Saint Thomas Aquinas, the scholastic powerhouse and Dominican Saint was influential in laying the groundwork for the theological thought in the 13th century. Scholasticism was a movement aimed at bridging the gap between early classical philosophy like Aristotle to Christian thought. One of Saint Thomas’s great works is the Summa Theologica. Saint Thomas also composedContinue reading “Saint Thomas Aquinas, Pray For Us”
Author Archives: StreetEvangelist
Cast Thy Nets: The Power of Love & Discipleship
A two-year project has now been completed. My Catholic Christian testimony, based on John’s Gospel, chapter 21. Check it out by visiting the following (note – proceeds minus initial investment cost being tithed back). https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cast-thy-nets-eric-stengel/1149168098?ean=9798993389509. Amazon: https://a.co/d/i50SMxA
The Baptism Of Our Lord Jesus
The opening verse for today’s Solemnity of the Baptism of our Lord Jesus, which marks the beginning of his public ministry and brings our Christmas season to a close, draws us back to the mystery of the Epiphany or Theophany. At Epiphany, Christ is revealed to the nations as the light of the world, whileContinue reading “The Baptism Of Our Lord Jesus”
Ephiphany Sunday
Today the Church recalls Epiphany Sunday in which the magi from the east saw the star and brought our Lord Jesus gifts. The word epiphany from the Greek means appearance or manifestation. In the eastern church they use the word theophany or revelation of God. Gold symbolizes the earthly treasure typically given to a king,Continue reading “Ephiphany Sunday”
Behold The Christ Child, The Word Made Flesh! Rejoice, For Today We Recall Our Savior Is Born!
Today, brothers and sisters in Christ, we have completed our Advent season of waiting in joyful anticipation—a season in which the world begins to make sense. Our confusion and search for truth find their answer in the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ (cf. Jn 1). No longer do sin and death hold victory over us,Continue reading “Behold The Christ Child, The Word Made Flesh! Rejoice, For Today We Recall Our Savior Is Born!”
Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Ruega por Nosotros
Recently, Holy Mother Church recalled the Patroness of The Immaculate Conception on December 8. On December 12 we recognize Mary’s appearance to Aztec Native American, Cuauhtlatohuac, who was later christened Juan Diego. Such a day commemorate Mary’s apparition to Juan on Tepeyac Hill in Mexico City. La Virgen del Tepeyac is Queen of Mexico andContinue reading “Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Ruega por Nosotros”
Immaculate Conception
Today the church recalls that Mary, as the Theotokos or God bearer, was free from the stain of original sin. Many Christians may question such a dogma declared by the church in 1854 by Pope Pius IX in his Ineffabilis Deus. However, it seems only natural that God’s grace would keep Mary free from sinContinue reading “Immaculate Conception”
The O Antiphons of Advent
1st Week of Advent: The King Is Coming, Be Awake
The second reading from Paul’s Epistle to the Romans for the beginning of the new Church year in Advent reminds us to stay awake. We are urged not to give in to the desires of the flesh but to remain ready, awake, and alert. At baptism, we put on the white garment that symbolizes ourContinue reading “1st Week of Advent: The King Is Coming, Be Awake”
An Attitude of Gratitude In The Christian Life
It’s that time of year again where many in the United States will prepare to gather around table with family & loved ones commemorating different traditions of displaying a day of thanksgiving. Such a day recalls the thankfulness from those early pilgrim people settlers for being blessed with the hospitality of the Wampanoag tribe forContinue reading “An Attitude of Gratitude In The Christian Life”
Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Who is the ruler and king of your life? Is it God, through the second person of the Trinity, King Jesus? Or is something in this earthly life separating you from your true identity as an adopted son or daughter of God (Romans 8:15, Galatians 3:26)? Remember, when Jesus was asked by the teachers ofContinue reading “Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe”
When the King Draws Near: Pondering the Closing of the Liturgical Year (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Four Horsemen of Apocalypse (1887) Glinka National Museum Consortium of Music Culture, Moscow by Viktor Vasnetsov from the public domain The Church stands again at the threshold of endings and beginnings. A quiet hush settles over the liturgical year, as if creation itself pauses, listening for the footfall of the coming King. The readings echoContinue reading “When the King Draws Near: Pondering the Closing of the Liturgical Year (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time)”
The Stillness That Speaks
Our world and modern society are always on the go. Stillness is often mistaken for complacency, and silence can feel uncomfortable in an age of constant motion. My own tendency toward restlessness has, through the years, been tempered by grace. God continues to teach me to stop and smell the roses, to recognize that HisContinue reading “The Stillness That Speaks”
All Saints & All Souls
All Saints Dear holy saints of God,we join our prayers of praise to yours this day.With you, we sing of God’s goodness,rejoice in God’s mercy,and celebrate God’s incredible love.Teach us to live as you lived –always thinking of others,always recognizing your weaknesses,always rejoicing in God’s gifts,always following Jesus. Blessed are you, happy are you,all holyContinue reading “All Saints & All Souls”
St. Pio of Pietrelcina O.F.M. Cap., Pray for Us
About Padre Pio: https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/padre-pio-his-biography-13815 Letter from Padre Pio To Raffaelina Cerase, May 19, 1914 Stones of the eternal dwelling The divine craftsman gets ready to prepare stones to build an eternal temple; he cuts these stones by repeated blows of his hammer and carefully polishes them by removing any excess. This is what the holyContinue reading “St. Pio of Pietrelcina O.F.M. Cap., Pray for Us”
St John Chrysostom – Whom Shall I Fear?
