Catholic Inspiration

Caught in the storm Jesus exhorts his disciples to take courage and discard fear.  What a great reminder for us today!  When fear threatens to choke our lives may we turn to the one who offers us strength and wisdom to carry on. August 8, 2018 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The glory and power displayed on the mountain top reveal to Peter, James and John the true nature of Jesus.  What's more, as his disciples they will one day enter into that same glory as they offer their lives.  Each day we can be changed through our sacrifice and service so that we will be ready for what awaits us in the Kingdom of Heaven. August 5, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The death of John the Baptist is an outrage, a stark example of human cruelty that assaults our sensibilities.  While we acknowledge the presence of violence and hatred in our world we continue to see in the Cross of Christ God's response: a love that embraces our sins. August 5, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus returns to the village where he grew up and encountered the disbelief of those who were trapped in the past.  All of us are works in progress and every day provides us with one more opportunity to grow as Sons & Daughters of God...even if those who knew us as children fail to see how far we've grown. August 4, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Every day we have the opportunity to learn life lessons, whether it's good or bad, pleasant or painful.  As we follow the Lord we can take these lessons and become more fully sons and daughters of God...preparing for the day when the Lord will call us to the Kingdom of Heaven. August 3, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Moses speaks face-to-face with the Lord, to the point that his face becomes dazzlingly bright.  Every day in our prayer and sacraments we, too, can encounter Jesus Christ in a powerful and personal way...transforming our lives as well.

The Lord's explanation of the parable of the weeds and the wheat reminds us that in the face of the Final Judgment we have the opportunity today to seek the mercy of Jesus Christ. August 1, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

When God said to King Solomon, "Ask something of me and I will give it to you," Solomon offers a response that is profound...inviting us today to consider how we carry out the Lord's plan for our lives as we serve others with God's grace. July 29, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI

Martha's conversation with Jesus reveals the depth of her friendship and the conviction of her faith.  May her example inspire us to turn to the Lord in our need with the same trust. July 29, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI  

As Jesus explains the meaning of the parable of the sower, he provides us with an opportunity to reflect on what needs to be removed from our hearts as we cultivate our lives for the Lord. July 28, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

God speaks to the people in great and small ways, reminding us that the Lord continues to touch our hearts and invite us to respond. July 27, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

God does the planting, and it's our job to do what we can to help the seeds grow.  What's the Lord planting in your heart today?  What are the obstacles?  What can you do to cultivate a harvest worth of the Lord? July 26, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus addresses a teachable moment when he explains that glory in Heaven comes from offering one's life in charity and service.  James and John will drink from the cup of of Christ, reminding us that every time we offer our lives for others we follow the example of Christ. July 25, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Every gardener encounters weeds, and the Lord uses this image in the Gospel of Matthew to remind us that in the garden of our hearts we have a daily opportunity to pull out what does not belong. July 22, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

The Gospel of John recounts how Mary Magdalene was the first to meet the Risen Lord.  Her conversion and witness inspire us: no matter what our past has been, God's grace can touch our hearts and change our lives! July 22, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Speaking with the pharisees, Jesus offers an insight into God's compassion and mercy when he says, "I desire mercy, not sacrifice."  Today we have the opportunity to offer to Christ the gift of mercy as we lovingly respond to the weaknesses of those around us, as we claim the Lord's mercy for ourselves. July 21, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Moses stands before God and receives his commission to go to Egypt.  It will be hard, but the Lord will walk with him.  As we face our challenges in life, God will give us what we need as well. July 20, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Moses, standing on holy ground in the sight of the burning bush, is sent by God on a mission to free the people from their bondage in Egypt.  As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue God's saving work in the world today. July 19, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Jesus reminds us in the Gospel of Matthew that there are consequences for our actions that will take place in the final judgment.  With this awareness in mind, we have the opportunity today to repent of our sins and turn to the Lord for his mercy and forgiveness. July 18, 2017 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com

Divorce touches our lives in many ways and on many levels.  Fr. Andrew offers some pastoral food for thought regarding how we offer healing to those facing divorce and support for couples working on their marriage.  (40 Minutes) July 17, 2017 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com