SABBATH SUNDAY – A day of rest. Avoid unnecessary work and spend extra time with God.
CALENDAR KEY:
MAKE A DIFFERENCE MONDAY – Make a difference in the lives of the group listed by praying for them throughout that week. Your prayers are a powerful way to make a difference in the life of another.
■ Advent & Lent (Preparation) ■ Easter & Christmas Seasons along with other Selected Feasts
TRANSFORMING TUESDAY – Transform the world around you. WISDOM WEDNESDAY – Use the given quote to reflect on the
■ ■
THIRSTING THURSDAY – Take time in your busy life to deepen
■
FASTING FRIDAY – Fast from what is listed to remind yourself of the
■
Strive to live out the Spiritual or Corporal Work of Mercy that is listed. wisdom of a Saint (or Catholic speaker) throughout the day.
The Colors of the Liturgical Year are displayed in the date number.
your faith and quench your thirst for God, using the suggestions provided. hunger your soul has for God.
SELFLESS SATURDAY – Die to yourself.
(White-Celebration) Ordinary Time Feasts of Martyrs, Apostles and Evangelists, Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Pentecost Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudette Sunday) Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare Sunday) Maundy Thursday and Holy Saturday
Federal and National Holidays appear in Green Declared Jubilees for the Year of Mercy appear in Red
SYMBOL KEY:
Day of fast and abstinence
PHOTO CREDIT: All images are in the Public Domain unless noted below.
Day of abstinence
ABSTINENCE – Abstinence is a penitential practice consisting of refraining from the consumption of meat and is to be observed by all Catholic who are 14 years of age and older. Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and the Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence. Pastors and parents are encouraged to see that children who are not bound by the obligation to fast and obtain are lead to appreciate an authentic sense of penance.
FASTING & ABSTINENCE – In addition to abstinence, fasting is to be observed by all Catholics between the ages of 18-59 years (inclusive). On Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, one full meal is allowed. Two smaller meals, sufficient to maintain strength may be taken according to one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids are allowed. Those who are unable to observe the regulations above due to ill health or other serious reasons are urged to practice other forms of self-denial that are suitable to their condition.
Divine Mercy Image (Vilnius) © 2012 Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Picture of Timothy Schmalz’s “Whatsoever You Do” Statue . ©2015 Alyson Radford. All rights reserved. Used with permission. San Damiano Cross ©2015 Nelson’s Fine Arts. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
QUOTES: Diary of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska: Divine Mercy in My Soul © 1987 Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
This Calendar is a collaborative work of the Dioceses of Steubenville, Ohio and Syracuse, New York.
Description of the Official Year of Mercy Logo The logo and the motto together provide a fitting summary of what the Jubilee Year is all about. The motto ”Merciful Like the Father“ (taken from the Gospel of Luke, 6:36) serves as an invitation to follow the merciful example of the Father who asks us not to judge or condemn but to forgive and to give love and forgiveness without measure (cfr. Lk 6:37-38). The logo – the work of Jesuit Father Marko I. Rupnik – presents a small summa theologiae of the theme of mercy. In fact, it represents an image quite important to the early Church: that of the Son having taken upon his shoulders the lost soul demonstrating that it is the love of Christ that brings to completion the mystery of his incarnation culminating in redemption. The logo has been designed in such a way so as to express the profound way in which the Good Shepherd touches the flesh of humanity and does so with a love with the power to change one’s life. One particular feature worthy of note is that while the Good Shepherd, in his great mercy, takes humanity upon himself, his eyes are merged with those of man. Christ sees with the eyes of Adam, and Adam with the eyes of Christ. Every person discovers in Christ, the new Adam, one’s own humanity and the future that lies ahead, contemplating, in his gaze, the love of the Father.
Official Year of Mercy logo
The scene is captured within the so called mandorla (the shape of an almond), a figure quite important in early and medieval iconography, for it calls to mind the two natures of Christ, divine and human. The three concentric ovals, with colors progressively lighter as we move outward, suggest the movement of Christ who carries humanity out of the night of sin and death. Conversely, the depth of the darker color suggests the impenetrability of the love of the Father who forgives all. You can find the Official Year of Mercy prayer on the last page of the calendar.
DECEMBERÊ 2015 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK Paragraphs 185-262
THIRSTING
FASTING
SELFLESS
TUESDAYÊ Ê
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
Ê
Ê Prepare for the birth of Christ by celebrating
1Ê
2Ê
3Ê
4Ê
5
7Ê
8Ê
“One cannot 9Ê proclaim the Gospel
10Ê
11Ê
16Ê
17Ê
18Ê
23Ê
24Ê
25Ê
ADVENTÊ BEGINS
13Ê
Assemble holiday food baskets for the needy in your area.
Advent with a Jesse Tree. Scan the code for a guide and ornaments.
This week, pray for those who have no one to pray for them.
14Ê
Opening of the Holy Door of the basilica of St. John Lateran and in the Cathedrals of the world.
20Ê Adopt a family
21Ê
or single person for Christmas and make both your Christmas’ a lot brighter.
