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Monday, May 31, 2021

THE NATURE OF MARRIAGE - One Bread, One Body, 06/01/2021

Tuesday, June 1, 2021, St. Justin

Tobit 2:9-14
Psalm 112:1-2, 7-9
Mark 12:13-17
View Readings

THE NATURE OF MARRIAGE
"I became very angry with her over this." —Tobit 2:14 Tobit became blind and disabled (Tb 2:10). In those days, there was no provision for Tobit to be employed, so his wife Anna took a job as a weaver (Tb 2:11). This put a strain on their marriage. Finally, they had a big fight (Tb 2:13-14). Tobit became so depressed he prayed to die (Tb 3:6).

Although some of our expectations for husbands and wives are mere cultural biases, some aspects of marriage are established by God’s design. Therefore, before we exchange male and female roles, we must take care that we are led by the Holy Spirit in accord with God’s Word and not manipulated by our ignorance, hurts, or various lobbyists.

There is such a thing as objective truth. Marriage is not whatever we want it to be, but has been created by God to work in a certain way. Husbands and wives are both equal and different. Each has a unique role in developing their marriages to be signs of God’s love for the Church. The wife’s obedient submission and the husband’s sacrificial love are part of the God-given nature of marriage (see Eph 5:32). The Lord intends to make marriage a masterpiece, but we must be humble enough to follow instructions.



Prayer: Father, may I not be conformed to the world, but to Your Church and Word (see Rm 12:2). May all married people reading this pray with their spouses.

Promise: "Happy the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in His commands. His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth!" —Ps 112:1-2

Praise: In his youth, St. Justin was attracted to the teachings of the Greek philosopher Plato. He realized the Catholic faith more fully answered life's many questions. He was martyred in Rome in 165 A.D.

(For a related teaching on Married Couples Praying Together, order, listen to, or download our CD 116-1 or DVD 116 on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the period from June 1, 2021 through July 31, 2021. Reverend Steve J Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio January 20, 2021"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Sunday, May 30, 2021

HOW CAN THIS BE? - One Bread, One Body, 05/31/2021

Monday, May 31, 2021 , Visitation of Mary

Zephaniah 3:14-18 or
Romans 12:9-16
Isaiah 12:2-6
Luke 1:39-56
View Readings

HOW CAN THIS BE?
"Blest is she who trusted." —Luke 1:45

Once on this feast day, I taught a Bible Study for the clients at a pregnancy center in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Cincinnati. Before a client can receive a distribution of material items from the center, he or she is required to attend a Bible Study, where the spiritual distribution of faith and encouragement occurs. We studied the differences between Mary’s reaction (Lk 1:34) to the annunciation of Jesus’ conception and birth as compared to Zechariah’s reaction (Lk 1:18) to the annunciation of St. John the Baptist’s conception and birth.

Though a teenager lacking the formal education of Zechariah the priest, Mary had no doubt that God was almighty and could do anything. Mary’s questioning focused on “how” God was going to make this conception happen. On the other hand, Zechariah, the well-educated priest stationed in God’s temple, doubted that God could do what the angel was saying. Mary and Zechariah asked questions that sounded similar. However, the hidden condition of their hearts was laid bare in the angel’s reaction. In addition, Mary’s response of traveling ninety miles “in haste” (Lk 1:39) to bring help and encouragement to the elderly Elizabeth during the end of her pregnancy gives evidence of her belief in God’s promises.

Today, lift up in prayer all women who will find out this day that they are pregnant. Some will be well-educated, some not. Pray that their reaction will be one of expectant faith and hope, trusting that God has great things in mind for them and for their unborn child.



Prayer: Father, in Your eyes, there is no such thing as an unplanned pregnancy. Pour out a love of life onto our nation today.

Promise: "Do not grow slack but be fervent in spirit." —Rm 12:11

Praise: Mary is Theotokos, Mother of God. "But who am I that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" (Lk 1:43)

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Saturday, May 29, 2021

AFFINITY WITH THE TRINITY - One Bread, One Body, 05/30/2021

Sunday, May 30, 2021, Trinity Sunday

Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40
Romans 8:14-17
Psalm 33:4-6, 9, 18-20, 22
Matthew 28:16-20

View Readings

AFFINITY WITH THE TRINITY
"Ask now of the days of old, before your time, ever since God created man upon the earth; ask from one end of the sky to the other: Did anything so great ever happen before?" —Deuteronomy 4:32

If we believe in Jesus and accept Him as Lord, we will live eternally in heaven with the Trinity. A million years from now, when time is no more, we will be constantly exhilarated, enthralled, and overwhelmed by the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. His love is everlasting. It is always new, fresh, surprising.

We can begin this triune relationship now by becoming disciples of Jesus and being baptized in the name “of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Mt 28:19). Let us “fall into the hands of the living God” (Heb 10:31) and be immersed in God, Who is Love (1 Jn 4:16). Our future is love: an eternal, ever-increasing reception of God’s infinite love.

“Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 Cor 2:9). “How deep are the riches and the wisdom and the knowledge of God!” (Rm 11:33) “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all!” (2 Cor 13:13)



Prayer: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, may my life be nothing other than a relationship with You, the Triune God.

Promise: "You did not receive a spirit of slavery leading you back into fear, but a spirit of adoption through which we cry out, 'Abba!' (that is, 'Father'). The Spirit Himself gives witness with our spirit that we are children of God. But if we are children, we are heirs as well: heirs of God, heirs with Christ." —Rm 8:15-17

Praise: Praise Jesus, Who rules heaven and earth with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Amen!



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Friday, May 28, 2021

THE WOMAN OF MY DREAMS - One Bread, One Body, 05/29/2021

Saturday, May 29, 2021,

Sirach 51:12-20
Psalm 19:8-11
Mark 11:27-33
View Readings

THE WOMAN OF MY DREAMS
"I burned with desire for her." —Sirach 51:19

It sounds like a preview for a modern movie: “She came to me in her beauty...I became resolutely devoted to her...I burned with desire for her...I became preoccupied with her...I came to know her secrets” (Sir 51:14, 18, 19). Who is this desirable woman of the author’s dreams? She is Lady Wisdom (Sir 51:13).

Listen to the author’s testimony concerning Lady Wisdom:

  • Wisdom is innocent. “When I was young and innocent, I sought wisdom” (Sir 51:13). “Wisdom from above...is first of all innocent” (Jas 3:17).
  • Wisdom is also pure. “For her I purified my hands; in cleanness I attained to her” (Sir 51:20).
  • Wisdom is available. “She is close to those who seek her, and the one who is in earnest finds her” (Sir 51:26).
  • Wisdom is profitable. “In the short time I paid heed, I met with great instruction...See for yourselves! I have labored only a little, but have found much” (Sir 51:16, 27).
  • Wisdom is for life. “At first acquaintance with her, I gained understanding such that I will never forsake her...I have made her my prize possession” (Sir 51:20, 21).

The Lord gives nothing to those who put expedience ahead of wisdom (Mk 11:33). He gives much to those who burn with desire for wisdom (see Sir 51:19; 1 Kgs 3:9ff). “Get wisdom” (Prv 4:5).



Prayer: Jesus, Wisdom (1 Cor 1:30), I ask You in faith to give me wisdom as You have promised in Your Word (Jas 1:5).

Promise: "The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul." —Ps 19:8

Praise: Mary Beth has entrusted her life to Mary, our Blessed Mother, the Seat of Wisdom, who brings her ever closer to Jesus.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.) (For a related teaching on Wisdom Literature, order, listen to, or download our CD 10B-3 or DVD 10B on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Thursday, May 27, 2021

THE FRUIT-BEARING FRUIT OF HOLINESS - One Bread, One Body, 05/28/2021

Friday, May 28, 2021,

Sirach 44:1, 9-13
Psalm 149:1-6, 9
Mark 11:11-26
View Readings

THE FRUIT-BEARING FRUIT OF HOLINESS
"He went over to see if He could find anything on it." —Mark 11:13

Jesus “inspected everything” in the Temple precincts (Mk 11:11). He was inspecting the spiritual fruit of the Temple worship. We know this from the fact that between visits to the Temple, Jesus inspected a fig tree and cursed it for not bearing fruit (Mk 11:14). Because it is of extreme importance to bear fruit by leading people to Jesus and by receiving the fruit of holiness (see Gal 5:22-23), Jesus is a strict “Fruit Inspector.” Usually, we must bear fruit no matter what the season, or we risk being cursed, dead, and withered to our roots (Mk 11:20). Sometimes, however, the Lord will give us a little more time to bear fruit (Lk 13:7-9) before we are cut down or cut off to be thrown into the fire (Jn 15:6).

To bear fruit, we must simply live in Jesus and He in us (Jn 15:5). Then the Holy Spirit will produce in us the fruit of holiness (Gal 5:22-23). As a result, holy people lift up Jesus and thereby produce the fruit of evangelization as Jesus draws all people to Himself (Jn 12:32). As these holy evangelizers die more deeply to themselves, they produce even more abundant fruit (Jn 12:24).

Give Jesus joy as He inspects your holy harvest of souls.



Prayer: Father, I will sow the tears of repentance and reap in joy (see Ps 126:5).

Promise: "These also were godly men whose virtues have not been forgotten; their wealth remains in their families, their heritage with their descendants." —Sir 44:10-11

Praise: Gently and faithfully, Howard leads his children on the road of faith in Jesus.

(For a related teaching on Evangelization, order, listen to, or download our CD 55-1, CD 55-3 or DVD 55 on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Wednesday, May 26, 2021

HOW TO BE HEALED - One Bread, One Body, 05/27/2021

Thursday, May 27, 2021, St. Augustine of Canterbury

Sirach 42:15-25
Psalm 33:2-9
Mark 10:46-52
View Readings

HOW TO BE HEALED
"He began to call out, 'Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!' " —Mark 10:47

It’s hard to admit weakness, sin, or even sickness. The blindness of pride often prevents us from being healed of other kinds of blindness. After Bartimaeus began calling out, “many people were scolding him to make him keep quiet, but he shouted all the louder” (Mk 10:48). After we humble ourselves, the next obstacle to healing is often worrying about what other people think of us. Often, to receive healing, it is necessary to look like a fool in the eyes of the world.

“Then Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him over’ ” (Mk 10:49). Bartimaeus “threw aside his cloak, jumped up and came to Jesus” (Mk 10:50). His jump was a great leap of faith. Blind people don’t make sudden movements. If they jump up, they don’t know what might happen since they don’t know what’s above them. Jesus said to Bartimaeus: “ ‘Be on your way. Your faith has healed you.’ Immediately he received his sight and started to follow Him up the road” (Mk 10:52).

What’s standing in the way of your healing? Are you too proud to admit you need help? Are you too proud to confess your sins? Are you too “cool” to be healed? Are you paralyzed by the thought of being laughed at? Are you unwilling to become a fool for Christ? (1 Cor 4:10) If you jump up or down, do you believe Jesus will catch you? Don’t let anything or anyone prevent you from receiving your healing and your Healer, Jesus.



Prayer: Lord Jesus, "I want to see" (Mk 10:51).

Promise: "The Most High possesses all knowledge, and sees from of old the things that are to come: He makes known the past and the future, and reveals the deepest secrets." —Sir 42:18-19

Praise: St. Augustine was initially fearful when tasked with evangelizing Anglo-Saxons in England. Spurred on by Pope St. Gregory the Great, he fulfilled his mission. It resulted in the pagan king being baptized!



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Tuesday, May 25, 2021

GLORY TO HIS RIGHT AND LEFT - One Bread, One Body, 05/26/2021

Wednesday, May 26, 2021, St. Philip Neri

Sirach 36:1, 4-5, 10-17
Psalm 79:8-9, 11, 13
Mark 10:32-45
View Readings

GLORY TO HIS RIGHT AND LEFT
"...one at Your right and the other at Your left, when You come into Your glory." —Mark 10:37

Sts. James and John asked Jesus if they could be intimate sharers in His glory. They wanted to sit at Jesus’ right and left when He mounted His throne as He came into His glorious reign. James and John didn’t understand that Jesus’ kingly throne was His cross. When Jesus came into His glory on the cross of crucifixion, His inaugural banner read: “Jesus the Nazorean the King of the Jews” (Jn 19:19). Who received the honor of being at Jesus’ right and left when He entered into His kingly glory? Two crucified criminals were His courtiers, “one at His right and one at His left” (Mk 15:27).

Like the two crucified next to Jesus, we also are sinners. Yet Jesus likewise invites us to be intimate sharers of His kingly glory. He calls us to pick up our cross each day, be crucified to the world (Gal 6:14), and die to ourselves (Lk 9:23).  We are crucified with Christ, and the life we live is not our own; King Jesus is living in us and sharing His glory with us (Gal 2:19-20). His glory so consumes us that we know nothing but King Jesus crucified (1 Cor 2:2, RNAB).

The daily cross is excruciating, but always remember what Jesus promised the one who was crucified next to Him: When you share My crucified glory for love of Me, “this day you will be with Me in paradise” (see Lk 23:43).



Prayer: King Jesus, as I share Your crucifixion each day, I pray: "remember me when You enter upon Your reign" (Lk 23:42).

