Bulletin 273

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeff Fasching

September 13th, 2015

16th Sunday after Pentecost

Epistle: Eph. 3:13-21
Gospel: Lk. 14: 1-11

Mon 14 No Latin Mass
Tues 15 Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Wed 16 SS. Cornelius * Pope & Cyprian * Martyrs
Thu 17 Stigmata of St. Francis
Fri 18 St. Joseph of Cupertino, Confessor


Did you know that Catholic Prayer in Latin is more powerful than in any other language?
This appears to be the opinion reached by certain members of the clergy, in particular exorcists. In the book " Hostage to the Devil" by Fr. Malachi Martin, an interesting comment is made by the author which sheds light on this particular point. On page 460 of the book, while explaining the Ritual of Exorcism, Fr. Martin goes on to say...." Nowadays part of the text - especially well known prayers- are sometimes prayed in the vernacular (German, English, French, etc.), but among exorcists as a class of Church Ministers, there seems to be a persuasion born from experience that the Latin Text has some special unction and disruptive value for Evil Spirit.” What this observation tells us is that the Rite of Exorcism when prayed in Latin has a more powerful effect in expelling demons. Why would this be so?

First, let's look at why the Catholic Church chose Latin as its Official Language. In the early days of the Church, communication between Rome and the rest of the Church was slow. Documents had to be translated into the different dialects for the various regions where Catholicism had spread to. Once translated they had to be written by hand because the printing press had yet to be invented. It was a time consuming process. In order to expedite communication something had to be done. Latin was the international language at the time and so it was the logical choice.

The Church then decreed that Latin would be its Official Language and anyone who was part of the Church would have to speak it. The Church chose Latin for practical reasons. Perhaps what the Church did not realize at the time was the effect that this decision would have on Catholic prayer. But why?

The answer can be found in the Gospel of Matthew (16:18-19) where we read ....." you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church...and whatsoever you shall bind on earth, shall be bound also in Heaven.” Therefore when His Church decreed that Latin would be the Mother Tongue of Catholicism it bound Latin in Heaven.

If this were not true then exorcists would not have noticed such a dramatic difference whenever they prayed the Ritual of Exorcism in Latin. Does this mean that as Catholics we must become fluent in Latin? No. But you will find that learning the basic Catholic prayers in Latin (as well as attending the Latin Mass) will have a profound effect & be spiritually profitable.

Start off by learning the shortest prayers (Sign of the Cross, Glory Be, Hail Mary, etc) , then move on to the rest (Our Father, Apostle's Creed, Latin Rosary, etc). We must emphasize that all Catholics should always pray with fervor & faith no matter which language they speak. But if you decide to take your prayer to another level then do so in Latin.

--- Regina Magazine


In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 249

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeff Fasching

March 29, 2015

Palm Sunday

Epistle: Phil. 2: 5-11
Gospel: Mt. 26: 36-75; 27: 1-60

Mon 30 -- No Latin Mass

Tue 31--Tuesday of Holy Week-Latin Mass-12:15pm-Chrism Mass @ 7:00pm

Wed 1--Wednesday of Holy Week—No Latin Mass

Thu 2 Holy Thursday—No Latin Mass

Fri 3 Good Friday—No Good Friday Liturgy

The next potluck will be on Divine Mercy Sunday-April 12th.


The second Sunday in Passionide, or Palm Sunday, commemorates the last triumph of our Lord Jesus Christ on earth. It marks the beginning of Holy Week. “Let the faithful be invited to take part in the Procession of Palms in greater numbers, thus rendering Christ the King public witness of their love and gratitude.”

On Palm Sunday the Church celebrates the triumphant entry of Our Lord into Jerusalem. The crowds went before and after Jesus Christ with branches cut from trees thrown before Him. They shouted “Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord.”

We commemorate this triumph by blessing palms and carrying them in solemn procession. Although this triumph ultimately led to the death of Jesus, we know for certain that His Passion and Death is how he conquered the world, sin, and Satan! “If I be lifted up...I will draw all things to Myself.” Jn. 12:32.

The following are announcements from the Office of Vocations regarding discernment opportunities for young men.


Quo Vadis-Kenrick-Glennon Seminary April 10-11, 2015


An opportunity for young men discerning a call to the priesthood or just
want to learn more about the priesthood to visit a local seminary, listen and interact with seminarians.


Exploring Priesthood Weekend—April 17-19, 2015


Is a retreat designed to help men discern God's call to the diocesan priesthood. To be called by God to serve Him as a priest means to have one's soul stirred deep within. Throughout a weekend of prayer, discussion and group interaction, men begin to better understand God's movement in their life. Exploring priesthood weekends are held at Mundelein Seminary.


Discernment Retreat for College age men—April 24-26, 2015 at Meinrad Seminary in Indiana.


Encounter with God's call—April 18-20, 2015 at Conception Seminary College--for young men 16 and under who are considering a vocation to the priesthood.


For more information, please contact Fr. Patrick Nwokoye, Director of Vocation Promotion at 573-200-1814—email: pnwokoye@dioscg.org or Fr. J. Friedel, Director of Vocations/Seminarians, at jfriedel@dioscg.org.



In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,


Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 243

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

February 15th, 2015

Quinquagesima Sunday

Epistle: I Cor. 13: 1-13
Gospel: Lk. 18: 31-43

Mon 16 No Latin Mass
Tue 17 Feria
Wed 18 Ash Wednesday—Mass @ 10:00am.
Thu 19 Thursday after Ash Wednesday
Fri 20 Friday after Ash Wednesday

Mass on February 22nd will be at 7:00pm.

Mass on Ash Wednesday will be at 10:00am.

Stations of the Cross will be prayed after Mass on Fridays during Lent.

The next pot luck is scheduled for Sunday, March 1st immediately following the 2:30pm Latin Mass.

On each of the Fridays of Lent, a plenary indulgence is granted to the faithful who, after Communion, recite the “Prayer Before a Crucifix.”

Praying constantly is a necessity if we want to save our souls! We must pray that God gives us light to see! In the fourth luminous mystery of the Holy Rosary we pray that we are able to see with the transforming vision of God and not our own, limited human vision. We must beg God to see the path we must walk in order to save our souls! Satan is constantly trying to deceive us.

We cannot live in a state of sin and slave of the devil and expect to attain eternal salvation. We cannot delude ourselves into thinking we have plenty of time to give ourselves to God. God does not count our years, but rather the sins of each individual. God has fixed for each of us the number of sins He will pardon, but the Day of Judgemt will come soon!

We always will be given the grace to resist temptation if we sincerely ask for it, however, satan would have us believe otherwise. Saint Paul says that God is faithful, and that He never permits us to be tempted above our strength. The more we yield to temptation, the weaker we become. When we have recourse to God He will always give us the strength necessary to resist temptation!



Father Fasching's Mass Travel Schedule – Lent & Easter


Feb. 18 - Ash Wednesday -
Gainesville and Ava – Fr. Fasching

Feb. 21 – 22 - 1st Sunday of Lent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching

Mar. 7 – 8 - 3rd Sunday of Lent
Gainesville and Ava - Fr. Fasching

Mar. 21 – 22 - 5th Sunday of Lent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching

Apr. 18 - 19 - 3rd Sunday of Easter
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching

May 2 – 3 - 5th Sunday of Easter
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Fasching

May 16 – 17 - 7th Sunday of Easter - Confirmation - Ava
Cabool - Sat.4:00 PM - Fr. Fasching
Mt. Grove, Sun. 10:30 AM – Fr. Fasching

May30 – 31 - Trinity Sunday
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Fasching


In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 242

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

February 8th, 2015

Sexagesima Sunday—Mass @ 7:00pm

Epistle: II Cor. 11: 19-33; 12: 1-9
Gospel: Lk. 8: 4-15

Mon 9 No Latin Mass
Tue 10 Saint Scholastica, Virgin
Wed 11 Our Lady of Lourdes
Thu 12 Requiem Mass + Chris Edward Kay
Fri 13 Feria

Mass on February 6th will be followed by adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and benediction.

Mass on February 8th and February 22nd will be at 7:00pm.


Satan is a master of deception. He makes sinners imagine that by indulging their sensual appetites they will find happiness and peace. But there is in fact no peace for those who choose to offend God. The enemies of God lead lives of misery. Unlike brute animals, we as human beings have been created for God. We have been made to love God and to be united with Him. Man can only be made happy by God. It is impossible for the world to make man happy. All worldly goods are nothing but riches, honors and sensual pleasures. The words of Saint John: “All that is in the world is the concupiscence of the eyes and the pride of life.”

It is true that earthly goods are capable of puffing a man up, but they will never make a man happy or content. “Inflari potest, satiari non potest.” Many expect to find peace in accumulating riches. The fact is that large quantities of money do not close, but rather extend the jaws of avarice. In other words, the enjoyment of riches excites, rather than satisfies the desire for wealth. Worldlings toil and labor to acquire an increase of wealth and property, but never enjoy rest. The more they accumulate riches, the hungrier they become for them. The psalmist says: “The rich have wanted, and have suffered hunger; but they that seek the Lord shall not be deprived of any good!” Of all the men in the world, the rich are among the most miserable. The more they possess, the more they desire to possess. They never succeed in attaining all the objects of their wishes, and therefore they are far poorer than men who seek God alone. These are the men who are truly rich. They are content with their condition. They find God in every good.




Father Fasching's Mass Travel Schedule – Christmas & Easter


Feb. 7- 8 - 5th - Sunday of the Year
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Fasching

Feb. 18 - Ash Wednesday -
Gainesville and Ava – Fr. Fasching

Feb. 21 – 22 - 1st Sunday of Lent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching

Mar. 7 – 8 - 3rd Sunday of Lent
Gainesville and Ava - Fr. Fasching

Mar. 21 – 22 - 5th Sunday of Lent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching

Apr. 18 - 19 - 3rd Sunday of Easter
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching

May 2 – 3 - 5th Sunday of Easter
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Fasching

May 16 – 17 - 7th Sunday of Easter - Confirmation - Ava
Cabool - Sat.4:00 PM - Fr. Fasching
Mt. Grove, Sun. 10:30 AM – Fr. Fasching

May30 – 31 - Trinity Sunday
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Fasching


In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 228

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

November 2, 2014

21st Sunday after Pentecost

Epistle: Eph. 6: 10-17
Gospel: Mt. 18: 23-35

Sat 1 All Saints No Latin Mass

Mon 3 Commemoration of All Souls No Latin Mass
Tue 4 Daily Mass for the Dead
Wed 5 Daily Mass for the Dead
Tue 6 Daily Mass for the Dead
Fri 7 Daily Mass for the Dead

Mass on Friday, November 7th will be followed by adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and benediction.

There will be a pot-luck dinner on Sunday, November 9th in the school cafeteria immediately following the 2:30pm Mass. This will include an All Saints day party.

All Saints Day is a holy day of obligation in the Universal Church; since it falls on Saturday in the U.S., the precept to attend Mass is abrogated by the USCCB.

The month of November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. On all the days from November 1 through November 8 inclusive, a plenary indulgence, applicable only to the Poor Souls, is granted to those who visit a cemetery and pray, even in only mentally, for the departed. Partial indulgences are granted to those who recite Lauds or Vespers of the Office of the Dead, and to those who recite the prayer “Requiem aeternam dona eis Domini, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace” (“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace”).

All indulgences whatsoever may be applied to the Poor Souls at any time by way of suffrage. The simple intention to offer them for the Poor Souls is sufficient.

Saint Paul always exhorts us to give thanks to God! God has made us worthy to partake of the lot of the saints in light! What more could we ask for?! Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ we have been delivered from satan's grasp and the power of darkness. We have so much to be grateful for because our destiny is to be with God in heaven forever. Since we have been redeemed through the Blood of Jesus Christ and received remission of all our sins we rejoice!

Life on earth is warfare. Saint Paul reminds us we are battling the power of Satan. We must be strong in the Lord who has given us the victory over the powers of hell. Our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers. With God we truly are able to resist evil in all forms!

We must turn to God who gives us victory over sin through the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ!



Father Fasching's Mass Travel Schedule – Oct., Nov., Dec.


Oct. 4 – 5 27th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava – Fr.Fasching

Oct. 11 - 12 28th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava – SCAP – Deacon Joe

Oct. 18 – 19 29th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Oct. 25 – 26 30th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr .John Ettensohn
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Nov. 1 – 2 All Saint – All Souls
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Fasching

Nov. 8 – 9 Dedication of Lateran Basilica
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – SCAP – Deacon Joe
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Nov. 15 – 16 33rd Sunday of Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Nov. 22 – 23 Feast of Christ the King
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava - SCAP – Deacon Joe

Nov. 29 – 30 1st Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava – Fr. Fasching

Dec. 6 – 7 2nd Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - SCAP – Deacon Joe
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul


Dec. 13 – 14 3rd Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - Fr. Fasching
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Dec. 20 – 21 34th Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava - SCAP – Deacon Joe


In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 227

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

October 26, 2014

Christ the King

Epistle: Col. 1: 12-20
Gospel: Jn. 18: 33-37

Mon 27 No Latin Mass
Tue 28 SS. Simon * & Jude * Apostles
Wed 29 Feria
Thur 30 Feria
Fri 31 Feria
Sat 1 All Saints No Latin Mass

Sun 2 21st Sunday after Pentecost

Mon 3 Commemoration of All Souls No Latin Mass
Tue 4 Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop & Confessor
Wed 5 Daily Mass for the Dead
Tue 6 Daily Mass for the Dead
Fri 7 Sacred Heart of Jesus

Mass on Friday, November 7th will be followed by adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and benediction.

There will be a pot-luck dinner on Sunday, November 9th in the school cafeteria immediately following the 2:30pm Mass. This will include an All Saints day party.

All Saints Day is a holy day of obligation in the Universal Church; since it falls on Saturday in the U.S., the precept to attend Mass is abrogated by the USCCB.

The month of November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. On all the days from November 1 through November 8 inclusive, a plenary indulgence, applicable only to the Poor Souls, is granted to those who visit a cemetery and pray, even in only mentally, for the departed. Partial indulgences are granted to those who recite Lauds or Vespers of the Office of the Dead, and to those who recite the prayer “Requiem aeternam dona eis Domini, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace” (“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace”).

All indulgences whatsoever may be applied to the Poor Souls at any time by way of suffrage. The simple intention to offer them for the Poor Souls is sufficient.

Saint Paul always exhorts us to give thanks to God! God has made us worthy to partake of the lot of the saints in light! What more could we ask for?! Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ we have been delivered from satan's grasp and the power of darkness. We have so much to be grateful for because our destiny is to be with God in heaven forever. Since we have been redeemed through the Blood of Jesus Christ and received remission of all our sins we rejoice!

Christ is King. He is head of the body of the Church. He is King of the universe. God has reconciled all things unto Himself through Jesus Christ. God has made peace through the Blood of Jesus Christ on the Cross both on earth and in heaven.

Is Jesus Christ your King? When Pilate asked Jesus if He was a king Jesus answered: “For this was I born, and for this came I into the world, that I should give testimony to the truth. Every one that is of the truth, heareth My voice.” This voice of Christ is spoken through the hierarchy of the Church. If Christ is truly our king, we listen and adhere totally to His Church's teachings. If we do not, we deny our king.




Father Fasching's Mass Travel Schedule – Oct., Nov., Dec.


Oct. 4 – 5 27th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava – Fr.Fasching

Oct. 11 - 12 28th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava – SCAP – Deacon Joe

Oct. 18 – 19 29th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Oct. 25 – 26 30th Sunday of the Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr .John Ettensohn
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Nov. 1 – 2 All Saint – All Souls
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Fasching

Nov. 8 – 9 Dedication of Lateran Basilica
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – SCAP – Deacon Joe
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Nov. 15 – 16 33rd Sunday of Year
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Fasching
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Nov. 22 – 23 Feast of Christ the King
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava - SCAP – Deacon Joe

Nov. 29 – 30 1st Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava – Fr. Fasching

Dec. 6 – 7 2nd Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - SCAP – Deacon Joe
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul


Dec. 13 – 14 3rd Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove - Fr. Fasching
Gainesville, Ava - Fr. Paul

Dec. 20 – 21 34th Sunday of Advent
Cabool, Mansfield, Mt. Grove – Fr. Paul
Gainesville, Ava - SCAP – Deacon Joe


In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 221

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

September 14th 2014

Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Epistle: Phil. 2: 5-11
Gospel: Jn. 12: 31-36

Mon 15 No Latin Mass
Tue 16 SS. Cornelius * Pope, & Cyprian * Martyrs
Wed 17 Feria
Thu 18 Saint Joseph of Cupertino, Confessor
Fri 19 Saint Januarius & Companions, Martyrs

Our next pot-luck dinner will take place in the school cafeteria on Sunday, September 14th immediately following the 2:30pm Mass. All are invited. In conjunction with the potluck dinner J.B. Kelley's family business will have their “traveling gift shop” set up in the Saint Agnes cafeteria to offer Catholic books, bibles, 1962 missals, DVD's, devotional items, Mystic Monk coffee and tea, and many other gifts.

If you have a special request for a book or other item, please contact J.B. Kelly prior to September 14th. This is provided as a service to the Latin Mass community with thanks to J.B. Kelley.

In addition to serving as celebrant for Mass in the Extraordinary Form (Latin) here at Saint Agnes Cathedral in Springfield, Fr. Fasching continues to serve as chaplain to the non-Catholic hospitals in the Springfield area. These include Cox South, Cox North, Cox Walnut Lawn, Ozarks Community Hospital, and Select Specialty Hospital.

Fr. Fasching also assists Father Paul Wightman, O.M.I., with his parishes including Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mansfield; Sacred Heart, Mountain Grove; Saint Leo the Great, Ava; Saint William, Gainesville; and Saint Michael, Cabool.

As you know, there is no scheduled Latin Mass during the week on Mondays. This is Father Fasching's day off. You are asked not to attempt to contact him on this day.

You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart, soul and strength. God promises an eternal reward to those who faithfully keep His commandments. On the other hand, God threatens eternal punishment to those who do not. If we find ourselves constantly troubled in this life, it is because we fail to keep the commandments of God faithfully! God has said: “If you keep my commandments faithfully I will bless you in many ways; if, however, you transgress them, you will be cursed in everything you do.” If we wish to be truly happy in this word insofar as we can, there is no other means but that of keeping God's commandments faithfully. The minute we turn aside from God's path, both body and soul will be unhappy not only in this life, but possibly in the next life as well! Eternal happiness truly depends upon our ability to faithfully observe the commandments which God has given us. God rewards in this life those that are faithful to Him.

The Scriptures themselves show us that all those who chose to observe God's commandments were always happy. God never abandons those who do what God commands them to do. In the Book of Genesis Adam is a great example! As long as Adam observed God's law faithfully, he enjoyed a blissful state in absolutely every respect. His body, soul, mind and all his senses were directed to God alone. He even kept company with the angels of heaven! The bliss of our first parents would have remained forever had they continued faithful to their duties. But unfortunately we know that this happy state did not last long. The evil one, so jealous of such bliss, robbed them of all their possessions which they should have enjoyed for all eternity. The very second they chose to transgress God's commandments, everything went wrong with them. Troubles, cares, sickness and fear of death and punishment in the next life took the place of their former bliss. Their lives became nothing but tears and sufferings!


In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 213

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

July 20, 2014

6th Sunday after Pentecost

Epistle: Rom. 6: 3-11
Gospel: Mk. 8: 1-9

Mon 21 Saint Laurence Brindisi, Confessor & Doctor-No Latin Mass
Tue 22 Saint Mary Magdalene, Penitent
Wed 23 Saint Apollinaris, Bishop & Martyr
Thu 24 Requiem Mass, + Mr. John
Fri 25 Saint James the Greater * Apostle

Christ died in order to free us from the slavery of sin and the power of satan. He won victory over satan by shedding His blood on the cross. We share in this victory by virtue of our baptism! We too have power over all sin in and through Jesus Christ! In fact, our baptism is symbolic of our dying to sin and rising to a new life in Jesus Christ. We must constantly fight against the temptation to sin. But we must also realize that God gives us the grace and power always to overcome it. The choice is ours.

In Christo Jesu et
Maria Immaculata,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 192

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeff Fasching

February 23, 2014

Sexagesima Sunday

Epistle: II Cor. 11: 19-33; 12: 1-9
Gospel: Lk. 8: 4-15


Pot-luck dinner Sunday, February 23rd in the school cafeteria immediately following the 2:30pm Mass

Mass on Ash Wednesday will be at 10:00am

Mass Schedule February 24 – February 28

Mon 24 No Latin Mass
Tue 25 Feria
Wed 26 Feria
Thu 27 Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, Confessor
Fri 28 Feria

Satan is a master of making us believe that by indulging in our sensual appetites we will somehow find happiness and peace. However, there is absolutely no peace for us when we choose to offend God in any way! We have been created for God and God alone. We are meant to be united with Him. Sin separates us from union with God. The world cannot make us happy, only God can!

People of the world toil and labor to accumulate large amounts of money and riches. The more they have, the more they want. They are never satisfied. This is why the rich are often among the most miserable people in the world. They can never get enough. The people who are truly rich are those who seek God alone. They are content with what they have.

God alone offers contentment. People of the world will never believe this fact. They believe that giving themselves to God means bitterness and discontent. But those who choose to walk with God enjoy a sweetness and peace the world cannot offer!

Fr. Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 181

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

December 8th, 2013
Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Epistle: Prov. 8: 22-35
Gospel: Lk. 1: 26-28

Mass Schedule December 9th – December 13th

Mon 9 No Latin Mass
Tue 10 Feria of Advent
Wed 11 Saint Damasus I, Pope & Confessor
Thu 12 Feria of Advent
Fri 13 Saint Lucy, Virgin & Martyr

Our next pot-luck dinner will be on Sunday, December 22nd following the 2:30pm Latin Mass in the school cafeteria. His Excellency, Bishop James Johnston will be the homilist at Mass and will be joining us for dinner.

Mass in the Extraordinary Form on Christmas day will be at 2:30pm at Saint Agnes Cathedral.

Midnight Mass will be offered in the Extraordinary Form at 12:00pm midnight on New Year’s Eve at Saint Agnes Cathedral. This is the Octave Day of Christmas and a Holy Day of Obligation in the United States.

Sunday, December 8th is the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Your prayers are requested for those who will be making their Total Consecration to Jesus Christ through the Blessed Virgin Mary during Mass on this day.

The Blessed Virgin Mary was conceived by the Holy Ghost without any stain of original sin. Mary has therefore been distinguished by the grace of God as the holiest of all the saints. She has been set apart by God from the rest of mankind as God’s perfect and sinless creature. The Blessed Virgin’s glory and majesty are due to her sinlessness. The graces she stored up while she walked upon this earth were infinite. These graces elevated her to Queen of heaven and earth and of all the saints! Mary has never been under Satan’s power. We should therefore pray to God through her that we too never succumb to the devil’s influence. “O Queen conceived without original sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!”

Fr. Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 180

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

December 1st, 2013
First Sunday of Advent
Epistle: Rom. 13: 11-14
Gospel: Lk. 21: 25-33

Mass Schedule December 2nd – December 6th

Mon 2 No Latin Mass
Tue 3 Saint Francis Xavier, Confessor
Wed 4 Saint Peter Chrysologus; Bishop, Confessor & Doctor
Thu 5 Feria of Advent
Fri 6 Sacred Heart of Jesus—Mass will be followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction.


Our next pot-luck dinner will be on Sunday, December 22nd following the 2:30pm Latin Mass in the school cafeteria. His Excellency, Bishop James Johnston will be the homilist at Mass and will be joining us for dinner.


Sunday, December 8th is the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Your prayers are requested for those who will be making their Total Consecration to Jesus Christ through the Blessed Virgin Mary during Mass on this day.


Christ’s second coming will be a most solemn event. There will be a public and general judgment for each individual and God’s mercy and justice will be made manifest for the whole world to see! This will be a day of terror for those who have lived evil lives and joy for those who have remained faithful to Jesus Christ. A reward will soon come so never give up the fight against evil! Christ’s victory on the cross is a victory over sin and Satan. On the Day of Judgment this victory will be seen clearly. We must therefore be vigilant! “He ascended into heaven whence He will come again to judge the living and the dead, each according to his merits. Those who have responded to the love and compassion of God will go into eternal life. Those who have refused them to the end will be consigned to the fire that is never extinguished.”

Fr. Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 175

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

October 27th, 2013

Christ the King

Epistle: Col. 1: 12-20
Gospel: Jn. 18: 33-37

Mass Schedule October 28th through November 1st:

Mon 28 SS. Simon * & Jude * Apostles—No Latin Mass
Tue 29 Feria
Wed 30 Feria
Thu 31 Feria
Fri All Saints—Mass @ 10:30am


Our next pot-luck dinner will be on Sunday, November 3rd following the 2:30pm Latin Mass in the school cafeteria. This will be combined with an all-saints day party.

All Saints Day is a holy day of obligation in the Universal Church and in the U.S.

The month of November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. On all the days of November from November 1 through November 8 inclusive, a plenary indulgence, applicable only to the Poor Souls, is granted to those who visit a cemetery and pray, even if only mentally, for the departed. Partial indulgences are granted to those who recite Lauds or Vespers of the Office of the Dead, and to those who recite the prayer “Requiem aeternam dona eis. Domini, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Requiescant in pace” (“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace”).

Sunday, October 27 is the feast of the Kingship of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Christ is our King by right. He is the Son of God. In His divine nature as God He is the sovereign Lord and Master. He has conquered sin and Satan through His sufferings, passion and death. We too conquer sin and hell in and through Jesus Christ our King!

One may gain a plenary indulgence by the public recitation of the Act of Consecration of the Human Race to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The following is the text of prayer:

Most sweet Jesus,
Redeemer of the human race,
look down upon us,
humbly prostrate before Thine altar.

We are Thine and Thine we wish to be;
but to be more surely united with Thee,
behold each one of us freely consecrates himself today
to Thy Most Sacred Heart.

Many, indeed, have never known Thee;
many, too, despising Thy precepts,
have rejected Thee.

Have mercy on them all,
most merciful Jesus,
and draw them to Thy Sacred Heart.

Be Thou King, O Lord,
not only of the faithful who have never forsaken Thee,
but also of the prodigal children who have abandoned Thee,
grant that they may quickly return to their Father's house,
lest they die of wretchedness and hunger.
Be Thou King of those who are deceived by erroneous opinions,
or whom discord keeps aloof
and call them back to the harbour of truth and unity of faith,
so that soon there may be but one flock and one shepherd.

Be Thou King of all those who even now sit in the shadow of idolatry or Islam,
and refuse not Thou to bring them into the light of Thy kingdom.
Look, finally, with eyes of pity upon the children of that race,
which was for so long a time Thy chosen people;
and let Thy Blood, which was once invoked upon them in vengeance,
now descend upon them also in a cleansing flood of redemption and eternal life.

Grant, O Lord,
to Thy Church,
assurance of freedom and immunity from harm;
give peace and order to all nations,
and make the earth resound
from pole to pole with one cry:
Praise to the Divine Heart
that wrought our salvation:
to it be glory
and honour forever.

Amen

Fr. Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 164

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

August 11th, 12th Sunday after Pentecost

Epistle: 2 Cor. 3: 4-9; Gospel: Luke 10: 23-37

Mass Schedule August 12th through August 16th

Mon 12 Saint Clare, Virgin—No Latin Mass

Tue 13 Feria

Wed 14 Vigil of the Assumption

Thu 15 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary—Mass @ 10:30am

Fri 16 Saint Joachim, Father of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Mass for the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary will be as 10:30am on Thursday, August 15th.

Our next pot-luck dinner will be held on Sunday, September 8th immediately following the 2:30pm Mass in the school cafeteria. All are invited to attend.

Sloth is one of the seven deadly sins. Sloth is defined as laziness or carelessness to do right and to practice virtue because of the trouble attached to it. Christian modesty is a virtue, but it has been forgotten even among Catholics today. We need modesty in order to protect chastity. We cannot restore chastity to the individual, the family or the society as long as modesty is either ignored or violated on such a large scale as it is today!

There have been no fewer than five modern Popes who have time and again issued directives on Christian modesty in order to refute all the modern errors. Is this not why Jesus Christ established in His Church the Supreme Teaching Authority?! Christ did this to protect the Church from errors and to correct the clergy, the teachers and the parents who, intentionally or in good faith, would propagate errors.

Unfortunately, anyone who in today’s culture dares to advocate traditional Christian modesty is considered, even by a large number of Catholics, a scrupulous person, or a nut. However, remember that Christ said this would be the price one must pay who strives to be loyal to Him and His Church and not to the world.

Pope Pius XII has said: “Mainly through sins of impurity do the forces of darkness subjugate souls.” This same message was given by Our Lady of Fatima: “The sins that lead most souls to hell are the sins of the flesh.” Impurity has become the ruling passion of the world due to a general breakdown of modesty. It is like a spiritual cancer slowly eating away the spiritual life of souls. The question becomes: “is it a losing battle to go against the ways of our culture with respect to modesty and chastity?” The answer is this is exactly what Satan would like us to believe. Our silence would be leaving the entire field of morality in his blood thirsty hands. Pope Pius XII has pointed out the seriousness of our world situation as well as the remedy-confident recourse to The Blessed Virgin Mary.

Our Popes have taught the following: A dress cannot be called decent which is cut deeper than two fingers breadth under the pit of the throat, which does not cover the arms at least to the elbows, and scarcely reaches a bit beyond the knees. Furthermore dresses of transparent material are improper. Does my back, stomach or shoulders show? Does my back or stomach show when I bend or stretch? When bending over does my blouse hang down and open for everyone to see? Is my blouse or top tight? Is it more loose fitting or is it too tight and revealing? Can one see the outline of my underwear through my tight-fitting clothing? Blouses and tops that are too tight are very immodest and say a lot about the woman who wears such a blouse or top. Lastly, how much flesh is showing? Modesty is not just about how much of our skin is showing, but how much of our feminine shape is showing.

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 146

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

March 31st, 2013 Easter Sunday

Epistle: I Cor. 5: 7-8
Gospel: Mk. 16: 1-7

Mass schedule April 1st through April 5th

Easter Monday No Latin Mass
Easter Tuesday
Easter Wednesday
Easter Thursday
Easter Friday

On Easter Sunday the Mass highlights the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead! The Mass also alludes to the spiritual resurrection experienced by all those who have been baptized. We recall Christ’s death on the Cross through which He triumphed over sin and Satan, but today we joyfully emphasize how Christ rises from the grave to the dismay of His enemies!

In the office of the Church we proclaim: “This is the day which the Lord had made; let us celebrate it with transports of joy.”

The Body of Christ which previously had been scourged, beaten and nailed to the Cross comes forth from the tomb in resplendent fashion! The Victim once slain by the cruelty of man now shows in a glorious way His triumph over death. The Resurrection is the most concrete proof of Christ’s Divinity. Our belief in the Resurrection is the foundation of our faith. Saint Augustine once wrote that the Resurrection of Christ is God’s supreme and wholly marvelous work! Saint Paul writes: “If Christ be not risen again your faith is in vain.” (I Cor. 15) Furthermore, “God hath given us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. He hath raised us up together with Christ and hath made us sit together in the heavenly places.”


In Christ,

Father Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 145

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT: Father Jeffery Fasching

March 24th, 2013 Palm Sunday

There will be no Liturgies in the Extraordinary Form during Holy Week. Mass on Easter Sunday is at 2:30pm.

“Let the faithful be invited to take part in the Procession of Palms in greater numbers, this rendering Christ the King public witness of their love and gratitude.”

Palm Sunday commemorates the last triumph of Jesus Christ on earth and begins Holy Week. Palm Sunday is a celebration of the triumphant entry of Our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. Christ’s followers cut off branches from trees and laid them on the ground while proclaiming Christ as the Son of David. In commemoration of this event palms are blessed to begin the Liturgy and are carried in solemn procession.

