Live the best Single Mingle Christian Sharing Lifestyle [even if you are married ;) ]: November 2021

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

ARE YOU SAVED? - One Bread, One Body, 11/30/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Tuesday, November 30, 2021 , St. Andrew

Romans 10:9-18
Psalm 19:8-11
Matthew 4:18-22
View Readings

ARE YOU SAVED?
"The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the command of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eye." ––Psalm 19:9

A few years ago, I attended a cordial meeting with Christians of various faith traditions. One non-Catholic participant excitedly posed a question to the group: “Brothers and sisters, do we not all agree with Romans 10:9, ‘For if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved’ ?” He assumed we would all agree a verbal confession guarantees our salvation.

Rather than answering the question above, let’s take a step back. Why should I believe the text of Romans or any other book in the Bible at all? This may seem like a radical question, but don’t be afraid to ask it! (see 1 Thes 5:21) The Bible never gives an inspired Table of Contents. Read the entire New Testament and you’ll never find a list of the twenty-seven books included. This fact tells us an authority must exist to determine what belongs (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 120).

We do have an authoritative interpreter of His Word. The apostles, commissioned by Jesus, were sent by the Lord to “make disciples of all the nations” (Mt 28:19). The Catholic Church is apostolic. Part of the Church’s mission included compiling the Bible and standardizing its Table of Contents. Sacred Tradition is trustworthy and protects us from taking any verse out of context. “All Scripture is inspired of God and is useful for teaching –– for reproof, correction, and training in holiness” (2 Tm 3:16).

Prayer: Father, grace me to "not…pass judgment on myself" (1 Cor 4:3) but instead accept Your merciful justice.

Promise: "He said to them, 'Come after Me and I will make you fishers of men.' " ––Mt 4:19

Praise: St. Philip deferred to St. Andrew when "some Greeks" requested to "see Jesus" (see Jn 12:20-22). Lord, thank You for calling St. Andrew to be a leader of men.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Monday, November 29, 2021

CHOOSE THE LIGHT - One Bread, One Body, 11/29/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Monday, November 29, 2021,

Isaiah 2:1-5
Psalm 122:1-9
Matthew 8:5-11
View Readings

CHOOSE THE LIGHT
"Let us walk in the light of the Lord!" —Isaiah 2:5

In the northern hemisphere, the days are growing ever darker as we approach the shortest and darkest day of the year, the winter solstice on December 21. In the world, we are a people that walks in ever-increasing darkness (see Is 9:1).

In the spiritual world, though, we have the light of the Lord (Is 2:5). We prepare during this time of Advent for the coming at Christmas of the Christ-Child. In the world, there is indeed darkness and gloom (Is 9:1), resulting from a world of sin and rebellion against the Lord. For millennia, humanity has rebelled against God. This resulted in a life “without God in the world” (Eph 2:12). But “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him may not die but may have eternal life. God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him” (Jn 3:16-17).

Jesus said: “I have come to the world as its light, to keep anyone who believes in Me from remaining in the dark” (Jn 12:46). “No follower of Mine shall ever walk in darkness” (Jn 8:12). Living for Jesus is the Way to escape a life of darkness (see Jn 14:6). Therefore, pick up your daily cross, follow Jesus, and “walk in the light of the Lord” (Is 2:5).

Prayer: Lord, "I am not worthy to have You under my roof" (Mt 8:8). Just say the word and I shall be delivered from darkness into Your kingdom of light.

Promise: "One nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war again." —Is 2:4

Praise: Robert has been spreading the Good News to prisoners for over thirty years.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Is your family ready for Christmas? Order, view or download our leaflet Healing the Family Tree 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 time period from December 01/2021 through January 31, 2022 Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 5, 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, November 28, 2021

PREGNANT AGAIN - One Bread, One Body, 11/28/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Sunday, November 28, 2021, First Sunday of Advent

Jeremiah 33:14-16
1 Thessalonians 3:12—4:2
Psalm 25:4-5, 8-10, 14
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

View Readings

PREGNANT AGAIN
"In those days, in that time, I will raise up for David a just Shoot." —Jeremiah 33:15

Happy New Year! Today we celebrate the first day of the new Church year and of Advent. Today, in a spiritual sense, we conceive new life and prepare to give birth to that life in the Christmas season. Advent is similar to pregnancy, in that we carry, protect, and nurture Christ’s new life within us (see Rm 6:4). We must take care not to do anything which might hurt the baby. Therefore, the Church warns us: “Be on guard lest your spirits become bloated with indulgence and drunkenness and worldly cares” (Lk 21:34). Just as a mother’s smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking drugs can have bad effects on her baby, so our sinful preoccupation with “worldly cares” can damage or even abort the new life of Advent.

We should begin this year and this spiritual pregnancy by going to Confession. By repenting, we remove things which stifle the growth of God’s life within us (see 2 Cor 7:10). We should also simplify our lives, freeing up more time to pray, read God’s Word, evangelize, and share fellowship. We should be nourished and rested in our pregnancy. TV, videos, and compulsive use of our handheld electronic devices could very well smother our new life in God. Advent, like pregnancy, is a wonderful time as long as we carefully protect and nourish the new life within us.

Prayer: Father, increase us and make us "overflow with love for one another" (1 Thes 3:12).