Promise: "The Son of Man has not come to be served but to serve — to give His life in ransom for the many." —Mk 10:45

Praise: St. Philip Neri was a priest who combined a humorous personality with a deep trust in Jesus. He was one of the main influential people in the Counter-Reformation.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Monday, May 24, 2021

GIVE IN, GIVE OUT, GIVE UP - One Bread, One Body, 05/25/2021

Tuesday, May 25, 2021, Venerable Bede
Pope St. Gregory VII
St. Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi

Sirach 35:1-12
Psalm 50:5-8, 14, 23
Mark 10:28-31
View Readings

GIVE IN, GIVE OUT, GIVE UP
"Appear not before the Lord empty-handed." —Sirach 35:4

Whenever we pray, whenever we enter into God’s presence, we must come like the wise men to the manger, bearing gifts (Mt 2:11). Since Jesus is “King of kings and Lord of lords” (Rv 19:16), we enter into His courts bearing gifts. Praying hands are never empty hands. It’s not difficult to always have something to give to the Lord. For when we give, we find that “the Lord is One Who always repays, and He will give back” to us sevenfold, that is, indefinitely (Sir 35:10).

We can give everything constantly, eternally, to God and still have more to give than ever before. Jesus said: “I give you My word, there is no one who has given up home, brothers or sisters, mother or father, children or property, for Me and for the gospel who will not receive in this present age a hundred times as many homes, brothers and sisters, mothers, children and property — and persecution besides — and in the age to come, everlasting life” (Mk 10:29-30).

We always receive much more than we give, so we always have much more to give. Sometimes our gifts are money and material possessions. Always our gift is ourselves. When we stand before the throne of “the Lamb That was slain” (Rv 5:12), a gift of anything less than everything would be ungrateful. For “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him may not die but may have eternal life” (Jn 3:16).



Prayer: Father, may I take a giant step forward in giving money, property, and self to You.

Promise: "Give to the Most High as He has given to you." —Sir 35:9

Praise: Hildebrand, a Benedictine monk, ascended to the papacy during the turbulent Middle Ages. He came to be known as Pope St. Gregory VII and stood firm against ambitious emperors.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Sunday, May 23, 2021

ACCEPT YOUR MOTHER - One Bread, One Body, 05/24/2021

Monday, May 24, 2021 , Mary, Mother of the Church

Genesis 3:9-15, 20 or
Acts 1:12-14
Psalm 87:1-3, 5-7
John 19:25-34
View Readings

ACCEPT YOUR MOTHER
"Seeing His mother there with the disciple whom He loved, Jesus said to His mother, 'Woman, there is your son.' In turn He said to the disciple, 'There is your mother.' " —John 19:26-27

I once heard a homily on the above Scripture passage. The priest noted that the order of Jesus’ words on the cross is important. Jesus first talked to Mary. This does not mean He was providing for her future, but that He was giving her a commission for the future. Jesus is handing over to His mother Mary the Church and all His disciples whom He has been forming for three years. He is commissioning her to be the mother of the new Church.

After this commission, Jesus next talks to the beloved disciple, telling him that his new mother is standing next to him. In essence, Jesus is telling the Church, through the beloved disciple, to accept Mary as mother and discipler. Jesus “thirsts” for us to accept her (see Jn 19:28). The homilist went on to note that had Jesus addressed Mary and the beloved disciple in the reverse order, he would have been commissioning the disciple to watch over Mary, and advising Mary to accept his care.

Will we accept Mary as our model discipler and mother? Many Catholics, Protestants, and other Christians have not accepted her motherly care. Mary, like her Son, yearns to gather all her children under her wings, but many will not allow that (see Lk 13:34). Mary possesses the grace to unify disciples through her Spouse, the Holy Spirit (see Acts 1:14ff; Eph 4:3ff). Do we want unity enough to receive Mary’s ministry as Mother of the Church?



Prayer: Father, together with Mary, may I devote myself to constant prayer (Acts 1:14).

Promise: "He Who has established her is the Most High Lord." —Ps 87:5

Praise: Mary is the mother of "those who keep God's commandments and give witness to Jesus" (see Rv 12:17).

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Saturday, May 22, 2021

FIFTY-PLUS - One Bread, One Body, 05/23/2021

Sunday, May 23, 2021, Pentecost

Acts 2:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13 or

Galatians 5:16-25
Psalm 104:1, 24, 29-31, 34
John 20:19-23

View Readings

FIFTY-PLUS
" 'Peace be with you,' He said again. 'As the Father has sent Me, so I send you.' " —John 20:21

How did your fifty-day Easter season go? Did you shout Alleluia each day? Since Ascension has the Lord worked a miracle in your life? Have you prayed with a new heart in anticipation of Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit? You may be thinking, “I’m tired and can barely make it through the day.”

Don’t despair! Today is a day of new beginnings. It’s not too late to receive the fresh breeze of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 2:2). The Lord knows our weaknesses better than we do.  He is a God of encouragement. At the Last Supper, Jesus told the apostles, “I will ask the Father and he will give you another Paraclete –– to be with you always: the Spirit of truth” (Jn 14:16-17). God doesn’t break promises. “Let us hold unswervingly to our profession which gives us hope, for He Who made the promise deserves our trust” (Heb 10:23).