From the office of daily readings for September 13, Memorial of St. John Chrysostom, Bishop and Doctor. An excerpt of a homily by St John Chrysostom: The waters have risen and severe storms are upon us, but we do not fear of drowning, for we stand firmly upon a rock. Let the sea rage, itContinue reading “St John Chrysostom – Whom Shall I Fear?”
23rd Sunday In Ordinary Time Reflection – Take Up Your Cross To Be A Disciple
“Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple (Lk. 14:27). I saw a quote awhile back – “anyone can wear one, but who can bear one” as it relates to the cross. We wear crosses as jewelry and as a symbol of our faith, but how often doContinue reading “23rd Sunday In Ordinary Time Reflection – Take Up Your Cross To Be A Disciple”
Faith & Trust in God’s Will
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, faith is defined as the following: 1814 Faith is the theological virtue by which we believe in God and believe all that he has said and revealed to us, and that Holy Church proposes for our belief, because he is truth itself. By faith “man freely commitsContinue reading “Faith & Trust in God’s Will”
Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled
Jn. 14:1-12 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a placeContinue reading “Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled”
Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Growing up as a child, I recall having a special fondness for Mary. Mary is known by many titles such as: the Queen of Saints, the Blessed Mother, the Theotokos (God-bearer), Queen of Heaven, Virgin most renowned, Mystical Rose, the New Eve, etc. Such titles can be found in the Litany to Mary (https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/litany-of-loreto-246). IContinue reading “Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary”
Solemnity of Corpus Christi
I am the living bread that came down from heaven, says the Lord; whoever eats this bread will live forever. (Jn. 6:51). Today’s Solemnity of the Body of Christ reminds us that we are never alone. Through the Eucharist, Jesus offers Himself as nourishment for our earthly journey, inviting us to receive Him with faith andContinue reading “Solemnity of Corpus Christi”
Feast of Pentecost
Veni Sancte Spiritus! As the Gospel of John reminds us today, at the beginning of the Church’s foundation, Jesus assures us that we are not alone. We are sustained by grace and consoled by the Advocate, the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is present in our participation in the sacraments, instilling in us the courageContinue reading “Feast of Pentecost”
Ascension Of Our Lord
From a Sermon by Saint Leo the Great, Pope And so our Redeemer’s visible presence has passed into the sacraments. Our faith is nobler and stronger because sight has been replaced by a doctrine whose authority is accepted by believing hearts, enlightened from on high. This faith was increased by the Lord’s ascension and strengthenedContinue reading “Ascension Of Our Lord”
Divine Mercy Sunday
Go and be merciful as your Father is merciful
Prayers for The Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis & Holy Mother Church
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. Quotes attributed to our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/263537/pope-francis-in-his-own-words-12-key-quotes-that-defined-his-12-year-pontificate Godspeed good and faithful servant. May the Holy Spirit empower the conclave toContinue reading “Prayers for The Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis & Holy Mother Church”
Jesus Christ is Risen Today – Alleluia!
Today, we celebrate the fullness of the Paschal Mystery, remembering that Jesus, Our Lord and Savior, is the conqueror of death. Sin and its consequences, which arise from our turning away from God’s love and mercy, hold no power over us. Jesus desires to roll away the stone of our own tombs, if only weContinue reading “Jesus Christ is Risen Today – Alleluia!”