Promise: "When these things begin to happen, stand erect and hold your heads high, for your deliverance is near at hand."

Praise: "He will destroy death forever. The Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces; the reproach of His people He will remove from the whole earth; for the Lord has spoken" (Is 25:8). Praise the risen Jesus!

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

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Saturday, November 27, 2021

TIGHT END - One Bread, One Body, 11/27/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Saturday, November 27, 2021,

Daniel 7:15-27
Daniel 3:82-87
Luke 21:34-36
View Readings

TIGHT END
"The day I speak of will come upon all who dwell upon the face of the earth. So be on the watch." —Luke 21:35-36

My children enjoy reading books in the “Pick Your Own Adventure” series. These books are written with multiple endings. At several critical points in the story, the author asks the reader to choose what should happen. The ending of the story varies depending upon the reader’s choices. My kids often re-read the story and change their answers until they find the happy ending.

Jesus, the Author of Life (Acts 3:15), likewise longs for a glorious ending for each of us. On this last day of the Church year, He is pausing the story to put various choices before us.

Will you escape from reality through immersion in TV, movies, sports, tobacco, alcohol, or other substances? (Lk 21:34) Will you be absorbed in “worldly cares”? (Lk 21:34) Will you deny Jesus’ kingship over you through a lifestyle which ignores Him? If you answered “No,” skip to the final paragraph. If you answered “Yes,” continue.

If you ignore Jesus’ warnings about the last day and do not change your lifestyle accordingly, “the great day will suddenly close in on you like a trap” (Lk 21:34). “There will be no escape” (1 Thes 5:3). After your last day on earth, the season of His mercy will be over and all that remains is “a fearful expectation of judgment and a flaming fire to consume the adversaries of God” (Heb 10:27). Therefore, repent now! (Sir 5:8-9; 2 Cor 6:2)

If you accept Jesus as your Lord on His terms, you will choose holiness daily (Mt 6:33) and, instead of being immersed in the things of the world, will live your baptismal immersion in Him. You will be a holy child of God and possess His kingdom forever (Dn 7:18, 22, 27). “Let this, then, be the end” (2 Mc 15:39).

Prayer: Jesus, receive my life. I accept You as Savior and Lord.

Promise: "The holy ones of the Most High shall receive the kingship, to possess it forever and ever." —Dn 7:18

Praise: Thomas and his wife Mary pray together at least once daily.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

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Friday, November 26, 2021

NO PASSING ZONE - One Bread, One Body, 11/26/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Friday, November 26, 2021,

Daniel 7:2-14
Daniel 3:75-81
Luke 21:29-33
View Readings

NO PASSING ZONE
"The heavens and the earth will pass away, but My words will not pass." ¬—Luke 21:33

Only two days remain before this liturgical year comes to an end; upon what will you focus your attention? Will it be pre-Christmas sales? Will it be sports?

Compared to eternity, only a short time remains in our life; until we die or until Jesus comes again, upon what will you focus your attention? Will it be making money? (see 1 Tm 6:9-10) Will it be power, pleasure, food, clothes? (Mt 6:24-34) The things of this world, upon which we focus so much attention, shall pass away (Lk 21:33). “Since everything is to be destroyed in this way, what sort of [people] must you not be! How holy in your conduct and devotion, looking for the coming of the day of God and trying to hasten it!” (2 Pt 3:11-12)

Therefore, let us set our hearts on what is above, not on what is of earth (Col 3:1-2). With St. Paul, let us profess: “I have been crucified with Christ, and the life I live now is not my own; Christ is living in me. I still live my human life, but it is a life of faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal 2:19-20). Let us finish this Church year focused on what will last, not on what will pass away.

Prayer: Father, in these next two days, I ask You to bring to completion all that You wanted to accomplish in my life during this Church year.

Promise: "His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away, His kingship shall not be destroyed." ¬—Dn 7:14

Praise: David converted to the Faith on his deathbed.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(A retreat for men given by men will be offered on Dec. 3-4. Step aside from the world and get refreshed through teachings and fellowship. Call 937-587-5464 or 513-373-2397, or see presentationministries.com to register or for information.)

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Thursday, November 25, 2021

THE EXALTATION OF THE FAITHFUL - One Bread, One Body, 11/25/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Thursday, November 25, 2021, St. Catherine of Alexandria

Daniel 6:12-28
Daniel 3:68-74
Luke 21:20-28
View Readings

THE EXALTATION OF THE FAITHFUL
"To Daniel he said, 'May your God, Whom you serve so constantly, save you.' " —Daniel 6:17

Daniel was faithful. He refused to disregard the Jewish law regarding kosher food (Dn 1:8). The Lord exalted Daniel and gave him “the understanding of all visions and dreams” (Dn 1:17). King Nebuchadnezzar “advanced Daniel to a high post, gave him many generous presents, made him ruler of the whole province of Babylon and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon” (Dn 2:48).

Daniel was faithful. He broke the law and “continued his custom of going home to kneel in prayer and give thanks to his God in the upper chamber three times a day, with the windows open toward Jerusalem” (Dn 6:11). “So the king ordered Daniel to be brought and cast into the lions’ den” (Dn 6:17). God sent an angel to close the lions’ mouths (Dn 6:23). “Then King Darius wrote to the nations and peoples of every language” (Dn 6:26) and decreed that throughout his “royal domain the God of Daniel” was “to be reverenced and feared” (Dn 6:27). The Lord again exalted His faithful one.

