Catholic Inspiration

Jesus addresses the Pharisees, exhorting them to clean up - not on the outside but within - to cleanse their souls.  While externals can be important, by focusing on what's on the inside we prepare ourselves for a lasting relationship with the Lord and one another. October 17, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Eucharist is a banquet that nourishes, celebrates and unites our lives.  Christ himself feeds us with his Body and Blood so that we might grow in grace.  Two simple questions follow from this great gift: Are we coming? Are we coming prepared? For always remember that one day we will stand before the One who is the source of all grace...and what then will we say? October 15, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus offers a two step process to be blessed.  First, we must hear the Word of God.  Second, we have to act on it!  Here's the question: do you want to be blessed? October 14, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

After driving out demons, Jesus takes the opportunity to teach about his authority and his power over the forces of darkness. October 13, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Lord invites us to persistently ask for what we need, trusting that God's goodness will reach out to bless us in ways beyond our imagination. October 12, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Luke's Gospel offers a condensed version of the Lord's Prayer from what we commonly pray in the Gospel of Matthew.  Because of it's brevity, we can clearly see the emphasis on holiness of God the Father, the Kingdom, trust in God, forgiveness and protection from evil.  May we keep praying everyday! October 11, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Mary, Jonah and the people of Nineveh all showed a remarkable sense of focus in the readings today.  They were able to zero in on something crucial, and with God's grace they were able to carry it out. October 10, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Lord offers a parable to illustrate what happens when we persistently turn away from God.  Perhaps there have been times in our lives when we know what to do, but we haven't done it; today offers us a fresh opportunity to draw near to Christ and - with his help - respond to the unique situations of our lives with in manner worthy of Jesus. October 8, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The 72 disciples return to Jesus, rejoicing at how their lives - empowered by Christ - have made a difference.  Their "yes" to the Lord inspires us to do the same, offering our lives so that Christ can work through us in the world today. October 7, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

It will not go well for the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum; Jesus preached in their midst and they have not responded.  It's a good reminder for us who have been raised with the Gospel...are we merely "cultural" Christians, or has the Good News touched our hearts and changed our lives? October 6, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus sends out 72 disciples - in pairs, trusting on God's providence and facing tough struggles - so that they can proclaim the Kingdom of God.  Nehemiah and Ezra remind the people of Israel not to forget the Lord.  The Church needs both: we come to know God so that we might invite others to know the Lord as well. October 5, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus makes it clear in the Gospel today that to be a disciple is not for the faint of heart; rather, it will call us to place God above all else as we live in the world.  It begs the question: what's most important in your life?   October 4, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

James & John are offended by a Samaritan village and threaten to call down fire from Heaven.  Jesus rebukes them, reminding us all that when we feel injured or offended to look to the Cross and see God's solution to our human sin. October 3, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Ezekiel and Jesus point out the power of our actions in the spiritual life, and Paul reminds us that our actions are shaped when we take on the attitude of Jesus Christ.  It's practical advice that illustrates our ongoing need to focus on the Lord as we put our faith into practice. September 30, 2017 - St. William Catholic Church - Foxboro, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus announces that he will be handed over, and the disciples are afraid to ask him any questions about it.  The fact is, the Lord embraces the Cross to free us from our sins...inspiring us not to be afraid but to draw near Him in faith. September 30, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The world can be a dangerous place where we encounter struggles that test us to the limit.  Today we are reminded that we are not alone; in the order of creation God's angels are among us, and some of them are appointed to help us in times of need.  Among them the archangels are God's "heavy hitters" who remind us to call for help when times are tough. September 29, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Herod is perplexed.  Who is Jesus?  What is he about?  What does it all mean?  These questions continue to surface in the world today as people are confronted with the power of God's saving grace through Jesus Christ. September 28, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus gives his Apostles power and authority, and then he invites them to trust in God alone.  It's a good reminder for us to claim the blessings that we've been given as we put the Lord first in our lives. September 27, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Here's some good news: those who hear the Word of God and act on it are treated as sisters and brothers to Jesus.  Now, do  you want to be part of the family? September 26, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

If your life were to be considered as a single day, what time is it - morning, noon or night?  Are you ready to step into eternity or is there something holding you back?  God lavishes grace upon our world; our task is to be open to the generous gift of grace and receive it into our hearts. September 23, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci