LIFE ONLY IN CHRIST - One Bread, One Body, 11/12/2026

Thursday, November 12, 2026, St. Josaphat

Philemon 7-20
Psalm 146:7-10
Luke 17:20-25

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LIFE ONLY IN CHRIST
I “appeal to you for my child, whom I have begotten during my imprisonment.” —Philemon 10

Onesimus, a slave, became a Christian in prison. This made him a son of God and a spiritual child of St. Paul, who led him to Christ (Phlm 10). In Greek, “Onesimus” means useful. Contrary to his name, Onesimus had been useless, but he became useful when he became a Christian (Phlm 11). Paul found Onesimus so useful that he considered him to be his very heart (Phlm 12). When Onesimus gave his life to Jesus, he became “more than a slave,” he became “a beloved brother” of Jesus, of all Christians, and even of his slave-owner, Philemon (Phlm 16).

When someone is baptized and becomes a Christian, he enters God’s family, has a share in the divine nature of the Trinity (2 Pt 1:4), and becomes a member of the Body of Christ. Only in Christ is there salvation (Acts 4:12), freedom (Jn 8:36), and eternal life (1 Jn 5:12). In Christ, we are more than conquerors (Rm 8:37). Consequently, a person’s life is in some way wasted and useless until he becomes a Christian (see 1 Pt 4:2). However, in Christ “there is no condemnation” (Rm 8:1).

Therefore, in thanksgiving to the Lord, live for Him alone and tell others the Good News of life in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Father, make me a witness for Jesus (see Acts 1:8).

Promise: “The Son of Man in His day will be like the lightning that flashes from one end of the sky to the other.” —Lk 17:24

Praise: St. Josaphat was renowned at leading people to Jesus and His Church. His enemies called him “the thief of souls.”

(For a related teaching on Risen Life, view, download or order our leaflet or listen to, download or order our AV 4A-1, AV 4A-3, AV 4B-1 and AV 4B-3 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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HIS PIERCED, BEAUTIFUL FEET - One Bread, One Body, 11/11/2026

Wednesday, November 11, 2026, St. Martin of Tours

Titus 3:1-7
Psalm 23:1-6
Luke 17:11-19

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HIS PIERCED, BEAUTIFUL FEET
“He threw himself on his face at the feet of Jesus and spoke His praises.” —Luke 17:16

There is something about the feet of Jesus. Because His feet are nail-scarred from the crucifixion (see Lk 24:39), they are beautiful (see Is 52:7). Jesus’ pierced feet bring the Good News of salvation.

The Samaritan leper who was healed “threw himself on his face at the feet of Jesus” (Lk 17:16). Mary of Bethany “seated herself at the Lord’s feet and listened to His words” (Lk 10:39). Later, this “Mary brought a pound of costly perfume made from genuine aromatic nard, with which she anointed Jesus’ feet. Then she dried His feet with her hair” (Jn 12:3). “A woman known in the town to be a sinner” (Lk 7:37) stood behind Jesus “at His feet, weeping so that her tears fell upon His feet. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissing them and perfuming them with the oil” (Lk 7:38). After the women leaving Jesus’ tomb met Him risen from the dead, they “embraced His feet and did Him homage” (Mt 28:9).

In love for Jesus, we should throw ourselves at Jesus’ feet and embrace, kiss, and perfume His feet. At the pierced, beautiful feet of Jesus, we must repent of our sins and praise and worship Jesus. Throw yourself on your “face at the feet of Jesus” (Lk 17:16).

Prayer: “Glorious God, in adoration, at Your feet we belong” (from the song “Glorious God”).

Promise: He saved us “through Jesus Christ our Savior, that we might be justified by His grace and become heirs, in hope, of eternal life. You can depend on this to be true.” —Ti 3:6-8

Praise: St. Martin led his mother to Jesus and to membership in the Church shortly before she died.

(We offer a Men’s Retreat Dec. 4-5, with teachings and fellowship with the goal of equipping men to fulfill their role in the world today. Call 513-373-2397 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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THE STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE - One Bread, One Body, 11/10/2026

Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Pope St. Leo the Great

Titus 2:1-8, 11-14
Psalm 37:3-4, 18, 23, 27, 29
Luke 17:7-10

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THE STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE
“Reject godless ways and worldly desires.” —Titus 2:12

Many of our desires are contradictory and destructive. Therefore, in His mercy, “the grace of God has appeared, offering salvation” and training us “to reject godless ways and worldly desires, and live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age” (Ti 2:11-12). The Lord commands us: “Live soberly” (1 Pt 1:13), and “do not yield to the desires that once shaped you in your ignorance” (1 Pt 1:14). “You are not to spend what remains of your earthly life on human desires but on the will of God” (1 Pt 4:2). “You must lay aside your former way of life and the old self which deteriorates through illusion and desire” (Eph 4:22). Unless worldly desires are rejected, they will deform us, cause our lives to deteriorate, and take away our lives. Therefore, “those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified their flesh with its passions and desires” (Gal 5:24).