27Ê Paragraphs 422-541
WISDOM
MONDAYÊ Ê
Paragraphs 263-333
Paragraphs 404-421
TRANSFORMING
SUNDAYÊ Ê
6Ê
Paragraphs 334-404
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
28Ê
Pray for the homeless this week.
This week pray for those who do not know God.
Pray for a stranger this week.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
(Holy day of Obligation)
YEARÊ OFÊ MERCY BEGINS Opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica.
15Ê
Pray for the victims of crimes.
22Ê
Buy socks, toothbrushes or toothpaste for people in homeless shelters.
29Ê
Visit residents at a nursing home or retirement facility – bring a small Christmas present.
of Jesus without the tangible witness of one’s life.” – Pope Francis
“When we pray we speak to God; But when we read, God speaks to us.” – St. Jerome
“When you approach the tabernacle remember that he has been waiting for you for twenty centuries.” – St. Josemaria Escriva
30Ê “God’s precepts
are light to the loving, heavy to the fearful.” – St. Thomas Aquinas
Pray with someone today. Don’t know how? Find out by scanning the QR code directly below.
Read Luke 2:1-20 and Matthew 2:1-12. Compare and contrast.
Practice the 12 days of Christmas. See our website resource page for a guide.
Fast from social media today.
Fast from buying anything today.
CHRISTMASÊ DAY
Help your kids go through their toys and donate some to families in need this Christmas.
12
Celebrate the Lord’s day tonight. For a Lord’s day guide visit www.livemercy.org
19
Strive to attend confession today! Prepare by using the QR code directly below.
26 Start celebrating
the 12 days of Christmas. See our website for resources.
31
NEWÊ YEARÕ SÊ EVE Pick a Patron Saint for the upcoming year! Scan code to the right.
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
The Return of the Prodigal Son ~ Bartolomé Esteban Murillo
JANUARYÊ 2016 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
TRANSFORMING
WISDOM
THIRSTING
FASTING
SELFLESS
SUNDAYÊ Ê
MONDAYÊ Ê
TUESDAYÊ Ê
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
Ê
Ê
Ê
Ê
Ê
1Ê NEWÊ YEARÕ S
2
Paragraphs 422-541
Help get someone’s New Year off to a good start. Pool $25 or more with friends, family, coworkers, etc. and sponsor someone on kiva.org. Use the QR code to the right for quick access.
3Ê
4Ê
Pray for Christian unity this week.
EPIPHANY
Paragraphs 542-660
Paragraphs 661-682, 1210-1252
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
10Ê
17Ê Paragraphs 1253-1295
11Ê
Pray for seminarians and discerners this week.
18Ê
Martin LutherÊ KingÊ Jr. Day
____________________________________________________________________________
5Ê
Volunteer to work at a clothing drive or at a shelter where clothing is distributed to those in need.
12Ê Supply a dish for a funeral.
19Ê
Jubilee for those engaged in pilgramage work. Do three good deeds today.
Pray for the unborn this week.
24Ê Paragraphs 1296-1338
25Ê
This week pray for those affected by abortion.
Opening of the Holy Door of the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls
Make a spiritual New Year’s resolution. Write it down here:
26Ê
Pay for the next item in a vending machine today.
Opening of the Holy Door of the Basilica of St. Mary Major
6Ê “Jesus has authority,
7Ê
“Do not accept 13Êanything as the truth
14Ê
15Ê
20Ê
21Ê
22Ê
27Ê “We are not the
28Ê
29Ê
and He can handle your problem – so let Him!” – Fr. Larry Richards
if it lacks love. And do not accept anything as love which lacks truth.” – St. Edith Stein
“Prayer is the best armor we have, it is the key which opens the heart of God.” – St. Padre Pio
sum of our weaknesses and failures: we are the sum of the Father’s love for us.” – Pope St. John Paul
Find out the date of your baptism. Celebrate that day.
Study the Catechism and your faith. Begin by reading the paragraphs for this week located to the left.
Begin living out this calendar if you haven’t already.
Be aware of the ways you are negative in your thoughts or words about another person.
Pray at an abortion clinic for the lives lost to abortion.
Blessed Virgin Mary– Mother of God Holy Day of Obligation.
8Ê
Fast from worrying today.
Fast from snacking today.
Fast from eating out today.
Fast from judging people today.
9Ê
Go through your closet and donate the clothes you don’t wear anymore.
16Ê
Invite someone to attend Mass with you this weekend.
23Ê
Celebrate the Lord’s day. For a Lord’s day guide visit our website.
30Ê
31 Paragraphs 1339-1381
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
Christ and the Rich Young Ruler ~ Heinrich Hoffman
FEBRUARYÊ 2016 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
THIRSTING
FASTING
SELFLESS
MONDAYÊ Ê
TUESDAYÊ Ê
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
Ê
1Ê
2Ê
help me 3Ê to “Jesus, simplify my life by
4Ê
5Ê
6
10Ê
11Ê
12Ê
7Ê
Superbowl Sunday Invite someone to your Superbowl party or host one as a church.
14Ê
This week, pray for men and women religious.
21Ê Paragraphs 2794-2815
28Ê
8Ê
This week, pray for someone who needs forgiveness.
15Ê Valentine’s Day
Paragraphs 2772-2793
Paragraphs 2816-2837
WISDOM
SUNDAYÊ Ê
Paragraphs 1339-1381
Paragraphs 1382-1419, 2759-2771
TRANSFORMING
President’s Day This week pray for our president and all world leaders.
22Ê
Jubilee for Roman Curia This week, pray for the addicted.
Jubilee for Consecrated Life Commit yourself to learn about the Catholic faith and share your understanding with others.
9Ê
Sign up for 40acts
learning what you want me to be – and becoming that person.” – St. Thérèse of Lisieux
ASH Ê Ê WEDNESDAY
“Remember, you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” – The Roman Missal Lent Begins
16Ê
23Ê
Donate baby formula to a local pregnancy clinic.
Cook and deliver a meal to someone who is sick or home bound. Ask your parish office for names.
17Ê The Lord delights in YOU! (Isaiah 62:4)
“Do you not know
24Ê that fasting can
master concupiscence, lift up the soul, confirm it in the paths of virtue, and prepare a fine reward for the Christian?” – St. Hedwig of Silesia
Join a ministry at your parish. Ask your pastor or parish office for suggestions.
Make a Lenten commitment if you haven’t already done so.
Fast from spreading gossip today.
Read about the life of a Saint today.
18Ê Make time to sit
19Ê
25Ê “Less of me, and
26Ê
with Jesus today in church, adoration or in a quiet room.
more of Thee.” Notice how often you use the word “I.”
13Ê
Invite and pay for a struggling person’s fish dinner. Sit and talk with them.
Fast from drinking coffee today.
Make an effort to attend confession today.
20Ê
Invite someone to celebrate the Lord’s Day with you today.
27Ê
Offer to babysit someone’s kids for free tonight.
29Ê
This week, pray for someone who needs forgiveness.
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
Jesus Washimg the Feet of Peter ~ Ford Madox Brown
MARCHæ 2016 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
TRANSFORMING
FASTING
MONDAYæ æ
TUESDAYæ æ
WEDNESDAYæ æ
THURSDAYæ æ
FRIDAYæ æ
æ
æ
1æ
2æ
3æ
4æ
6æ
7æ
8æ
13æ
14æ
Paragraphs 2838-2859
This week, pray for youth and young adult ministries in our diocese.
Paragraphs 2860-2865
None. Continue to celebrate Easter this week.
THIRSTING
SUNDAYæ æ
Paragraphs 2816-2837
None. Participate in Holy Week
WISDOM
20æ
PALM SUNDAY Assemble holiday food baskets for the needy in your area.
27æ æ æ æ æ æ æ æ æEASTERæ
21æ
Pray for the Pope this week.
This week, pray for those who struggle with their faith.
28æ
Donate a coat, blanket or sweater to a shelter today.
Put together blessing bags and give them to your local Catholic charities. See our resource site for suggestion.
15æ
Send some homemade cookies to a student from your parish who is away at college.
You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. (Phil. 4: 13)
What do we believe? Memorize the Creed that we say during Mass.
SATURDAY
5 “24 hours with the Lord” Strive to attend the Sacrament of Reconciliation this weekend.
“God has promised 9æ forgiveness if you turn
10æ
11æ Attend Stations
12
16æ
17æ
18æ
19
back to Him. But what He has not promised is that you will have tomorrow in which to achieve your conversion.” – St. Augustine “We become what we love. Who we love shapes what we become.” – St. Clare of Assisi
Evaluate your Lent so far. Has your sacrificing brought you closer to Christ? What can you do better?
ST. PATRICK’S DAY Google St Patrick.
22æ Donate a Bible
23æ
24æ
29æ
30æ
31
or other spiritual reading materials to a local prison.
SELFLESS
Strive to learn more about the message of Divine Mercy – especially over the next week.
MAUNDY THURSDAY Attend Holy Thursday Service tonight.
REJOICEæ THISæ WEEK!æ HEæ ISæ RISEN!
of the Cross today. Can’t make it? Download the Divine Mercy App and do it on your own.
Fast from using your smart phone today (work permitting).
25æ
GOOD FRIDAY Start Divine Mercy Novena. Attend Good Friday Service today.
Celebrate the Lord’s day today.
Invite someone to attend adoration with you today.
26
HOLY SATURDAY Visit a Catholic Church today. Notice the change in environment with an empty tabernacle.
Don’t know how to pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy or the novena? Check out the guide by scanning the code!
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
Divine Mercy ~ Eugeniusz Kazimirowski
APRILÊ 2016 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
WISDOM
THIRSTING
FASTING
SELFLESS
MONDAYÊ Ê
TUESDAYÊ Ê
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
Ê
Ê
ÊÊ
Ê
Ê
1Ê
2Ê
4Ê
5Ê
SUNDAY Attend a Divine Mercy Celebration today.
10Ê
This week, pray for someone who has hurt you.
11Ê This week, pray for Catholic School students.
Paragraphs 1467-1513
17Ê
18Ê This week, pray for persecuted Christians.