Jesus is “the faithful Witness” (Rv 1:5). He was faithful to His Father — even to accepting death on the cross. “Because of this, God highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name above every other name” (Phil 2:9).

Be faithful to the Lord, His Church, your vocations, your family, and your responsibilities. Be faithful to your baptismal promises, and the Lord will exalt you and seat you with Him in heaven at the right hand of God the Father (Rv 3:21; Eph 2:6).

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your perfect faithfulness. May I be like You.

Promise: "Men will see the Son of Man coming on a cloud with great power and glory." —Lk 21:27

Praise: St. Catherine of Alexandria is the patroness of philosophers. Although little is known about Catherine's life, her debating skills and martyr's death are not disputed.

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

NO STOPPING GOD’S WORD - One Bread, One Body, 11/24/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Wednesday, November 24, 2021, St. Andrew Dung-Lac
& Companions

Daniel 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28
Daniel 3:62-67
Luke 21:12-19
View Readings

NO STOPPING GOD'S WORD
"His face blanched..." —Daniel 5:6

The fingers of human hands have written the words of God, that is, human authors wrote the books of the Bible. King Belshazzar trembled and was deeply shaken by watching the words of God being inexorably and relentlessly written upon the wall (Dn 5:6, 9). “There is no chaining the word of God!” (2 Tm 2:9) Perhaps the king ordered a servant to prevent that hand from writing. But such efforts, even if attempted, could not overcome the writing of the word God wanted to be communicated.

The Word of God is living and effective (Heb 4:12). All the forces of evil men may persecute those who proclaim the Word of God by speech or in writing. Those forces try to persecute God’s messengers in order to stop God’s hand from writing and His Spirit from speaking. If you consider it difficult to speak and spread the Word of God, consider how much more difficult it is to oppose the spreading of the Word of God! As the Lord told St. Paul, “It is hard for you to kick against the goad” (Acts 26:14). A goad was a piece of wood, pointed on one end. The point was used to prod an ox into motion. Therefore, if you oppose the spread of the Word of God, you are just causing yourself more pain. Opposing the Word of God is a hard, painful way of life.

God cannot be stopped. His Word does the job (Is 55:11). Disciples of Christ, be confident and spread God’s Word. “For there is One greater in you than there is in the world” (1 Jn 4:4).

Prayer: Father, I know that no weapon fashioned against Your Word can stand (Is 54:17). Send Your Spirit on Your servants that we may serve You with gladness and confidence.

Promise: "By patient endurance you will save your lives." ¬—Lk 21:19

Praise: One of the Vietnamese Martyrs told of his joy while being tortured because he knew "Christ was with him."

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

SUPER BOWL - One Bread, One Body, 11/23/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Tuesday, November 23, 2021, Pope St. Clement I
St. Columban
Bl. Miguel Agustín Pro

Daniel 2:31-45
Daniel 3:57-61
Luke 21:5-11
View Readings

SUPER BOWL
"But the stone that struck the statue became a great mountain and filled the whole earth." —Daniel 2:35

We get the false impression that our governments, dynasties, and human institutions are invincible. We are impressed by military might and nuclear power. We think something that has lasted a few hundred years is impregnable (Ps 90:4).

The Lord has released a rolling stone down the lane of human history, already bowling over the governmental, financial, and institutional pins of planet earth. Jesus is that Stone rejected by the builders (Ps 118:22; cf Mk 12:10). “That is the meaning of the stone you saw hewn from the mountain without a hand being put to it, which broke in pieces the tile, iron, bronze, silver, and gold. The great God has revealed to the king what shall be in the future” (Dn 2:45).

Jesus is the rolling Stone that is the Keystone of the structure (Ps 118:22; cf Mt 21:42). He “is likewise ‘an Obstacle and a stumbling Stone.’ Those who stumble and fall are the disbelievers in God’s word” (1 Pt 2:8). “The man who falls upon that Stone will be smashed to bits; and he on whom It falls will be crushed” (Mt 21:44).

Are you with the cosmic Bowler, our heavenly Father, and Jesus, the rolling Stone, or are you with the pins? It’s the tenth frame, and the Lord needs one more strike for a perfect game. Accept Jesus.

Prayer: Jesus, may I roll with You rather than rock with the pins. I accept You as Lord.

Promise: People "were speaking of how the temple was adorned with precious stones and votive offerings. He said, 'These things you are contemplating — the day will come when not one stone will be left on another, but it will all be torn down.' " —Lk 21:5-6

Praise: "Long live Christ the King!" Bl. Miguel Agustín shouted these words just before his martyrdom.

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

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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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Monday, November 22, 2021

THE TEN-DAY TRAINING DIET - One Bread, One Body, 11/22/2021

Yesterday, the Church celebrated the Solemnity of Christ the King. Today, we read about the four Jewish young men who trained three years to enter the service of the King of Babylon (see Dn 1:5). Likewise, Jesus trained His twelve apostles, 72 disciples, and other followers for a period of three years. Many of us trained for our profession in school for twelve years, and in college for at least another four years. How much time are we spending to train to serve Christ the King?

