14 May
Mon 		St Matthias, Apostle
Acts 1:15-17, 20-26
Ps. 113:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
Jn. 15:9-17
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The first reading gives the only reference to Matthias in the Scriptures. We know nothing of this man who was chosen for the most exalted office in the Church, namely to become one of the Twelve. The foundation stones of the New Israel had this last minute insertion, yet Matthias had been with Jesus from the beginning of his ministry right up to its conclusion.

The Lord truly raised this poor man and set him in the company of the princes of his people. Since the Church had asked the guidance of the Holy Spirit in its election process they knew only at this point that Jesus had chosen Matthias for this position in place of the original candidate, Judas.

Vocation is not a matter of worthiness, but of divine election. How sad then, when human beings interfere and put people where God had never intended them to be, and where grace does not support them. Discernment is a vital prerequisite in choosing those to follow the footsteps of the apostles.


Lord, choose me for Your work as You will.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That refugee women, supported and respected, may find the strength to overcome the violence and suffering they are subjected to
Elaboration

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P R A Y I N G    W I T H    T H E    C H U R C H    

INTENTION : That refugee women, supported and respected, may find the strength to overcome the violence and suffering they are subjected to

The responsibility for many political decisions leading to war rests predominantly with men. Consequently, while men get wounded or die, women and children become refugees exposed to assault, rape or loss of children. The ones who suffer most in these conflicts are the weakest who get uprooted and are forced to flee. This is not the way humanity is supposed to live.

Like all refugees women and girls face problems of various kinds and need the following: protection against forced return to their countries of origin; security against armed attacks and other forms of violence; protection from unjustified and unduly prolonged detention; a legal status that accords them adequate social, economic and legal rights; and access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, clothing and medical care. They also need protection against human rights abuses and the myriad problems they have to encounter to safeguard their dignity and personhood.

We are asked to be in solidarity with them and pray that refugee women may find the strength to overcome the violence and suffering they are subjected to.



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