As we begin this new week, let us quiet our hearts and turn our gaze to Christ, the high priest of our salvation. May His Word guide our steps, His mercy lift our burdens, and the example of the saints inspire us to live generously.
Let us ask for the grace to trust in God even when the path is steep and the cross heavy
Prayer of the Day
O Lord, you call us to draw near with confidence to the throne of grace. Grant that we may cling to your mercy, hold fast to your promise, and serve you with holy zeal. Help us to live in the power of your love — forgiving as we are forgiven, loving as we are loved, and bearing witness to your cross in every moment. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen
Mass Readings of the Day
(Readings for Monday of the 29th Week in Ordinary Time)
First Reading: Isaiah 53:10-11
“And though he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.”
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22
“Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.”
Second Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16
“Let us confidently approach the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace for timely help.”
Gospel: Mark 10:35-45
Jesus teaches that greatness in the Kingdom comes through service, not lordship.
Saint of the Day
St. Paul of the Cross (Feast Day October 20)
St. Paul of the Cross was born Paolo Francesco Danei on January 3, 1694 in Ovada, in the Duchy of Savoy (northern Italy). Early in his life he felt the call of prayer and penance. After a brief enlistment in the army, he turned entirely to God. Over time he was drawn into deep reflection on the Passion of Christ — the suffering, love, and redeeming power of the Lord’s cross.
In 1720 he founded the Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ (known as the Passionists), a religious order committed to preaching about the Passion, living austerely, and ministering especially to the poor. He lived as a mystic and preacher, combining intense prayer, simple lifestyle, and compassionate service. In 1747 he was elected Superior General of his congregation and guided its growth until his death on October 18, 1775.
St. Paul of the Cross challenges us to remember that the cross is not just a symbol of suffering but of love — and that true Christian ministry always flows out of prayer, humility, and solidarity with the suffering. His life invites us into deeper union with Christ’s self-offering and into greater compassion for those who carry their own crosses.
10 Facts about St. Paul of the Cross
- Born January 3, 1694 in Ovada, Italy.
- Originally known by the family name Danei (Paolo Francesco Danei).
- Spent a short time in the army in his youth before committing to a life of prayer.
- Experienced a spiritual awakening around devotion to Christ’s Passion (his deep focus on the suffering of Jesus).
- Founded the Passionist Order (Congregation of the Passion) in 1720.
- The Passionists take a special fourth vow to promote devotion to the Passion of Jesus, in addition to the usual vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.
- Known for his penetrating insight into prayer and his preaching; he left over 2,000 letters and numerous writings.
- Died October 18, 1775 in Rome, Italy.
- Canonised June 29, 1867 by Pope Pius IX.
- His feast is celebrated on October 20 in many places (including the USA) and he is regarded as a model of contemplative apostolic life — combining deep prayer with service