Ask the Spirit to lust against the desires of your flesh (Gal 5:17) and give you the strength to crucify your desires. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Cor 3:17). Do not be enslaved by your desires but be free in the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: Father, may my desire for You be so encompassing that all my worldly desires will be rejected and crucified.

Promise: “The just shall possess the land and dwell in it forever.” —Ps 37:29

Praise: Pope St. Leo the Great twice saved Rome from Barbarian invasion.

(For a related teaching on Shalom, listen to, download or order our AV 82-3 or V 82 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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CONSUMED BY LOVE FOR THE CHURCH - One Bread, One Body, 11/09/2026

Monday, November 9, 2026, Dedication of the
Lateran Basilica in Rome

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
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CONSUMED BY LOVE FOR THE CHURCH
The angel “brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water flowing out.” —Ezekiel 47:1

From the Church flow the living waters which will change our culture of death into a civilization of love and life, and “renew the face of the earth” (Ps 104:30).

For the Church to fully exercise her authority and power, she must be “built as an edifice of spirit, into a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Pt 2:5). “In Him you are being built into this temple, to become a dwelling place for God in the Spirit” (Eph 2:22). Everyone “must be careful how he builds” (1 Cor 3:10).

For the Church to be built up, bring Jesus to the world, and make every thought captive to Christ (2 Cor 10:5), she must be cleansed as Jesus cleansed the Temple (see Jn 2:15ff).

Let zeal for God’s Church consume us (Jn 2:17; Ps 69:10). Let us cleanse the Church by first repenting of our sins in and against the Church. Let us build up the Church, especially by forming small Christian communities. Then we will see the Church exalted as the Body of Christ (e.g. Eph 1:22-23), the bride of Christ (e.g. Rv 22:17), “the pillar and bulwark of truth” (1 Tm 3:15), “ ‘a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people He claims for His own to proclaim the glorious works’ of the One Who called you from darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Pt 2:9). Love the Church as Christ loves the Church! (Eph 5:25)

Prayer: Father, may zeal for Your Church consume me.

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: “And you, O child, shall be called prophet of the Most High; For you shall go before the Lord to prepare straight paths for Him” (Lk 1:76).



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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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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SEEK WISDOM TODAY - One Bread, One Body, 11/08/2026

Sunday, November 8, 2026, 32nd Sunday Ordinary Time

Wisdom 6:12-16
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Psalm 63:2-8
Matthew 25:1-13
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SEEK WISDOM TODAY
“She [Wisdom] makes her own rounds, seeking those worthy of her.” —Wisdom 6:16

Wisdom is seated by your gate (Wis 6:14), and is making rounds to seek those who want to listen to her (Wis 6:16). If you don’t seek wisdom, eventually you’ll be like the five foolish virgins who did not seek wisdom. Those five were the ones making their rounds at the end, desperately seeking the wisdom they had long ignored (Mt 25:10). They searched for what had been searching for them. But now it was too late (Mt 25:11-12).

In the New Testament, the phrase “fallen asleep” often refers to the sleep of death (see Jn 11:11-13; 1 Thes 4:13). All ten of the virgins fell asleep. This could mean that all ten of them died. In that case, it was too late for the foolish virgins; the time of judgment was at hand, and the wise virgins could no longer share their wisdom with them.

Therefore, while we live on this earth, we are to seek wisdom and we will find it; we must knock and the door will be opened (Mt 7:7). At the last judgment, the door will be locked (Mt 25:10). So, prepare now, while it is “today” (Heb 3:13; Ps 95:7ff). “In whatever you do, remember your last days, and you will never sin” (Sir 7:36). Jesus is teaching us to remember our final end, store up ever more of the oil and wisdom of the Holy Spirit, and be a light to the world.

Now is the time (see 2 Cor 6:2). Don’t miss out on your “present opportunity” to gain wisdom (Eph 5:16). “Stay awake” (Mt 24:42). Be vigilant. Seek wisdom.

Prayer: Father, beginning today, I will devote ten extra minutes each day to sitting at Your feet in prayer, listening for Your wisdom.

Promise: “He who for her sake keeps vigil shall quickly be free from care.” —Wis 6:15

Praise: Praise You, risen Jesus, Living Word (Heb 4:12), Wisdom of God (1 Cor 1:30). Alleluia!