Paragraphs 1514-1560
24Ê Paragraphs 1561-1607
TRANSFORMING
SUNDAYÊ Ê
3Ê DIVINE MERCY Paragraphs 1420-1466
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Jubilee for young boys and girls (ages 13-16)
25Ê
This week, pray for those dealing with peer pressure.
Offer words of encouragement to someone who seems discouraged.
6Ê
“Trust the past to God’s mercy, the present to God’s love and the future to God’s providence.” – St. Augustine
Look for baby 12Ê clothes on sale
13Ê
19Ê
20Ê
and donate them to mothers who need assistance through a pregnancy center.
Take the Eucharist to the homebound in your community.
26Ê
Take friends and/or relatives to visit the cemetery.
Consider subscribing someone to One Bread, One Body through the website; presentationministries.com
“Who except God can give you peace? Has the world ever been able to satisfy the heart?” – St. Gerard Majella
27Ê “Have patience
with all things, but, first of all with yourself.” –St. Francis de Sales
Read about the Feast of Divine Mercy today.
set aside 7ÊmoneyDo toyoudonate to your
8Ê
14Ê
9Ê
15Ê
Go to daily mass today.
church or a charity? If not, begin doing so. Aim for 10% or more of your income.
What is your favorite TV program? Would you watch this if Jesus was sitting next to you?
22Ê
28Ê Begin a family
29Ê
Invite a new member of the parish over for brunch.
23Ê Pray the rosary today.
or see if there are any upcoming ones in your area.
Let someone merge in front of you on the road today.
16Ê Read the Gospel of Mark today.
21ÊSchedule a retreat
faith devotion – saying prayers together, reading scripture, watching a saint movie.
Make it a point to attend Confession this weekend.
Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet today. For a guide, visit our resource website.
Invite someone over to celebrate the Lord’s Day with you.
30
Find a blood drive and donate blood or drive someone to a blood drive.
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
The Seven Acts of Mercy ~ Pieter Brueghel the Younger
MAYÊ 2016 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
THIRSTING
FASTING
SELFLESS
MONDAYÊ Ê
TUESDAYÊ Ê
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
1Ê
2Ê
3Ê
4Ê
5Ê
6Ê
7
FEAST OF 8Ê ASCENSION
This week, pray for your parents and Godparents.
9Ê
This week pray for a new Pentecost.
(Observed in the Diocese of Steubenville)
MOTHERÕ S DAY
15Ê
16Ê
Paragraphs 683-718
PENTECOST
22Ê
23Ê
Paragraphs 719-754
29Ê Paragraphs 755-790
WISDOM
SUNDAYÊ Ê
Paragraphs 1608-1653
Paragraphs 1654-1690
TRANSFORMING
30Ê JUBILEE FOR DEACONS
This week, pray for your relationship with Christ.
This week pray for doctors and nurses.
MEMORIAL DAY
This week, pray for our diocesan deacons.
Donate $10 to a local religious order.
10Ê
Work on being less critical of others today.
17Ê
Pay for the meal/coffee of the person behind you.
24Ê Give someone
who is sick some Holy Water and let them know you will be praying for them.
31
“Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.” – St Augustine
FEAST OF
ASCENSION
(Observed in the Diocese of Syracuse)
Begin a Pentecost novena today. Set aside the same time each day to pray it. (Novena found on our resource page.)
11Ê “You have made
12Ê
13Ê
to 18Êbecome“In anorderinstrument
19Ê Recommit to this
20Ê
us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” – St. Augustine.
of God’s hands we must be of no account in our own eyes.” – St. Angela Merici
25Ê
“A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just.” – Pope Francis
Attend a faith program offered by your parish. Commit to the entire study.
week’s prayer intention and commit yourself to tomorrow’s fast. Offer it for someone in particular.
26ÊRead scripture in God’s
creation today. Start with Genesis 1. Let your mind wander with God.
Fast from secular music today.
Fast from the snooze button today. I offer this fast for
Make brunch as a family today or invite someone out for brunch.
14Ê
21Ê
__________________________________ .
27Ê
Fast from your pillow tonight.
Take a plunge in the ocean of God’s mercy. Go to confession.
Celebrate the Lord’s day today.
28Ê Compliment a stranger today.
Volunteer at a hospital or for an upcoming blood drive.
God’s Mercy is an Ocean! Scan the code and watch the video!
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
The Good Samaritan ~ Jacopo Bassano
JUNEÊ 2016 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
TRANSFORMING
FASTING
SELFLESS
MONDAYÊ Ê
TUESDAYÊ Ê
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
Ê
Ê
Ê
1Ê “Be who God meant
2Ê Die to yourself today.
3Ê
4Ê
you to be and you will set the world on fire.” – St. Catherine of Siena
5Ê
6Ê
7Ê This week, pray for refugees.
Paragraphs 791-826
12Ê
JUBILEE FOR THOSE WHO ARE ILL OR FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
19Ê
13Ê
20Ê FATHERÕ S DAY
Paragraphs 863-898
26Ê Paragraphs 899-934
THIRSTING
SUNDAYÊ Ê
Paragraphs 755-790
Paragraphs 827-862
WISDOM
27Ê
This week, pray for those who are sick.
