How can the Memorial of Saint André Bessette inspire me to reflect on where I “#live” spiritually and physically, in harmony with faith, community, and care for creation, as I observe our livestock guardian dogs “on the move” to protect and serve, and as CAPN: “The WTC: The Podcast,” Episode 001, challenges me to consider where I live❓
Gospel
When Jesus heard that John had been arrested,
he withdrew to Galilee.
He left Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum by the sea,
in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali,
that what had been said through Isaiah the prophet
might be fulfilled:Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali,
the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan,
Galilee of the Gentiles,
the people who sit in darkness
have seen a great light,
on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death
light has arisen.From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say,
“Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”He went around all of Galilee,
teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom,
and curing every disease and illness among the people.
His fame spread to all of Syria,
and they brought to him all who were sick with various diseases
and racked with pain,
those who were possessed, lunatics, and paralytics,
and he cured them.
And great crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, and Judea,
and from beyond the Jordan followed him.
Reflection
In the quiet moments of morning, I think about how we are called to live with purpose and intention. The Memorial of Saint André Bessette reminds me of a life devoted to service, simplicity, and faith. Saint André’s witness calls us to consider not just where we dwell physically but how we live spiritually, reflecting the presence of God in our everyday choices. How do I embrace this same commitment in my own life❓
To live in harmony with creation is not only a privilege but a responsibility. As I watch our livestock guardian dogs tirelessly live out their purpose, moving with instinctive care for the animals entrusted to them, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of all life. Their faithful vigilance mirrors the care we are called to provide for one another and for our common home. Do I move with the same intentionality in my care for creation❓
The challenges faced by the poor, who often live on the front lines of environmental degradation, echo the call for justice and stewardship. Saint André’s humility and love for the marginalized inspire me to consider how my lifestyle impacts those who live with far fewer resources. Am I willing to make changes that honor their dignity and support their flourishing❓
your grace may we have the courage to defend them for ourselves and for all those who live in this blessed land we 2:32
Christ in the unity of the holy spirit with whom you live and Reign One God forever and ever amen in the name of the
CAPN: “The WTC: The Podcast,” Episode 001, invites me to reflect on how I live out my faith in a world filled with distractions. It challenges me to think about my spiritual home and whether I truly allow God to dwell there. The question resonates deeply: do I create space for the sacred, or do I crowd it out with the noise of modern life❓
As I reflect on the dogs’ purposeful movements and Saint André’s quiet yet powerful legacy, I am left pondering my own journey. Am I living in a way that honors my calling, my relationships, and the Earth itself❓ What does it truly mean to follow Christ, who came to serve…
Many of the poor live in areas particularly affected by phenomena related to warming, and their means of subsistence are largely dependent on natural reserves and ecosystemic services such as agriculture, fishing and forestry.
FROM PARAGRAPH 25 of ENCYCLICAL LETTER LAUDATO SI’ OF THE HOLY FATHER FRANCIS ON CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME