Saturday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time. Year II (St Dominic, Priest). Reflection by Rev Fr Oselumhense Anetor (Uromi Diocese)
Habakkuk 1: 12-2:4; Ps. 9:8-9.10-11. 12-13 (R. 11b); Matt.17:14-20
If you’re Catholic, there’s a high chance that you’ve run into Dominicans at one point or another. The hooded white cassocks with scapulas, the large rosary beads tucked around leather belts (and sometimes) the long beards, are all ‘trademarks’ of Dominicans. St Dominic founded the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) in 1216. He refuted the wrong teaching of the Albigensians; that all ‘matter’ is evil. Today, Dominicans dedicate their lives to saving souls by persuasive preaching. They remain in the world, while maintaining their monastic identity amidst individual and community poverty.
We see the perfect persuasive preacher in Jesus Christ, who remained actively in the world, while maintaining his identity as Son of God. In today’s gospel reading, Jesus teaches his disciples the importance of faith and holy living. The same demon that they could not cast out, was easily rebuked by Jesus. From this experience, we learn that faith and holiness of life can move mountains. Friends, St Dominic made much difference in his day not just because of his eloquence, but because of his deep piety and love for Mary. We too are called to rebuke the many demons of our age by our preaching, our faith, and our righteousness.
Good morning dear. God bless your weekend! St Dominic, pray for
About the Author
May God grant us the grace to love and bring men closer to God through our lives and words.🙏