This week, pray for your pastor.
Pray for a new friend this week.
Prepare and take a meal to someone in your community who is ill or welcoming a new-born.
14Ê
Give your undivided attention to everyone who speaks to you today.
21Ê
28Ê
Call/write a friend who is grieving.
Strive to get a Lighthouse Catholic Media kiosk in your parish.*
Offer up your day to God. Pray the morning dedication prayer above each day.
JUBILEE FOR PRIESTS Fast from social media today.
8Ê“Humility is the key to
9Ê
10Ê
the 15ÊCatholic“Judge Church not by
16Ê
17Ê
22Ê
23Ê
24Ê
29Ê “The saints did
30Ê
Don’t know how to prepare for confession? Haven’t gone because of that? No excuse now! Check out the Confession guide by scanning the code!
holiness and to growth in love of God and others.” – Fr. Larry Richards
those who barely live by its spirit, but by the example of those who live closest to it.” – Ven. Fulton Sheen
“When you standup to pray, forgive anyone against whom you have a grievance.” – Mk 11:25
not all begin well, but they all ended well.” – St. John Vianney
Enroll your children in a local Catholic Vacation Bible School this summer.
Read this Sunday’s readings during a meal today. Take time to ponder what you read. What stuck out?
Reflect on ways you can use the gifts God has given you to help others.
Find a prayer partner/accountability partner. Check in with each other and remind one another to pray daily.
Attend adoration today.
Drive to and from work in silence today.
Fast from going out tonight.
Give a Catechism of the Catholic Church to a graduating senior.
11Ê
If you go out to eat today, tip generously.
18Ê
Take advantage of God’s mercy – attend confession today.
25Ê
Celebrate the Lord’s day today.
* If you already have one, take up a collection to get more/different resources or make some materials free.
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
Sermon on the Mount ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
JULYæ 2016 SABBATH CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
TRANSFORMING
WISDOM
THIRSTING
SUNDAYæ æ
MONDAYæ æ
TUESDAYæ æ
WEDNESDAYæ æ
THURSDAYæ æ
æ
æ
æ
some time to learn æ moreTakeabout æ the message of
FASTING
FRIDAYæ æ
SATURDAY
1æ
2
Fast from electricity tonight.
Divine Mercy! And why Krakow is the perfect location for World Youth Day in this Year of Mercy! Scan the code for a great video!
Paragraphs 899-934
3æ Paragraphs 935-970
4æ
5æ INDEPENDENCE DAY
Pray for the goverment officials this week.
10æ
11æ
Paragraphs 971-1006
17æ
18æ
Paragraphs 1007-1042
24æ Paragraphs 1043-1065
25æ
This week, pray for our diocesan officials.
This week, pray for a coworker.
This week, pray for pilgrims, especially those from our diocese attending World Youth Day.
Give away 5 things you don’t need today.
12æ Take a friend out to lunch today… your treat.
19æ
Overlook minor flaws and mistakes in others today.
JUBILLE FOR 26æYOUNG PEOPLE
6æ “Withhold your heart
7æ
13æ
14æ
20æ “How happy I am to see
21æ Incorporate the
22æ
27æ
28æ 28
29æ
from all things’ seek God and you will find him.” – St. Teresa of Ávila
“Take courage; get up, [Jesus] is calling you.” – Mk. 10:49
myself imperfect and be in need of God's mercy.” – St Thérèse of Lisieux
See if there are any upcoming conferences or Catholic speakers in your area, plan on attending.
Share a personal faith story with someone today.
SELFLESS
8æ
Fast from the internet today. (work permitting)
15æ
beatitudes into your life today. See Matthew 5:3-12.
Fast from condiments today.
Fast from lying today.
Provide supplies for someone to host their own Lord’s Day.
9æ
Give a Catholic Bible to a college bound student.
16æ
Celebrate the Lord’s Day outside tonight.
23æ
Invite a friend or stranger to attend Confession with you today.
30æ
Over the next few days strive to make a spiritual pilgrimage to Poland by tuning into some of the World Youth Day events on EWTN or online. Fast from putting yourself first today.
31 Paragraphs 2052-2087
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
‘Whatsoever You Do’ statue ~ Timothy P. Schmalz
AUGUSTÊ 2016 SABBATH
SUNDAYÊ Ê CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK Paragraphs 2052-2087
Ê
Schedule a day this month to make/invite a member of the clergy to dinner.
7Ê Paragraphs 2088-2123
1Ê
This week, pray for the impoverished.
8Ê
This week, pray for your spouse or significant other.
TUESDAYÊ Ê
2Ê
Ask someone what they need prayers for. Pray for that intention today.
9Ê
Help clean up at your parish inside and out.
WISDOM
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
“It is a poverty 3Ê to decide that a child
5Ê
6
10Ê
11ÊLighthouse Catholic 12Ê Media CD today. Don’t have
must die so that you may live as you wish.” – Bl. Mother Teresa of Calcutta
Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8)
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23Ê Volunteer to lead
24Ê
Make sandwiches and pass them out to the homeless this week.
