Today’s Readings – Saints Paul Miki and his Companions, Martyrs

SS Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs, SJ (Memorial)

Paul Miki, born into a rich family, was the son of a Japanese military leader. He was born at Tounucumada, Japan and educated at the Jesuit college of Anziquiama. He joined the Jesuits in 1580, and became known for his eloquent preaching.

Fearing their influence, the Jesuits became an object of persecution by the authorities. Miki was jailed along with other Christians. He and his Christian companions were forced to walk about 1,000 km (600 miles) from Kyoto as a punishment for the whole community. On the way they sang the Te Deum, the Church’s hymn of praise and thanksgiving. Finally they arrived at Nagasaki, the city which had the most conversions to Christianity.

Paul, still a Jesuit scholastic (i.e. a … Continue

Yesterday’s Readings – Sunday of Week 5 of Ordinary Time (A)

Commentary on Isaiah 58:7-10; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; Matthew 5:13-16

Today’s gospel immediately follows the Beatitudes. And the readings are saying that the Beatitudes must not only be lived, but seen to be lived. The Gospel reminds us that it is essential for the C … Continue