It will be only days later that these very followers will call for the death of Jesus Christ. However, as Christians we believe that Christ’s death was not a failure. It was through His Passion and Death that Christ conquered sin, Satan and the world! “I, if I be lifted up…will draw all things to Myself” (Jn. 12:32).

On Palm Sunday we give thanks to Jesus Christ for redeeming us through His Passion and Death. Christ is our triumphant King. He is King of the universe and King of our hearts if we allow Him to be.

In Christ,

Father Jeffery Fasching

Bulletin 144

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT Father Jeff Fasching

March 17th, 2013 Passion Sunday

Epistle: Heb. 9: 11-15; Gospel: Jn. 8: 46-59

Mass schedule March 18th through March 22nd

Monday of Passion Week--NO LATIN MASS

Tuesday—Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Wednesday of Passion Week

Thursday of Passion Week

Friday of Passion Week

During the Fridays of Lent following the 12:15pm Mass, there will be Stations of the Cross with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction.

On each of the Fridays of Lent, a plenary indulgence is granted to the faithful who, after Communion, recite the “Prayer before a Crucifix.”



Laws of Days of Abstinence: The Discipline of 1962

• Applies on one’s 7th birthday.
• Complete Abstinence: all Fridays of the year, Ash Wednesday, Holy Saturday, and the Vigil of Christmas.
• Partial Abstinence (meat and soup or gravy made from meat permitted once a day at the principle meal): all the days of Lent, the Ember Days of Wednesday and Saturday, and the Vigils of Pentecost and the Assumption.
• Abstinence from meat is dispensed on Holy Days of Obligation
Laws of Fast: The Discipline of 1962
• Applies for those aged 21 to 59, inclusive.
• Days of Lent from Ash Wednesday inclusive, Ember Days, and Vigils of Christmas, Pentecost, and the Assumption.
• One full meal permitted and two other meals may be taken which, when combined, are less than a full meal.
The Law of the Eucharistic Fast: The Discipline of 1962
• The complete fast from all food and drink (except for water or medicine) for three hours before the reception of Holy Communion. In the document reducing the fast to three hours, the Pope still encouraged those who were able to maintain the midnight fast which was the previous discipline.

As baptized Christians we are all vessels of election. God has given over to us an immense treasure of grace that we may be holy and spotless in His presence and that we may worthily carry His name before the nations. We have been purchased, and at a price, so we are to glorify God in our bodies. The grace we received at baptism must not remain sterile. We cannot be perfect and thus worthy of God unless we fight manfully at all times against our tendencies to evil.

Saint Alphonsus says that what saddens Jesus Christ is the sight of a baptized soul habitually negligent, without concern for such disorder, without seeking to escape that state of torpor, without fearing that his shameful sleep is the forerunner of spiritual death. You are neither cold by mortal sin, nor hot with an ardent love. You are lukewarm and provoke the disgust of the Almighty. God must restrain Himself not to vomit such a soul out of His mouth! A lukewarm soul is like the paralytic lying helpless before the fountain of grace without strength to approach it. We must wish for Christ’s coming. He alone can cure us. We cannot allow our disease to invade all our members so that we no longer even recoil at the touch of sin! We cannot allow our will to sleep so that it no longer thrills at the remembrance of God’s favors. We cannot allow our faculties to become dulled so that they no longer have any spirit either for prayer or for action or for combat!

Speaking of venial sins, the saint reminds us that the danger is even greater for those who commit many venial sins through attachment to any passion, such as pride, ambition, aversion to a neighbor, or an inordinate affection for any person. Satan slowly draws us in first by a slender thread, then by a cord, then by a rope, and finally by a chain of Hell—that is by mortal sin! Then we are his slaves. We must fight to be slaves of Jesus Christ, rather than Satan.

Fr. Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 143

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT Father Jeff Fasching

March 10th, 2013 Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare Sunday)

Epistle: Gal. 4: 22-31; Gospel: Jn. 6: 1-15

Mass schedule March 11th through March 15th

Monday—Feria of Lent-NO LATIN MASS

Tuesday—Feria of Lent-NO LATIN MASS

Wednesday—Feria of Lent

Thursday—Feria of Lent

Friday—Feria of Lent

During the Fridays of Lent following the 12:15pm Mass, there will be Stations of the Cross with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction.

On each of the Fridays of Lent, a plenary indulgence is granted to the faithful who, after Communion, recite the “Prayer before a Crucifix.”



Laws of Days of Abstinence: The Discipline of 1962

• Applies on one’s 7th birthday.
• Complete Abstinence: all Fridays of the year, Ash Wednesday, Holy Saturday, and the Vigil of Christmas.
• Partial Abstinence (meat and soup or gravy made from meat permitted once a day at the principle meal): all the days of Lent, the Ember Days of Wednesday and Saturday, and the Vigils of Pentecost and the Assumption.
• Abstinence from meat is dispensed on Holy Days of Obligation
Laws of Fast: The Discipline of 1962
• Applies for those aged 21 to 59, inclusive.
• Days of Lent from Ash Wednesday inclusive, Ember Days, and Vigils of Christmas, Pentecost, and the Assumption.
• One full meal permitted and two other meals may be taken which, when combined, are less than a full meal.
The Law of the Eucharistic Fast: The Discipline of 1962
• The complete fast from all food and drink (except for water or medicine) for three hours before the reception of Holy Communion. In the document reducing the fast to three hours, the Pope still encouraged those who were able to maintain the midnight fast which was the previous discipline.