This should put the wind back in our sails. Each of us has a mission. When we were baptized, the Holy Spirit put a seal on our souls (see Eph 4:30).  At the end of each Mass, the priest or deacon sends us out into the world to share the Good News: “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.”  The Lord is merciful but also demands we do our part in growing His Kingdom.



Prayer: Come, Holy Spirit!

Promise: "My point is that you should live in accord with the Spirit and you will not yield to the cravings of the flesh."

Praise: "When You send forth Your Spirit, they are created, and You renew the face of the earth" (Ps 104:30). Father God, we praise You for fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. Come Holy Spirit! Come!

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Friday, May 21, 2021

ACTS OF APOSTLES - One Bread, One Body, 05/22/2021

Saturday, May 22, 2021, St. Rita of Cascia
Pentecost Novena—Day 9

Acts 28:16-20, 30-31
Psalm 11:4-5, 7
John 21:20-25
View Readings

ACTS OF APOSTLES
"Your business is to follow Me." —John 21:22

Today, on the last day of our novena to the Holy Spirit and the next to last day of the Easter season, we read the last words of the Acts of the Apostles and the Gospel of John. May today be the beginning of our never again refusing to act on God’s commandments.

When the Lord commands us to follow Him to Calvary, He doesn’t want us to turn and ask: “But, Lord, what about him?” (Jn 21:21) The Lord doesn’t want us to hinder the spread of His Word by comparing ourselves with others. Furthermore, the Lord doesn’t want us to delay in acting on His commands because we have too many problems. For example, “with full assurance, and without any hindrance whatever, [Paul] preached the reign of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 28:31). St. Paul acted on the Lord’s command even though he was in an unfamiliar city, under house arrest, awaiting trial before the Roman emperor, and rejected by many Roman Jews (see Acts 28:16, 19, 24). St. Paul had plenty of problems and excuses for not acting, but he obeyed the Lord.

When we receive the Holy Spirit, we too perform the “acts of the apostles.” We don’t question God, compare ourselves with others, or get bogged down in our problems. We act (Jas 1:22). Let today be the last time we fail to act on God’s commandments. May today be the beginning of the uninterrupted acts of us, His disciples.



Prayer: Father, on this last day of the novena to the Holy Spirit, may I fix my eyes on Jesus and obey His every command.

Promise: "There are still many other things that Jesus did, yet if they were written about in detail, I doubt there would be room enough in the entire world to hold the books to record them." —Jn 21:25

Praise: St. Rita, famous as the patron of impossible causes, is also a patron of troubled marriages, infertility and parenthood.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Thursday, May 20, 2021

PERSON TO PERSON - One Bread, One Body, 05/21/2021

Friday, May 21, 2021, St. Christopher Magallanes
Pentecost Novena—Day 8

Acts 25:13-21
Psalm 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20
John 21:15-19
View Readings

PERSON TO PERSON
"Do you love Me?" —John 21:15, 16, 17

Christianity is the only religion in history to believe in the Incarnation, that is, in God becoming a man. Thus, only Christians believe we can have a personal relationship with God as a person. The uniqueness and essence of Christianity is personal relationship, communion, intimacy, and love.

Some would argue that Jesus’ Ascension ends the opportunity for a personal relationship with God because we can no longer see, hear, and feel Jesus’ physical body.  Yet, Jesus promised: “It is much better for you that I go. If I fail to go, the Paraclete will never come to you” (Jn 16:7). By the power of the Spirit, we can have a personal relationship with the body of Jesus in two new ways. “It was in one Spirit that all of us, whether Jew or Greek, slave or free, were baptized into one body” (1 Cor 12:13). In the Spirit, we become members of Christ’s Body, the Church. Although the Church is not Christ’s physical Body, it is truly His Body (see Acts 9:4; Mt 25:40; Mt 18:20) through which we can have a personal relationship with God. The Spirit also opens us to Jesus’ Body in the Eucharist (see Acts 2:42) by which we can relate to Jesus so personally that we live in Him and He in us (see Jn 6:56).

It’s better for us that Jesus ascended. By the Spirit, we now can have a much more intimate, personal relationship with God by becoming part of His Body, the Church, and by receiving God into our bodies in Holy Communion. The third Person of the Trinity makes possible a continuing, deeper, personal relationship with God.



Prayer: Father, when I receive Communion and hear the words "Body of Christ," may I say "Amen" with a greater love than ever.

