Catholic Inspiration

The end of today's passage from the Gospel of Luke offers a powerful reminder: we are called to live the blessing of our lives to the fullest extent.  What's more, we will be judged, not in comparison to others, but in comparison to the gifts that God has placed within us. October 24, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Lord exhorts the disciples to be ready and prepared.  Each day is a precious gift, calling us to be present to the people in our lives as we strive to take care of any unfinished business.  That way, when the Master calls, we will be quick to respond. October 23, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The prophet Isaiah and Jesus both speak of the servant who suffers for others.  Once we recognize the value of life we begin to embrace our suffering with the grace of Christ...whose death and resurrection reveal the depth of love God has for us all. October 20, 2018 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus offers some key insights regarding what it means to be his witness in the world.  What we do matters, and even in our darkest moments we can call upon the Holy Spirit for what we need. October 20, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

We have been chosen by God to offer our lives for service in the world.  Our actions will be unique to our own particular qualities, gifts, talents and opportunities...but when we do so the Lord will take our offering and bless it with power. October 19, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

As Jesus sends out the seventy-two disciples, he charges them with specific tasks of preaching, healing and proclaiming the Kingdom of God.  Like those first disciples, we participate in the ministry of Christ every time we use our gifts and talents for the glory of God. October 18, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Paul speaks of the "Fruits of the Spirit" in his letter to the Galatians.  These nine virtues flourish in our hearts when we are in right relationship with God and one another, and they become powerful signs to guide our actions each and every day. October 17, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus offers a rebuke in the Gospel today with the insight that almsgiving is powerful way we can foster our spiritual life. October 16, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Book of Wisdom beautiful describes a life where God is preferred above all else.  For when we place the Lord first in our lives, then the rest of our lives becomes focused, balanced and fulfilled. October 13, 2018 - St. William Catholic Church - Foxboro, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Lord teaches us today that we are blessed when we hear the Word of God and act on it.  Easier said than done, but God will not ask us for the impossible; rather, we are called to continue to respond as disciples each and every day. October 13, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus drives out a demon and then teaches others how to keep evil away from their hearts.  It's a good reminder for us as well; we are called each day to be vigilant in the spiritual battle as we guard the sanctity of our souls. October 12, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci

The Lord offers a couple of examples to highlight the crucial need to be persistent in prayer.  May these words inspire us every day to open our hearts to the Lord as we ask for what we need to grow in faith, hope and love. October 11, 2018 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Lord's Prayer has shaped the lives of countless Christians over the centuries.  May we find in this powerful prayer a way to articulate the needs in our hearts as we open our souls to the grace of God. October 10, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci

We all know the story of Mary and Martha, but sometimes we forget that the Lord gently chides Martha because she is "anxious and worried about many things."  When we fall into useless worry, our best prescription is to focus on Christ for the strength and wisdom we need. October 9, 2018 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Fr. Andrew offered this one hour presentation on Angels and Demons at the Cathedral of Christ the King on October 4, 2018.   October 4, 2018 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com   Note: the handout for this presentation may be found at the website.

The Lord's answer to the question of divorce reminds us that this issue has been with humanity from the dawn of time.  Our response through healing, community and engagement helps those who struggle with divorce to find new strength and direction. October 6, 2018 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The disciples return to Jesus with joy as they acknowledge his power at work in their ministry.  This power continues today whenever we open our hearts to the grace of Jesus Christ. October 6, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Not everyone listened to the words of Jesus, and like the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum we have the opportunity to take the message of Christ to heart...or experience the natural consequences that result. October 5, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Lord sent out disciples in pairs, recognizing that we work best when we work together.  Sometimes we give support, and sometimes we receive it, but through it all we grow in strength and wisdom when we unite our lives to Jesus Christ. October 4, 2018 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Whatever we do for one another, we do it for the Lord.  The Cathedral school kids learn that both our good and bad actions toward others are treated as if they were done to Jesus.  May we take this insight to heart as we offer our lives! October 3, 2018 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com