Feria

On July 11, 2025, the Church observes a Feria in the Time after Pentecost according to the 1962 Roman Missal. This liturgical day lacks a specific feast, yet it serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey of faith and growth in grace that characterizes this season. The commemoration of St. Pius I highlights the importance of the papacy and the Church's mission, as St. Pius I was known for his efforts to defend the faith and guide the early Christians amidst challenges. This period of the liturgical year invites the faithful to deepen their understanding of the mystery of Christ and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the Church.

The readings for today beautifully reflect themes of hope and divine guidance. The Introit reminds us that the Lord is our light and refuge, encouraging families to trust in God's presence during challenging times. St. Paul's letter to the Romans emphasizes that our present sufferings are insignificant compared to the glory that awaits us, prompting families to reflect on the importance of perseverance in faith. The Gospel from Luke recounts the calling of the first disciples, illustrating how Jesus invites us to leave behind our own nets and embrace our mission as Christians. Together, these readings encourage families to contemplate their own call to discipleship, the significance of their shared faith, and the importance of supporting one another as they navigate life's challenges in the light of God’s promises.

Saint Pius I, Pope & Martyr *Feast Day: July 11*

Historical Background and Life Story: Saint Pius I served as Pope during a challenging time in the early Church, around the year 140 AD. He is believed to have been a native of Aquileia, Italy, and he led the Church through a period of persecution, guiding the faithful with courage and dedication. His papacy is noted for the development of the early Christian community and his efforts to combat heretical teachings that threatened the unity of the Church.

Main Virtues and Spiritual Contributions: Pope Pius I is remembered for his steadfast faith and unwavering commitment to the truth of Christ’s teachings. He is particularly admired for his pastoral care and the promotion of unity among Christians, emphasizing the importance of the Eucharist and the apostolic tradition. His leadership helped to strengthen the foundation of the Church during a time when it was facing external threats and internal divisions.

Canonization and Significance to the Church: Though specific details of his canonization are not recorded, Saint Pius I was recognized as a martyr for his faith, having defended the Church against persecution. His legacy lives on as a symbol of courage in the face of adversity, and his role in the early Church reminds us of the importance of maintaining fidelity to the teachings of Christ and the traditions of the Apostles.

Lessons for Catholic Families Today: Families today can learn from Saint Pius I’s example of faithfulness and commitment to community. His dedication to nurturing the faith of his flock encourages families to create a home environment rooted in love, prayer, and the teachings of the Church. By fostering unity and encouraging open discussions about faith, families can strengthen their bonds and help each other grow spiritually.

Closing Prayer: Dear Saint Pius I, intercede for our families that we may grow in faith and unity as we follow Christ. Help us to stand strong in our beliefs, just as you did, and guide us in nurturing a spirit of love and devotion in our homes. Amen.

Today’s readings invite us to reflect deeply on the themes of discipleship, perseverance, and the hope of glory that awaits us. In the Gospel from Luke (5:1-11), we witness Jesus calling Simon Peter and the other fishermen to leave behind their nets and follow Him, a powerful reminder that Jesus often calls us out of our comfort zones to fulfill His mission. This is echoed in the teaching of the Catechism, which states that the call to discipleship is a fundamental aspect of our faith: "The Church is apostolic, because she is founded on the apostles, in whom Christ installed his first leaders" (CCC 857). This underscores that each of us is called to share in the mission of spreading the Gospel, just as Peter and his companions did.

In the Epistle from Romans (8:18-23), St. Paul speaks of the hope we have in Christ, reminding us that our present sufferings are not worth comparing to the glory that will be revealed. This encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when faced with challenges. The Catechism teaches us about the importance of hope, stating, "Hope is the virtue by which we desire the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life as our happiness" (CCC 1817). This virtue helps families to keep their eyes fixed on the ultimate goal of eternal life with God, which can transform daily struggles into opportunities for growth in faith and love.

For Catholic families, these teachings can inspire practical applications in daily life. Families can create a support system where they encourage one another to respond to God’s call in their lives, be it through acts of kindness, prayer, or service in the community. Setting aside time for family prayer, discussing the day’s challenges, and sharing how they can support each other in their faith journeys can strengthen their bond and deepen their understanding of discipleship. By fostering a spirit of hope and commitment to God’s call, families can navigate difficulties together, always remembering that they are united in the mission of Christ, who guides them through both calm waters and storms.