This week, pray for parents who have lost a child.
29Ê
Pray for the elderly this week.
a Bible study at a local prison, or donate good Catholic books
30Ê
Send cards or gifts to new neighbors or parishioners
SELFLESS
Review your spiritual goal for the year. How have you strived to accomplish it? What can you do better? What can you do today? Do you have a spiritual goal? If not, set one. If you do, make strides in accomplishing it.
17Ê
Give $5 to a local organization that helps the hungry.
FASTING
THURSDAYÊ Ê
16Ê
OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY This week, pray for our bishop and all bishops.
THIRSTING
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
15Ê ASSUMPTION
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MONDAYÊ Ê
TRANSFORMING
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MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Personally invite someone to consider joining the RCIA process this fall. Be sure to follow up.
“One must see God in everyone.” – St. Catherine Labourè
4Ê
Donate part of this month’s paycheck to Mary’s Meals. Scan the code below.
Listen to a
one? You can purchase a talk in the lighthousecatholicmedia.org store. (Talks available on formed.org if signed up.)
Fast from “smart” devices. Have a game night instead.
18Ê
19Ê
25ÊCount your blessings.
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Ask yourself, “When people look a my life, do they see a witness of faith?” Consider areas for improvement.
Go through your day and be grateful for all the ways God has been good to you.
Fast from a hot shower.
Fast from secular music today.
Offer to mow someone else's lawn today.
13Ê
Buy lemonade from a lemonade stand. Be generous.
20Ê
Make a homemade meal for your Lord’s Day celebration today.
27Ê
Bake a pie, or some dessert for an elderly neighbor.
“The proof of love 31 is in the works. Where love
exists, it works great things. But when it ceases to act, it ceases to exist.” – St. Gregory the Great
www.marysmealsusa.org
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
Conversion on the Way to Damascus ~ Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio
SEPTEMBERÊ 2016 SABBATH
SUNDAYÊ Ê CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
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MAKE A DIFFERENCE
4Ê Paragraphs 2232-2267
JUBILEE FOR WORKERS AND VOLUNTEERS OF MERCY
FASTING
SELFLESS
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
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2Ê
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LABOR DAY
This week, pray for all teachers.
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JUBILEE FOR CATECHISTS
THIRSTING
TUESDAYÊ Ê
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Paragraphs 2338-2375
WISDOM
MONDAYÊ Ê
Scan the code to watch Mother Teresa’s video on God’s Mercy.
Paragraphs 2196-2231
TRANSFORMING
This week, pray for all service men and women.
This week, pray for all first responders.
This week, pray for all catechetical leaders.
6Ê
Help neighbors care for their homes and do repairs.
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Take time to read a good Catholic book.
Donate canned goods to a food pantry.
Extend forgiveness to someone who hurt or offended you.
Fast from eating comfort food today.
Read up on a Saint today.
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15Ê Evening, or Night
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23Ê
28Ê“It is better to be a
29ÊSeparate yourself
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“Joy is a net of love by which we catch souls.” – Bl. Mother Teresa of Calcutta
“Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” – St. Jerome.
“Just as water extinguishes a fire, so love wipes away sin.” – St. John of God
child of God than king of the whole world.” – St. Aloysius Gonzaga
God is Love. Tell someone you love them today.
Pray Morning,
prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours today. You can find them on divineoffice.com. (you can listen and pray along with the audio).
Turn off the TV and sit in quiet. Ask God to spend that time with you.
from the chaos and noise around you. Talk to God like talking to your best friend.
9Ê
Fast from procrastination today.
Today, give up the thing that is really difficult to give up.
Fast from watching sports today.
Buy an item at a garage sale that you can donate.
10Ê
Renew your baptismal promises today by taking advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
17Ê
Invite someone you don’t know well to celebrate the Lord’s day with you (and your family).
24Ê
Give to or host a parish food drive.
Fast from saying negative comments today.
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
Healing of the Blind Man by Jesus Christ ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
OCTOBERÊ 2016 SABBATH
SUNDAYÊ Ê CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
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MAKE A DIFFERENCE
2Ê
16Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
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1Ê
This week, pray for your Church family.
COLUMBUS DAY
Paragraphs 2484-2519
30Ê
4Ê
Offer support and encouragement to someone who is considering taking discipleship of Jesus more seriously.
11Ê
This week, pray for a neighbor.
17Ê
This week, pray for journalists.
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23Ê
SELFLESS
THURSDAYÊ Ê
10Ê MARIAN JUBILEE
FASTING
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
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Paragraphs 2412-2447
THIRSTING
TUESDAYÊ Ê
3Ê
9Ê
WISDOM
MONDAYÊ Ê
One way you can share God’s mercy is by praying for and with one another. Don’t know how? Already know how? Scan the code to learn more!
Paragraphs 2338-2375
TRANSFORMING
24Ê
This week, pray for someone who has offended you.
Smile at everyone you encounter today.
18Ê
Feed someone’s expired parking meter.
25Ê
Pray for the families of inmates.
5Ê
6Ê Your sin is not greater than God’s mercy.