Can you devote three years to train to serve the greatest King, Jesus Christ? To do this training, we need to change our diet, much like Daniel, Mishael, Hananiah, and Azariah (Dn 1:12). They ate only vegetables consistent with the Jewish diet, and gave up all other foods. The best addition to our training diet is “a daily portion of food and wine from the royal table” (Dn 1:5), that is, Bread and Wine from Heaven, the Holy Eucharist (see Jn 6:55-56).

Can you do the same ten-day test (Dn 1:14-15) as these four young men? Attend Daily Mass for ten consecutive days. After ten days of a new training diet, Daniel, Mishael, Hananiah, and Azariah “looked healthier and better fed” than anyone around them (Dn 1:15). Give up any gluttony and devotion to the foods of the world, and allow the Eucharist to have its holy and transforming effect in your life.

Prayer: Father, give me the desire to change anything in my life to train to serve King Jesus.

Promise: "I assure you, this poor widow has put in more than all the rest." —Lk 21:3

Praise: Pious tradition tells us St. Cecilia courageously faced her martyrdom. She is the patron of musicians. "Sing to Him, sing His praise, proclaim all His wondrous deeds" (Ps 105:2).

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

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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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

To remove your e-mail address from this list, click here..

Sunday, November 21, 2021

“SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM” (see Mt 6:33) - One Bread, One Body, 11/21/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Sunday, November 21, 2021, Christ the King

Daniel 7:13-14
Revelation 1:5-8
Psalm 93:1-2, 5
John 18:33-37

View Readings

"SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM" (see Mt 6:33)
"Pilate went back into the praetorium and summoned Jesus. 'Are you the King of the Jews?' he asked Him. Jesus answered, 'Are you saying this on your own, or have others been telling you about Me?' " —John 18:33-34

The prophet Daniel, in visions during the night, “saw One like a son of man coming” to God’s throne where He received a kingdom which will never pass away (Dn 7:13-14). Jesus is the Fulfillment of this prophecy. He is the King of kings (see Rv 1:5; cf Rv 19:16).

Will you accept Jesus as your King? To do so, you must:

“Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand” (Mk 1:15, our transl).
Seek first His kingdom (Mt 6:33). Building His kingdom must be the priority of your priorities.
Choose to be a subject of King Jesus by submitting your will to Him in everything (see 1 Cor 15:27-28).
Joyfully sell all you have to purchase the precious pearl of God’s kingdom (see Mt 13:45-46).
Make “a radical choice” to “give everything” to King Jesus (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 546).

It is humanly impossible to choose to be in God’s kingdom. We have too much selfishness and too little love. Nevertheless, like the good thief, we can receive God’s grace to dethrone ourselves and accept Jesus as our King. Today, on this feast of Christ the King, by grace accept Jesus as your King on His terms.

Prayer: Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom (Lk 23:42).

Promise: "See, He comes amid the clouds! Every eye shall see Him, even of those who pierced Him." —Rv 1:7

Praise: The Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that Jesus will sit on "the throne of David" and "His reign will be without end" (see Lk 1:32-33). All hail, Christ the King!

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Saturday, November 20, 2021

HAVE IT YOUR WAY? - One Bread, One Body, 11/20/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Saturday, November 20, 2021,

1 Maccabees 6:1-13
Psalm 9:2-4, 6, 16, 19
Luke 20:27-40
View Readings

HAVE IT YOUR WAY?
"But I now recall the evils I did in Jerusalem...these evils have overtaken me; and now I am dying, in bitter grief, in a foreign land." —1 Maccabees 6:12, 13

Antiochus Epiphanes IV had savagely butchered the people of God. For example, he had killed babies and hung them from the necks of their mothers (1 Mc 1:61). He had militantly imposed the secular Greeks’ lifestyle upon the chosen people. He had literally gotten away with murder.

God wanted him to repent, but Antiochus persisted in his sin. So, God let Antiochus have his way and reap the wages of sin, that is, death (Rm 6:23). Antiochus “was struck with fear and very much shaken. Sick with grief because his designs had failed, he took to his bed. There he remained many days, overwhelmed with sorrow, for he knew he was going to die” (1 Mc 6:8-9).

“The Lord, indeed, knows how to rescue devout men from trial, and how to continue the punishment of the wicked up to the day of judgment” (2 Pt 2:9). The Lord will also let us have our way, even to eternal damnation. If we don’t accept the justice Jesus accomplished on Calvary, we must suffer the terrible justice of hell. May Jesus’ death not be in vain. Accept Him as Your Lord and Savior. Be justified in Him.

Prayer: Jesus, may I not insist on having it my way and going to hell.

Promise: "God is not the God of the dead but of the living. All are alive for Him." —Lk 20:38

Praise: When Albert came into the Church, so did his whole family.

(For a related teaching on Accepting Jesus as Lord, Savior and God, order, view or download our leaflet or order, listen to or download our CD 43-1 or DVD 43 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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Friday, November 19, 2021

TAKE ME BACK, LORD - One Bread, One Body, 11/19/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Friday, November 19, 2021,

1 Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59
1 Chronicles 29:10-12
Luke 19:45-48
View Readings

TAKE ME BACK, LORD
"On the anniversary of the day on which the Gentiles had defiled [the Temple], on that very day it was reconsecrated..." —1 Maccabees 4:54

The worst day in the lives of the Jews in the times of the Maccabees was the day of the defilement of the Temple by the cruel tyrant Antiochus Epiphanes (1 Mc 1:54).