Annunciation
“Behold, the Lord’s handmaiden; may it be done to me according to your word.” My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things forContinue reading “Annunciation”
Saint Joseph, Pray for Us
What can Saint Joseph teach us as we commemorate this worthy and humble saint? Today, the Church honors Joseph, the husband of Mary. First and foremost, Saint Joseph serves as a role model for husbands everywhere. He took Mary as his wife without hesitation, trusting the message delivered to him in a dream. We alsoContinue reading “Saint Joseph, Pray for Us”
2nd Sunday Of Lent Reflection
The 2nd Sunday of Lent offers an opportunity to reflect on our spiritual journey. We are invited to deepen our relationship with God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, aligning ourselves with the sacrifices of Christ as He made His way toward the Cross. We, too, are called to journey with our Lord along the WayContinue reading “2nd Sunday Of Lent Reflection”
1st Sunday of Lent
The first Sunday of Lent, marked by Jesus’s journey into the wilderness to fast for 40 days, reminds us that there is more to life than earthly desires. Following the Baptism of our Lord in Luke’s Gospel, we see that Jesus was led by the Spirit. In the same way, we too must seek momentsContinue reading “1st Sunday of Lent”
Removing the Log & Seeing Christ In Others – 8th Sunday of Ordinary Time Reflection
Sirach 27:4-7 Psalm 92 1st Corinthians 15:54-58 Gospel of Luke 6:39-45 When I was a fifth-grade teacher at a Catholic school, I had a poster in our classroom titled “The Many Faces of Jesus.” This artwork served as a reminder that we are all called to reflect Christ’s love to others, regardless of our culturalContinue reading “Removing the Log & Seeing Christ In Others – 8th Sunday of Ordinary Time Reflection”
Saint Blaise, Pray For Us
About Saint Blaise: O glorious St. Blaise, who by your martyrdom left to the Church a precious witness to the Faith, obtain for us the grace to preserve within ourselves this divine gift, and to defend — without concern for human respect — both by word and example, the truth of that same Faith, whichContinue reading “Saint Blaise, Pray For Us”
The Presentation of the Lord
Simeon’s words from the Gospel today: (Lk. 2:22-40) “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” May we allContinue reading “The Presentation of the Lord”
The Baptism of Christ Jesus
From a homily excerpt from St. Gregory Nazianzen: Christ is bathed in light; let us also be bathed in light. Christ is baptized; let us also go down with him, and rise with him. John is baptizing when Jesus draws near. Perhaps he comes to sanctify his baptizer; certainly he comes to bury sinful humanityContinue reading “The Baptism of Christ Jesus”
The Epiphany of Our Lord
The 12th Day of Christmas, on which we celebrate the Magi bearing gifts to the infant Christ, is more than just a revelation that He is the chosen Light of the World. It serves as a reminder that we, too, are called to seek out this revelation, to search for the Christ child in ourContinue reading “The Epiphany of Our Lord”
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Theotokos)
Today, we honor Mary as the Theotokos, or “God-Bearer.” The Council of Ephesus formally proclaimed her this title, recognizing her unique role in salvation history. Mary holds a special place as the mother of Jesus, God’s only begotten Son, conceived through the power of the Holy Spirit. As adopted children of God, we share aContinue reading “Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Theotokos)”
J+M+J: Holy Family, Pray For Us
Readings: 1 Samuel 1, or Sirach 3, Psalm 84, 1 John 3 or 3 Colossians, Luke 2:41–52 Today, within the Octave of Christmas, we reflect on the Holy Family. The initials J+M+J—Jesus, Mary, and Joseph—serve as a reminder of God’s plan of salvation. This simple yet profound model reveals how God’s love was made manifestContinue reading “J+M+J: Holy Family, Pray For Us”
Merry Christmas!
Rejoice! Today in Bethlehem, a Savior is born—Christ the Lord. As I reflect on this glorious season of the Incarnation of Christ Jesus, I am reminded, as a history major, of the unfolding timeline of salvation history. God’s unconditional love for humanity is revealed through the generations of covenants—from Abraham to Noah, Moses, David, andContinue reading “Merry Christmas!”
Did You Know These Facts About These Christmas Symbols?