The love Jesus Christ shows us is immense. Christ descended from Heaven to redeem us and save us from the power of Satan and the grip of Hell. “I am come that they may have life and may have it more abundantly” (John 10.10). Jesus came to earth not only to restore us to the life of grace without which we cannot hope to attain Heaven, but to give us an even better life that we had lost through our sin. Saint Leo once said that the benefits which we have received from the death of Jesus far outweigh the injury which Satan has done us by sin! This is why Saint Paul writes: “where sin abounded, grace did more abound” (Rom. 5.20).

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. What more proof do we need of God’s love for us? We were reconciled to God by Christ Jesus when were still His enemies! Jesus came not to destroy evil mankind, but to save it. Christ teaches us to be meek, and to bear and pardon injuries. However, meekness is not to be equated with weakness. Rather, meekness involves embracing compassion, patience and humility. These are all qualities found in genuine and sincere Christians. Jesus came to find His sheep that were lost. Have you allowed Him to find you?

In Christ,

Fr. Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 138

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching

February 3rd, 2013 Sexagesima Sunday

Epistle: II Cor. 11: 19-33; 12: 1-9—Gospel: Lk. 8: 4-15

Mass schedule February 4th --- February 8th

Monday-Saint Andrew Corsini; Bishop & Confessor--NO LATIN MASS

Tuesday-Saint Agatha * Virgin & Martyr

Wednesday-Saint Titus, Bishop & Confessor

Thursday-Saint Romuald, Abbot

Friday-Saint John of Matha, Confessor

In memory of Saint Blaise, Bishop & Martyr, the blessing of throats will be offered this Sunday immediately following the 2:30pm Mass.

Satan deceives those who are sinners. He makes them think they lead a life of happiness and enjoy peace while engaging in their sensual appetites. However, there can be no peace for those who offend our God. God has stated that all His enemies lead a life of misery. God has created us with an intellect which gives us mastery over brute animals. We have been created for God. We must love Him and strive to be united with Him. God alone is able to make us truly happy. The world and worldly goods can never make a man happy and content.

King David once cried: “My tears have become my bread, day and night, whilst it is said to me daily: Where is thy God?” In a state of sin David sought out his many possessions and royal amusements, but to no avail. David’s conscience could only be heard to say: “Where is thy God? Go and seek the God whom you have lost. He alone can restore your peace!”

Sin brings only remorse of conscience. The Lord says to sinners: “You have refused to serve me in peace.” The result for the sinner is a life of hunger, thirst and constant yearning. Let us choose the happy life of those who love God. The peace which God offers surpasses all sensual delights the world has to offer. God alone can give content to the heart. Go to Holy Mass. Practice prayer regularly. Visit the Blessed Sacrament. Go to confession and communion often. Avoid evil conversations. Walk always with God and your life will change forever. You will enjoy peace which the world will never give you.

In Christ,

Fr. Jeff Fasching

Bulletin 132

SAINT AGNES CATHEDRAL 533 South Jefferson Springfield, MO 65806

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS (LATIN)

CELEBRANT Rev. Jeffery A. Fasching

December 23rd, 2012; Fourth Sunday of Advent (Rorate Sunday)

Epistle: 1 Cor. 4: 1-5; Gospel: Lk. 3: 1-6

Mass schedule December 24th through December 28th

Monday: Vigil of Christmas—Midnight Mass

Tuesday: The Nativity of Our Lord—Mass at 2:30pm

Wednesday: Saint Stephen * Protomartyr

Thursday: Saint John * Apostle & Evangelist

Friday: Holy Innocents * Martyrs

Mass on New Year’s Day will be at 2:30pm.

*Mass on Sunday, December 30th will be at 7:00pm*

Satan used ambition, pride and arrogance to tempt Adam and Eve. Ambition is what drove Lucifer out of heaven and into Hell. He arrogantly tempted Adam and Eve by telling them not that they would be God’s equal, but that they would be “like God.” After eating the fruit they would know the difference between good and evil. This ambition puffed up their pride. They presumed to share in the divine wisdom and knowledge and allowed themselves to be seduced by Satan.

Some theologians speculate that is was envy that caused the fall of Lucifer and him minions. They knew that the Lord would create humanity. God would communicate Himself to his nature. He would go so far as to become incarnate and unite His Divinity with our humanity! These two natures would form one person! Knowing this, the fallen angels were moved with envy. They didn’t like the fact that the Creator planned to elevate human nature above theirs. They became jealous, ambitious and prideful. Finally, they stumbled miserably.

Now consider the humility of Saint John the Baptist. Remember Saint John the Baptist was sanctified in the womb of Saint Anne when he leaped at the presence of Jesus Christ at the Visitation. His humility was second only to The Blessed Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ Himself. Saint John was tempted with one of the most violent temptations to pride and ambition imaginable. Furthermore, the temptation came at the hands of his friends, rather than his enemies. They were sent to him from Jerusalem by the doctors of the Law.

It is very interesting to note that the religious leaders were expecting the Messiah. They saw that all the prophecies had been fulfilled. Jesus Christ came, taught His doctrine, performed miracles and backed up all He said by His works. Despite all this the religious leaders refused to acknowledge Him. Instead, they go looking for somebody else!

Saint John is asked: “Who are you?” Saint John clearly responded: “I am not the Christ.” “Are you Elias?” “No.” “Are you the Prophet?” “No.” Saint John rejected all the honors and titles which did not apply to him. But he even went so far as to reject even those that he had a right to accept! He attained such a degree of humility that he conquered every pride and ambition presented to him!

Let us continue to pray for humility and contrition as we approach the Nativity of Our Lord.

In Christ,

Fr. Jeffery Fasching