What was the worst day of your life? Many of us have had our bodies defiled by acts of violence, sexual sin, and perhaps other indignities. The memories of these events may fill us with great pain and dismay.

Jesus entered into Jerusalem and took back the Temple, cleansing it by driving out what defiled it (Mt 21:12). The Maccabees re-purified the Temple, getting rid of the idolatrous objects which had defiled it (1 Mc 4:43). Yet more than simply purifying the Temple, the Maccabees also reclaimed the bad memory. They transformed the awful day of defeat and defilement by rededicating the Temple on that very same day a few years later (1 Mc 4:54).

Your body is a temple also, “a temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Cor 6:19). Perhaps God is calling you to make a special act of consecration on the anniversary of your worst day. Dedicate yourself to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on that day. Give God lavish praise and thanks as did the Maccabees (1 Mc 4:54-55). Let God transform your worst into your best.

Prayer: Father, I can't let go of these wounds. Take them away. Deliver me from evil, and transform everything to the good (Rm 8:28). Be glorified in the Temple of my body (1 Cor 6:20).

Promise: "The entire populace was listening to Him and hanging on His words." —Lk 19:48

Praise: Each year, Gloria reconsecrates herself to chastity on the anniversary of losing her virginity.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Thursday, November 18, 2021

SORROW, ZEAL, AND VICTORY - One Bread, One Body, 11/18/2021

Presentation Ministries need volunteers (no pay) to help translate the English version of the One Bread, One Body into Spanish.
If you are interested, please contact Jerry at (513) 659-9270 or email him at jerrycappel@fuse.net.

Thursday, November 18, 2021, Dedication of the Churches
of Sts. Peter & Paul
St. Rose Philippine Duchesne

1 Maccabees 2:15-29
Psalm 50:1-2, 5-6, 14-15
Luke 19:41-44
View Readings

SORROW, ZEAL, AND VICTORY
"He was filled with zeal; his heart was moved and his just fury was aroused." —1 Maccabees 2:24

Jesus “wept over” Jerusalem (Lk 19:41). “Just look at the fruit of this sorrow” (2 Cor 7:11). “What a measure of holy zeal!” (2 Cor 7:11) Jesus’ tears fell like sparks igniting a fire on the earth (see Lk 12:49). Jesus’ sorrow did not lead to despondence. Rather, His sorrow motivated Him to run to Jerusalem and die on the cross to take away the sins of every person.

Mattathias was grieved at the sins of God’s people (see 1 Mc 2:14). His godly sorrow resulted in zeal (1 Mc 2:24). Mattathias refused to apostatize. He began a revolution against the Seleucid empire and “fled to the mountains with his sons, leaving behind in the city all their possessions” (1 Mc 2:28).

Nehemiah wept over Jerusalem (Neh 1:4). In his sorrow, he prayed and asked King Artaxerxes for the means to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem (Neh 2:5ff). His request was granted, and Nehemiah did one of the greatest works in salvation history. Zeal for the city of God’s house consumed Nehemiah (see Ps 69:10; Jn 2:17).

I hope you are weeping over our culture of death. I pray that your sorrow will be godly and thereby motivate you to be zealous for the Lord. May your sorrow and zeal renew the face of the earth.

Prayer: Father, give me a deep contrition.

Promise: "We will not obey the words of the king nor depart from our religion in the slightest degree." —1 Mc 2:22

Praise: St. Rose Philippine trusted in divine providence. She entered a religious order, but the nuns had to disband because of the French Revolution. Ten years later she again became a nun.

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Wednesday, November 17, 2021

FIRST LOVE - One Bread, One Body, 11/17/2021

Loving God is more important than living (see Ps 63:4). Like the seven brothers in today’s first reading for Mass, hundreds of thousands of believers have laid down their lives for love of God.

Loving God takes priority over any suffering. The faithful mother in today’s first reading endured the extreme suffering of personally seeing her seven sons maimed and martyred.

Loving God takes priority over family (Lk 14:26), money (see Mt 6:24), lifestyle, and self (Lk 14:26). If you are rejected, penniless, homeless, and despised as a failure, your life is nevertheless beautiful if you love “God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind” (Lk 10:27). “There is no limit to love’s forbearance, to its trust, its hope, its power to endure. Love never fails” (1 Cor 13:7-8). “There are in the end three things that last: faith, hope, and love, and the greatest of these is love” (1 Cor 13:13). “God is Love, and he who abides in Love abides in God, and God in him” (1 Jn 4:16).

Look at a crucifix. God the Father loves you so much that He gave His Son to die for you (Jn 3:16). “See what love the Father has bestowed on us” (1 Jn 3:1). “Thus you will be able to grasp fully, with all the holy ones, the breadth and length and height and depth of Christ’s love, and experience this love which surpasses all knowledge, so that you may attain to the fullness of God Himself” (Eph 3:18-19).

Prayer: God, Lord of love, I live in You.

Promise: "Whoever has will be given more, but the one who has not will lose the little he has." —Lk 19:26

Praise: St. Elizabeth was the daughter of King Andrew II of Hungary. From her youth she displayed great piety. At Mass, she refused to wear her royal crown, because Jesus wore one of thorns.

