Pastoral Ponderings For Holy Tuesday

Moving through Holy Week, we become more aware that the Church sees us as being the modern day disciples  (students, servants and co-workers)  of the Lord.   When we are taking part in today's services  ( and all of the services of  Holy Week)  as we listen to the scripture readings and hymns, let us understand that The Lord is speaking directly to us... and in love is giving us last minute instructions about what is expected of us as his disciples, the faithful members of the Church.  He is counting on us to continue his Holy Work on this earth after the Resurrection... preaching the Good News of the Kingdom and ministering with love to the sick, hungry, the poor,  the vulnerable and the weary.

I draw your attention especially to the Gospel reading at tonight's Presanctified Liturgy - which although long,  reminds us that we have all been given talents by God, which we are expected to further develop and share and that we are to serve others with love. If you are not able to attend, I urge you to read this Scripture reading:

Matthew 24:36-26:2   https://oca.org/readings/daily/2019/04/23/5

Also here is a beautiful hymn from Bridegroom Matins  That encapsulates this reading and encourages us to strive to serve the Lord and our fellow man to the best of our abilities:

COME, FAITHFUL,LET US WORK ZEALOUSLY FOR THE MASTER,FOR HE DISTRIBUTES WEALTH TO HIS SERVANTS.LET EACH OF US ACCORDING TO HIS ABILITY INCREASE HIS TALENT OF GRACE: LET ONE BE ADORNED IN WISDOM THROUGH GOOD WORKS;LET ANOTHER CELEBRATE A SERVICE IN SPLENDOR.THE ONE DISTRIBUTES HIS WEALTH TO THE POOR; THE OTHER COMMUNICATES THE WORD TO THOSE UNTAUGHT.THUS WE SHALL INCREASE WHAT HAS BEEN ENTRUSTED TO US,AND, AS FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF GRACE, WE SHALL BE ACCOUNTED WORTHY OF THE MASTER'S JOY. MAKE US WORTHY OF THIS, CHRIST OUR GOD,// IN YOUR LOVE FOR MANKIND. 

Enjoy  this beautiful day.  Stay strong and focused, come to services today if you are able. 

If you have not come to Confession yet, please do so as soon as possible.  I will hear confessions after Bridegroom Matins this morning and  from 5:3o pm - 6:20 pm and  after Presanctified Liturgy. 

You can read Fr. Miloro's daily reflection here:  http://holyghostphoenixville.org/lent

With Much Love and Prayers,


Fr. Peter