“Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth; and God has placed in the human heart a desire to know the truth—in a word, to know Himself—so that, by knowing and loving God, men and women may also come to the fullness of truth about themselves.”
–St. John Paul II Preface to Fides et Ratio
Fides et Ratio Reflections
Today is the Memorial of St. Charles Borromeo, namesake and patron saint of “Karol” (Polish for “Charles”) Wojtyla (St. John Paul II, author of Fides et ratio).
The 16th-century Cardinal and Archbishop of Milan exemplified the two wings of faith and reason as a reformer, founder of schools, seminaries, and hospitals, and as a model pastor. He is also the patron saint of catechists.
Installed as Archbishop of Krakow in 1964, Karol Wojtyla kept a portrait of St. Charles Borromeo over the door of his office.
About his patron saint, he wrote, “To all those who wish to join me in prayer on the feast day of my patron saint, I desire to repeat the words of the letter to the Ephesians: ‘Pray for me that God may put His word on my lips, that I may courageously make known the mystery of the Gospel…for which I am an ambassador’ (Eph. 6:18-20).”
He asked a fundamental question as well: “Where did St. Charles find the strength for this zealous churchly service? The secret of his success lay in his spirit of prayer.”
We invoke both these saints on this great feast day: St. Charles Borromeo and St. John Paul II: “Pray for us.”
It’s About Time
When the Saints Go Marchin’ In
On All Saints Day, I attended the morning holy day Mass at Trinity School-Holy Cross Church in West Fargo. There was a long procession of saints in costume, and they literally went marching in as they took their places in the assembly. I’d estimate three-quarters of the Trinity students and virtually all of the teachers were dressed as a favorite saint. I stopped several students after Mass, and with delight they told me their saint. Among the art displays lining the hallways were the 4th grade saint silhouettes, including the students’ own gifts, talents, and interests—envisioning the call to holiness in their lives. All you holy men and women of God: “Pray for us.”
50th Annual Memorial Mass
The Fiftieth Annual JPII Catholic Schools Memorial Mass was held on All Souls Day at Sts. Anne and Joachim Church. Bishop John Folda presided, and family and friends of those remembered with a donation to our schools since the last Memorial Mass attended. For these faithful departed, we lit 272 candles, read 272 names, and offered our prayers for them with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. It was mournful, poignant, and hopeful all at once. Bishop Folda said our pain in parting with them is real—a sign of our great love for them. Yet, God’s infinite love and mercy are the basis of our Hope in Jesus’ promise of eternal life for those who believe in Him.
Here is a link to a video of Bishop’s homily and to the slideshow of pictures of the deceased for whom we prayed in particular: Memorial Mass 2022 – JPII Catholic Schools (jp2schools.org)
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let Your perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. AMEN. ALLELUIA.
Veterans Day
Though a state and federal holiday, it’s been our annual practice to hold school on Veterans Day. With Veterans Day next Friday, November 11, that means it’s an opportune day to learn about and recognize veterans. Throughout the week, each of our schools has a variety of ways to remember, honor, and celebrate our nation’s veterans—including displays, art work, Mass,prayers, programs, etc. Thank you to all veterans for your service!
President’s Proverb
“I really only love God as much as I love the person I love the least.”
–Dorothy Day
Hagstrom’s Attempt At Humor (HAAH!)
Sunday Psalm Sampler
Thirty Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)
“Everything written about Me in the Law of Moses and in the Prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled.”
–Luke 24:44b
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)
Lectionary Readings: Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15
Responsorial Refrain: “Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.” (cf. Psalm 17:15b)
Chris Brunelle’s YouTube recording: R&A Psalm 32nd Sunday Ordinary Time 2022, Psalm 17 Cycle C – YouTube
I recall the “Everlast” brand of basketballs. Nice feel and bounce. But despite the name, even those basketballs wore out—especially on the outdoor courts of my basketball heyday.
This Sunday’s readings center on the resurrection and the mystery of life everlasting, a life that doesn’t “wear out.”
Our Responsorial Psalm is a prayer of David. In Psalm 17, he recounts the plight and plea of the believer who longs for justice, who seeks to “behold Your face” and to “be content in Your presence.”
Our refrain is one of expectant trust in the Lord’s mercy. May those who call upon Him with sincere hearts indeed be filled with joy now and forever as we sing, “Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.”
mike.hagstrom@jp2schools.org