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Tuesday, November 16, 2021

“A NOBLE EXAMPLE” (2 Mc 6:28) - One Bread, One Body, 11/16/2021

Tuesday, November 16, 2021, St. Margaret of Scotland
St. Gertrude the Great

2 Maccabees 6:18-31
Psalm 3:2-7
Luke 19:1-10
View Readings

"A NOBLE EXAMPLE" (2 Mc 6:28)
"Therefore, by manfully giving up my life now, I will prove myself worthy of my old age, and I will leave to the young a noble example of how to die willingly and generously for the revered and holy laws." —2 Maccabees 6:27-28

The ninety-year-old Eleazar refused to save his life by pretending he was eating pork. He knew that the example of his life of holiness would remain with others long after he died. Eleazar intentionally decided to offer his life and his faithful death as an example (2 Mc 6:19ff). St. Stephen’s example of holy martyrdom became an example for Saul of Tarsus, who became St. Paul (Acts 7:58). St. Paul understood the importance of being an example of a life of faith for others. He told the Corinthian Christians: “Imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Cor 11:1). The Thessalonian Christians likewise imitated Paul’s example and later became examples for other disciples in Greece (1 Thes 1:6-7).

Jesus Himself suffered for you and “left you an example, to have you follow in His footsteps” (1 Pt 2:21). When Jesus humbled Himself to wash the feet of His disciples the night before He died, He specifically mentioned to them that “what I just did was to give you an example: as I have done, so you must do” (Jn 13:15).

I have often heard homilists declare: “Faith is caught more than taught.” People look for examples to imitate. If they can’t find inspiration from Christians, they look to entertainers, athletes, and other public figures. We Christians have the opportunity to offer to the world “a noble example” of how to live and die joyfully in a life of faith. People are watching us. Will the example of faith they see in our life inspire them to follow Jesus?

Prayer: Father, when others see me, may they see only Jesus.

Promise: "The Son of Man has come to search out and save what was lost." —Lk 19:10

Praise: St. Gertrude the Great's writings teach us how to see ourselves as the bride of Christ.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Monday, November 15, 2021

“WITHOUT GOD IN THE WORLD” (Eph 2:12) - One Bread, One Body, 11/15/2021

Monday, November 15, 2021, St. Albert the Great

1 Maccabees 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63
Psalm 119:53, 61, 134, 150, 155, 158
Luke 18:35-43
View Readings

"WITHOUT GOD IN THE WORLD" (Eph 2:12)
"They allied themselves with the Gentiles and sold themselves to wrongdoing." —1 Maccabees 1:15

The secular culture promises unity, if you turn away from the Lord. But before long, the culture built without God shows its true colors. There is no freedom of religion and there is great intolerance. The Scriptures are banned and then burned (see 1 Mc 1:56). Those who persist in worshiping God are then put to death (1 Mc 1:57). The secular culture uses its power against those who worship God (see 1 Mc 1:58).

Putting the Lord out of our lives then becomes an earthly preview of hell, which is “the state of definitive self-exclusion from communion with God” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1033). Thus, separating from God leads to a life of hell on earth. The secular culture is not a merciful partner; it becomes a demanding tyrant, punishing anything that resembles worship of God. This was the experience of Maccabean Jews who allied themselves with the Greek culture; it has also been the continual experience of fallen-away Christians throughout history (see 2 Pt 2:20-22). You cannot “serve two masters,” God and the world (Mt 6:24). One or the other will have your complete allegiance.

Resist any temptation to turn away from God. In our baptismal promises, the Church leads us to reject Satan and all his empty promises. In six days, we will celebrate the solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Repent of any allegiance given to the secular culture and give your allegiance to King Jesus alone.

Prayer: Father, "redeem me from the oppression of men, that I may keep Your precepts" (Ps 119:134).

Promise: "Receive your sight. Your faith has healed you." —Lk 18:42

Praise: St. Albert the Great had a thirst for learning. His interests went far beyond theology. He studied and wrote about astronomy, economics, natural science, politics, and numerous other topics.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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, November 14, 2021

“READY OR NOT — HERE I COME” - One Bread, One Body, 11/14/2021

Sunday, November 14, 2021, 33rd Sunday Ordinary Time

Daniel 12:1-3
Hebrews 10:11-14, 18
Psalm 16:5, 8-11
Mark 13:24-32

View Readings

"READY OR NOT — HERE I COME"
"The heavens and the earth will pass away but My words will not pass." —Mark 13:31

The end of the world is certain. The Lord proclaims: “The heavens and the earth will pass away but My words will not pass” (Mk 13:31). The end of the world is unpredictable. “As to the exact day or hour, no one knows it, neither the angels in heaven nor even the Son, but only the Father” (Mk 13:32). The end of the world “shall be a time unsurpassed in distress since nations began until that time” (Dn 12:1). “During that period after trials of every sort the sun will be darkened, the moon will not shed its light, stars will fall out of the skies, and the heavenly hosts will be shaken” (Mk 13:24-25). “Indeed, had the Lord not shortened the period, not a person would be saved. But for the sake of those He has chosen, He has shortened the days” (Mk 13:20).

The Lord, Who is Love (1 Jn 4:8, 16), has warned us about the end of the world so that we will be always ready for it. If we are ready for the final end, we are the wise who “shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament” (Dn 12:3). If we are not ready for the end of the world, we “shall be an everlasting horror and disgrace” (Dn 12:2).