Finding Holiday Cheer & Inner Peace
For many, the consumerism of the holiday season and the pressure to buy gifts can create stress. For others, this time of year is filled with grief and desolation. Not everyone experiences holiday cheer or finds inner peace during this season. It’s worth reflecting on the true nature of the season—where the simple pleasures ofContinue reading “Finding Holiday Cheer & Inner Peace”
Saint John of the Cross, Priest, Doctor
Bio: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-of-the-cross/ From a spiritual Canticle by John of the Cross: The knowledge of the mystery hidden in Christ Jesus Though holy doctors have uncovered many mysteries and wonders, and devout souls have understood them in this earthly condition of ours, yet the greater part still remains to be unfolded by them, and even toContinue reading “Saint John of the Cross, Priest, Doctor “
Advent – Making Room Within The Inn of Our Hearts for the Christ child Jesus
As many Christians prepare to think about shopping for Christmas gifts, decorating with lights and the secular push to conform with society, it’s good to ponder the seasons of life. Let us await with gentle patience the coming of Jesus, the Christ child. Making room within the inn of our hearts during the penitential timeContinue reading “Advent – Making Room Within The Inn of Our Hearts for the Christ child Jesus”
St. Andrew, Pray for Us
Today the church recalls St. Andrew, the first apostle and humble fisherman and brother of Simon Peter. St. Andrew, a follower of John the Baptist, led a bunch of followers to Christ Jesus as a strong witness of the Holy Spirit & ventured out to Greece and Asia Minor spreading the good news of theContinue reading “St. Andrew, Pray for Us”
Give Thanks To The Lord
Our very life and the source of all goodness and mercy come from the Lord God. As Psalm 107:1 reminds us, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” Saint Paul also calls us to gratitude, urging us to offer thanksgiving for all that we have in Christ Jesus: “AndContinue reading “Give Thanks To The Lord”
The Solemnity of Jesus Christ the King of the Universe
Book of Daniel 7:13-14 Psalm 93:1 Book of Revelation 1:5-8 Gospel of John 18:33b-37 Today, the Catholic Church honors Jesus Christ as the Lord and King of the Universe, reigning over both earth and heaven. This solemnity was first instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925, originally celebrated in late October. Later, Pope St. PaulContinue reading “The Solemnity of Jesus Christ the King of the Universe”
The Presentation of The Theotokos, the Blessed Virgin Mary to the Temple
From a sermon by Saint Augustine By faith she believed; by faith, conceived Stretching out his hand over his disciples, the Lord Christ declared: Here are my mother and my brothers; anyone who does the will of my Father who sent me is my brother and sister and my mother. I would urge you toContinue reading “The Presentation of The Theotokos, the Blessed Virgin Mary to the Temple”
Continuing To Live Out The Gospel Message Post Election Season
The Gospel from Matthew (22:15-22) reminds us of our call as Christians. The Pharisees wish to entrap Jesus along with the followers of Herod by asking Jesus if it is lawful to pay a tax with a pagan image of Cesar in which the Romans worshipped their emperor as a god/deity. Jesus’s response reminds usContinue reading “Continuing To Live Out The Gospel Message Post Election Season”
All Hallow’s Eve & Recalling Our Christian Call to be Saints
All Hallow’s Eve is a special day that has become secularized over the years in which we have lost the meaning and sacredness of the day. The day before All Saints asks us to contemplate the four last tenets of our eschatological and ontological journey. We will die. We will face judgment. There will beContinue reading “All Hallow’s Eve & Recalling Our Christian Call to be Saints”
Overcoming Our Blindness: Come, See & Follow Jesus (30th Sunday Ordinary Time Reflection)
Reproduction from Harold Copping of Copping’s Bible Illustrations in the public domain retrieved at Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Harold_Copping_-Bartimaeus-_(MeisterDrucke-52938).jpg Jeremiah 31:7-9, Psalm 126, Heb. 5:1-6, Mark 10:46-52 The first reading from the prophet Jeremiah reminds us that the Lord God will gather together the blind and lame from the ends of the earth. If we are trulyContinue reading “Overcoming Our Blindness: Come, See & Follow Jesus (30th Sunday Ordinary Time Reflection)”
St. John Paul II, Pray For Us
John Paul II is a beloved servant of God and saint that many will not forget as we reflect upon the many achievements from this great & holy man. Pope John Paul II was the most traveled pope, having paved the way for the church’s mission to go forth and bring Christ’s light to othersContinue reading “St. John Paul II, Pray For Us”
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