Promise: "They differed with him over issues in their own religion, and about a certain Jesus Who had died but Who Paul claimed is alive." —Acts 25:19

Praise: A martyr, St. Christopher Magallanes preached peace. He was martyred on his way to Mass.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Wednesday, May 19, 2021

“UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL” - One Bread, One Body, 05/20/2021

Thursday, May 20, 2021, St. Bernardine of Siena
Pentecost Novena—Day 7

Acts 22:30; 23:6-11
Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-11
John 17:20-26
View Readings

"UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL"
"I pray that they may be [one] in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me." —John 17:21

Jesus prays that we would be one as He and the Father are One. Then the world will believe that the Father sent the Son. The people of the world closely observe Christians fighting with each other. The devil showcases to non-Christians our racism, denominations, divisions, and jealousies. This turns them off to the Gospel. Then, with world evangelization stalled through the disunity of Christians, Satan proceeds to massacre babies in the womb, destroy young people, break up marriages, pervert society, promote his kingdom of darkness, and lead people to eternal damnation. We can see why Jesus has prayed for two thousand years that Christians be one.

Jesus’ prayer for unity begins to be answered when we are filled with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is the Source of unity (Eph 4:3). “It was in one Spirit that all of us, whether Jew or Greek, slave or free, were baptized into one body” (1 Cor 12:13). We are “one in the Spirit.” The Spirit reverses divisions which go back to the first sin and were exacerbated at the tower of Babel (see Gn 11:9). By the Spirit of Pentecost, all nations can once again communicate with each other and be restored to the unity of paradise (see Acts 2:5-11). Then, as at the first Christian Pentecost, the Spirit showcases our unity to lead thousands into God’s kingdom (see Acts 2:41), and the strongholds of the devil are destroyed (see 2 Cor 10:4). Come, Holy Spirit of unity, evangelization, and victory.



Prayer: Father, on this seventh day of the novena to the Holy Spirit, may I participate in Mass and receive Holy Communion. May I be in communion and union with You and all people.

Promise: "I find myself on trial now because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead." —Acts 23:6

Praise: St. Bernardine re-popularized a unique symbol in honor of Christ - "IHS" - an abbreviation using the first three letters of "Jesus" in Greek. He is the patron saint of respiratory ailments.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Tuesday, May 18, 2021

“THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT” - One Bread, One Body, 05/19/2021

Wednesday, May 19, 2021, Pentecost Novena—Day 6

Acts 20:28-38
Psalm 68:29-30, 33-36
John 17:11-19
View Readings

"THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT"
"Be on guard, therefore. Do not forget that for three years, night and day, I never ceased warning you individually even to the point of tears." —Acts 20:31

St. Paul warned the Ephesian Christians individually for three years, night and day. He warned them of “savage wolves” from their own number who would distort the truth and lead astray any who follow them (Acts 20:29-30).

Guarding Christians against false teaching is a major emphasis in the New Testament. Jesus warns us against wolves in sheep’s clothing (Mt 7:15) and hireling shepherds who don’t protect the sheep (Jn 10:12-13). Paul told St. Timothy to “stay on in Ephesus in order to warn certain people there against teaching false doctrines” (1 Tm 1:3). He warned Timothy: “The time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine, but, following their own desires, will surround themselves with teachers who tickle their ears. They will stop listening to the truth and will wander off to fables” (2 Tm 4:3-4).

Using the sword of the Spirit (see Eph 6:17), the Church is to be “the pillar and bulwark of truth” (1 Tm 3:15). In the power of “the Spirit of Truth” (see Jn 16:13), we are “to fight hard for the faith delivered once for all to the saints” (Jude 3). We “must hold fast to the authentic message, so that [we] will be able both to encourage men to follow sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict it. There are many irresponsible teachers” (Ti 1:9-10). “Their lustful ways will lure many away. Through them, the true way will be made subject to contempt” (2 Pt 2:2).

Therefore, “guard the rich deposit of faith with the help of the Holy Spirit Who dwells within us” (2 Tm 1:14).



Prayer: Father, on this sixth day of the novena to the Holy Spirit, send the Spirit of truth.

Promise: "I consecrate Myself for their sakes now, that they may be consecrated in truth." —Jn 17:19

Praise: Even though he is crippled with a life-long disease, Tom chooses to live his life with a song of praise in his heart.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Monday, May 17, 2021

BOLD AND UNCOMPROMISING - One Bread, One Body, 05/18/2021

Tuesday, May 18, 2021, Pope St. John I
Pentecost Novena—Day 5

Acts 20:17-27
Psalm 68:10-11, 20-21
John 17:1-11
View Readings

BOLD AND UNCOMPROMISING
"I have never shrunk from announcing to you God's design in its entirety." —Acts 20:27

Historically, when the Church has been shrinking, the Lord has raised up shrink-resistant men and women who never shrink from speaking the total truth of God’s plan (Acts 20:27). They insist “solemnly on repentance before God” (Acts 20:21). They never shrink from telling people what is for their good, or from teaching them in every way God’s truth (Acts 20:20).