Take 10 minutes of silent prayer today. Start by asking the Holy Spirit to come to you and pray with and through you.
7Ê
Fast from texting today.
“Speak to them of 12Ê 13Ê the great mercy of God…
14Ê
“The love of 19Êworldly possessions
20Ê Pray with someone today.
21Ê
27Ê
28Ê
Sometimes people are helped by your telling of your own lamentable past.” – St. Francis Xavier
is a sort of birdlime, which entangles the soul and prevents it flying to God.” – St. Augustine
26Ê “Enjoy yourself
as much as you like – if only you keep from sin.” – St. John Bosco
Spend quiet time in God’s creation today. Let your mind wander with God.
Don’t know how? Find out by scanning the code above.
Invite someone over for a home cooked meal.
Do what someone else wants to do today.
8Ê
MARIAN JUBILEE Say the Rosary as a family tonight.
15Ê Fast from meat today.
Fast from alcohol or flavored drinks
Forgive someone who has offended you.
22Ê
Make it a priority to attend confession today.
29Ê Fast from sweets today.
Put together Halloween candy bags that contain encouraging words, scripture or a saints card.
31
ALL HALLOWÕ S EVE
This week, pray for the unemployed.
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
A
s the Jubilee Year of Mercy comes to a close and we begin a new year in the Church, we encourage you to continue to practice knowing, living and sharing God's mercy in the world. To help you begin your New Church Year (Liturgical Year), we have continued the weekly pattern of living mercy for the remainder of the calendar year.
The Rasing of Lazarus ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
NOVEMBERÊ 2016 SABBATH
SUNDAYÊ Ê CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
Ê
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
TRANSFORMING
Paragraphs 2556-2557
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
Ê
1Ê
2Ê
ALL SOUL’S DAY “God made Saints out of far worse people than you.” – Mark Hart
Look for a unique prayer opportunity in you live – perhaps while washing dishes, driving, etc. Pray during those times. “Pray without ceasing.” Pray while you are doing something routine today.
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20Ê NONE
FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING
21Ê
Closing of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Conclusion of the Jubilee Year of Mercy
27Ê Paragraphs 185-262
ADVENTÊ BEGINS
SELFLESS
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
JUBILEE FOR PRISONERS Give up eating out this week in sacrifice for those who go hungry. Donate the money you would use to your local food bank.
Closing of the Holy Doors in the Basilicas of Rome and in the Dioceses of the World.
FASTING
TUESDAYÊ Ê
ALL SAINT’S DAY
(Holy day of Obligation)
NONE
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THIRSTING
MONDAYÊ Ê
Share a good Catholic book with someone.
6Ê
WISDOM
28Ê
This week, pray for those in prison.
This week, pray for the deceased.
This week, pray for someone who feels left out.
This week, pray for the mentally ill.
8Ê
ELECTION DAY Go out of your way to be positive to someone you are having a hard time with.
15Ê
Offer to get groceries for someone who is homebound.
22Ê
Call or email someone who might be lonely today.
29Ê
Take time to call someone who is sick today.
You have been made for heaven and heaven for you.
Attend daily mass today.
Fast from Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, YouTube, etc. today.
VETERANS DAY See this past Sunday for sacrifice.
16Ê “Virtue demands
17Ê
18Ê
23Ê “God is a spring
24Ê
25Ê
courage, constant effort, and, above all, help from on high.” – St. John Vianney
of living water which flows unceasingly into the hearts of those who pray” – St. Louis de Montfort
30Ê
“Pray, hope and don’t worry. Worry is useless.” – St. Padre Pio
Consider beginning a bible study or small group with some friends or family
THANKSGIVING Invite someone to your Thanksgiving dinner.
Fast from eating between meals today.
If shopping today, let the person behind you go first.
Hold the door for someone you don’t know.
12
Observe the Lord’s Day, beginning tonight. Invite someone to attend Mass with you.
19
Offer to do something for someone else.
Send Study 26 Break bags back
to school with college students in your parish. Include notes of encouragement, sweets and anything else your parish decides. See resource page for more suggestions.
Prepare for the birth of Christ by celebrating Advent with a Jesse Tree! Visit our website for more info!
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
A
lthough the Jubilee Year of Mercy has ended, it is just the beginning, for our journey will only end when we reach our eternal home. As you start a new calendar on the first of the year, we encourage you to once again make a spiritual New Year's resolution and additionally continue the weekly pattern of living mercy. Continue to live Mercy – go to www.livemercy.org for suggestions. We hope you have found this calendar useful in living out the Jubilee of Mercy, and in encouraging and aiding your ever growing relationship with God. If this calendar has helped you or made a difference in your Jubilee of Mercy, we would love to hear your “Glory Story.”
Shepherds and the Angel ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
DECEMBERÊ 2016 SABBATH
SUNDAYÊ Ê CATECHISM READING FOR THE WEEK
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MAKE A DIFFERENCE
MONDAYÊ Ê
4Ê Paragraphs 263-333
THIRSTING
THURSDAYÊ Ê
FRIDAYÊ Ê
SATURDAY
Ê Reflect upon your day and this past Year of
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2Ê
3Ê
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This week, pray for fallen away Catholics.