We are always ready for the end of the world when we have been baptized into Jesus (see Mk 16:16) and live totally for and in Him. “There is no condemnation now for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rm 8:1). In Jesus, we hasten the end of the world and Jesus’ final coming (2 Pt 3:12). In Jesus, we who are on earth at the end sing “Alleluia” as the smoke begins to rise from the earth (Rv 19:3). Are you ready for the world to end now? Are you living in Christ now?

Prayer: "Maranatha!" Come, Lord Jesus! (Rv 22:20)

Promise: "You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in Your presence, the delights at Your right hand forever." —Ps 16:11

Praise: Praise You, Jesus. Through You, we have access to the Father (see 1 Pt 1:21).

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Saturday, November 13, 2021

PERSIST AND PRAY - One Bread, One Body, 11/13/2021

Saturday, November 13, 2021, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini

Wisdom 18:14-16; 19:6-9
Psalm 105:2-3, 36-37, 42-43
Luke 18:1-8
View Readings

PERSIST AND PRAY
"Listen to what the corrupt judge has to say." —Luke 18:6

Jesus doesn’t tell us to pay attention to what the widow says. He tells us to pay attention to what the corrupt judge says (Lk 18:6). One message of this parable is that persistent evil can be worn down by persistent good. Greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world (see 1 Jn 4:4). It may seem to us that there are strongholds of the evil one that cannot be defeated. Evil in our culture may seem to be as giant as Goliath (1 Sm 17:4ff). The widow might seem no more mighty than did the youth David; too small, too weak, no chance to be victorious. Thus, Jesus tells us to pay attention to the response of the judge, who is evil, powerful, and dishonest. The powerful judge is worn down by the seemingly helpless widow.

Evil may seem powerful, but it will not prevail. Therefore, be encouraged and persist in your prayers. If you pray for godly intentions that seem to be unanswered, realize that Jesus is telling you to persist in your prayer. He tells you to pray always and not lose heart (Lk 18:1). In fact, He even says this is a “necessity” (Lk 18:1). Do not lose heart. Pray without ceasing (1 Thes 5:17) and without losing heart.

Prayer: Father, You speak to me through Jesus (Heb 1:2). Bring me to a new dimension of prayer and trust.

Promise: "He led forth His people with joy; with shouts of joy, His chosen ones." —Ps 105:43

Praise: Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, affectionately known as "Mother Cabrini," has the distinction of being the first canonized United States citizen.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)(The annual Men's Retreat is Dec. 3-4. Plan now to attend this always popular retreat. It is sure to inspire and renew you. Call 937-587-5464, 513-373-2397 or see presentationministries.com to register or for information.)

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Thursday, November 11, 2021

THE TODAY SHOW - One Bread, One Body, 11/11/2021

Thursday, November 11, 2021, St. Martin of Tours

Wisdom 7:22—8:1
Psalm 119:89-91, 130, 135, 175
Luke 17:20-25
View Readings

THE TODAY SHOW
"A time will come when you will long to see one day of the Son of Man but will not see it." —Luke 17:22

Today we’re able to spend the day with Jesus without too many obstacles. Today we can read God’s Word and receive Communion. We can spend time with other Christians and freely tell the Good News of Jesus to whomever He sends us. We can work “while it is day. The night comes on when no one can work” (Jn 9:4).

Let’s appreciate today and “make the most of the present opportunity” (Eph 5:16). For there will be a time “more distressful than any between God’s work of creation and now, and for all time to come” (Mk 13:19). At that time, we “will long to see one day of the Son of Man” but will not see it (Lk 17:22). The Lord will never leave us, but it will be difficult to believe this under the circumstances.

Let’s pray, prepare for the future, and not dread it. We should pray to not be subjected to the trial but to stand erect by faith and hold our heads high “when these things begin to happen” (Lk 21:28). We prepare for the future by using fully the opportunities of the present. We have wasted enough time doing “what the pagans enjoy” (1 Pt 4:3). We are not to spend what remains of our “earthly life on human desires but on the will of God” (1 Pt 4:2). “It is now the hour...to wake from sleep, for our salvation is closer than when we first accepted the faith” (Rm 13:11).

Prayer: Father, today is the only day I'm certain I have left. I live my life and day fully for You.

Promise: "For she [wisdom] is the refulgence of eternal light, the spotless mirror of the power of God, the image of His goodness." —Wis 7:26

Praise: St. Martin of Tours gave his cloak to a shivering beggar. Soon afterward, he had a vision of Jesus as that beggar. He was baptized and faithfully served the Church. St. Martin converted his pagan mother.

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Wednesday, November 10, 2021

ALL FOR JESUS - One Bread, One Body, 11/10/2021

Wednesday, November 10, 2021, Pope St. Leo the Great

Wisdom 6:2-11
Psalm 82:3-4, 6-7
Luke 17:11-19
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ALL FOR JESUS
"He threw himself on his face at the feet of Jesus and spoke His praises. This man was a Samaritan." —Luke 17:16

Earlier in His public ministry, Jesus healed a leper instantly by touching him (Lk 5:12-14). Then he told the healed leper to go show himself to the priest. The leper failed to do that. In today’s Gospel, instead of immediately healing the ten lepers, Jesus tells them to show themselves to the priests first. He does not immediately heal them. “On their way there they were cured” (Lk 17:14).