The Holy Spirit lavishes us with grace to expand. Yet we must put aside our old, fearful nature which shrinks from the fear of man. Jesus taught that no one sews a new “unshrunken” cloth onto an old cloth (Mt 9:16), else it would tear loose. We can’t mix our old “shrinking-violet” ways with the Holy Spirit. Nothing good comes from shrinking away. As Job proclaims: “What I fear overtakes me, and what I shrink from comes upon me” (Jb 3:25).

Repent of fear. Be bold and uncompromising in the Spirit (Acts 2:4). Help the Church expand again. “The Spirit God has given us is no cowardly spirit, but rather One that makes us strong” (2 Tm 1:7).



Prayer: Father, I'm not ashamed of the gospel (Rm 1:16). I'm "proud to profess it in Christ Jesus" (Easter Baptismal Promises).

Promise: "Eternal life is this: to know You, the only true God, and Him Whom You have sent, Jesus Christ." —Jn 17:3

Praise: Pope St. John I helped repair the schism of 482.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Sunday, May 16, 2021

“REALLY?” - One Bread, One Body, 05/17/2021

Monday, May 17, 2021, Pentecost Novena—Day 4

Acts 19:1-8
Psalm 68:2-7
John 16:29-33
View Readings

"REALLY?"
"Do you really believe?" —John 16:31

Jesus’ disciples professed their faith by stating: “We are convinced that You know everything. There is no need for anyone to ask You questions. We do indeed believe You came from God” (Jn 16:30). Jesus responded with the question: “Really?” When we profess our faith, does Jesus respond “Amen” or “Really?” Do we mean what we say or are we self-deceived?

The human heart is tortuous, twisted, deceitful (Jer 17:9). The Holy Spirit flees deceit (see Wis 1:5). Therefore, the human heart not only can refuse to accept the Spirit, but can even repel the Spirit. Because we cannot please God without the Spirit (see Rm 8:8-9), our deceit, and its effect on the Spirit, puts us in an impossible situation. Our only Hope is the Lord, Who can change the most hardened, deceitful heart.

On this fourth day of the novena to the Holy Spirit, consecrate your life to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Give Jesus everything, repent of your sins, and ask Him to create in you a clean heart (Ps 51:12). The Sacred Heart of Jesus will cleanse your heart from deceit and give you a new heart (see Ez 36:26). With this new and clean heart, you will not repel the Holy Spirit but embrace Him. You will mean what you say and no longer deceive yourself or others.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. Prepare our hearts to receive the Spirit!



Prayer: Holy Spirit, use Mary's intercession to lay bare the thoughts of my heart (Lk 2:35), making me docile for Jesus to change me.

Promise: "As Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came down on them and they began to speak in tongues and to utter prophecies. There were in the company about twelve men in all." —Acts 19:6-7

Praise: Preparing for Pentecost for new convert Louis changed his Easter and life.



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Saturday, May 15, 2021

NOT FINISHED YET - One Bread, One Body, 05/16/2021

Sunday, May 16, 2021, Ascension
Pentecost Novena—Day 3

Acts 1:1-11
Ephesians 4:1-13 or

Ephesians 1:17-23
Psalm 47:2-3, 6-9
Mark 16:15-20

View Readings

NOT FINISHED YET
"He was lifted up before their eyes in a cloud which took Him from their sight." —Acts 1:9

When Jesus ascended into heaven, He mounted “His throne amid shouts of joy; the Lord, amid trumpet blasts” (Ps 47:6). All the angels and saints were giving Jesus a “prostrate ovation” in recognition that He, the Lord of lords and the King of kings (see Rv 19:16), had accomplished the plan of salvation.

The apostles shared in this worship of the glorified and enthroned Christ, but they “had entertained doubts” (Mt 28:17). On the cross, when Jesus said: “It is finished,” His disciples may have assumed that He was saying His life was over rather than that God’s plan was fulfilled. When Jesus ascended, no one had a new nature, no one was a child of God, no one had the Trinity dwelling in him, and no one had the power to make disciples of all nations (see Mt 28:19). Why would the ascending Jesus be acclaimed in heaven when He left so much unfinished business?

Because God the Father through Jesus sent within a few days the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ Ascension was right on time. In the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ disciples were baptized, received a share in the divine nature (2 Pt 1:4), were dwelling in the Trinity and the Trinity in them, and were made holy, royal, priestly, chosen, and powerful to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth (1 Pt 2:9).