12Ê
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25Ê CHRISTMASÊ DAY
SELFLESS
WEDNESDAYÊ Ê
11Ê
Assemble holiday food baskets for the needy in your area.
FASTING
TUESDAYÊ Ê
Paragraphs 334-404
Paragraphs 422-541
WISDOM
Mercy by using St. Ignatius’ Examine Prayer. Scan the code for a guide.
Paragraphs 185-262
Paragraphs 405-421
TRANSFORMING
This week, pray for single parents.
This week, pray for someone facing a tough decision.
26Ê This week, pray
for an awareness of God’s presence in your life. Begin celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas.
Shovel snow for homebound parishioners or a neighbor.
God is merciful and will hear your prayer.” – St. Padre Pio
13Ê
14Ê
20Ê Adopt a family
21Ê
Help someone who is thirsting for a friend or someone to talk to.
or single person for Christmas and make both your Christmas’ a lot better.
27Ê
Go through your closet and give away what you don’t need.
“Do not try to excuse your faults; try to correct them.” – St. John Bosco
God has not called you to be successful. He has called you to be faithful.
“One cannot 28Ê desire freedom
from the Cross when one is especially chosen for the Cross.” – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, AKA Edith Stein
Begin the Jesse Tree today if you haven’t already.
FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
Fast from foul language today – say a Hail Mary if you slip.
9Ê
Fast from carbs today.
(Holy day of Obligation)
Plan a pilgrimage to a nearby shrine with friends or family. Ask people for prayer intentions prior to the trip. Pray for them while there.
Make someone breakfast in bed today.
10Ê
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hour 22ÊtodayDoina holy an adoration
23Ê
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29Ê
30Ê
Examine your conscience today in preparation for confession this weekend.
chapel or in your church. Bring prayer intentions, a rosary, spiritual book or just have a conversation with Jesus.
Pray the Jesus Prayer. “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
Fast from the dishwasher – do the dishes by hand today.
Fast from anger and practice patience and love today.
Celebrate the Lord’s day this evening.
Prepare your soul for the coming of Christ by attending Confession.
Do an act of kindness as a family.
31
NEWÊ YEARÕ SÊ EVE Pick a Patron Saint for the upcoming year! Scan the code below.
Find out more about the Jubilee Year of Mercy at www.livemercy.org
OfficialÊ YearÊ ofÊ MercyÊ Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, you have taught us to be merciful like the heavenly Father, and have told us that whoever sees you sees Him. Show us your face and we will be saved. Your loving gaze freed Zacchaeus and Matthew from being enslaved by money; the adulteress and Magdalene from seeking happiness only in created things; made Peter weep after his betrayal, and assured Paradise to the repentant thief. Let us hear, as if addressed to each one of us, the words that you spoke to the Samaritan woman: “If you knew the gift of God!” You are the visible face of the invisible Father, of the God who manifests his power above all by forgiveness and mercy: let the Church be your visible face in the world, its Lord risen and glorified. You willed that your ministers would also be clothed in weakness in order that they may feel compassion for those in ignorance and error: let everyone who approaches them feel sought after, loved, and forgiven by God. Send your Spirit and consecrate every one of us with its anointing, so that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a year of grace from the Lord, and your Church, with renewed enthusiasm, may bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to captives and the oppressed, and restore sight to the blind. We ask this through the intercession of Mary, Mother of Mercy, you who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit for ever and ever. Amen. Divine Mercy Image (Vilnius) © 2012 Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
DivineÊ MercyÊ ~Ê EugeniuszÊ Kazimirowski
T
his is the cross which Saint Francis was praying before when the Lord commissioned him to “rebuild the Church.” It is an icon cross because of the style of the images that it includes. With its detail, it teaches more fully the meaning of the crucifixion. For more information about the San Damiano Cross, visit www.livemercy.org
~ PRAYER BEFORE A CRUCIFIX ~ St. Francis of Assisi We adore you, Lord Jesus Christ, here and in all your churches in the whole world, and we bless you, because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
San Damiano Cross ~ Artist Unknown 12th Century Byzantine
~ JUBILLE YEAR OF MERCY AT A GLANCE ~
The Return of the Prodigal Son ~ Bartolomé Esteban Murillo
Christ and the Rich Young Ruler ~ Heinrich Hoffman
Jesus Washimg the Feet of Peter ~ Ford Madox Brown
Divine Mercy ~ Eugeniusz Kazimirowski
The Seven Acts of Mercy ~ Pieter Brueghel the Younger
The Good Samaritan ~ Jacopo Bassano
Sermon on the Mount ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
‘Whatsoever You Do’ statue ~ Timothy P. Schmalz
Conversion on the Way to Damascus ~ Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio
Healing of the Blind Man by Jesus Christ ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
The Rasing of Lazarus ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
Shepherds and the Angel ~ Carl Heinrich Bloch
Find more information about the Jubilee Year of Mercy and other resources at www.livemercy.org
This Calendar is a collaborative work of the Dioceses of Steubenville, Ohio and Syracuse, New York
