, and martyred in 1431, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and conviction.

Main Virtues and Spiritual Contributions Joan exemplified extraordinary virtues such as faith, courage, and humility. Her unwavering trust in God and her commitment to her divine mission inspired those around her and led many to deepen their own faith. Through her life and martyrdom, she became a powerful symbol of hope and resilience, reminding us that even the youngest among us can make a profound difference in the world.

Canonization and Significance to the Church Joan of Arc was canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920, recognized not only for her martyrdom but also for her steadfast faith and dedication to serving God and her country. As the patron saint of soldiers, France, and those who seek guidance in difficult times, she continues to inspire countless individuals to stand firm in their beliefs and to fight for justice and truth.

Lessons for Catholic Families Today Families today can draw inspiration from St. Joan's example of courage and commitment to God’s calling. Her life teaches us the importance of listening to God’s voice, standing up for what is right, and showing love and compassion to others, even in the face of adversity. By sharing her story, families can encourage one another to nurture their own faith and be brave in living out their values.

Closing Prayer Dear St. Joan of Arc, intercede for us that we may have the courage to follow our convictions and the strength to stand up for our faith. May we, like you, inspire others with our love for God and our commitment to justice. Amen.

In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound connection between faith, prayer, and action in our daily lives. In the Gospel of John (16:23-30), Jesus reassures His disciples that they can approach the Father in His name, emphasizing the power of prayer to bring us joy. This aligns beautifully with the teachings of the Catechism, particularly in CCC 2620, which states that "the prayer of the Church is the prayer of Christ." It encourages families to trust in the relationship they have with God, knowing that He listens to their prayers and desires to give them joy. By nurturing this relationship through prayer, families can experience a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment in their lives.

St. James’ epistle (1:22-27) challenges us to be "doers of the word," emphasizing that our faith must be lived out through concrete actions. This resonates with CCC 1816, which explains that "faith working through love" is essential for living a genuine Christian life. For families, this means not only believing in God but translating that faith into acts of kindness and service to others. This could involve visiting those in need, helping a neighbor, or simply being present for one another in times of difficulty. By embodying these teachings, families create an environment of love and support, reflecting the joy and commitment that Jesus calls us to in our Christian journey.

As families gather to reflect on these themes, they can consider practical ways to live out their faith. Perhaps they can start a family service project, dedicate time for prayer together, or discuss how they can support one another in being "doers" of God’s word. By actively engaging with these teachings, families not only deepen their own faith but also become a source of joy and hope in their communities, much like St. Felix, whose steadfastness in faith inspires us to live courageously and with purpose.