Pentecost makes Jesus’ Ascension glorious rather than bewildering. Let us devote ourselves “to constant prayer” for the coming of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 1:14).



Prayer: Father, in the Spirit may I do my part in Your plan.

Promise: "May [God] grant you a spirit of wisdom and insight to know [Jesus] clearly." ––Eph 1:17

Praise: "He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the Spirit; seen by the angels; preached among the Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up into glory" (1 Tm 3:16).



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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Friday, May 14, 2021

BRILLIANT, GIFTED, TALENTED — AND INCOMPLETE - One Bread, One Body, 05/15/2021

Saturday, May 15, 2021, St. Isidore the Farmer
Pentecost Novena—Day 2

Acts 18:23-28
Psalm 47:2-3, 8-10
John 16:23-28
View Readings

BRILLIANT, GIFTED, TALENTED — AND INCOMPLETE
"When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him home and explained to him God's new way in greater detail." —Acts 18:26

Apollos was “a man of eloquence,” “an authority on Scripture,” “instructed in the new way of the Lord,” “full of spiritual fervor,” and both accurate and fearless in his speech and teaching (Acts 18:24-26). This man had a lot going for him. Yet when Priscilla and Aquila heard Apollos speak, they knew he had everything but what he needed most. Apollos knew about Jesus but didn’t know Jesus. He only knew of John’s baptism of repentance. He had not received a new nature or life in the Spirit by being baptized into Jesus and filled with the Spirit.

Many people today, even those baptized, are like Apollos. They have everything going for them but what they need most. They have sinned, stifled the Spirit, and are no longer living out their Baptisms. In this condition, it’s impossible for them to please God, no matter how hard they try or how talented they are (see Rm 8:8). They should stop everything, repent, renew their commitment to Jesus, and receive the Spirit (Acts 2:38). Then they will receive power from on high (Acts 1:8). Only then can they go make disciples of all nations and build God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.



Prayer: Holy Spirit, on this second day of the Pentecost novena, may I resolve to never try to go on without You.

Promise: "Ask and you shall receive, that your joy may be full." —Jn 16:24

Praise: Did you know St. Isidore the Farmer is the patron of Catholic Rural Life (CRL)? CRL is a Catholic organization dedicated to the vitality of the American countryside.

(For a related teaching on Hearing God, order, view or download our leaflet or order, listen to, or download our CD 45-1 or DVD 45 on our website.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Thursday, May 13, 2021

REPLACEMENT WINDOWS - One Bread, One Body, 05/14/2021

Friday, May 14, 2021, St. Matthias
Pentecost Novena—Day 1

Acts 1:15-17, 20-26
Psalm 113:1-8
John 15:9-17
View Readings

REPLACEMENT WINDOWS
"May another take his office." —Acts 1:20

During this Pentecost novena, which begins today, we must replace our Judases with Matthiases. The apostles had spent nearly every day with Judas for about three years. After he sold Christ for thirty pieces of silver and then committed suicide (Mt 27:3-5), the apostles were probably traumatized, guilt-ridden, and confused. They had to deal with this catastrophe before they could receive the Holy Spirit of Pentecost. They had to replace the pain associated with Judas with the peace and healing associated with St. Matthias.

To receive the Holy Spirit this Pentecost, you too may have to replace the trauma of a divorce with the grace of forgiveness and healing. If you have been abused physically, emotionally, or sexually, you may need to replace your pain with the miracle of God’s love.

Because of being hurt and rejected, we usually try to forget about the Judases who have walked away from our lives, but we must replace them. First, we must forgive our Judases. Then, we must ask the Lord to work all things together for our good (Rm 8:28) by replacing disgrace with grace. The miracle of Matthias precedes the miracle of Pentecost.



Prayer: Father, I take my pain to the cross and let the crucified Jesus heal and transform me.

Promise: "You are My friends if you do what I command you." ––Jn 15:14

Praise: St. Matthias rejoiced when punished for teaching about Jesus (Acts 5:40-41).

(The Annual 40 Hours Devotion and Family Campout is June 18-20. E-mail retreats@presentationministries.com or call 513-373-2397 to register, or see www.presentationministries.com.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant the "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") for "One Bread, One Body."

"In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for One Bread, One Body covering the period from April 1,2021 through May 31, 2021 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio August 5,2020"

The "Nihil Obstat" ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the "Nihil Obstat" agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at http://www.presentationministries.com/series/obob

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Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Gu Energy Gel for Sale

Get Gu Energy Gel Here - https://bit.ly/3f97Wvz



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