Joke of the Day 7/1

How did Mary and Joseph know Jesus’ weight when he was born?

 

They had a weigh in a manger…

Featured Saint

Featured Saint 19/1

St Gregory of Naziansus

Claim to fame: Gregory of Nazianzus also known as Gregory the Theologian or Gregory Nazianzen, was a 4th-century Archbishop of Constantinople, and theologian. He is widely considered the most accomplished rhetorical stylist of the patristic age.

As a classically trained orator and philosopher he infused Hellenism into the early church, establishing the paradigm of Byzantine theologians and church officials.

Gregory made a significant impact on the shape of Trinitarian theology among both Greek- and Latin-speaking theologians, and he is remembered as the “Trinitarian Theologian”.

Much of his theological work continues to influence modern theologians, especially in regard to the relationship among the three Persons of the Trinity. Along with the brothers Basil the Great and Gregory of Nyssa, he is known as one of the Cappadocian Fathers.

Quote: “Let us become like Christ, since Christ became like us. He assumed the worse that He might give us the better; He became poor that we through His poverty might be rich.”

Fun fact: Gregory’s homilies were well received and attracted ever-growing crowds to Anastasia. Fearing his popularity, his opponents decided to strike. On the vigil of Easter in 379, an Arian mob burst into his church during worship services, wounding Gregory and killing another bishop. Escaping the mob, Gregory next found himself betrayed by his erstwhile friend, the philosopher Maximus the Cynic. Maximus, who was in secret alliance with Peter, bishop of Alexandria, attempted to seize Gregory’s position and have himself ordained bishop of Constantinople.

Shocked, Gregory decided to resign his office, but the faction faithful to him induced him to stay and ejected Maximus.

 

Spiritual Message

Spiritual Message of the Day 7/1

January: St Joseph’s Month

Each year in January and after celebrating Nativity, many of the church readings include the role of St Joseph as the carer being the father for baby Jesus. St Joseph is a unique saint who is full of virtues and hence a strong intercessor. Some of his virtues are:

1. A man of faith – not only in believing the strange message from Archangel Gabriel but also in his faith in God’s support throughout Mary’s pregnancy and the remainder of his life 

2. A pure man – he dealt with this young attractive girl with all purity.

3. A man of great mercy –  he did not want to expose St Mary but rather chose to protect her.

4. A man of self-denial – he suffered a great deal to be always there for St Mary and the little baby.

5. A heavenly man – he encountered many angels and they directly conversed with him on many occasions.

6. A man of great obedience – in all what heaven directed him without questioning.

7. A true father – who is much respected and loved by Jesus. St Mary used this love to convince Jesus to return with them to Gallilee.

Do yourself a favour and invite St Joseph to be your patron saint throughout the month of January.

-Fr Jonathan Ishak