https://www.vocationnetwork.org/en/main/tf_rss Additional Take Five For Faith https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Most of us wouldn’t think of ourselves as wealthy. But by world standards, you may consider yourself rich if you own a house, car, phone, or computer; eat out occasionally; have surplus food that you end up throwing away; spend money to exercise or lose weight; drink clean water; have access to medical care; or enjoy indoor plumbing. Now the question is: What should you do with all your wealth? Don’t fall in love with it, Jesus warns. Be modest and wise in what you spend on yourse... Tue, 18 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A wealthy young man came to Jesus and asked what he needed to do to gain eternal life. Christ told him to keep the Commandments. The young man replied that he had done so. Jesus then said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” But instead the man “went away sad for he had many possessions.” For this acquisitive young man, eternal life was yet another thing to acquire.... Mon, 17 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC From its beginning, Christianity has grown and thrived by reaching out to wider and wider circles beyond its core. In scripture today the foreigner comes to the temple, the sinner is shown mercy, and the Canaanite woman reaches out to Jesus, who responds. Pope Francis encouraged us to live our faith in this same open spirit: "May the church be the place of God's mercy and love, where everyone can feel themselves welcomed, loved, forgiven, and encouraged to live according to the good life of t... Sun, 16 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In , following the devastation of World War II, Pope Pius XII proclaimed the infallible doctrine of the Assumption of Mary, affirming that Mary was assumed body and soul into heaven. Pius expressed hope that the “exalted destiny of both soul and body may in this striking manner be brought clearly to the notice of all persons.” It was a vision of the human person in stark contrast to the unspeakable inhumanity of the war. In celebrating Mary, we remember that our bodies and sou... Sat, 15 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Maximilian Kolbe (-), a Franciscan Friar, earned his martyrdom when he volunteered to die in place of a stranger at Auschwitz, the most notorious of the Nazi concentration camps. What is less well known is that Kolbe was a prolific publisher. He published catechetical and devotional material, a daily Catholic newspaper that reached a circulation of ,, and a monthly magazine with a circulation approaching million. Within a month of arriving in Japan on a mission in , pennil... Fri, 14 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Mayo Clinic specializes in wellness—not just physical but also emotional. Their list of the benefits of forgiving someone include: better relationships; greater spiritual and psychological well-being; less anxiety, stress, and hostility; lower blood pressure; fewer symptoms of depression; a stronger immune system; improved heart health; higher self-esteem. Pretty healthy stuff, this forgiveness. Of course, Christians have touted the spiritual and physical benefits—or graces&md... Thu, 13 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When we think “cherubim,” most of us imagine that chubby little angel sitting on Grandma’s bookshelf. But the cherubim, who play a role in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, are grander and more intimidating than that. In Christianity they are the second highest of nine choirs of angels. Ezekiel describes them as curious creatures with both wings and wheels—which have given centuries of artists a field day trying to illustrate. Cherubim also have many eyes, which is why... Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC One of the most beautiful lines in the Eucharistic Prayer for Children is: “We bring you bread and wine and ask you to . . . make these gifts the body and blood of Jesus your Son. Then we can offer to you what you have given to us.” These words could be the motto of the Poor Clares, founded in by Saint Francis and Saint Clare. The Poor Clares live, work, and pray in constant, joyful recognition of their complete dependence on God. Their intentional poverty is their way of off... Tue, 11 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The word deacon means servant and was first used to describe someone who waited on tables. Today there are more than , deacons serving in the church worldwide, nearly half of them in the United States. But deacons were not always welcome. In the midst of a severe persecution of the Christians of Rome in the second century, Lawrence (d. ) was the last remaining deacon to be sentenced to death. We are told that he spent his final days giving everything the Christian community owned to t... Mon, 10 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Two important stories in scripture—God’s coming to Elijah in a “tiny whispering sound” and Jesus’ walk on the water—say a lot about our spiritual journey. Elijah was not in a good way. He lived in a bad place with a bad king, the other prophets were dead, and Queen Jezebel had a contract out on his life. Saint Peter also had a problem: Boldly stepping out on the water to walk to his Lord, he got scared and started to go under. For both these holy people in ... Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Contemplation and action seem to be two things going different directions—something you have to choose between. You’ve got things to do, a job, a home, and a family to take care of. Who has time for contemplation? Eight hundred years ago, Saint Dominic, the founder of the Order of Preachers, the Dominicans, tried to find a balance between living in God’s presence—contemplation—and living out a mission of sharing God’s word with others. His solution, accordi... Sat, 08 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Since the first followers of Jesus, the church has had its struggles, but always, the Holy Spirit keeps the church faithful. Courageous people in every age rise up to lead renewal within the church. In the early s in Italy, that person was Cajetan who felt the pain of the Body of Christ and dedicated himself to doing something about it. With other clergy friends, he founded the Theatines, dedicated to trusting in God’s providence and claiming no property nor money from the people&md... Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The word transfiguration is seldom used outside of the New Testament, except in the Harry Potter series at Hogwarts, where it is a course taught to young wizards. But there is a piece by composer Arnold Schönberg that is more in line with the biblical concept of transfiguration. In “Transfigured Night,” a woman’s confessed shame is surprisingly and completely changed by the forgiveness offered by the man who loves her. The music’s passion and beauty portray the tr... Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Religious prejudices and tensions between Jews and their Gentile neighbors are highlighted in the gospel story where a Canaanite woman asks Jesus to heal her daughter only to receive a stern rebuke. Tensions are exposed, but at the end of the day, the Canaanite woman finds a way to break through, and Jesus responds with admiration and compassion. The lesson for all of us is to seek the path beyond our own prejudices. As Pope Francis said in a meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the... Wed, 05 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If you’ve ever wanted to get away from it all, Saint John Vianney is your man. In his youth, he deserted the French army and hid from Napolean’s police. After the general pardon of he resumed his studies for the priesthood despite his less-than-stellar grades. His first priestly assignment was the village of Ars. Though the parishioners at first opposed him because of his poor mental and physical state, Vianney won their hearts through his total dedication to them—inclu... Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus’ mother Mary has many titles—one of them is Our Lady, Star of the Sea, as protector of seafarers. But Mary is a guiding star for all of us as we seek her son through the storms of life. Saint Bernard of Clairvaux wrote: “If the winds of temptation arise; if you are driven upon the rocks of tribulation look to the star, call on Mary. If you are tossed upon the waves of pride, of ambition, of envy, of rivalry, look to the star, call on Mary.” Don’t lose sight... Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “Give them something to eat” was Jesus’ mandate to his disciples concerning the hungry masses. It is still his mandate to us today as more than million people—one-tenth of the world’s population—live in extreme poverty on less than three U.S. dollars a day. With grain and fertilizer prices skyrocketing, the world’s poorest have never been more vulnerable. If we want people to be able to feel the loving presence of God in their lives, let’s f... Sun, 02 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When Saint Alphonsus (-) was a bright young lawyer, he made a critical mistake in a case, and his law career was ruined. He later became a priest and founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer. For the rest of his life, he endured conflicts within the order and with the government, even while being recognized for his intellect and compassion. When he was , he was tricked into signing a rule for the order that contained elements he did not support. As a result, the community ... Sat, 01 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-08-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If you did not have a horse in the th century, you walked to get where you were going. You had to be sure your destination was worth it, because it was going to take significant time and effort to get there. That was particularly true for Saint Ignatius of Loyola (-), who had a severe limp from a war injury. It was during his recovery from battle that he went through a conversion. Ignatius chose to live a life of poverty and become a pilgrim of God seeking enlightenment. As he walke... Fri, 31 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC This time of year, peaches in the market may look delicious, yet we have all tasted some that were flavorless. Too often, we focus on externals and fail to consider what lies at the core of a person, philosophy, religion, or promise. For Christians, this is why the practice of discernment is essential. We must take time to uncover the truth about ourselves and the world around us through prayer, spiritual reading, and wise counsel. The more we seek God, the more likely we are to recognize wha... Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The siblings Martha, Mary, and Lazarus together give us a full portrait of faithfulness. As a family, they try to support one another in their witness, though they sometimes fall short. Who can forget Martha’s complaint that Mary was too busy hanging on Jesus’ every word to help in the kitchen? Yet Martha redeems herself when she seeks Jesus’ help in bringing her brother back to life. Each family member reveals an important lesson about how to receive Jesus in friendship: Ma... Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus never wastes words in the gospels, but we know he wants to make absolutely sure we are paying attention when he concludes his comments with “whoever has ears ought to hear.” Jesus knows that we humans have a tendency to tune in and out of our surroundings. Sometimes we are so captivated by our thoughts—last night’s conversation, a repeating song fragment, the stories we continually tell ourselves about the past and future—that although we believe we’r... Tue, 28 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Similes, metaphors, parables, all are literary techniques used to describe the indescribable: the ineffable, intimate, and uniquely personal relationship God has with each of his beloved creatures. God is as close to us as clothes on a body; God is the vine and we are the branches; God’s kingdom is the tiny seed that grows into the largest plant that provides life, comfort, and shelter for all. Try as we might through every literary device, we will never fully comprehend the mystery, bu... Mon, 27 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus mentions the kingdom of heaven times in Matthew’s gospel. Clearly he wants us to understand exactly what it is. Yet the kingdom is mysterious; it is not something that can be defined once and for all. The best Jesus can do is to describe what it is like, not what it is. The kingdom is like a treasure buried in a field . . . it is like a merchant searching for valuable pearls. In other words, the kingdom of heaven is both that which we find and that which is searching to find us... Sun, 26 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC What makes the apostle James different from the many others named James in the New Testament? The word apostle comes from the Greek apostolos, “someone sent out.” The more general meaning of the word is translated into Latin as missio, from which we get missionary. But it is also used in a more specific sense to refer to the first disciples whom Jesus chose, named, and “sent out” to the world. While we honor James in name today as one of those , we can honor him a... Sat, 25 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus said that the person who hears the word of God is like is a seed: Where it falls makes a difference. In good soil it brings forth life. God knows that people do not always understand his word, which became flesh as the embodiment of love. But if you seek to understand it, to live by it, to embody it, you will come to know God and you will bear much fruit, like a seed planted in rich soil. Be guided by these words of Saint John of the Cross: “To love is to be transformed into what ... Fri, 24 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Sometimes God seems hard to spot. We may feel we get a glimpse at times, but frequently God can seem to be somewhere else. The presence of God, though, is actually all around us. God’s Spirit dwells in each person. Everyone is made in the image and likeness of God—as if we all carry a picture of God around with us in our pockets, to remind us of who we are. We can see God in creation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says that scientific discoveries “invite us to even gr... Thu, 23 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Mary Magdalene is often depicted weeping (the English word maudlin, meaning “excessively weepy and sentimental,” is derived from Magdalene). Although in the Vatican officially separated Mary Magdalene from the sinner in Luke’s gospel, centuries of sermons and Christian art depicting Mary as the sorrowful, penitent prostitute have embedded that image into the Christian psyche. But this doesn’t do justice to the woman early Christians called the “apostle to th... Wed, 22 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A theological and biblical scholar, fluent in several languages, renowned preacher, diplomat, and minister general of the Capuchin order, Saint Lawrence of Brindisi (-) pretty much did it all. Yet he never forgot the purpose of his work. “God is love,” he wrote, “and all his operations proceed from love.” Saints like Lawrence show us the strength of faith and inspire us to stretch ours. They also demonstrate how all our activity needs the guidance of love. Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The scribes and Pharisees were “credentialed” religious leaders, and they took offense with this upstart Jesus. Without degree or pedigree, he appeared out of nowhere (or so it seemed) and began teaching with authority. They wanted to “see his papers,” to be given some proof, and then they would believe him. The operative phrase here is “and then.” How many times in our own faith journey have we uttered that qualifier? Help me get well, “and then&rdqu... Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “Once upon a time . . .” is second only to “In the beginning . . .” as the greatest opening line. These memorable story starters signal to listeners that they are entering a world of magic and mystery, where things are turned upside down and then set right again. Human beings love stories. Long after we’ve forgotten the basics of grammar and arithmetic, we remember the stories we heard, read, and lived. That is why Jesus chose parables as his main teaching tool. ... Sun, 19 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A fair amount of confusion exists around the subject of Marian apparitions. Do Catholics believe in them? Perhaps the best answer would be: “Some do and some don’t.” In rare cases the Catholic Church may judge an apparition to be worthy of belief, but that belief is never required of Catholics. According to the Marianum Pontifical Institute in Rome, of the reported apparitions studied by the Holy See through the centuries, only have been approved as worthy of belief. ... Sat, 18 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Greek words Kyrie eleison are some of the most ancient—and powerful—words of the Christian liturgy: “Lord, have mercy.” Typically we find these words in the penitential rite where the church asks God’s mercy and forgiveness. But these words are not just for penance; they are words of life and encouragement to the weary soul. It as if we are saying, “Look kindly upon me.” This call for mercy is not just directed toward God; it is also part of the f... Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When it comes to God’s blessings, Matthew’s gospel highlights the spiritual blessings Christ promises: “Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied” (Matthew :). Luke, on the other hand, emphasizes the physical blessings Jesus brings to his people: “Blessed are you who are now hungry, for you will be satisfied” (Luke :). Both kinds of hunger are real. In the face of injustice, seeing the scales set right brings ... Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The theologian and Doctor of the Church Saint Bonaventure (-) is often called the second founder of the Franciscans, because he held the order together in the critical generation after Saint Francis of Assisi. Bonaventure viewed the natural world as a reflection of God, where created things act as mirrors of the Creator's beauty and wisdom: “Every creature is a divine word because it proclaims God.” He believed that seeing Christ in all created things and contemplating Chris... Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Blessed Kateri was a child of the often hostile social and political collision of the Old European world with the Native American New World. Kateri, part of the Mohawk tribe, wore this confrontation physically upon her face, being marred and half-blinded by the small pox carried over by Europeans. However, as Jesuit missionary Father Pierre Cholenec reported, at her deathbed the face so disfigured by the world suddenly became transfigured by Christ. She became so beautiful before death that t... Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Those who side with Christ will find themselves unexpectedly at odds with members of their own household as well as friends, neighbors, and political leaders. As Pope Leo XIV said, “Anyone who is a disciple of Christ, the Prince of Peace, is never on the side of those who once wielded the sword and today drop bombs.” Religious principles divide as often as they unite. Be prepared for opposition in tender places, including your own heart as you bring the sword to your old selfish w... Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If the word of God is like a seed, and Christ is the sower, what is the soil? Our hearts and minds. When we talk about the word of God, we can mean many things: the gospel message, scripture, the Incarnation, the creative spirit of God that goes forth to create and inspire. If this word finds us open and receptive and willing to respond, it bears good fruit. The word calls us to hear, understand, believe, and act accordingly. One of the challenges of faith is to be the good soil. Cultivate it... Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Benedict’s wisdom has guided people for centuries. Among the gems of his Rule are the first words: “Listen carefully,” followed by this distillation of other key teachings: The search for security, wealth, and salvation is futile. Instead, treat each hour as a gift. See in each day reasons for joy. Reverence the tools of work like the vessels of the altar. Small, daily brush strokes create the stunning canvas. Important decisions should be made with consultation, gaini... Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Sonnets of love describe with passionate detail the merits of the beloved that draw such devotion: eyes, hair, lips. Who would declare a burning love in vague or abstract terms? Would such a theoretical declaration ever be convincing? In the same way, Pope Francis argued, "There is no abstract love; it does not exist. Concrete love is the one that gets its hands dirty." Our love is shaped by our actions. We step into the mix and make our intentions known. We say, “I love you” but ... Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Have you ever blessed your home? Blessing your home brings the presence of God to it and all who live in or visit it. Such a blessing asks for God’s protection of your home and reminds those who come through the door to dwell in holiness. It also helps us remember how all good things come from God. You can ask a priest to bless your home, or you can gather your household and do it yourself. A home-blessing ritual is available in the book Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers, publish... Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Don’t you hate it when you see young people, particularly those closest to you, doing bad things? Isn’t there some way you can take charge of the situation and turn them back to good? Evidently there is. “To convert somebody, go and take them by the hand and guide them,” advises Saint Thomas Aquinas. That may not always be physically possible, but we can lead by example. When we really believe in God’s reign and proclaim it by the way we live, then we experience ... Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC What keeps us from praising God all day long? Oh, probably a lot of things. Bad moods. Rushing around. People who drive us nuts. Distractions besiege us that make praise the furthest thing from our minds. But as the simplest form of prayer, praise could be the easiest way to find more time for spiritual growth. Indeed, Saint John Paul II says, “One must arrange one's life so that everything praises God.” Try offering a few silent words of praise every hour. As you drive: What wond... Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We toss around words like fidelity and trust. The prophet Hosea uses his promiscuous wife and his faithfulness to her to show us how to remain faithful to God. Hosea decides no matter what, he will remain loyal to his wife. He will “speak to her heart” and wed her to righteousness and justice so that she “will know the Lord.” The gospel of Matthew mirrors that same faith and trust in the story of the official who asks Jesus to give him back his deceased daughter. Both ... Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “I see dead people . . . walking around like regular people,” confessed the preternatural child in the thriller The Sixth Sense. It is not uncommon for children to be portrayed in movies and literature as possessing special powers or visionary gifts. And we know that, as the old TV show put it, “kids say the darndest things.” Because kids haven’t been completely conditioned to adult social conventions, they sometimes see and say things that “wise” adu... Sun, 05 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Ah, the flexibility of Catholic tradition! In every age, it manages to hold fast to the truths of the gospel while offering new understandings and interpretations. Pope John XXIII expressed it this way in Gaudium et spes: “The Church seeks but a solitary goal: to carry forward the work of Christ under the lead of the befriending Spirit. . . . To carry out such a task, the Church has always had the duty of scrutinizing the signs of the times and interpreting them in the light of the Gosp... Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Legends abound about Thomas, including his preaching, in what is now Iran. More often he is credited for bringing faith to India. When the Portuguese arrived there in , Christian communities attributed to him were still functioning. Not bad for someone stuck with the title “Doubting.” Thomas’ life of faith gives the lie to doubt being a sign of lack of faith. Doubt brings questions that strengthen faith. Your own search for answers will lead you down many paths. Like Tho... Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In biblical times, people made a direct connection between illness and sin. If someone were sick, it must have been because they sinned. To forgive sins, then, could bring healing. Today we are less inclined to see sin and health in this way. But if we think of salvation as restoration to wholeness—in mind, body, and spirit—forgiveness and healing may be closer than we think. When we forgive or are forgiven, a healthy balance is restored in us and our relationships. A big part of ... Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Some of us take naturally to the care of the body: eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, making sure we get to bed at a reasonable hour. Others are more attuned to the care of the soul, maintaining a routine of prayer, spiritual direction, and retreat. The spiritually mature person doesn’t see this as an either-or proposition. We are creatures of body and spirit, and Jesus regularly healed both aspects of those who came to him. Examine your habits and determine where you owe som... Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-07-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Tertullian, one of the first Christian theologians, wrote: “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” The church’s first martyrs are commemorated a day after the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul—who tradition says were also victims of Nero’s slaughter, beginning in . And martyrs aren’t meant to be just a memory but also a model. Look no further than first responders, essential workers, and service men and women to see modern examples of those... Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It probably would not have been wise to invite Peter and Paul to the same party. Brash and impetuous, Peter wore his heart on his fisherman’s sleeve. Paul was the proper and prayerful former Pharisee. They were known to disagree on important issues but were always able to find common ground by celebrating the sacred meal that Peter first experienced at the Last Supper and Paul described in his letters. Spiritual writer Henri Nouwen says, “A meal together is one of the most intimat... Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In the gospel, the evangelists proclaim a paradox: Life springs from barrenness, hope rises from loss, and we find life precisely by giving it away. These truths converge in the life, death, and Resurrection of Jesus, which reveal that even suffering, loss, and hardship are not meaningless, but caught up in God’s saving work. A resurrection faith does not deny the cross; it embraces it and carries it toward eternal life. It does not remove the weight of the daily grind, but transforms i... Sun, 28 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In , the revised Roman Missal (the U.S. translation of the Mass) underwent a number of changes. One of the more noticeable changes was in the Eucharistic Prayer: “Lord, I am not worthy to receive you . . .” became “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof . . .” The new wording echoes the gospel story of Jesus healing the centurion’s servant from a distance. It was Christ’s word and the centurion’s faith that healed. Perhaps as we... Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC No one quite knows where the expression “cleanliness is next to godliness” comes from. It may be an ancient Hebrew saying. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, used it in a homily in as if it were common wisdom. It had a practical value, because being clean helped combat disease. Religions have made cleanliness a sign of God’s favor—not only the absence of dirt but also to say that one is in the right way with the divine. In his healing ministry, Jesus, though a... Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Ancient philosophers thought that reason governed the universe. They called this reason the logos, Greek for “word.” In the Hebrew Bible the “word of God” was not only the way God communicated with human beings but it also had its own creative power. The New Testament, especially the beginning of the Gospel of John, says this creative power became human in Jesus. All this history testifies to the “word” being the way to God’s guidance in the real worl... Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The name John means “God’s gift,” and such was the Baptist. From the moment he came on the preaching scene, he proved himself a powerful, captivating herald of God. His bold, dramatic, austere, and uncompromising style is actually what people had in mind when they hoped for a Messiah. But John understood that his role was to prepare the way for the One who was to come. His prophetic witness and commitment to his call are his legacy to us. Share in his gift by being true to y... Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today, designated International Widows’ Day by the United Nations, is a good day to remember all families that have lost a loved one—especially families who are most vulnerable and faced with poverty, injustice, and social stigma. As Pope Benedict XVI affirmed in his encyclical Deus Caritas Est, “love for widows and orphans, prisoners, and the sick and needy of every kind is as essential” to the church “as the ministry of the sacraments and preaching of the gospe... Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC There aren’t many things that get Jesus’ goat, but hypocrisy is one of them, particularly when we judge others to feel superior. Most of us have all fallen into this trap at some point: mistakenly believing that we rise when we put others down. Ironically, the flaw we recognize so easily in another is often the very flaw we can’t see in ourselves. Avoid provoking the ire of Jesus today and stay focused on what needs fixing in yourself. Indeed, “This is the very perfect... Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Fathers, instead of raking in the gifts this year on your special day, how about committing to doling them out? Give encouragement to the child who needs a boost. Or give a challenge if your child would benefit from that. Compliment each of your children sincerely and specifically today about a character trait you admire in them. It can range from their bravery, to their great humor, to their tenderness, to their ability to keep things stirred up in the family. You play an important role in t... Sun, 21 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “If we are rushed for time, sow time and we will reap time,” Dorothy Day wrote in her memoir The Long Loneliness. “Go to church and spend a quiet hour in prayer. You will have more time than ever and your work will get done. Sow time with the poor. Sit and listen to them, give your time lavishly. You will reap time a hundredfold. Sow kindness and you will reap kindness. Sow love, you will reap love.” How many of us would try to cope with our busy schedules by actually ... Sat, 20 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The monastic discipline of “custody of the eyes,” which originally was promoted as an aid to chaste living, encouraged averting the eyes from objects and images that might incite lust, vanity, or covetousness. Such a spiritual practice would serve us well in this age of total media exposure, greed, and graphic representations of sex and violence. If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then we need to protect what gets filtered in. Garbage in, garbage out applies to spiritual liv... Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Prayer. We know it’s important, we’re drawn to it, but we’re not always quite sure what we are doing. Jesus gives us examples of prayer throughout the gospels, including what we call “The Lord’s Prayer.” We know the words, but do we know this prayer by heart—that is, do we tune into our relationship with God when we give voice to this prayer? Do we look to see whether we’ve allowed our relationship with God to flow into all aspects of our daily ... Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When the prophet Elijah left this world in a whirlwind, his departure was less about the spectacle and more about what he left behind: a master’s mantle and a “double share” of his spirit. Jesus took the grand exit even further by dying and rising again before ascending into heaven. Though we may feel a bit slightly abandoned at times, like Elijah, Jesus left us with his Spirit, which he assures us will empower us to do the things he did “and greater besides”&mda... Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It may surprise you, but the saint so renowned for his “Peace Prayer” once fought in a war. So when Saint Francis of Assisi says, “You have no enemy except yourselves,” you can’t help but think an ex-soldier should know something about enemy ways. Though Francis didn’t write the “Peace Prayer,” it reflects his teachings and covers many ways we can be the enemy—or peacemakers instead. One is “Seek not to be . . . understood as to unde... Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In the Old Testament, Queen Jezebel’s sniveling husband, Ahab, wanted the vine grower Naboth’s land. Naboth became an annoyance, disposable as a dead battery. Having Naboth eliminated worked for Jezebel. No problem. She may have taken getting an edge over the competition to an extreme, yet it is still something drummed into our heads. It seems that everyone—from corporate CEOs to athletes to politicians—will do just about anything to win. But the goal for Christians is... Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC At county fairs there always seems to be a stand where someone offers to write your name on a grain of rice. As novel a proposition as that is, perhaps there are better places to have our names inscribed. Scripture mentions a "Book of Life" eight times. It's described as the registry of the just—a desirable place to be listed. Martyrdom is one sure way to make the registry and promoting the gospel is another. Simply put, live for Christ and bring Jesus to others, and you’ll find y... Sun, 14 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We live in a culture that doesn’t trust words to do what they are intended to do—that is, to communicate meaning. The ocean of words that engulfs us in advertising, media, paperwork, email, and voicemails can make small words like yes or no seem lost from view unless hooked up with powerful, charged language full of emotion or even profanity. When Mary spoke to the angel her answer to the divine question, she used gentle words: “Let it be done as you say.” Those quiet ... Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When a businessman turned , he began to realize he wasn’t really a self-made man, and he sought out his third-grade teacher to thank her for all she’d meant to him. She strained her aging eyes as he approached her in the nursing home, but recognition dawned along with a huge smile. “I’ve kept you in my heart all these years,” she told him. He knew just what she meant. The heart is the symbol of the inner life of a person. Jesus is often depicted with a heart on... Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Barnabas earned his name—which means “son of encouragement”—because of his work for the early Christian community, taking the recent convert Saint Paul under his wing, representing the original apostles at Antioch, and with Paul going on missions to the Gentiles. Barnabas was willing to do his part, whether leading or supporting others, and always promoting the peace of Christ. How can you be a daughter or son of encouragement today? Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus preached constantly about the coming of the reign of God, which began on Earth with Jesus’ death and Resurrection. According to the church, it’s up to us Christians to further God’s reign until it’s brought into perfection at the end of time. Pope John Paul II wrote, “The kingdom of God is the manifestation and the realization of God’s plan of salvation in all its fullness.” A reign of love, peace, and justice, extending to all and lasting forev... Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC How many of us, during a time of drought and famine, would have sufficient trust in God to offer a stranger our last morsel of food, solely based on the promise that if we did so, God would provide for our own needs? A widow the prophet Elijah encounters does just that and she is rewarded with an unceasing bounty from God. Trusting God when the evidence may be scant is the challenge and wisdom of our faith. As the th-century Dominican Friar Saint Henry Suso says, “Abandon yourself utt... Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC You can think of the famous Beatitudes—“sermons” Jesus delivers from various elevations, in Luke :- (on the plain) and Matthew :- (on a mountain)—as a kind of job description God hands out to believers. Those who are “blessed” or “happy” in the eyes of God do some specific things. They are poor in spirit and they hunger and thirst for righteousness—in other words, they trust completely in God and dedicate themselves to doing God&r... Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A document from the Second Vatican Council calls the liturgy the “summit toward which the activity of the church is directed; at the same time, it is the fountain from which all her power flows.” In other words, for members of the church, liturgy is the source of life, and also that toward which life is directed. Life should be a living liturgy, and liturgy should be alive. The communion you have with God in the Eucharist celebrates the communion you have with God at all times, an... Sun, 07 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Alchemy was an ancient practice, part science and part philosophy, which aimed to create gold from lesser metals, discover a universal cure for disease, and, while they were at it, indefinitely prolong life. The fact that it never worked didn’t seem to stop anyone from trying. But there is a spiritual alchemy that actually does turn the small into the immeasurable. Look at the poor widow who received an eternal Kingdom for the price of two pennies. Mary of Nazareth gained the same Kingd... Sat, 06 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC While all scripture may be useful, one who merely tosses Bible quotations about and uses select (and sometimes mistranslated) texts to justify a prevailing prejudice is abusing scripture. The epistle writer Timothy encourages the use of scripture to equip us “for every good work,” not for attack. Our culture is accustomed to headlines and sound bites, but a serious faith requires us to deepen our understanding of both God and our world. We did not learn everything we need to know ... Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Mercy Sister Rosemary Connelly, R.S.M., who dedicated more than years to serving the needs of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Misericordia in Chicago, understood the true benefit of the mission of mercy: “At Misericordia we look upon each one of our children and adults as a person with individual needs, feelings, aspirations, limitations, and gifts. Each one is unique, a gift to us today, a loving person made by God with a purpose in life&mdash... Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It is hard to believe that someone would be put to death for defending children who were being sexually abused. But that is what happened to Charles and his companions in th-century Uganda. Sadly, we know that children in our “enlightened” society are still being abused physically and emotionally. We need more than just to be outraged. Even as powerful elites, media, and popular culture threaten the young, we as people of faith need to create an environment that is safe and affi... Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Christian martyrs often faced stark, life-or-death choices. In their courageous leap of faith, they give witness to the gospel’s call to lose one’s life in order to gain it. In this spirit, we celebrate the memorial of the fourth-century martyrs Marcellinus and Peter, who surrendered their lives for the sake of faith and, we trust, received the glory of eternal life. Though the Romans and Goths sought to erase their memory over the centuries, Marcellinus and Peter live in the chur... Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Justin had intense desire to find God, and the truth of God led him to study scripture, prayer, and eventually become a Christian. The example of the Christian martyrs impressed him greatly. He had his chance to follow in their footsteps (in A.D.) by professing his faith before a judge in Rome. Legend says he was asked, “Do you think that by dying you will enter heaven and be rewarded?” To which he replied, “I don’t just think so. I am sure of it!” For ... Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-06-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC What is God like? According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, God is like a family—and vice versa. It says, “The Christian family is a communion of persons, a sign and image of the communion of the Father and the Son in the Holy Spirit.” God isn’t aloof, disconnected, and distant. God is creative, compassionate, and as close to us as our next breath. We cannot fully fathom the nature of God, but we can know that God is in our yearning as well as in the satisfyin... Sun, 31 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus asks both everything and almost nothing of his disciples. Everything: that we give our whole lives to following him. And almost nothing: that we trust him and the Father, love as we are loved, forgive as we are forgiven, and show the mercy we ourselves have received. Though it asks much—everything, really—being a Christian is actually pretty simple: love God with your whole self, and that love will overflow to others. As Saint Augustine put it: “Love, and do what you w... Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Mark’s gospel does not include Jesus teaching the Lord’s Prayer, as he does in the other gospels. Like Matthew and Luke, however, Mark does show Jesus linking our own forgiveness to our willingness to forgive others. The Lord’s Prayer asks that God forgive us as we forgive others; those who seek forgiveness must be “forgivers” themselves. In Mark, Jesus says: “Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in h... Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Teresa of Calcutta had a way of packing a lot of insight into statements that on the surface seemed pretty elementary. Take for example the way she described the Missionaries of Charity, the order she founded to care for the destitute dying and other “unwanted” persons: “Many people mistake our work for our vocation,” she said. “Our vocation is the love of Jesus.” Her words apply to all Christians. Whatever you do, put love for Jesus at the center. Yo... Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC All throughout history there have been truths that, once discovered and accepted, have changed everything. Discovering that the Earth is round and that the sun is the center of our solar system, for example, brought on a revolution in thought that is hard to overstate. The same applies to spiritual truths: Once they are known and accepted, the unwieldy, disconnected pieces of our lives tend to fall into place and everything changes for the better. Jesus’ statement, “I came not to ... Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC After an intense period of study, Saint Philip Neri saw in a vision that his mission was in the streets of Rome. So he planted himself amid the bustle of public squares and drew people out of their apathy with friendly humor and discourse. Once engaged he would eventually ask: “Well, brothers, when shall we begin to do good?” And then he’d lead the crowd to service among the sick and poor of Rome. Despite great demands on his time by the thousands who sought his counsel over... Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In , Pope Francis added a memorial to celebrate the Blessed Virgin Mary in her role as “Mother of the Church” every year on the Monday after Pentecost as a way to foster Marian piety and the “maternal sense of the church.” The Marian title of “Mother of the Church,” was given to the Blessed Mother by Blessed Pope Paul VI at the Second Vatican Council. With its addition to the General Roman Calendar, it’s now celebrated by the whole Roman Catholic ... Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Pentecost is like falling in love: It hits you like a ton of bricks. You become totally devoted to someone else, only in this case someone else isn’t that special guy or gal, it’s everybody. And just like two people in love have an almost mystical ability to communicate their hearts to each other, the gift of the Spirit gives you the language of love that speaks to all kinds of people, no matter how different they might be. And just like love comes to those who wait for it, the Sp... Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We only have one choice as disciples: Follow Jesus. We can whine and rail and question and doubt, but in the end our task remains the same: Follow Jesus. What does it mean to follow Jesus? To be willing to give our lives for the sake of others. It sounds extreme, but most of us do this every day as we care for our families, serve in our communities, and provide dedicated work on the job. Giving of yourself doesn’t require anything in return. Thus, nothing can stop the process. No waitin... Sat, 23 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The story of Saint Peter is one of the most fascinating in the New Testament. He veered between misunderstanding and understanding and denial and faith, but he always came through in the end. He got second chances and took advantage of them. Having breakfast with the risen Jesus and the other disciples, he had the opportunity to reverse his earlier three denials of knowing Christ when Jesus asked him—three times—if Peter loved him. To each of Peter’s professions of love, Jes... Fri, 22 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together.” So goes the opening line of the Beatles hit “I Am the Walrus” and the long-debated question of “Who is the walrus?” and “Is that a good thing or bad?” The verse bears an uncanny resemblance to the Lord’s words in the gospel: “I in them and you in me, that they may be . . .” together! Togetherness is a noble goal; it is the joy of relationships, family, and community... Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Austrian-born Dr. Anna Dengel was working in northern India when she realized many women, because of their Muslim customs, were not receiving the care they needed from male physicians. Convinced that a group of women health professionals who dedicated their lives to God could make a difference, Dengel founded the Medical Mission Sisters in . Her vision launched a new approach to missionary work and pioneered new roles for women religious. Mission work is still about bringing the presence ... Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Under normal circumstances, glory describes success with high honors, such as an athletic or artistic achievement or a brilliant business deal. Glory is even reaped by those who perform heroic acts that earn public esteem. But for Christians glory means something else entirely. The Book of Glory, the name for chapters - in John’s gospel, tells the story from the Last Supper through Easter Sunday, where Jesus heads for glory in the direction of the cross. On the far side of suffering... Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Courage is not something only for superheroes or daredevils. All of us have need to call on courage in our normal lives. Having a difficult conversation that needs to happen; doing the right thing by a family member, friend, or coworker; facing a situation that makes us feel vulnerable or awkward. Fortitude is defined as the strength that enables someone to face danger or pain or adversity with courage. It is also a gift of the Holy Spirit. When you need fortitude to deal with a challenging s... Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Howard Thurman, the theologian, activist, and mentor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., once observed: “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs are people who have come alive.” That may sound “selfish”: When you’re discerning the best way to serve, shouldn’t you start with any of the world’s many great needs rather than your own? The world, however, has enough problems to go around. ... Sun, 17 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus constantly urged those he encountered to ask God for what they need. He not only preached that message, he practiced it. Prayers of petition, along with prayers of blessing, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise, constitute the basic forms of Christian prayer. A petitionary, or asking, prayer is simply your part in a conversation that God initiated. At times we will have a lot to say, at others we may simply pray “in sighs too deep for words,” as Saint Paul puts it. Yet, no... Sat, 16 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “No one,” God says in the Book of Exodus, “can see me and live” (:)—almost no one, that is. Moses, for example, used to speak with God “face to face, as a person speaks to a friend” (Exodus :) without undergoing instant vaporization. Christian theology calls this experience the beatific vision: the total heavenly awareness of God that would overwhelm most mortals during their earthly lives. That doesn’t mean you can’t get a glimpse... Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The story of the Ascension of the Lord brings us joy because it tells of how the risen Jesus begins his reign in heaven at the right hand of God. Jesus leaves the physical company of the disciples, but in doing so becomes available to all who believe in him. He goes away, but in his Spirit, he will be closer than ever. Now he fulfills his promise to be with us always. “For although he ascended alone,” says Saint Augustine, “we also ascend, because we are in Him by grace.&rdq... Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Fortune-telling is an ancient practice that indicates at least one thing: Some people have always wished they had knowledge of the future. But as every generation learns, knowledge without wisdom is as good as ignorance, if not more dangerous. It takes time for a fact to pass from “knowing” to “understanding”—the way we are first told not to touch a hot burner and later appreciate why. Jesus did not tell his disciples everything at the Last Supper, nor do we gain... Wed, 13 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “The gift and presence of the Holy Spirit is the most magnificent and wonderful thing that can happen to us, the human community, all living things, and this Earth,” wrote German theologian Jürgen Moltmann. The disciples didn’t see it that way at first. They were filled with grief when Jesus told them he would soon be departing from them. They did not understand the gift they were about to receive in the Holy Spirit, the Advocate. An advocate “pleads the cause of ... Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC For all the good that religion has done and continues to do in the world, from time to time all the great religious traditions have been distorted and misused to justify intolerance and violence. Such violence was used against Jesus’ early followers, and in every century since it has reared its head in some corner of the world. “In a world where the name of God is sometimes associated with vengeance or even a duty of hatred and violence,” says Pope Benedict XVI in his first ... Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Near the end of his earthly life Jesus spoke to his disciples about his living on in the Father as well as in them, and them in him. This notion of indwelling is a unique feature of Jesus’ message, bringing a deep intimacy to our life in faith. Jesus has taken up residence within us, and we in Jesus. Talk about having a “personal relationship” with our Savior—it doesn’t get more personal than that! Take a moment today to appreciate how great it is to be considere... Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When beloved and famous citizens die these days, an immediate outpouring of public grief attends their passing. Something like a secular shrine is formed as multitudes contribute flowers, candles, stuffed animals, and final messages to the one they so admired. Nothing like this happened at the death of Jesus, of course—few who loved him even dared to be seen with him at the end. At his death, Jesus was despised by the powerful and disowned by the powerless. Those who followed him most n... Sat, 09 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The New Testament is filled with images of Jesus—from a good shepherd to a mother hen, from a royal king to a dear friend. Writers, theologians, mystics, and artists also have given us many images that can help us deepen our own experience of God and stretch us in new ways. While some images may surprise us, they can also spark a new way of thinking about how God is present in our everyday life. At different times one image might speak to us more than another. Which image of Jesus do yo... Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The phrase “us and them” separates humanity into teams of rivals. But what happens when those teams change sides? When Saint Paul, apostle to the Gentiles, talks about “us,” he means his Jewish brothers and sisters. For Paul, “them” refers to non-Jewish followers of Jesus—which curiously now means, mostly, “us.” Heaven’s view of history and who’s who is quite fuller than ours. Isn’t it time to build more bridges and to se... Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Marlene Dietrich, actress/singer of the past century, once said during a television interview that when a woman forgives her man, “she must not reheat his sins for breakfast.” Though it is not always possible to forget an offense, we can forgive and let go of the anger. This power comes from our communion with Christ, who forgives all our sins. When we abide with Christ, we produce the fruit of patience and peace that comes from God alone. The temptation is to reheat an old hurt. ... Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Paul had reason to suspect his attempt to bring Christ’s Good News to the Greeks was ill-fated. Even after making a cripple walk again and astounding the crowds, the Jews stoned Paul and left him for dead. All we are told at that point is that he simply stood on his feet and proceeded into the city of Derbe to continue preaching. Perplexingly, when Paul and Barnabas then return to the church in Antioch, they celebrate the door of faith now open to the Gentiles. That is a peculiar ... Tue, 05 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Former U.S. Poet Laureate Stanley Kunitz died at age , soon after publishing The Wild Braid: A Poet Reflects on a Century in the Garden. In it Kunitz describes falling in love with language as a child. Finding new words in a family dictionary, he learned meanings but loved even their sounds. “I would go out into the woods behind our house and shout my latest discovery and listen to the words reverberate. I considered it my duty to give my new words to the elements, to scatter them.&r... Mon, 04 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC People say the darnedest things when someone dies. They say, “God took him from us” or “God must’ve had a reason.” But according to our faith, Jesus promised to rescue us from death. When, because of age or illness or injury, our mortal bodies can no longer sustain God’s precious gift of life, Jesus promised to “come again” and snatch us from the jaws of death. The Bible says, “In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died” (Wi... Sun, 03 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Athanasius was the fourth-century bishop of Alexandria, an important city in Egypt. He is best known for his opposition to the Arian heresy, which denied the full divinity of Christ. In taking this stand, Athanasius faced opposition by many within the church and incurred the wrath of emperors, who banished him five times. He spent a total of years in exile. His courageous witness gave rise to the expression Athanasius contra mundum: “Athanasius against the world.” When yo... Sat, 02 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The apostles didn’t know who they were destined to be when they began to follow Jesus. The same could be said of all of us who start down the path of faith with faltering and uncertain steps. Maybe someday we’ll be part of the canon of saints like Thomas, who up to the Last Supper was still asking Jesus where this road was headed. Obviously it had yet to occur to him that he would be one of the founders of our apostolic tradition. Nor can we imagine who we might become if we co... Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-05-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Home cooking is great, but sometimes we are hurt the worst by the folks who share food at our table. Our spouses, our siblings, our children, and our grandchildren often betray the family trust and cause us pain that’s hard to forgive. Yet there is within us the presence of the one who carried the cross of our own sinfulness. Just as Jesus forgave his closest disciples, those who betrayed him, denied him, and abandoned him in his hour of need, we have the power to forgive our family mem... Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Catherine of Siena (-) was a fearless defender of the faith and papacy during fractious times. When declaring her a doctor of the church in , Pope Paul VI referred to Catherine’s unique “charism of exhortation,” which is to say she never minced words. She sent copious letters to church officials and monarchs across Europe offering a piece of her mind. She berated cardinals for treachery, urged Pope Gregory XI not to be a coward, and told Pope Urban VI to cont... Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In today’s reading the Jewish leaders ask Jesus to be straight with them: Are you or are you not the Messiah? Jesus says he’s answered the question and they chose not to believe. In essence, Jesus says, “Every part of my mission screams savior.” But Jesus is a man of metaphor. For Jesus, words are directly related to love. Words and deeds go hand in hand. If you aren’t living out his saving mission, then you will have a difficult time recognizing the meaning and ... Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The notion of what is “clean” and “unclean” is very important in Judaism, especially among Orthodox Jews. Purification rituals are observed for various occasions, and many of them require the ritual washing of the hands, or at times a full immersion. Early Christianity had to struggle with questions of purity as it grew and encountered the Gentile world. Some say that Baptism represents a form of ritual purification adapted from Judaism, and that even the dipping of fi... Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC One of the greatest gifts that comes with the knowledge of Christ’s death and Resurrection is hope. Christians live free from existential fears of meaninglessness and extinction because Christ showed us that our lives have eternal purpose: To love and serve God and others. The vocation that is right for you is the one that enables you in your own unique way to follow the call of love and service most joyfully. Sun, 26 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today the church celebrates one of the apostles, Mark. The Greek word apostolos means “one who is sent,” in particular one God sends. But sends where? To do what? The short answer is: Apostles are sent everywhere to proclaim the Good News. Every Christian, by virtue of Baptism, shares this same mission. “Jesus doesn’t tell the apostles—and us—to form an exclusive group of elite members,” says Pope Francis. “Jesus says: ‘Go and make discipl... Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC For many people, the high point of Mass is receiving Communion. But what does it really mean? It’s so much more than only feeling close to God; it’s about what you do with that closeness. By taking Christ in, Jesus becomes part of you, and the next obvious step is to be more like him. His sacrifice of love becomes the model for your loving sacrifice of self for the world around you. The Eucharist, the source and summit of Catholic faith, is about more than “me and Thee.&rdqu... Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In England hundreds of Catholic men and women were martyred for their beliefs during and after the Reformation. For refusing to take the Oath of Supremacy recognizing the monarch as head of the church, they were labeled treasonous and condemned to death. Over the centuries many of the more well-known Catholic martyrs were privately venerated and remembered. Now they are even recognized by the British Council of Churches. Today Catholics continue to die for the sake of their faith around the g... Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Are we free to make our own moral choices, or are our volitions and decisions predetermined? From Plato to Aristotle to Augustine to Aquinas and a host of deep thinkers from every field, the question of free will has been a central concern in determining the nature of being human. Catholic doctrine supports the theory of free will, asserting that human beings are basically good and naturally drawn to the good, but they are free to choose evil. Choosing the good becomes easier with practice. C... Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC This seems to be the human condition: We grow attached to behaviors and habits that are not good for us, and the more we indulge, the stronger the attachment grows. Addictions are a “prison,” said Pope Leo XIV in a recent address, “and we are all called to freedom. We seek peace and joy; we thirst for them. And many deceptions can delude and even imprison us in this quest.” Leo’s solution, echoing Jesus’, was to “look around,” and “read in... Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When we speak of “signs,” we mean that a sign will point us to something larger that we do not see. When Jesus multiplied five loaves of bread to feed a large crowd, he intended the loaves to be a sign of eternal life. But many in the crowd believed the bread to be just bread. And the fact that he could feed them all with five loaves was all the miracle they needed. It is good that their stomachs were filled, but Jesus was offering them—and us—so much more. Today try t... Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When was the last time you called a friend just to say hello? In our digital culture, spontaneous socializing and getting together “just to talk” often gets squeezed out. Yet it was in conversation on the road to Emmaus that the disciples made important discoveries about the meaning of Jesus’ life and mission. Their hearts “burned within them” as Jesus explained the mysteries of their faith to them. Conversation is an important path to discovery and growth. Make ... Sun, 19 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Theory can get in the way of practice, especially when it comes to our faith. “I don’t preach a social gospel; I preach the gospel, period,” Desmond Tutu said. “The gospel . . . is concerned for the whole person. When people were hungry, Jesus didn’t ask, ‘Now is that political or social?’ He said, ‘I will feed you.’ Because the good news to a hungry person is bread.” Perfecting the way that we live the gospel is the challenge of a l... Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In this post-Easter season we are invited to reflect on the intentions behind our actions. When our motives are pure, when they are truly selfless—in other words, when they come from God—then whatever we do will bear good fruit. If on the other hand our deeds stem from vanity, arrogance, or a desire for praise, then they will not bear good fruit, no matter how altruistic they may appear to others. Take a moment today to pray that your words and actions come from your inner being, ... Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Now that Lent is over, those who chose to give up social media or gossip may be finding themselves sucked back into the everyday world of bombast, news hype, and juicy tidbits. We are bombarded by mind-numbing, spirit-draining trivialities all day long; it is no wonder many of us slip into casual indifference about what is true, real, and worthy of our attention. Saint Thomas More warned us about this: “Occupy your minds with good thoughts, or the enemy will fill them with bad ones.&rdq... Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC God went to a whole lot of trouble to make the world we know and love. Think of how creation astonishes with its beauty: delicate lilies of the valley, the smell of a pine forest, starry nights, birdsong, your favorite color, the touch of velvet. Would God create so much gorgeous detail for a world that is merely disposable? In the same way, do we each struggle through our personal histories only to be lost in the end? God is in the saving business, intending to rescue the goodness of the old... Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC There is a folksy saying, attributed to many different ethnic groups, that goes: “Every baby is born with a loaf of bread under his arm.” In so many words, it means that God will provide, even if you’re not exactly sure how. It’s difficult to let go of worry in the face of uncertainty, whether it’s being able to care for a child or to handle any important responsibility. Your willingness to try, despite your fears, without knowing the outcome, shows faith. Trust ... Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Have you ever been asked if you are born again? Just what does that mean? It comes from the verse found in the Gospel of John that earlier versions of the Bible translated as “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John :). In modern translations in both the Catholic New American Bible and the Protestant New Revised Standard Version, the passage is translated as “No one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.” Whether you use... Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The church named the Sunday after Easter Divine Mercy Sunday to celebrate the devotion to the mercy of Jesus as revealed to Blessed Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun who died in and was declared a saint in . God’s bountiful mercy to us calls us to show mercy as well. Saint Faustina prayed, “I want to be completely transformed into your mercy and to be your living reflection, O Lord. May . . . your unfathomable mercy pass through my heart and soul to my neighbor.” Why ... Sun, 12 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC How do you finish a story like the gospel? Early writers had lots of ideas about where the story should end. Mark’s gospel, the first to be written, recorded three different endings in various ancient manuscripts. Although most early copies of Mark end at chapter , verse , some include an additional summarizing paragraph. And a few go on for more verses, the so-called “Longer Ending,” which includes the story of Mary Magdalene’s meeting with Jesus. The bottom lin... Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The poor apostles were lost without Jesus. Trained fishers, they couldn’t even catch any fish. In fact, we’re all lost without Jesus. He gave us the Good News that we’re the children of God and showed us how to live lives that reflect our holy heritage. The Orthodox Christians, who begin their Triduum observance today, also believe that “we are called to be saints and grow in the likeness of God,” according to their catechism. Like Roman Catholics, the Orthodox b... Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC There are those who preach a “prosperity gospel.” That is, they present the message of Jesus as meaning that if we just believe hard enough all our worldly problems will fade. We will be rich. We will be successful in the eyes of the world. We will be safe and secure. Yet, Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, born a princess, asks, “How could I wear a crown of gold when my Lord wears a crown of thorns and he wears it for me?” Indeed, ours is a savior who shows us his wounds. Af... Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Easter week continues, and with it the church’s ongoing encounter with the risen Jesus. In the gospel story about the meeting of the two disciples with the risen Lord on the road to Emmaus, Jesus interprets scripture to the two disciples, then reveals himself in the breaking of the bread. It’s similar to what happens when we gather at Mass to hear the word proclaimed and brought to bear on our lives. Not only the word is broken open, of course, but also the bread, the Body of Chri... Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Happy are those who have not seen and have believed, Jesus once observed. He was talking about us. We weren’t there in that moment of history centuries ago when miracles occurred and dreams came true. We didn’t stand at the open mouth of the tomb where death lost its sting and eternal life had its astonishing victory. But with eyes of faith, we can still declare with Mary Magdalene, “I have seen the Lord!” Amazing grace still operates all around us, within us, throu... Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC After he is raised from the dead, Jesus meets his disciples on a mountain in Galilee. According to scripture scholars this meeting place is significant because mountains are often where God and mortals meet: Moses got the Law on a mountain; Jesus gave his immortal sermon on a mount (at least in the Gospel of Matthew); and after his death, Jesus commissions his apostles on a mountain to: “Go, make disciples, and baptize.” Yet, as scripturally significant and awe-inspiring as mounta... Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today we are blessed to welcome a host of new Catholics who became part of the church at last night’s vigil. Whatever obstacles that stood in the way have been rolled away. These new Catholics have entered freely into our community of believers and have committed to be followers of the Way of Jesus. They bring new life and energy to our fellowship. What gets in the way of your believing more completely? The message of Easter is: In every moment, Christ lives. Sun, 05 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today the church does two things. It waits and fasts at the tomb of Jesus. Then, when night falls, it celebrates the vigil of his Resurrection. Tonight, we keep vigil around the Easter fire, and as we wait, we tell the stories of how we got here—in particular, how God got us here. Jesus’ empty tomb unveils the deepest mysteries of faith and all we hope for as Christians. If you are able to participate in a vigil liturgy tonight, you’ll be standing on the holiest ground: the ... Sat, 04 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Sadder than the betrayal of a false friend is the denial of a true one. We might imagine that Judas had a false bottom in his heart: It’s the place where he kept his money. But Peter’s heart was full of genuine love and admiration for Jesus, so what went wrong in the courtyard of the high priest? Not bribery or a loss of faith, but something far simpler overcame Peter: fear. Many of us modern followers of Jesus might admit in an honest hour that fear is one of the greatest enemies... Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today begins the Triduum (Latin for “space of three days”), during which we celebrate the central mystery of our faith: Christ’s Passion and Resurrection. Jesus calls his disciples to do as he has done: namely, love and serve one another. But what does Jesus mean by service? For Jesus, service always involves humbling oneself for the sake of another’s salvation. Jesus washes his disciples’ feet so that they may come to understand what true discipleship is. Jesus ... Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If you’re reading a suspenseful book or watching a scary movie, you can always tell when evil is about to intrude. In the moments of quiet before the unleashing of the stormy action, you’ll normally find telltale signs—a foreboding phrase or an ominous change in the music. Wednesday of Holy Week is the moment of quiet before the events of Jesus’ suffering, death, and Resurrection begin to rapidly unfold. The sign of what is to come is that Judas agrees to betray Jesus ... Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-04-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC What can be said about Judas, the apostle who committed the ultimate betrayal in history, handing over Jesus to his executioners for money? Like the other apostles, Judas knew the Lord—indeed, he knew Him well enough to identify Him to the authorities. But what did Judas do with that knowledge? He chose to exploit it. Ironically, had he used his knowledge of Jesus for the good of others rather than for a few meager silver pieces, he would have been glorified. Instead, he died by his own... Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The last time we saw Martha and Mary together, they were weeping at the tomb of their brother, Lazarus. But now all three of them are having a dinner party for Jesus and the disciples at their home in Bethany. They do not know the religious authorities are planning to put Lazarus to death because his second chance at life is leading many to believe in Jesus. Nor do Martha, Mary, and Lazarus suspect that Jesus is about to be betrayed to those same authorities by one sitting at their table. Sha... Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In an interview after his release from captivity, Servite Father Lawrence Martin Jenco, one of the hostages held in Lebanon for days in the s, said that the prayers and psalms he had learned as a child gave him the greatest solace during a long incarceration filled with cruel and severe deprivations. Jesus found similar comfort during his torture and death. His last words from the cross, according to the Gospels of Mark and Matthew, were: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken m... Sun, 29 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Being human, it is likely we would sin every day. That is why we are encouraged, particularly during Lent, to renew ourselves daily. “This is what we do with houses, says Saint John Chrysostom, “we keep constantly repairing them as they wear old. You should do the same thing to yourself. Have you sinned today? Do not despair, do not despond, but renew your soul by repentance, and tears, and Confession, and by doing good things.” And the great doctor of the church adds, &ldqu... Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today is the last Friday before Holy Week and the last one before Good Friday. As the day of the week on which Jesus died, Fridays have had a special place in Christian tradition. There was a time when Catholics abstained from meat on every Friday, not only those in Lent, as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice. Another traditional Catholic practice associated with Friday is the Stations of the Cross. Every church has the series of shrines devoted to the Stations. Going from one to anoth... Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC As Christians we often take on new names at Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and marriage to mark entrance into a new phase of our faith life and discipleship. When God entered into a covenant with Abram and his descendants, Abram got a new name—Abraham—that signified the renewed relationship between God and God’s people. Simon became the Peter as Jesus called him to be his rock. Each Lent as we review and renew our relationship with God, perhaps we should consider giving... Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It’s not easy for us to explain why we hold certain people in special esteem above others. We have our favorites, and we don’t usually analyze it much beyond that. But if we did, we would probably find that we enjoy the person’s company because what they do pleases us. For these same reasons Mary found favor with God. She chose ways that were God’s ways. “Mary’s greatness,” says Pope Benedict XVI, “consists in the fact that she wants to magnify ... Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC At the end of every Mass, we hear some version of the words, “Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.” This moment is not the end, it’s the beginning. We celebrate the Eucharist so that we might become for others what Jesus was for us—sustenance and life poured out for the good of all we meet. When we go forth “in his name,” we carry Jesus with us in a very real way, to our families, workplaces, and neighbors, and to strangers alike. Next time as Mass comes... Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If you read the scripture for today, you’ll find two long and dramatic stories about the dangers of judging others. You’ll see the hazards of denying your conscience, bearing false witness, and having the attitudes of judgmentalism and self-righteousness. Believing in Jesus, on the other hand, and following him, leads to humility, honesty, integrity, and compassion. The next time you’re about to judge someone—talk down a friend, coworker, or member of your family, or g... Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Of the two sisters of Bethany, Mary is usually considered the “spiritual” one, and Martha is relegated to the category of “hostess with the mostest.” But after the death of their brother Lazarus, it is Martha who shows her spiritual mettle in her encounter with Jesus on the road. She gives her profession of faith with as much insight and certainty as does Peter when he was once asked by Jesus, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter’s response earns him the... Sun, 22 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Justice doesn’t come easy for most of us. That’s why Moses and company felt compelled to lay down the law, which continues to shape our modern understanding of justice. Consider the question Nicodemus poses in today’s gospel: “Does our law condemn a man before it first hears him and finds out what he is doing?” Our updated version of that is: One is innocent until proven guilty. How often we fall short of this precept. Think of detainees at refugee and detention ... Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Are you feeling a time crunch in your life? Many Americans report that they do, especially families with school-aged children. None of us can add breadth to the span of time available to us, but we can add depth to it by living more consciously aware of the grace of each moment. In the gospels this Lent we will hear how Jesus was keenly aware that “his hour” was drawing near. This is the hour of the greatest possible depth, when he freely gave his life so that faith could overcome... Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A righteous man follows the laws of his religion yet allows mercy to guide his actions. That is why Joseph decided to divorce Mary quietly, so that she might avoid the harsh penalty for what seemed to be her infidelity. But true righteousness—God’s righteousness—goes beyond religious law and draws on the dictates of a well-formed conscience to discern a deeper response. This “third way” of compassion makes room for the mysterious work of God to bring forth fulfil... Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Catholics give up all kinds of things for Lent: cookies, drinking, cussing, not to mention meat on Fridays. They also try to find time for prayer and charitable works. Why do we do it? What purpose do these small, penitential acts serve? As dietary measures the impact on the scales is slight, and as behavioral correctives they don’t always “take” beyond the days. The main benefit, then, is strength training for the will. We have to learn to say no to the self, so that whe... Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus posed an intriguing question to one man who had been ailing for years: Do you want to be well? It appears as though the answer would be obvious. So why does Jesus even bother to ask before healing him? Perhaps because he knew how often we find it difficult to leave our own suffering. We cling to our suffering because we have grown so comfortable in it. Ailments can explain all our insufficiencies before God. But what would we cling to when those ailments have been cured? Muster the c... Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “Hear our prayer” is a common response to the Prayers of the Faithful. Though you may go to God humbly, sometimes you have a pretty good idea of what you want God to do; all that’s needed is for God to set your plan in motion. Yet faith requires not a well-thought-out solution but a willingness to give yourself over to God. "Surrender without reservation to the Lord who has called us,” says Saint Benedicta of the Cross. “This is required of us so that the face of... Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Did you ever go looking for your glasses when they were sitting right on top of your head? Or search everywhere for your car keys when they were lying on the table where you left them? There are times when we can look directly at something and not see it because we can’t believe it’s there. Take Jesus, for instance. We say we look for him and can’t find him. Yet the Bible says he is “near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (Romans :). Christ is in you, wrap... Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque is best known for introducing the observance of nine First Fridays in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. But she also had some wise words about how to put humility into practice: “Be humble towards God and gentle with your neighbor. Judge and accuse no one but yourself, and ever excuse others. Speak of God always to praise and glorify him, speak of your neighbor only with respect—do not speak of yourself at all, either well or ill.” Her advice m... Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When Jesus is asked by a scribe to name the single most important Commandment, he answers by citing not one, but two Commandments: to love God and to love neighbor. The scribe agrees with the answer. All this might seem a bit odd to us—wasn’t Jesus supposed to pick just one Commandment? Perhaps the message here is that we can’t really separate these two Commandments from one another—they come as a unit. It is impossible to “love God with all your heart” if ... Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Sometimes we don’t know what hit us. Power comes into our lives and takes our breath away. Was this mighty attraction we just felt a good thing or a bad thing? Was that charismatic speaker who cast a spell over us an evil genius or a saint? It all depends on which direction the demons are headed, according to Jesus. The spirit of holiness is a liberating power, and the spirit of darkness one that constricts us. The freer you are to open your arms in love, the closer you are to God&rsquo... Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Think of all the relationships in your life: family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and others. They don’t always go smoothly, but without them life would be pretty empty. Then think about God. God is a relationship, too: the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The whole story of scripture, the whole story of the church, tells of God calling creation, especially people, into community and communion with one another and with God. "Love God, serve God; everything is in that," says... Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In a women’s concentration camp in Nazi Germany, a prayer was found scrawled on a piece of wrapping paper. The anonymous writer commends to God “not only the men and women of good will, but also those of ill will. But do not remember all the suffering they have inflicted on us. Remember the fruits borne of this suffering: the loyalty, the humility, the courage, the generosity, the greatness of heart which has grown out of this. And when they come to judgment, let all the fruits wh... Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Often the people around us try to undermine our resolve to get physically and spiritually healthy. As we try to avoid addictive substances, find time for quiet contemplation, volunteer one night a week, or whatever we’ve committed to, others try to thwart us. Some loved ones may be worried that the measures we’re taking are too extreme; others may be suffering from the misery-loves-company syndrome—they choose not to get healthy and don’t want to be on that path alone.... Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today, catechumens experience the First Scrutiny, a ritual in which the whole church prays for them as they face squarely the power of evil and open themselves to Christ’s saving power. “Grant that these catechumens, who like the woman of Samaria, thirst for living water, may turn to the Lord as they hear his word and acknowledge the sins and weaknesses that weigh them down.” We who are already baptized should feel ourselves in the catechumens’ shoes and allow ourselve... Sun, 08 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC One of the hardest things our faith asks us to do is forgive others, especially when they have really hurt us. Shouldn’t I be angry, hold a grudge, and maybe even retaliate? Isn’t that what the person who hurt me deserves? Isn’t that what our current culture promotes? But Jesus calls us to love our enemies, to pray for those who persecute us. He’s not asking us to be doormats, but he is asking us to stop the spiral of damage one hurt can cause when we return pain for p... Sat, 07 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Many times in scripture we hear of messengers being mistreated—beaten and killed or, in the case of Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers. What is it about messengers that we are afraid of? It’s true that sometimes the message they carry is painful—at first. Yet the truth always has the potential to set us free. As these readings reveal, all types of people can be messengers. This Lent, be aware of the many messengers you encounter in the course of a day. Can you be open... Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Common Lenten practices include donations to the poor (which coincides nicely with spring cleaning) or service to those in need. In either case, if you’re debating on what to give away or just what you should do, consider this compelling insight from Saint Basil the Great: “The bread which you do not use is the bread of the hungry; the garment hanging in your wardrobe is the garment of the naked; the shoes which you do not wear are the shoes of one who is barefoot; the money that ... Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The mother of the apostles James and John doted on her sons and demanded the best for them, the way most parents would. Yet she soon learns that sharing the glory of Jesus means sharing his sacrifice as well. We are not to “be served but to serve,” Jesus tells his disciples; not to grab for the brass ring but for the polishing cloth of a slave. Service and humility pave the path to greatness. “For leadership there is only one road: service,” says Pope Francis, “T... Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It’s not hard when you’re a parent to inflict authority on your children—and it can be the same with bosses, principals, pastors, and others in leadership roles. We don’t mean to do it; it just sort of happens. It’s the model for “being in charge” that we inherited. The problem is that it doesn’t seem to work. What if we turned it around and served the goodness that is already in our kids and others entrusted to our care? Praise for the good thi... Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The word alms literally means mercy, so we might think of our charitable giving as mercy in action. We give relief to the poor without conditions: Not because they have earned it, but simply because they need it and we have it. As Dorothy Day used to say, we cannot discriminate between the “deserving” and “undeserving” poor. In the same way, we are called upon to forgive those who cause offense or injury to us. We don’t forgive others because they have made thems... Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Peter’s idea at the Transfiguration charms us with its reasonableness. When blessed with the sturdy foundation of the law of Moses, the strong prophetic tradition of Elijah, and the kindly ministry of Jesus, why not build an institution that encompasses all three? Peter’s plan wasn’t faulty, because the church does honor all these roads to truth in its scripture. But Peter’s architectural model envisioned these men as leaders of equal merit. God, the voice that s... Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-03-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Love your enemy. It’s a simple statement. Clear. Concise. Direct. But oh, how it makes us squirm. Yet this commandment is the heart of Jesus’ message: love has no cut-off points. There is no end to loving. No time when we get to say, “Now you’ve done it. No more love for you.” Without God, unending love is impossible. It is only in God—living inside the mind and heart of God—that loving our enemies becomes possible and, indeed, the most natural way to... Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC While Lent is about being turned around and setting things right with God, it is not only a matter of regular churchgoing. In fact, Jesus says that offering a gift, a ritual sacrifice to God, definitely takes second place to being in right relationship with one another. Because, as Pope Francis says, "Outside of forgiveness there is no hope; outside of forgiveness there is no peace." Today’s a day of abstinence. Hunger pangs may be useful as physical reminders that we have fence-mending... Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Even those who rarely think of God know how to pray in case of emergency. We are readily moved to pray when someone we love is sick or in need, or when we ourselves are lost or scared. But is there a prayer for other times, when the immediate concern is not so pressing? The church recommends this formula: Pray first for the universal church and its leaders. Second, pray for the world and global concerns. Next, intercede for the sick, remember the dead, and pray for your faith community. And f... Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Just one week ago, each of us vowed to avoid temptations and distractions and turn our attention toward God. How’s it going? Remember change is a process—as one psychology professor put it: “It’s a marathon, not a -yard dash.” No doubt you still have many moments each day when you forget who loves you and who deserves your love. Don’t worry. The key is to not give up when you slip up. Remember the words of Saint Josemaría Escrivá: "A saint ... Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Think about the Lord’s Prayer and the words “who art in heaven.” Those words are not referring to heaven as a distant place. It is the place we can enter here and now. The “Our Father” reveals not so much where God is but who God is and how God acts. God is holy. God is in charge. God hears and responds to the needs of those who call for help. God offers forgiveness and shows us how to forgive. God does not abandon us to temptation but rather delivers us from the... Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In our Creed, we profess faith in “all that is seen and unseen.” The unseen is not only the parts of the created universe we’ve yet to discover but the Spirit’s workings we’ve yet to comprehend. Jesus tells us he can be found in the least of our brothers and sisters, yet most of us squint and strain and still find our vision blurred. Next time you pass one who is hungry and thirsty, try to see your father, mother, child, spouse, or friend in the face looking up a... Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Now is the time to become aware of your parish’s catechumens or candidates. Assure them that you are walking with them all through the season. At the Easter Vigil the assembly will witness their Baptism into the Lord. Make room in your daily prayer for these people who are taking significant steps to orient themselves toward the cross and Resurrection of Jesus. Ask them to pray for you. Let the joy of being a companion brighten your own journey as well as theirs. They are soon to be you... Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Adults try to help young people discern how to choose their friends wisely and be a good friend to others. We encourage them to associate with upstanding and trustworthy people. We pray that they will lead exemplary Christian lives, which—if they take Jesus’ words to heart—will mean that they’ll end up eating and drinking with sinners! But there’s a catch: Jesus neither joins in the sin nor judges the sinner. He merely extends an offer of peace to people who are ... Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Fasting and mercy go together, like meat and potatoes—or, because it’s the first Friday of Lent, coleslaw and deep-fried cod. “Mercy is to fasting as rain is to the Earth,” says Early Church Father Saint Peter Chrysologus. “However much you may cultivate your heart, clear the soil of your nature, root out vices, sow virtues, if you do not release the springs of mercy, your fasting will bear no fruit.” Who might benefit from your mercy during your Lenten fas... Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When Jesus asks us to take up our cross daily and follow him, he’s not saying we need to seek out maximum pain. But he is saying that we can and should embrace suffering that is inescapable or for a higher good, rather than trying to avoid it at all costs. “Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring,” Saint Catherine of Siena reminds us. To take up our cross means to give our lives over to walking in the loving ways of God—a love which, as every Eucharist rem... Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It’s the beginning of a new season of Lent for those who believe. Lent traditionally takes on a penitential tone with somber purple color and the practice of fasting, prayer, and charitable giving. But we shouldn’t forget that Lent comes from the Old English word for “spring,” and in this sense it’s a sort of spiritual new year, a season of rebirth and renewal. “Lent is a time of grace, a time for conversion, a time to come home to God,” says Saint Ma... Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Being “hard of heart” might be the biblical equivalent of having a thick skull. And most of the time the disciples, God bless them, are guilty as charged. At many points in the gospel accounts they misunderstand, misinterpret, or otherwise mismanage the Good News Jesus is trying to communicate to them. They are therefore the perfect role models for all who have followed Jesus since then. The simplicity and clarity of notions such as “love one another” and “do unt... Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Generations still seek a sign. But often we look for signs in the wrong place and remain oblivious to the divine inklings all around us. “If there is anyone who is not enlightened by this sublime magnificence of created things," says Saint Bonaventure, “he is blind. If there is anyone who, seeing all these works of God, does not praise Him, he is dumb; if there is anyone who, from so many signs, cannot perceive God, that man is foolish.” Open your eyes and look around. When ... Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Breaking Bad, the highly acclaimed television series (-) in which a desperate and dying chemistry teacher decides to become a producer of methamphetamine to make sure his family is cared for, is a modern morality tale that illustrates the destruction and death that are the consequences of making wrong choices, or “breaking bad,” as it were. With each ill-conceived decision it becomes easier to make the next until you become so turned around that you completely lose your mora... Sun, 15 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC This is real love: two brothers dedicate their lives to serving a people not their own. Born in ninth-century Greece, Methodius was older and eventually attained the office of archbishop. Cyril, more philosophical, was a linguist and theologian. Both took on the evangelizing of Moravia. There, Cyril devised the Slavic alphabet developed by later disciples and called Cyrillic in his honor. Both brothers fought for Bibles and liturgy in the language of the people. Pope John Paul II declared Cyr... Sat, 14 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus performed many miracles but never did so by force. Neither would he coerce anyone to listen to him, much less to speak up on his behalf. If we choose to ignore the Good News in our own lives, we have the free will to do so. "He who created us without our help will not save us without our consent," says Saint Augustine. It’s up to us to say yes to faith, to say yes to the truth of God’s love. God would never force you to do so. Faith is freely given and freely exercised. Exer... Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Did Jesus think of his own mother as the Gentile woman with the sick daughter argued with him for a healing? Mothers (and fathers) don’t want to talk politics and policy when their children are in need. They just want help and they want it now. Such confrontations take place every day in schools, emergency rooms, and social service offices, as parents argue for the well-being of their little ones. “Yes,” they say, “I know your mission statement [or charter, or law] doe... Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC With the season of Lent and its practice of fasting arriving next week, it’s a little puzzling to remember that Jesus was a great breaker of fasts and violator of religious food rules—that was one thing that got him into trouble with the authorities. His followers gathered grain on the Sabbath because they were starving. He ate with sinners and outcasts. He simply did not follow the rules, but for a purpose: to show how the rules should not control but rather serve to bring a pers... Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Scholastica (c. -c. ), together with her brother Benedict, founded the Western monastic tradition. Benedict’s rule of life emphasized gentleness and respect, qualities that were evident in the close relationship between Scholastica and Benedict. After adopting monastic life, the two allowed themselves one day a year to visit each other. They would meet at a small cottage halfway between Scholastica’s convent and Benedict’s abbey. Their great contribution to Catho... Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Who gets healed in the gospels? Mostly it’s those who make some small act of faith in Jesus. Today’s gospel tells of all the people healed in body and spirit just by touching Jesus’ cloak. The gospel points to two elements of spiritual healing: willingness and connection. Before God can do anything for us, we must break out of the paralysis of despair and be willing to reach out. If we make just the slightest move toward God, amazing changes are possible. As Pope Francis exp... Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Twentieth-century writer Aldous Huxley said of love: “There isn’t any secret formula or method. You learn love by loving.” At every crossroad, at every bump in the road in your relationships with others, this is a simple truth to put into practice: Learn to love by loving; learn to forgive by forgiving. It isn’t any more complicated than that. The choice is yours. Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Is the weekend a time to relax for you? Saturday will find some of us on the job, for sure—someone’s got to keep those stores, restaurants, and theatres open. But even those of us who don’t go into work will still keep plenty busy over the weekend, driving the kids around, catching up on laundry, getting groceries, and doing everything else put on hold from Monday to Friday. Jesus invites his friends to step aside and “come away” from all that once in a while to ... Sat, 07 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Brother Paul Miki, a Jesuit and a native of Japan, is the best known among the martyrs who died in Japan in . As he died on a hill in Nagasaki he said, “After Christ’s example I forgive my persecutors. I do not hate them. I ask God to have pity on all, and I hope my blood will fall on my fellow men as a fruitful rain.” Indeed, it did. Centuries later, missionaries returned to Japan to find thousands of Christians who had quietly preserved the faith underground until i... Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When facing challenges, we can turn to the saints for help. The church raises up women and men who are in solidarity with us, including saints who have experienced some of the same horrors that people today have. As we fight for human dignity and the protection of life, we can look to saints like Saint Agatha, who knew personally the terror of sexual assault and torture, or to Saint Josephine Bakhita, who was sold into slavery at the age of and eventually won her freedom and became a Canoss... Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “Well, who do they think they are?” neighbors wonder as they gossip about the behavior of other neighbors and make decisions like “they’ve grown too big for their britches.” In traditional societies—today and in the time of Jesus—such criticism tells people that the priorities of the community to fit in and get along are valued over priorities of the individual. But judging the personal lives of others can create conflict and cause jealousy. Indeed, &... Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Many stories of healing in scripture are of the miraculous variety; they’re “supernatural”—“above” nature—and on God’s power over everything, including natural things like illness. While such miracles seem rarer today, one of the keys to healing remains trust: in God, whether the outcome is an actual cure or the acceptance of one’s situation. Either way, suffering eases. “Grace does not destroy nature but perfects it,” says Sai... Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Like most parents, Mary and Joseph wanted the best for their child. They were faithful Jews and desired their son to be raised in the faith that had sustained them. They took Jesus to the Temple to be consecrated and presented to God, where they met Simeon and Anna, elders of the community. The elders immediately recognized Jesus as the Messiah, the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel, a light to the whole world. What can you do this day to call forth the gifts of a child and encoura... Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The simplest way to think of humility may be “knowing one’s limitations.” Don’t be more—or less—than you are. For Christians, though, humility means something deeper than practicing a virtue; it’s a matter of putting others first, and “others” include God, people, and all of creation. The monk Thomas Merton wrote, “. . . The right of another . . . is the expression of God’s love and God’s will.” Why follow this craz... Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-02-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When we hear the word vocation, many of us think of ordained ministry or vowed religious life. Yet each of us has a unique calling that, if discerned and embraced, would make the best use of our gifts and talents. When we haven’t taken time to discover that call, our lives can feel less significant or effective than they were meant to be. In honor of Saint John Bosco (-), a pioneer in vocational training, take some time to ask yourself, “Who am I called to be?” A thoug... Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The tiny mustard seed adds flavor not only to many foods but also to a number of religious traditions. Jesus used the gospel parable of the mustard seed as a model for the reign of God. To teach humility, Jewish texts compared the knowable universe to the size of a mustard seed. And the Quran states that no soul will suffer the least injustice on the Day of Judgment because even the equivalent of a mustard seed will be accounted for on God’s scales of justice. Whenever you doubt that yo... Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Read just about any string of online “comments”—chances are if you’re a thoughtful person you won’t be able to get far—and you’ll quickly realize that many people don’t think much about what they say. In most virtual spaces, expressing opinions and feelings, no matter how shallow, uninformed, and irrelevant to the topic, is everything. So please note: Carelessness doesn’t fly when it comes to the gospel. Jesus wants his disciples to take t... Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The formidable thinking and writings of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Dominican theologian and doctor of the church, are still studied today, not only by Christian scholars but by secular philosophers as well. While Aquinas did refer to his massive and unfinished Summa Theologiae as “so much straw” when compared with what he came to discover in his relationship with Christ, he is nonetheless an important model for us today on the seemingly lost art of clear and logical thinking. We can al... Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus continually challenged his followers (and us) to think beyond rigid definitions and long-established rules. Angela Merici (-), founder of the Order of St. Ursula, was one who accepted this challenge. At a time when women were either supposed to marry or enter a convent, Angela understood that single women could live with their families, immerse themselves in their community, and evangelize through their good works. She considered the women who joined her mission her “daugh... Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “What is truth?” Pontius Pilate asked at Jesus’ trial. His question showed how little he understood of Jesus’ claim that “Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice” (John :). Today, people sometimes go to the opposite extreme and are a little too quick to call something, particularly their own ideas, the Truth. However, most of us recognize that truth has to do with something or someone we can trust and rely on. For Christians, God is the on... Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Do you feel different this year? What insights have you gained over the past months? In what ways have you changed? What areas in your life need your attention? You may feel like resting for a while. But remember, you can’t stand in one place indefinitely and be a disciple of Jesus. Christianity requires transformation and conversion, and these changes can take a lifetime. Invest in the resources (people, periodicals, books, and worship) that will serve as your walking shoes on your ... Sun, 25 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Many of Jesus’ relatives thought Jesus was out of his mind because of all the things he was saying and doing. Sixteen centuries later people thought Saints Francis de Sales and Jane Frances de Chantal were nuts for starting a religious order of sick and broken-down women who could not follow the more austere rules of religious life at the time. Yet together, like Mary at the Visitation, these women practiced “gentleness with a valiant spirit.” The Order of the Visitation has... Sat, 24 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC To what will you be called this day? Will it be to reconciliation and right relationship with a friend or coworker? To lead the way on a project using your gifts and a bit of inspiration from the Spirit? To lay aside your pride to help another person? To make someone smile? You may not see it coming, and you might not even realize it when it is happening, but throughout this day, indeed every day, you are called by God to bring about the gospel of Christ Jesus—to “do small things ... Fri, 23 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC While Christian unity comes to our attention each January, in the daily "culture wars" what divides people (including Christian from Christian) seems always more prominent. In the healthcare debate, for example, securing the noble goal of healthcare for all, including the poor and undocumented, sparks controversy and even belligerence. What of the borderless kingship of Christ? Christ's unconditional compassion is real only insofar as it is acted in our flesh. Unity among Christians will elud... Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Determining good and evil is rarely a simple affair. Saint Agnes refused to obey a Roman official and marry his son, so she was considered a defiant citizen, tortured and beheaded. Jesus healed on the Sabbath and so was considered a lawbreaker, tortured and hanged. Every age has its citizens and leaders who see things in black and white and stand ready to accuse any who would dare to admit to shades of gray when it comes to right and wrong. Be careful not to join their ranks. The world is fil... Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “We all want to live happily,” Saint Augustine wrote. “How is it, then, that I seek you, Lord?" For the answer, the Catechism of the Catholic Church advises: Look to the Beatitudes—a word that means “ultimate happiness” or “bliss”—in the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus explains how to be comforted, shown mercy, filled, even to inherit the Earth and see God. Happiness doesn’t come from money or power or fame, as tempting as they might be, ... Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity began in . The dates of the week were proposed by Father Paul Wattson, S.A., cofounder of the Graymoor Franciscan Friars. Popes Pius X blessed the concept and Benedict XV encouraged its observance. Protestant leaders in the mid-s also proposed an annual octave of prayer for unity. In , with the founding of the World Council of Churches, the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity became increasingly recognized by different churches throughout the ... Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Gospel of John tells us that the Spirit came down and remained on Jesus. The wording is no accident. At one point or another, each of us likely has had a powerful spiritual experience, a genuine “moment of connection” with the divine. Without diminishing the beauty and significance of such experiences, a single “peak experience” does not a spiritual life make. It is the day-in, day-out commitment to practice one’s faith that will create a deeply rooted spirit... Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Few of us would take aloneness to the extent of Saint Anthony of the Desert, who spent much of his years in solitude. Stories of Anthony say he was besieged by all kinds of temptations in the desert night. At some level we know that silence forces us to confront the reality of who we are before God. But, as Saint Anthony explains, it is a worthy pursuit: “One who knows oneself, knows God . . . Therefore, my beloveds in the Lord, know yourselves.” Opening up at such depth is in... Sat, 17 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC There's a lot in life that can get us down. Sometimes they are things of our own making, and sometimes, well, it's life. It's not always easy to know what to do. We can stand still and try to figure it out, or we can backtrack to see what happened. At some point, however, it is time to move forward—to step out of what happened and to imagine something new. “Begin now,” says Saint Jerome, “to be what you will be hereafter.” Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were the trusted priests of the ancient temple in Shiloh. But they were stealing from the temple and committing immoral acts. As a result, the army of Israel was cursed and got hammered by the Philistines. Hophni and Phinehas were slain and the Philistines took the ark of God captive. It is a cautionary tale about the faithful’s need for good leaders. Pray for vocations, and very specifically for men and women to serve the Lord in truth and inte... Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC You don’t have to look very hard into Catholic tradition to find stories of supernatural appearances of Jesus, the saints, and especially Mary to believers through the centuries. These kinds of occurrences really go back to biblical times. In the New Testament the Holy Spirit “appeared” in the form of a dove at Jesus’ Baptism, Jesus himself appeared to his disciples after his Resurrection, and the risen Christ made a decisive personal intervention in the life of Saint ... Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Of all the lessons Jesus tried to teach us, the one that is perhaps hardest to believe—and therefore easiest to forget—is that we are all one. Jesus reminded us of this truth a number of times, most notably when he declared, “Just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me” (Matt. :). Take a few minutes today to reflect on what life would be like if you knew, with as much certainty as you know your own name, that there... Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The tech industry would have us believe that the most important connections we make are virtual. While it's true that tech devices are useful in today's world, there remains the crucial connection with that still, small voice within our own hearts that no computer or phone can reach. That voice, which is God's, can only be heard in stillness: in the bare branches of trees against a winter sky, the quiet of new-fallen snow, the starry brilliance in a winter night sky, our breathing in and brea... Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In his birth (Christmas), his adoration by the Magi (Epiphany), and the coming of the Spirit upon him (Baptism of the Lord) Jesus is revealed to be the Son of God. These significant events in Jesus’ life are so closely tied that the Eastern Orthodox Church observes the coming of the Magi and the Lord’s Baptism on the same day. In the same way, our own births and Baptism signal that we are children of God and followers of Christ. As a new year begins, find ways to reconnect with yo... Sun, 11 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If you came to Earth from outer space, the sheer amount of teaching on chastity—the virtue of expressing sexuality appropriately—would convince you that it’s the one non-negotiable item on your spiritual checklist. While chastity is essential, humility is the fundamental virtue upon which a holy life is based. Humility comes from the word humus, earth or ground. It reminds us that we’re dust—or “not the Christ,” as John the Baptist famously put it. As... Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Why, when Jesus heals a leper, does he always tell the person not to say anything to anybody? Perhaps it is because the Lord broke a rule there. You see, according to the law of Moses, he wasn’t supposed to touch the leper. But he did. Jesus broke a lot of rules. That’s why he got into so much trouble. But Jesus was concerned with following God’s laws, not humanity’s, and such obedience, as Saint Philip Neri says, “is a shortcut to perfection.” Jesus pointe... Fri, 09 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Did Jesus know how to read? You may think that a strange question—various scripture passages say he did, and how could he not be able to do something that most schoolchildren in the United States today have learned by the age of or ? But for most of recorded history, being able to read and write was reserved to a small, elite segment of society. In the Roman Empire at the time Jesus lived, estimates say that only - percent of the population was literate. Judaism has always emphasi... Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC How often have you walked down a street, looking down at the sidewalk or your phone, and not noticed a tree, or a sign, or even an entire building? When you finally notice it, you wonder how you could have missed it all this time. This phenomenon of not seeing what is right in front of us is not uncommon, nor is it limited to the physical realm. We are often blind to spiritual realities as well. When this happens, we know our hearts are “hardened.” What does it take to soften our ... Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A prayer to André Bessette, a brother of the Holy Cross order who spent a lifetime counseling and praying for people from his desk at the entrance to his community’s residence in Montreal, says: “Grant us the grace to imitate his piety and charity so that, with him, we may share the reward promised to all those who care for their neighbor because of their love for you.” Love comes from God, and we love others because we love God and find God’s love in our love f... Tue, 06 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC At St. Alphonsus Church in downtown Baltimore you can visit the parish where Saint John Neumann served before he became a bishop. You can even step into his austere bedroom where a bed, tiny desk, kneeler, and picture of the Madonna make up his belongings. Simplicity was his obsession; becoming the bishop of Philadelphia certainly didn’t fit into that plan. Yet he embraced his office and took on the task of serving the burgeoning immigrant church by learning languages and doing what ... Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC America was once renowned as the land where people could come to breathe freely. The country was less settled then—but can feel quite crowded now, depending on where you’re living. The planet’s resources are scarcer and the natural environment more endangered. Still, Isaiah’s prophecy and the gospel both remind us of the considerable gift that migrant people bring with them. Whether king or commoner, each person offers what they have to make the dynamic community that ... Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In the gospels the name of Jesus carries lots of weight. God gave Jesus his name, which means “salvation,” before Jesus was conceived. People healed in the name of Jesus. Jesus was present to those who gathered in his name. For his disciples their mission was to proclaim his name to all nations and bring the love of Christ to the world. Thus, living in the name said who you were, what you believed, and what you were to do. "Jesus is the way that you must walk, and the truth that y... Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In sin we reject part of our humanity—the humanity of the Garden of Eden, where there is no shame or guilt but an open acceptance of God’s love. Fortunately for us, God meets our rejection by continually offering to restore our humanity and share in his divinity. As Saint Basil the Great points out, “It did not suffice God merely to call us back to life, but he has also granted us the dignity of His Godhead.” The love God holds for us is so unchangeable it not only bri... Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In a world torn by hateful discourse, violence, and war, we have been given the Prince of Peace to show us how to live in harmony. God’s peace begins within us and then extends to our families, workplaces, schools, churches, marketplaces, and halls of government. We can begin spreading peace with a simple prayer, like the one found in the Book of Numbers: “The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you kindly a... Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2026-01-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Just before midnight most people will be awake and anticipating the end of one year and the beginning of a new one. But when scripture talks about endings and beginnings, it means more than putting up a new calendar. The last hour means a new world is about to begin. God has done something new in Jesus. We are reborn to new life through him. “Consider all the past as nothing,” says Saint Francis de Sales, “and say, like David; ‘Now I begin to love my God.’”... Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “The world and its enticement are passing away.” These words from scripture evoke the dualism so much favored by certain New Testament writers, reflecting a mode of thought in which there continues a never-ending battle between good and evil, the world of darkness and the world of light. Christians believe that the battle is won, the world is redeemed. Yet anyone who has lived long enough knows that redeemed as “the world” may be, it is foolish to expect that worldly t... Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Russian composer Igor Stravinsky once wrote, “The more constraints one imposes, the more one frees one’s self.” It may sound paradoxical, but boundaries are necessary in life as well as in art. They provide a structure, a space in which we can most fully explore what it means to live and work and create. Far from restricting our freedom, limits actually give us our freedom. How is this so? Recall a time when you gave yourself unlimited time to finish a project. Did you? ... Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC On the walls of the North American headquarters of the Divine Word Missionaries there is a painting from China that depicts the Holy Family living as Chinese peasants. What’s especially interesting is that the painting shows them to be poor. In their small hut some paint is peeling from the walls, clothes are patched, and the table has seen better days. While Saint Joseph was probably not desperately poor, he and his family belonged to the vast majority of people who were outside the sm... Sun, 28 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When we receive a piece of news, often our first impulse is to think, “I can’t wait to tell ... !” We are social creatures, hardwired to live in community with other people, sharing our sorrows and our joys. Moreover, sharing has mathematical properties: It divides and multiplies. When we share bad news, our burden is lessened, and when we share good news, our happiness increases. Of course, the reverse is also true: When we don’t have someone with whom to share our st... Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Stephen’s Day, commemorating the first Christian martyr, is celebrated the day after Christmas, serving as a reminder that just as the naked cross looms above the empty tomb, so also its shadow falls across the crib—Jesus’ and our own. It is into human experience that the Christ is born, an experience that knows death, violence, and cruelty but a humanity also capable of love so true as to lay down life for a friend. Stephen was “filled with grace and power.&rdqu... Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today we celebrate the day God entered God’s own creation by becoming human. How can we authentically honor this day? One way is to notice and truly relish our own experience of being human. So often we hurry through the hours, heedless of the many sensations to be enjoyed. This Christmas may we wake up appreciating the delicious warmth of our beds, the sparkle of our decorations, the aroma of our holiday meals, the laughter of family and friends gathered, the words and music of Christm... Thu, 25 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It is no accident that scripture references the birth of John the Baptist on the day before we commemorate the birth of Jesus. John represents the culmination of Jewish prophetic hope for the Messiah, and his birth offers a fitting climax to the Advent season. John’s father, Zechariah, sings praises on the occasion of his son’s birth. Zechariah’s song, or canticle, is recited daily during the morning prayer of the church’s Liturgy of the Hours. It serves as a lovely cl... Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We end our observance of the O Antiphons today with praise for Emmanuel, our savior. “God is not distant: he is ‘Emmanuel,’ God-with-us. He is no stranger: he has a face, the face of Jesus,” proclaims Pope Benedict XVI in his Christmas address. “This message is ever new, ever surprising, for it surpasses even our most daring hope.” The one who is to come satisfies all of our greatest longings. We need look no further. All our fretting and straining for... Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Remember when we were kids and we used to play king of the hill? It was an important part of our social learning that the strongest among us would dominate. The same game is played out in world politics as nations rise and fall. The story of Christmas reminds us that Jesus is the world’s only real superpower, though the nations play their games of supremacy for a time. History reduces all empires to dust, but the reign of God endures forever. “Christ has dominion over all creature... Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today we name the Messiah “O Radiant Dawn, Sun of Justice, Splendor of Eternal Light!” Anyone whose morning commute includes a sunrise or who has risen early to watch the sun come up knows why primitive peoples and even our oh-so-sophisticated selves find godliness in a sunrise. At the Easter Vigil we sang “May the Morning Star which never sets find this flame still burning!” While Christmas lights have been shining for weeks, today we can think of them explicitly as a... Sun, 21 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Some years ago, Saint Teresa of Calcutta visited the neonatal intensive care unit of a Boston hospital. As she walked through the doors of the unit, the machines that usually hum and buzz and beep somehow stopped making noise, and every single baby fell silent. Mother Teresa stopped at each crib, spoke with the nurses and parents, had her picture taken holding a premature infant in the palm of her hand, and left. As the doors closed behind her, the usual cacophony of the unit resumed unabated... Sat, 20 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When it came time for the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king to replace Saul, God instructed Samuel to invite Jesse and his many sons to a sacrifice. When Jesse paraded his boys in review before the prophet, God told Samuel that not the oldest, the tallest, nor the most kingly looking were the leader God sought; the next king was to be David, the youngest and lowliest, whom Jesse left tending the flocks and did not even bother to bring along. “The Lord,” God says, “does not... Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The word righteousness may sound a little quaint these days, but the concept behind the word is central to an understanding of what God asks of us. The Hebrew word it corresponds to appears more than times in the Old Testament, and the Greek word it corresponds to more than times in the New Testament. Righteousness is chiefly concerned with ethical conduct: It implies faithfully keeping promises, treating people justly, and adhering to a high moral code. With justice of righteousness,... Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC These days before Christmas are a time of final preparation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. To mark this time the church prays the “O Antiphons.” An antiphon, from the Greek word for “responsively,” is a short prayer after psalms or biblical songs. They come up in the Liturgy of the Hours, but you also pray a kind of antiphon every Sunday: the psalm response between the first and second readings. We add the O Antiphons—so called because they all begin ... Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today begins the traditional Mexican festival of Las Posadas, a commemoration of Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Customarily neighbors gather together in a procession led by a child in angel’s garb and statues of the Holy Family. Together they seek out shelter at three local houses, only to be accepted at the last, where the family hosts a celebration. Seeking to share the path of the Holy Family places one in the vulnerable position of begging entrance into ... Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Children and prophets see things others don’t. The prophet Balaam saw beyond the injustice of his own generation to a time when the nation would be led by a great king who would arise in Israel. We too are called to see with that same prophetic clarity—the clear-eyed wonder of a child who perceives hope where others see only hardship. Consider the hope that comes with a little baby born in a manger as Saint Alphonsus describes it: “Mary invites all, rich and poor, just and s... Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When John the Baptist sends his disciples to Jesus to ask if he is the Messiah, Jesus doesn’t give them a direct answer but suggests they look at what they see and evaluate for themselves: The blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear, and the dead are raised. If someone as close to Jesus as John had to ask, we can forgive ourselves if at times we wonder about Jesus’ saving power in our own lives. Like the disciples of John, we’re challenged to figure out for ourselves by exam... Sun, 14 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC One quality that many saints share is the capacity to look beyond the sometimes horrific circumstances of their lives and see the presence of God. They see with their hearts. Saint Lucy is certainly among those saints with this ability. Tradition tells us that she was raped then tortured and murdered for being a Christian, but she remained steadfast in her faith until the end. Her feast day comes at a good time. Now, midway through Advent, we might be feeling the pressure to conjure up the &l... Sat, 13 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Artist J. Michael Walker produced his Virgin of Guadalupe series of paintings and sketches from -. One of the most memorable portraits in the series is Ironing, Thinking, where we see Mary with a slightly careworn expression on her face as she irons her famous cloak of stars while balancing her crown on her head with simple dignity. In trying to capture the spirit of Mexico on canvas, Walker said, “It is only natural that I should have fallen under the spell—along with mil... Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The pontificate of Damasus (-) occurred during a tumultuous period in the Early Church, with schisms and heresies on all sides. Perhaps Damasus’ greatest contribution was his insight that a standardized version of the Bible was desperately needed. In he commissioned a highly respected scholar named Jerome to revise the Bible into a more accurate and updated Latin version, working directly from the original Greek (New Testament) and Hebrew (Old Testament) versions. Saint Jerome... Thu, 11 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Asked what liturgical song most fostered and nourished their spiritual life, the majority of respondents in any given online poll will cite “On Eagle’s Wings” by Father Michael Joncas. The song, inspired by Isaiah’s prophecy and Psalm , contains the beautifully crafted refrain: “And He will raise you up on eagle’s wings, Bear you on the breath of dawn, Make you to shine like the sun, And hold you in the palm of His Hand.” Remember those words of sol... Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When Juan Diego (-) was canonized in , he became the first indigenous saint from the Americas. The farmer and mat weaver was in his s when Hernán Cortés led the conquest of Spain in , and within three years the first wave of Franciscan monks arrived near Juan’s village. Juan and his wife were among the first of the indigenous residents to accept Baptism. Despite their age, the couple opened their hearts to a new beginning and readily uprooted themselves t... Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC What is grace? One way to think of it is anything that comes from God. We can think of it in terms of what we give to God: prayer and worship, service to others, doing God’s will. Or what God sends to us: the gift of creation, love, inspiration, consolation, help, and much more. Mary had grace in abundance—both what she gave and received. Make today a day of prayer to her to intercede for us and inspire us to give and receive God’s grace. Here is a simple prayer from Saint T... Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Advent can seem like a wintery Lent—purple decor, sober worship, scripture about the end times. While it is about focusing on our inner life, it’s not from the perspective of repentance but a passionate desire for God. Unfortunately, a quiet time like Advent is easily shouted down by the madness of a jump-started Christmas. Advent is not a to-do list; it’s a gift tied in purple velvet ribbon. Unwrap it—it’s “just what you always wanted!” Confront your... Sun, 07 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC As Jesus sent out the apostles after empowering them to proclaim God's kingdom and heal the sick, he admonished them not to charge for their services: "You received without payment; give without payment." As the nation struggles with difficult questions of effective, affordable, and universal healthcare, it is good to take a step back from the heat of the debate and look at larger principles. The U.S. Bishops recently stated in a letter to Congress: “We firmly believe that all people... Sat, 06 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC At First Sight is a movie that tells the true story of a blind man who, at the urging of a friend, undergoes experimental surgery to restore his sight. The operation is successful; his retina works and he can see. Or at least his eyes function. But he finds he must still finger objects to “know” what they are. He can “see” a cheese grater, for example, but he doesn’t know what it is until he has felt it with his hands. Seeing is a function of light striking the r... Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Historically speaking, the various deities revered by tribes and cultures around the world usually did little more than reinforce the position of those in power. From the Egyptians to the Aztecs, civilizations usually were led by a religious elite who controlled the resources, made the decisions, and “spoke for the gods.” That is what makes the testimony of the Jewish prophets so remarkable. They regularly took the rich and powerful to task while advocating for the poor and margin... Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC One of the founding members of the Jesuits, Saint Francis Xavier (-) is considered to have been one of the greatest missionaries since the apostles. Appointed to re-evangelize portions of the Far East, Francis placed himself with the lowest castes, preaching to the sick and dying at hospitals and orphans and slaves in the street. He understood that if the fire of Christianity were to spread through the East, the kindling must begin at the base of society. Rather than arriving like a roy... Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC ’Tis the season when scenes of peace and serenity start arriving in our mailboxes daily. Every Christmas card is a bid for a more hopeful world. A star shines against the darkness of a fearful nation. A child is born into a culture sadly given over to ways of death and destruction. Wild animals learn to live together as people never do. Even Saint Nick brings gifts through a spirit of generosity as wide as his belly. This year let’s bring those Christmas scenes to life, so that, i... Tue, 02 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC To become a Roman centurion, a soldier had to be literate, come highly recommended, be at least years of age, and have already served some time in the Roman army. This was no cushy job. Centurions suffered heavy casualties in battle because they led their “century” of troops from the front. However, their brave example inspired courage in the soldiers who followed behind them. One well-known centurion also became an inspiration of faith for centuries of Christians when he asks ... Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-12-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It may seem strange to talk about Christ’s Second Coming when we’re just starting to prepare for the celebration of his first. But that’s exactly what the scripture readings for the first two Sundays of Advent do; it’s not until the third and fourth Sundays that we get to the Incarnation part. “You . . . must be prepared,” we hear, “for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” What gives? Why speak of the End at the Beginning? Be... Sun, 30 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC There’s that part of the Mass during the “Our Father” when the priest says, “… As we wait in joyful hope for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.” Does it ever occur to us that the “coming of our Savior” could mean the moment when we die? When our mortal lives end and our world passes away, all that will be left is the eternal, the ever-presence of God. If we live as though there is only this present life, then the Lord’s coming will c... Sat, 29 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Every age has its own particular mindset through which the people view their world. Our st-century perspective could be called “scientific.” Whatever we can see with our eyes and measure with our instruments, we believe. Eight hundred years ago the prevailing attitude was “wonder.” In the Middle Ages all of creation was viewed as a symbol. It was a book in which every living thing was a word charged with meaning. The faithful were called to look through the visible t... Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Despite the rosy-colored rendition in childhood schoolbooks, not all was peaceful among the first settlers of Plymouth Colony. The passengers aboard the Mayflower were divided into camps based on differences over religion. Knowing they would face a test of survival upon landing, the rival groups were able to patch things up well enough by signing the Mayflower Compact in and adopting a common identity as Pilgrims. A year later they gave thanks to God and the Wampanoag people for helping ... Thu, 27 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Numbered, weighed, and divided: That’s how God intends to deal with the assets of the unjust in the day of judgment, according to the Book of Daniel. But you can ward off a similar fate by numbering, weighing, and dividing your own resources in the direction of the common good. Almsgiving isn’t only for Lent but can be a useful way to keep your heart open to the disadvantaged every week of the year. “The person who shows love and compassion to those in any kind of affliction... Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We’re nearing the end of the liturgical year, so a fair number of lectionary scripture passages this month urge us to see with the eyes of faith. We are to look beyond what is right in front of us and know this: What we see with our eyes and hear with our ears is only part of reality—and not necessarily the most interesting or important part at that. Storms may come, but they are not what we should give our attention to. “The important thing,” says Saint Teresa of &Aac... Tue, 25 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Vietnam has had a thriving Catholic faith rooted there since the th century, a faith so strong that it produced Vietnamese martyrs whom we remember today, all beatified and canonized between and . In three American archbishops visited that country and said upon their return that in spite of the horrors of the war “the church in Vietnam is alive and vigorous . . . living out the gospel in a difficult and complex situation with remarkable persistence and strength.&rdqu... Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Power seems cool to possess—from a distance. You can do anything with enough of it: Order people around; get your way; make money, squander it, and get more. Those with worldly power are seemingly invincible—every comfort, security, and cure is theirs for the taking. That’s why the crowds around the cross mock Jesus as a phony. If he really had juice, why is he hanging up there? What they failed to appreciate is the divine use of authority: not for self-preservation, but pou... Sun, 23 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Legend has it that Saint Cecilia (d. ) wanted to dedicate her life to Christ as a virgin, but her parents married her to a Roman nobleman. She eventually converted her husband, Valerian, and his brother to Christianity by her belief in angels. “There is an angel who watches over me,” she is said to have told her husband. When he asked to see the angel, Cecilia replied that he must be baptized first. Once baptized, Valerian witnessed an angel holding crowns of roses and lilies w... Sat, 22 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC While not recorded in the Bible, this day celebrates God’s choice of Mary to play a role in salvation history and her presentation at the Temple as a child to be offered to God. Francis of Assisi celebrated Mary with his “Salutation of the Virgin,” which includes these lovely acclamations of Mary: “Hail, O Lady, Holy Queen, God’s Holy Mother Mary! You have been made the Virgin Church and chosen by the most Holy Father in heaven./ You has he consecrated with His m... Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Gone on a retreat lately? Most areas have places to make retreats, often run by religious orders or dioceses. Retreats come in all shapes and sizes: individual or group, programmed or unstructured, a day or a week. You can use them to get back in touch with what's most important spiritually or just to get some rest. Going on a retreat, though, doesn't have to mean blocking out time, making a reservation, and hitting the road. One retreat you can always make is in the silence of your heart. "F... Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Womanly is a word that too often has been used by our culture to suggest weakness or inadequacy. Worse, these negative connotations can sometimes lead to derision and oppression. Phrases such as “throws like a girl,” though harmless-sounding, reflect this negativity. Yet when we look at the women around us, in the Bible, and in our Catholic tradition, we find women who exhibit a womanliness that is synonymous with courage, strength, boldness, and savvy. They have led countries, bu... Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Zacchaeus the tax collector is the only person in the gospels who has their height mentioned. But in the end, it is not for his smallness that Zacchaeus is remembered but the bigness, the boldness, and the determination of his desire to see Jesus and turn his life around. Doubtless Mr. Z.’s antics in climbing a tree got Jesus’ attention, but what was really impressive was that desire for faith, so stunning that Jesus invites himself to the tax collector’s house for dinner, b... Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Not too many princesses looked beyond the walls of their palaces to notice the poor—the people who more than likely made up most of their realm. But Elizabeth of Hungary did. Married in to Louis of Thuringia, a pious husband, she lived simply and devoted herself to works of mercy even though she was the wife of a ruler. After the death of her husband in battle, she left court, arranged for the care of her three children, and associated herself with the Franciscans. She established ... Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If you pay attention to the news, it wouldn’t be too much to think the world is going to you-know-where in a handbasket. Violence, crime, corruption, illness, poverty, ignorance, and plain old self-centeredness seem to rule the day. In Jesus’ time some said those kinds of things were signs of the end of the world. Christ himself knew the list: “powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place.” But he also urged caution: “When you hear of wars and i... Sun, 16 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC As scientists probe ever more deeply into the mysteries of life, some people of faith feel threatened by the new terrain being traversed. But rather than retreat from the field, believers do well to bring their faith and ethics to the dialogue. We can turn to Saint Albert the Great (/-) for inspiration. Albert was a Dominican friar and priest famous for his advocacy of the peaceful coexistence of science and religion. Tutor to Saint Thomas Aquinas, Albert brought Aristotle out of th... Sat, 15 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Old cathedrals preserve images of a sea of flames in which men and women are paying the penalty for their dissolute living. Replace the word “penalty” with “preparation,” and the idea of a “place” where souls are sent with the concept of a “process.” That comes closer to how the church speaks of purgatory today. Purgatory is a process whereby each soul is prepared for glory. If God is Love, then anything unloving or unyielding in our spirits mus... Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The word kingdom, found in the frequently used New Testament phrase “kingdom of God,” comes from the Greek basileia, meaning “kingdom,” “reign,” or most literally “foundation.” Jesus laid God’s foundation among us, and Christians continue to build on that foundation through lives of love and service. Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini (-) desired to build her life on Christ: “Convert me, Jesus,” she wrote in her diary, &ldquo... Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus asks a good question in the story about the lepers he cleansed after only one returned to offer thanks: Where were the other nine? We can only imagine they were off doing exactly what Jesus told them to do: showing themselves to the priests, a Jewish ritual prescribed for the healing of leprosy. The tenth man, a Samaritan, wasn’t bound by Jewish law. So he was free to return and thank the Lord. When it comes to leading a virtuous life, it’s always a safe bet to follow the... Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If conscientious objectors had a patron saint, it would be Saint Martin of Tours (/-). Though Martin was born into a military family and named after Mars, the god of war, his conversion to Christianity led him to renounce military service and dedicate his life to the gospel. “I am a soldier of Christ,” he said. “I cannot fight.” Such a decision, then and now, is never easy for a soldier to make and, depending on the time or place, could lead to imprisonment (a... Tue, 11 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It’s easy to fall into the habit of blaming others when things go wrong. But Jesus challenges us to take responsibility for our own actions. At the same time, Jesus calls us to hold each other accountable: “If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him” (Luke :). There’s a tension here—justice and mercy—but they go hand in hand. For Saint Augustine forgiveness is a great gift we can give to others and ourselves: “There are many k... Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC How often, when we speak of church, we have to clarify whether we mean the faith community or the building where that community gathers. The fact that the memorial of the dedication of the Church of St. John Lateran today replaces even the Sunday liturgy reminds us that our faith reaches into the clay from which we are made. We celebrate this building—the pope’s own cathedral, the mother of all churches—remembering that human beings need things that appeal to the senses to r... Sun, 09 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Gospel of Luke often treats money with suspicion, likely because of how easily it can be accumulated and used to exploit others. But not entirely. As Saint John Chrysostom instructs: “Wealth and poverty are neither good nor evil in themselves. They become either good or evil from the will of those who use them.” Every Christian must ask themselves how they value money. Is it your master? Or is God your master? “If you use your wealth for the purposes of philanthropy,&rdq... Sat, 08 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We humans are hard-wired to focus our attention on the object in front of us: the oncoming car, the apples we are slicing for pie, the words on a page. Yet also worthy of our notice is the space between those things, which is captured in the German term Zwischenraum. Zwischenraum refers to the interval between objects or concepts: the gaps between the pickets of a fence, the bare branches of a winter tree, the pauses in music or conversation. These spaces often go unnoticed, yet they are esse... Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Scripture speaks of the rejoicing that goes on in heaven when a lost soul is found. Apparently, God does not like to lose. As Pope Francis put it: “God is not a good loser.” God will search for us. “God has a certain loving weakness for those who are furthest away, who are lost,” says Francis, who goes on to say in a sermon that when God brings the lost sheep back to the fold, we shouldn’t say, "you are lost," but rather that "you are one of us," because thi... Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When Jesus talks about being his disciple, he warns us that the road will be difficult and rocky. Instead of looking at Christ’s words in a negative way, consider what is driving you toward discipleship in the first place. As Saint John Paul II explains: “It is Jesus who stirs in you the desire to do something great with your lives, the will to follow an ideal, the refusal to allow yourselves to be ground down by mediocrity, the courage to commit yourselves humbly and patiently to... Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC As the Council of Trent tried to reform questionable practices in the church, Borromeo believed that if laypeople were being asked to uphold a higher moral standard, clergy needed to set the example and renew their apostolic spirit. He gave generously from church wealth to charity, and during the plague and famine that struck Milan in , while civil authorities fled and to the detriment of his own health, Borromeo stayed and ministered to the sick and dying, borrowing large sums of money t... Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In the neighborhood lives an elderly man who’s had a record five strokes. Each has taken a little piece of his ability and freedom away. He gets along with a small army of friends and assistants who come in a few hours at a time to care for him. But the one thing he really wants is to for someone to take him out to lunch. No one wants that responsibility. The inconvenience of lifting a disabled fellow in and out of a car seems too great. When Jesus throws a banquet, however, folks like ... Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When we pray the Hail Mary, we ask for the help of Mary our Mother at two crucial moments of our lives: “now, and at the hour of our death.” Now is an important occasion because it is the time of decision. The hour of our death is critical because it’s the last moment over which we exercise our will. When we pray for the dead, today and every day, we come to the spiritual assistance of those who can no longer help themselves. We can rest assured that one day the church will ... Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saints come from everywhere—small towns and big cities, local neighborhoods and faraway lands. They are men and women, old and young, laborers and professionals, humble folk and royalty. They wear medical uniforms, bishop miters, religious habits, worker shirts, farmer overalls, and beggar rags. They are the blessed of the gospel Beatitudes, a word from the old Latin that means “happy.” One of them could be reading this page right now. It all depends on how blessedly happy y... Sat, 01 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-11-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Despite his differences with the Pharisees, Jesus never stopped interacting with them, even going so far as to dine with them. And if they were not particularly open to his message, they at least were impressed enough to share a meal with him and hear him out. In an age where public differences of opinion, played out in front of the ever-present media, seem to descend to the level of insult and demonization, consider breaking bread with someone with whom you disagree. Though you will not sett... Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC For those times when God seems distant or absent, when people move through their day and don’t see signs of God anywhere, it’s easy to forget that God is behind it all. Yet even a world that feels more haunted rather than filled with God’s presence is still beloved creation—the expression of God’s overflowing love. A number of spiritual masters have suggested the practice of seeing God in all things. After all, if God really did create everything, it must be poss... Thu, 30 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus speaks of entering salvation through the “narrow door.” Other translations refer to it as the “narrow gate.” Walled portions of Jerusalem contained some gates that were so narrow it was said a person would have trouble passing through them carrying much with them. Perhaps this image can help us consider why the path to salvation involves a narrow passage—we can’t carry anything with us to the other side; it’s only us, shorn of our props and poss... Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Zealots, of which the apostle Simon was a member, were the radical and militant resistance to the Roman military occupation of Palestine in the first century. Today we would call them insurgents. Though Jude likely did not belong to the Zealots, the devotion that bears his name today is one of the most zealously fervent in the church. Both Simon and Jude, then, join with us in fighting against the oppression that would take away our hope. To that end we are invited to join our resources w... Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The synagogue leaders, upon seeing Jesus raise up a woman bent in two by years of infirmity, were indignant that Jesus had done this astonishing, good thing on the Sabbath, a day when it was forbidden to work. It seems that those who choose external compliance over compassion are more bent over—bent in upon themselves—than the woman whom Jesus bids, “Stand up.” Being a stand-up person sometimes means going against convention, expectation, and even laws. Choose a loving... Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “Do you know who I am?” That’s the question maître d’s, hotel clerks, even arresting officers occasionally receive from the celebrated and powerful among us whose sense of privilege and entitlement gets the best of them. Contrast that with the question Jesus asks his disciples about the word on the street, “Who do they say I am?” When they answer, “The Messiah,” Jesus swears them to silence. In the words of the th-century monk Thomas Mer... Sun, 26 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC One of the choices life offers is whether to let God be part of your life. Of course, God is always present, within you and around you, but you can choose to ignore, shut out, or pretend God isn’t there. Saint Paul called this “I don’t need God attitude” living in “the flesh” and believed this illusion of self-sufficiency hid the road to death. Openness to the divine, though—to the power and Spirit of Christ—guides you to life in God. “If ... Sat, 25 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We’re used to thinking about God as “hidden” or invisible, requiring an effort to perceive in the world around us, and one whom we will know fully only when we die. After all, doesn’t Saint Paul say, “Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face”? But it’s also true that signs of God, as Jesus said, lie everywhere and are as obvious as a cloud bringing rain or a hot wind promising warm weather. So be a meteorologist for God. The si... Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus shocks his disciples—and many of us as well, no doubt—when he declares that he came not to establish peace but rather division, to “set the earth on fire.” What kind of fire did he have in mind? Fire in biblical times was associated with God’s action in the world and the lives of people. Jesus is using strong language to impress upon us the importance of taking responsibility for our spiritual growth. Do our relationships, choices, lifestyles, and loyalties... Thu, 23 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC On the back of countless trucks on our highways appears the curious inquiry: “How is my driving?” The accompanying number to call invites our critique. What if we all came equipped with signs inviting the moral critique of those around us? We might be surprised and not at all pleased with the feedback. Thankfully, Christianity doesn’t rely on external judgment; Jesus even warned against judging others. But we are encouraged to perform our own regular examination of conscienc... Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Waiting is among the greatest spiritual challenges a believer faces. Twentieth-century French philosopher and Jesuit priest Pierre Teilard de Chardin, whose visionary writings were not always well received in certain Catholic circles, knew what it meant to wait. It wasn’t until several decades after his death that the church fully embraced his theological insights. His prayer “Patient Trust,” borne out of his own trials, continues to offer hope for those who wait: “Abo... Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jealously guarding our time can be considered a form of greed. We receive from God the gift of /; we need to give some of it away. That's why this week we observe Pastoral Care Week, sponsored by the National Association of Catholic Chaplains. This week was established to recognize the many ways church professionals respond with attentive listening to those with physical, emotional, or spiritual concerns. Hospitals, prisons, nursing homes, and your local parish will accept volunteers who w... Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “Sometimes I get so mad at God,” one woman told the priest, “that I’d like to punch him right in the nose!” Yikes! It sounds irreverent, but that’s exactly what Jesus is saying in an amusing parable about a widow and a judge. The judge renders a decision for the widow because he fears the woman will strike him! If that’s true for a worldly judge, Jesus says, how much more will the Judge of All be quick to answer a prayer. Faith, then, is waiting in jo... Sun, 19 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Today we celebrate Saint Luke, author of the Acts of the Apostles as well as the gospel that bears his name. Thanks to Luke we have an original, compelling portrait of Jesus, our Messiah, the master who emphasized the importance of prayer and who cared deeply for women and the poor, the outcast, the ill, and the lowly. Luke is the only one of the four evangelists whose stated purpose in writing his gospel is so that others would be assured of the truth of what they’ve already learned. H... Sat, 18 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Ignatius of Antioch (c. -) is one of the apostolic fathers of the church, a small group of Christian authors who lived close to the time of Jesus and had personal contact with some of the apostles. It is said that Saint Peter himself appointed Ignatius to be bishop of Antioch. Tradition also has it that as a young child Ignatius had been one of the children Jesus took in his arms and blessed (Matthew :-). Whether or not historically true, this story signals something each of us ... Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It helps to know things will work out before you get started on them. Paying bills is easy when you know the money is there. Getting something fixed is a less anxious experience when you have confidence in the repair person. So it is with the spiritual life. In all the apparent struggle to believe, live a holy life, and do the right thing, we can forget how much God has already done for us. And Saint Paul makes this point many times. We are already blessed. We already have redemption in Chris... Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Ever wonder whether you are in good spiritual health? It’s easy to assess: If love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control come easily to you, you’re in good shape. If hatred, rivalry, jealousy, outbursts of fury, acts of selfishness, and envy are your frequent reactions to events, you’re in need of a spiritual workout. Let Saint Teresa of Ávila (-), reformer and church doctor, be your spiritual trainer. Step one: ... Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Pharisees may have gotten a bit of a bum rap in the New Testament because of events that occurred after Jesus’ death. The passages of the New Testament that are most hostile to the Pharisees were compiled at a time when it had become clear that most Jews did not consider Jesus to be the Messiah. The Pharisees may have served as a convenient scapegoat for that rejection. The Pharisaic tradition was in fact more flexible on many questions than it was portrayed to be. It does us well t... Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When in Luke’s gospel Jesus uses the phrase the "sign of Jonah,” most of us would think of the whale. But Jesus has something else in mind. Jonah had been a prophet sent by God to convert the pagan city of Nineveh—a job Jonah didn’t want. But when he finally buckled down and did what God asked, the people—much to Jonah’s astonishment—converted! So for Jesus the “sign of Jonah” recalls the Ninevites’ acceptance of God’s word thr... Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Whether Jesus was speaking to a woman who had anointed him in a Pharisee’s house, another woman whom he had cured of a hemorrhage, or a leper whom he’d cleansed, his closing words were much the same: “Your faith has saved you.” Believing in Jesus’ power to heal had opened the door to healing. Some versions of the Bible, though, translate this phrase a little differently: “Your faith has made you well.” To be “saved,” then, can mean to be m... Sun, 12 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC One day a female follower of Jesus, apparently touched by his words, was moved to shout out a blessing on him: “Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed,” perhaps wishing that she herself should have such a son. Yet Jesus demurs and turns the blessing back upon her and all like her. While Jesus’ mother and her womb are indeed blessed as we pray in the “Hail Mary,” Jesus takes even greater delight in those of either gender who allow... Sat, 11 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Demons can make for great supernatural thrillers in the entertainment world, but they can also wreak havoc on our lives. We bump into them all the time—an unkind word, a sense of entitlement, a disparaging attitude toward ourselves or others. Our demons may not be the apocalyptic creatures of The Walking Dead or the latest “survival horror” video game, but they are very real and very deadly nonetheless. They can rob us of our conscience, of our God-given capacity to move tow... Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Most of us who have children and all of us who were once children carry some regrets about the whole parenting process. Even the most devoted parents fall short. The good news is that love covers a multitude of flaws. When children know they are truly loved, they can forgive much. As Saint John Chrysostom advises, “If from the beginning we teach children to love true wisdom, they will have greater wealth and glory than riches can provide.” Parenting will never be perfect, but love... Thu, 09 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Think about the Lord’s Prayer: It sounds as if it’s mostly about what God does, but it’s just as much—maybe more—about what we are to do. “Hallowed by your name, your kingdom come” is not only praise of God but also a prayer for God’s name to be known and God’s kingdom to be fulfilled on Earth—both of which involve our cooperation. “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those indebted to us” reminds us of the uncomfortable tr... Wed, 08 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We all know the gospel story of Martha and her sister Mary of Bethany. During a visit from their friend Jesus, Martha got a little steamed because she was stuck with the cooking and serving while Mary got to sit at the Master’s feet and listen to his words. Like many an aggrieved sibling before and since, she took her gripe to a higher authority, in this case Christ himself: “Tell her to help me.” But note: Jesus responded with neither condemnation nor praise. He merely said... Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Who is my neighbor? A man learned in Israelite law posed this question to Jesus. He asked neither what a neighbor was, nor how to treat a neighbor. The law had taught him that much. Rather he sought to know whom he needed to love. “Love thy neighbor” is a rule easy to understand and accept intellectually. Yet when we are face to face with other people, we are much more prone to excuse ourselves from this obligation. Thus, the Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky wrote: “It&rsq... Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Time is one of the great mysteries of the human experience. It has many qualities and dimensions. There is the inexorable, relentless public time of clocks and calendars, schedules, and appointments. Then there is private time, the internal time of our thoughts and experiences. This kind of time is unique to each individual and, like a bird, alternates between flight and perching. When we are doing something we love or spending time with someone we care about, the minutes slow down and we exp... Sun, 05 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC If Saint Francis of Assisi knew that his band of brother-beggars would one day be called Franciscans, he’d probably laugh, or sigh. He never set himself up as a model. Indeed, he admonished his brothers: “We ought to be ashamed of ourselves; the saints endured but we who are servants of God try to win honor and glory by recounting and making known what they have done.” Good deeds are ours to do, according to Francis. At the end of his life, he made that point abundantly clea... Sat, 04 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The biblical towns of Tyre and Sidon might bring to mind some modern-day big cities: prosperous, bustling, cosmopolitan—and spiritually hungry. Early in Jesus’ ministry people from these distant port cities heard about the things Jesus was doing, and, though they were in some sense outsiders, they responded with more enthusiasm than many of those who were closer to Jesus. Jesus held up these “pagan” cities as models of what is possible when people express a genuine des... Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Joan Wester Anderson has been writing about angels since after her son was mysteriously rescued from a devastating snow storm on Christmas Eve. That experience resulted in her first book of true stories of remarkable encounters with angels, Where Angels Walk. Since then, she has written many more books on the subject, and all of them offer spine-tingling, inspiring tales of ordinary people who have been rescued, healed, comforted, and sheltered by heavenly visitors. These amazing stories... Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, known as the “Little Flower,” is one of the most popular saints, owing to her inspirational simplicity. She spent almost a decade of her short life cloistered as a Carmelite nun expressing her thoughts in writings that were eventually shared with the world. “Love proves itself by deeds,” she wrote, “so how am I to show my love? Great deeds are forbidden me. The only way I can prove my love is by scattering flowers and these... Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-10-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saint Jerome, brilliant biblical scholar, patron of librarians and translators, was fascinated by the meaning of words. Unlike many translators of his day, he favored use of what modern scripture-scholar Father Leslie Hoppe, O.F.M. calls “dynamic equivalence.” That is, Jerome sought to translate texts from their original Hebrew and Greek “sense for sense” rather than “word for word.” Jerome’s contributions to Catholics’ understanding of the Bibl... Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Bible sometimes reads like a chapter from Dungeons and Dragons. In the apocalyptic passages of Daniel and the Book of Revelation we meet serpents, angels, ancient ones, prophets, and warriors. These characters are set against a backdrop of fire, war, struggle, truth, and deceit. Such images paint a picture of a God who takes sides. In reality the world is deeply interconnected, one in which we can see the human suffering on all sides of violent conflict. What image of God can convey the t... Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Long-standing images of the fires of hell owe much to the vivid description of the afterlife contained in a gospel story. A rich man (later sometimes named Dives) suffers tormenting flames after death because he ignored poor Lazarus on his doorstep throughout his life. Medieval artists loved to illustrate the story because of its drama and visual potential. But beneath all the fire and brimstone lies a clear and direct message: Living only for one’s own wealth and comfort leads to a liv... Sun, 28 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The early th-century French philosopher and mystic Simone Weil had much to say about the value of attention. “Attention is the highest and purest form of generosity,” she said. “Prayer is made of attention.” “There is never a case when an effort of attention is lost. It will always be spiritually effective.” Learning to pay attention—to focus and concentrate on what is at hand—is and has been a neglected practice. No doubt multitudes who lived... Sat, 27 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Considering the enormous flow of words we can encounter with nothing more than the movement of a finger on a computer screen, it is difficult to imagine the ordeal required for a library in the Middle Ages to acquire even a single new book. Monks would often spend their entire careers traveling between monasteries and at each stop transcribing by hand whatever text their home library was in want of. The English monk Saint Ceolfrith (-) was renowned in his time for his tortuous travels a... Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The people of Israel, it seems, had more important things to do than rebuild the temple of the Lord—there was wealth to be made, food and drink and fine clothes to enjoy, and comfortable homes to build. Recent economic history echoes this pattern: Vast fortunes have been amassed, often at the expense of basic moral and ethical principles. In both prosperity and hardship, the divine call to justice, mercy, and love remains unchanged. If you seek lasting joy, disregard the shifting trends... Thu, 25 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The church has not always been on the right side of history when it comes to slavery. In fact, for centuries the “right side” meant justifying slavery because it was an accepted social institution. The ancient Israelites were enslaved people, and the early Christians—and lots of Christians afterwards—took it for granted. Judaism, however, believed the law of God protected enslaved people from mistreatment, and early Christianity thought the differences between enslaver... Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Pope John Paul II canonized Padre Pio of Pietrelcina on June , . More than , people braved excessive heat to fill St. Peter’s Square and nearby streets for the ceremony. They heard the Holy Father praise the new saint for his prayer and charity and for Padre Pio’s witness to the power of suffering. If accepted with love, the pope stressed, such suffering can lead to “a privileged path of sanctity.” There is meaning in the suffering in your own life. Search ... Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In her Revelations of Divine Love, th-century mystic Julian of Norwich describes how she came to understand that God is light, “our endless Day.” Seven centuries later, physicist Bernard Haisch came to the same understanding: “The solid, stable world of matter appears to be sustained at every instant by an underlying sea of quantum light,” which Haisch concludes gives “Let there be light” profound meaning and a clue to the nature of God and the mysteries ... Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Most of us know intuitively what prayer is, but how do we pray at all times and “in every place,” as scripture says? One way is to set an intention for each task before us. For example, we might pray: “May this report I am writing be a sign of gratitude for my job.” Or: “May these dishes I am washing be a sign of my love for my family.” Or: “May this cover letter and résumé be a sign of my hope for the future.” By setting an intent... Sun, 21 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC While an underground and prohibited faith in Korea, Catholicism had taken root among laypeople years before a priest arrived in . Some , Catholics had learned the faith from pamphlets smuggled in from China. Catholics in Korea faced many hardships in those years, including the martyrdom of today’s saints, but they kept their faith alive until finally gaining religious freedom in . When the desire is there, faith is possible under all kinds of circumstances. Stay strong in... Sat, 20 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We’ve all heard the adage, “You can’t take it with you.” Although it’s a true statement, it’s not a very inspiring one. Another way to say the same thing is to ask, “What will you leave behind?” Consider the wisdom of the ancient Greek statesman Pericles: “What you leave behind is not what is engraved on stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” What stories and witness will you bequeath to your heirs? Saint Paul ... Fri, 19 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC As much as society creates and perpetuates divisions and privileges based on gender, color, orientation, ability, income, religion, Christians must be equally persistent in breaking those barriers, just as Jesus did. Jesus’ actions were often condemned as audacious and rebellious. But he was actually modeling reciprocity and inclusivity. In a speech on welcoming people with disabilities, Pope Francis explained that Christ’s gaze on the people he met was “a gaze of tende... Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-18+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When the wisdom of God comes calling at your door, it’s always a good idea to receive her—and, oh yes, Hebrew scripture compares holy wisdom to a woman. The smart person allows wisdom to enter their life because she comes from God, has always been with God, and embodies God’s creative power and teaching (Torah), three pretty important things. Saint Paul called Christ the wisdom of God, as have Christian saints and scholars ever since. “When we speak about wisdom, we ar... Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-17+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Cornelius and Cyprian are remembered and celebrated together because of their united efforts to welcome people back into the church. At the time (ca. ) there was rancorous and strident debate over how and even whether to allow “sinners” to rejoin the Christian community. One group advocated severe punishment and often permanent excommunication. Cornelius and Cyprian, on the other hand, pushed for leniency grounded in the forgiveness modeled by Jesus. Ostracism can never lead to... Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-16+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Pop quiz on Catholic tradition: Name the “seven sorrows” in the life of the Virgin Mary. OK, time’s up! While all seven may not have come to mind quickly, here’s a tip: They’re all found in gospel passages. Today is a good day to read and ponder them: the Prophecy of Simeon (Luke :); the Flight into Egypt (Matthew :); the Boy Jesus in the Temple (Luke :); the Way of the Cross (Luke :); the Crucifixion of Jesus (John :); the Descent from the Cross... Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-15+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC It’s not always easy to face the things that hurt us or our loved ones. So why would we lift up the cross, honoring that which symbolizes pain and the death of Jesus? As Christians we choose to face the cross. In doing so we confront not only the reality of suffering and death but also the hope and belief in new life, in that “something more” of salvation. And somehow in facing our pain, instead of pretending it isn’t there or whitewashing the reality, there is acknowl... Sun, 14 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-14+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A gifted preacher gains a great following. Take the Early Church Father John Chrysostom (-) for example. Because of his eloquence, he was given the surname chrysostomos, meaning “golden mouthed,” and his sermons are still studied and quoted today. What gave his words such power? It is said he avoided flowery language and complex images; instead, he spoke simply and plainly and applied biblical lessons to everyday life. Here’s one sweet example: “The bee is more h... Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-13+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Remember that moment when you first realized: “Oh, my gosh, I’m becoming my mother!”—or your father or whoever it was staring back at you from the mirror of your life? We do tend to grow up to become like our elders in many ways, whether we like it or not. Indeed, we put a lot of time and effort into trying to mold young people. Yet, if the above is true, we ought to spend more energy molding and shaping ourselves to be worthy of emulation. That way, when the student b... Fri, 12 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-12+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Clothing has a dual purpose: to protect the body from harsh weather and to adorn and identify ourselves: the business suit of an executive, the jeans of a teenager, the uniform of a soldier. In that respect, it makes sense that Saint Paul says we should “put on” virtue; we should wear compassion, kindness, patience, gentleness as colorfully and obviously as we wear our outfits. Paul wants us to wear our allegiance to Christ “on our sleeves” if you will. The Christian d... Thu, 11 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-11+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC What’s not to love about the Beatitudes? Each is a source of hope in the midst of the joys and sorrows of everyday life. But then there’s that curious part that follows that begins with those fateful words, “Woe to you,” and that’s about the time we decide God is taking on all those “evildoers” out there. It’s difficult to hear these words of admonishment addressed to us, yet we must take them to heart and see them as calling us to life. Joan of... Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-10+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The Spanish Jesuit priest Saint Peter Claver spent years ministering to African slaves arriving in the port of Cartegena, in what is now Colombia. Many thought he was wasting his time and even opposed his work with people whose welfare was almost entirely neglected. In the last few years of his life, Peter himself was nearly forgotten, having become ill and confined to his room. Yet his death in prodded the city into the realization they had lost a saint. Even if your efforts to help ... Tue, 09 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-09+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Disappointments come in all varieties: in finance, romance, parenting, and professional fulfillment. Some of us dream big dreams only to reap what seem humble returns. Should we set our sights lower, then, to keep disappointment at bay? For his part Saint Paul does recommend an attitude adjustment: Aim for love. Those who orient their actions and intentions toward love of God will not be disappointed because God is glad to employ all things, successes and failures together, to fulfill divine ... Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-08+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Do we recognize the Jesus who says, “If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, he cannot be my disciple”? The words seem harsh in comparison to the soothing invitation of the Good Shepherd. Not to worry—Jesus is not insisting we abandon family or become homeless in order to follow him. But Jesus is saying, without doubt, that nothing—no thing and no one—can become so central in life that it interferes with doing God’s wi... Sun, 07 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-07+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Jesus condemns strict observance of the sabbath when it comes at the expense of life and well-being. Who wouldn’t want to recover an animal that fell down a well on the sabbath or gather grain to feed one’s family? In today’s terms, you’d search for your lost pet on a Sunday or go grocery shopping if you were out of food. Jesus loves the law and understands its value, but he wants to make a larger point about how God’s love comes ahead of strict observances. Simp... Sat, 06 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-06+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC From the moment you hit the reception hall until the happy couple drives away, tin cans rattling and tissue-paper flowers fluttering, it’s party time. Hors d’oeuvres piled high on plates make the rounds, and sparkling beverages are liberally poured. The food never stops coming, from the first salad to the final slice of much-decorated cake. Music fills the hall and dancers demonstrate how each generation once cut the rug. Cameras capture the joy of the hour with each flash. That i... Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-05+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The biblical scholar Father Jerome Neyrey, S.J. wonders of the Early Church: “What it must have been like to be catechized into the gospel of Jesus, told that in Baptism we die with him and rise with him.” It was a radically new message—yet it remains so. What does it mean to find new life in death? Why do we and how can we feel the presence of the risen Christ? These questions continue to astound and fascinate us. Not to worry if we cannot fathom the depths of the mystery. ... Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-04+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.” This hopeful prayer of Thomas Merton is one to draw on in difficult times. Hope is exactly what we need when we are in pain or despair. It is the foundation of all healing. Our bodies, minds, and hearts are made for healing. That healing may come quickly and completely, or it may be long, painful, and only partially realized. And for each of us, once in a lifetime, healing ends in dea... Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-03+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC What does encouragement look like? A smile, a pat on the back, a kind word, an affirmation of effort or accomplishment. Encouragement is not hard physical labor. Yet at times we find it difficult to overcome our anger or disappointment in how little impact we’ve had. But Servant of God Dorothy Day says, “No one has a right to sit down and feel hopeless. There's too much work to do." Her words of encouragement can help us encourage others. “What is the sense of our small effo... Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-02+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC When Jesus returned to Nazareth and spoke prophetically, his hometown people rejected him. That foreshadowed the reception he would receive from his own people in general. It is a pattern repeated many times in history, from the time of the Jewish prophets who suffered repudiation right through to our own era, when right-to-life and immigrant-rights activists encounter stiff resistance to their prophetic message. It does us well to give folks a second hearing if we find ourselves made uncomfo... Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-09-01+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “Love one another.” “Forgive everyone.” “Give to those who cannot repay you.” These sayings of Jesus seem like a lot of hard work with little reward. But nothing could be further from the truth. Have you ever left a large tip for a tired waitress or waiter? Or smiled at a store clerk who was having a difficult day? Such gestures generate feelings of gratitude and well-being that do not come any other way. If we spent only a few minutes every day thinking of... Sun, 31 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-31+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Saturdays are not only the traditional day to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary but also the day of the week to pray the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary, the preeminent “Marian” prayer. In prayerfully meditating on the events of the Annunciation of Gabriel to Mary, the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth, the Birth of Jesus, the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, and the Finding of Jesus in the Temple, we “weave our intentions, thoughts, imagination, emotions, and desire for union ... Sat, 30 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-30+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC We tend to divide up people into good guys and bad guys. Yet the truth about any given person defies those categories. Just think if you were to be permanently judged and labeled based on a particularly bad day when all your weak points showed up like yellow dandelions on a green lawn. Take Herod for instance, one of the villains of the gospel stories. Despite his bad behavior, Mark presents him as having a heart with at least a reasonable potential for goodness. As Just Mercy author Bryan St... Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-29+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Looking for a good book? Try Augustine’s Confessions, a classic of literature by one of the greatest thinkers of all time. Augustine’s account of his search for God contains all the elements of a great adventure story: exotic locations, decadence and dissolution, complicated maternal relationship, philosophical and theological struggles, despair and confusion, and finally a profound religious experience: “No further would I read; nor needed I: for instantly at the end of thi... Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-28+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC In the early centuries of the church, women’s importance was often tied to the social standing of the men in their lives, and their stories were told through a male voice. Saint Monica’s story comes to us through the writings of her son, Saint Augustine of Hippo. He described Monica as a model of womanly virtue: hard working, persevering, submissive, and holy. Yet we know nothing about Monica in her own words. We do not even know if she could write. Monica, like many women, past a... Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-27+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC To share the gospel is to share a part of yourself. Your life experience brings the word of God to life. We are the living word—witnesses to the gospel in our everyday actions. When you share yourself with others through acts of love, the gospel becomes more real—not only for those you encounter, but for you as well. As Saint Augustine reminds us: “It is the highest duty of religion to imitate Him whom you adore.” Tue, 26 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-26+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The First Council of Nicaea, convened on this day in , condemned the Arian heresy and affirmed both the divinity of Christ and the Trinitarian nature of God through the Nicene Creed. Four centuries later, the Second Council of Nicaea addressed the Iconoclastic Controversy, condemning the destruction of religious images. The council affirmed the legitimacy of displaying and venerating icons as a way to connect with Christ and the saints, while carefully distinguishing between veneration, wh... Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-25+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC A teacher asked his class for examples of words that describe the current crop of college students. He expected to hear “highly educated” or “sophisticated” but was surprised at the honesty of a young woman who responded “entitlement. We think everything is owed to us.” An overstatement, yet such an attitude can often be attached to a particular social class, race, gender, ethnicity, or nationality. But scripture makes it clear that simply being a member of... Sun, 24 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-24+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC You may be familiar with the th-century Litany of Loreto, which gathers wonderful images of Mary such as Mother Admirable, Mystical Rose, Tower of Ivory, Gate of Heaven, and Morning Star. Saint Francis of Assisi in the th century had a similar litany, his “Salutation of the Virgin,” which hails Mary as Christ’s Palace, Tabernacle, Home, and, perhaps the most striking, Mary as “Virgin made church.” Mary is the model for Christian discipleship. “Let it be... Sat, 23 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-23+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Though Mary was never crowned Queen of Heaven in scripture, she has long reigned as queen in the hearts of the faithful. Still, the question remains: In what way is her queenship real? Mary's royal stature holds meaning for us, apart from whatever it signifies in the divine realm. “She is a most tender and kind Queen,” writes Saint Alphonsus Liguori, “eager to help us in our miseries. So much so that the church wants us to call her a Queen of Mercy.” We, too, are invit... Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-22+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC The concept of freedom is intrinsically linked with the struggle against tyranny. In the Lincoln-Douglas Debates, Abraham Lincoln explores two principles that, he says, have stood face to face from the beginning of time: the common right of humanity and the divine right of kings. It is an eternal push and pull of right and wrong, of a spirit that says, “You toil and work and earn bread, and I’ll eat it.” Whether in the context of a ruler or enslaver, “it is the same ty... Thu, 21 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-21+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC Bernard of Clairvaux, a French abbot of the th century, had a profound influence on the course of Catholicism at a time of great strife and intrigue in the church. He reformed monastic life, brought Marian devotion to the forefront of popular piety, and mediated between princes and popes. He was also instrumental in the founding of the Knights Templar, who came to embody the medieval ideal of a Christian knight. Amid the tumult of his age, he held fast to the conviction that the “thre... Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-20+00%3A00%3A00+UTC https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC “With God all things are possible” is surely one of the most well-known of Jesus’ statements. It’s short, optimistic, and, most important, we want it to be true. But when we look at the world around us, the words of the ancient Israelite Gideon more likely capture what’s on our minds, “If the Lord is with us, why has all this happened?” What Gideon didn’t know and we forget is that God holds the entire picture of creation, while we see only a ve... Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.vocationnetwork.org/tf_daily?tf_daily=2025-08-19+00%3A00%3A00+UTC