The priest, by declaring the lepers clean, integrated the lepers back into mainstream Jewish society (see Lv 13:9ff). However, the Samaritan leper would likely not be integrated back into Jewish society once he was declared clean. Samaritans and Jews often despised one another (see Lk 9:53-54; Jn 4:9; 8:48). In being healed, the Samaritan also would likely have lost his former support system of the other nine Jewish lepers. Yet despite this possible future of continued isolation, the Samaritan was so grateful to Jesus for healing him that he “came back praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself on his face at the feet of Jesus and spoke His praises” (Lk 17:15-16).

If living in the Kingdom of God under the lordship of Jesus meant that you would be isolated, rejected, misunderstood, and even persecuted, could you rejoice at finding the pearl of great price, even if it cost you everything? (Mt 13:45-46) No matter what it costs, give your life to Jesus today. He is the Treasure worth everything you have (Mt 13:44).

Prayer: Father, the word Eucharist means "thanksgiving." Fill me with such a desire to give thanks to You that I may desire to go to Mass more deeply than ever before.

Promise: "Those who keep the holy precepts hallowed shall be found holy, and those learned in them will have ready a response." —Wis 6:10

Praise: Pope St. Leo the Great taught on the greatness of the Divine Word both human and divine and thus propagated true wisdom.

(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 the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Tuesday, November 9, 2021

JESUS IN THE CHURCH - One Bread, One Body, 11/09/2021

Tuesday, November 9, 2021, Dedication of the
St. John Lateran Basilica

Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12
1 Corinthians 3:9-11, 16-17
Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9
John 2:13-22

View Readings

JESUS IN THE CHURCH
"Zeal for Your house consumes Me." —John 2:17

Today throughout the world we celebrate the Church, and especially Jesus, the Founder and Head of the Church. Today we celebrate the unity of the Church, her authority in Christ (Mt 16:19), and Jesus’ special presence in the Church.

Jesus is present in the Church universal, for He is her Head (Col 1:18). He is present in the small communities of the Church, for He has promised to be with us in a special way where two or three gather in unity in His name (Mt 18:20). Jesus is present in the church building in the most special and central way of all, for here He is present in the Eucharist, the Blessed Sacrament (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1373).

On this glorious feast day, the Lord is calling us in many ways. He may be calling us to form or join a small Christian community. He is calling us to evangelize and “re-member” the Church. I believe that on this special day the Lord is especially calling us to Eucharistic adoration. Pope St. John Paul II taught: “The Church and the world have a great need for Eucharistic worship. Jesus awaits us in this sacrament of love. Let us not refuse the time to go to meet Him in adoration” (Catechism, 1380).

Love the Church (Eph 5:25). Adore Jesus in church. Let zeal for God and His house consume you (Jn 2:17).

Prayer: Father, because I am living in Christ (see Phil 1:21), may I be living in the Church.

Promise: "Are you not aware that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?" —1 Cor 3:16

Praise: St. John Lateran Basilica reminds us of an easy-to-forget fact: The Catholic Church uses architectural beauty to commemorate and spread the truth of the Gospel. The Lateran Basilica is the oldest patriarchal church in Rome. It was originally the Church of Our Savior.

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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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Monday, November 8, 2021

HOW TO ACCEPT THE GRACE OF DIVINE INTIMACY - One Bread, One Body, 11/08/2021

Monday, November 8, 2021,

Wisdom 1:1-7
Psalm 139:1-10
Luke 17:1-6
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HOW TO ACCEPT THE GRACE OF DIVINE INTIMACY
"Into a soul that plots evil wisdom enters not, nor dwells she in a body under debt of sin." —Wisdom 1:4

If we wish to be close to God and to keep the faith rather than lose it, we must:

not test God (Wis 1:2). God has already proved Himself on the cross and in millions of other ways. We need to be tested, not Him.
not disbelieve God (Wis 1:2). Some doubts are steps toward faith, but others are a refusal to accept the gift of faith. These doubts must be dismissed, not entertained.
repent of making perverse and senseless counsels (Wis 1:3, 5; cf Eph 5:3-4). We may have plans that we know are not of God. We either change these plans or separate ourselves from the Lord.
repent of our sins and let Jesus pay our debt of sin (see Wis 1:4).
not disdain the discipline of the Lord (see Wis 1:5; Heb 12:5).

The Lord wants to live in us. God, Who is Love (1 Jn 4:8, 16), wants to be Love in us. He also wants us to live in Him and have an intimacy with Him beyond anything we can imagine. He will do this miracle of love. All we need do is to cooperate with His grace by following His directions.

Prayer: Father, make every aspect of my life reflect my commitment to live for You alone.

Promise: "The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith,' and He answered; 'If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this sycamore, "Be uprooted and transplanted into the sea," and it would obey you.' " —Lk 17:5-6

Praise: Jerry goes to Confession at least monthly.

(For a related teaching on Effects of Sin, order, listen to or download our CD 81-3 or DVD 81 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 time period from October 1, 2021 through November 30, 2021. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Vicar General, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 14, 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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Copyright © Presentation Ministries

To add your e-mail address to this list go to https://www.presentationministries.com/subscribe/email

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