(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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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TESTS FOR TRUST - One Bread, One Body, 11/07/2026

Saturday, November 7, 2026 ,

Philippians 4:10-19
Psalm 112:1-2, 5-6, 8-9
Luke 16:9-15

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TESTS FOR TRUST
“If you can trust a man...” —Luke 16:10

You are a child of God (Jn 1:12). You are very important to God. He wants to give you awesome responsibilities and make your life very special. Before the Lord will give you a world-changing life, however, He needs to trust you. No one should be given great responsibilities if they are not trustworthy. Can the Lord trust you?

On our American money, we have written “In God We Trust.” Does the Lord have written on His money “In Sally I trust” or “In George I trust”? Can God trust you? “If you can trust a man in little things, you can also trust him in greater” (Lk 16:10). “If you cannot be trusted with elusive wealth, who will trust you with lasting?” (Lk 16:11)

The Israelites wandered in the desert forty years. They couldn’t be trusted to enter the Promised Land. When the Lord told them not to save the manna for the next day and not to try to gather it on the Sabbath, many of them disobeyed the Lord (Ex 16:4, 20, 27). They couldn’t be trusted. Can the Lord trust us to follow His directions? Or do we do our own thing?

When you see your money and possessions, look at them as questions on a test. Answer the questions correctly by obeying God. Don’t flunk out of a life of greatness. Be trustworthy.

Prayer: Father, I trust in You. May I give You reason to trust in me.

Promise: “In Him Who is the Source of my strength I have strength for everything.” —Phil 4:13

Praise: Walt and Rose have prayed faithfully for their eleven children. Seven of them have committed their lives to the Lord in the last five years.

(For a related teaching on Hold Fast to the Faith, listen to, download or order our AV 71-1 or V 71 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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LONGER-RANGE FINANCIAL PLANNING - One Bread, One Body, 11/06/2026

Friday, November 6, 2026 ,

Philippians 3:17—4:1
Psalm 122:1-5
Luke 16:1-8

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LONGER-RANGE FINANCIAL PLANNING
“As you well know, we have our citizenship in heaven.” —Philippians 3:20

Many people are accustomed to plan ahead financially. It is also customary to emphasize long-range planning and not merely short-term. The Lord does want us to plan ahead for the very long-term, even for Judgment Day and eternity. By tithing, almsgiving, having no debt or reducing it (Rm 13:8), and obeying the Lord in not demanding interest, we let God have His way with our finances.

In this world, the Lord in turn will supply our “needs fully, in a way worthy of His magnificent riches in Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:19). Also, because we are faithful in the small matter of managing our material goods, the Lord will entrust us with greater things (Lk 16:10). Then, after this life on earth, we will be called good and faithful stewards on Judgment Day (Mt 25:21) and have an everlasting dwelling place in heaven (Lk 16:9).

If your financial planning doesn’t take account of life after death, it is short-term and inadequate. If you are “set upon the things of this world” (Phil 3:19), you “will end in disaster” (Phil 3:19). Plan ahead. Plan for life, death, judgment, and eternity.

Prayer: Father, I will never be an enemy of the cross by being a friend of the world (Phil 3:18; Jas 4:4).

Promise: “For these reasons, my brothers, you whom I so love and long for, you who are my joy and my crown, continue, my dear ones, to stand firm in the Lord.” —Phil 4:1

Praise: The Edgington family gradually increased their tithing every few months until they tithed ten percent of their income. By God’s providence, their debt lessened as well.

(For a related teaching on The Bible on Money, view, download or order our booklet 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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GOD’S FAVORITE PRESENT - One Bread, One Body, 11/05/2026

Thursday, November 5, 2026 ,

Philippians 3:3-8
Psalm 105:2-7
Luke 15:1-10

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GOD’S FAVORITE PRESENT
“There will likewise be more joy in heaven over one repentant sinner.” —Luke 15:7

God the Father has loved us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us. We are loved infinitely, perfectly, and eternally.

In response to God’s love, we love (1 Jn 4:19). As human beings, we try to express our love in words, actions, and gifts. But what can we do for the Lord that would make Him very happy? What is a gift that would delight the almighty God?

Jesus answers this question for us in today’s Gospel reading: “I tell you, there will likewise be more joy in heaven over one repentant sinner than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need to repent” (Lk 15:7). The Lord is very pleased by our righteousness but even more happy about our repentance. When we go to Confession, we are escalating the joy in heaven. When we accept God’s call to be ministers of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:18), calling others to repentance and Confession, we are thrilling the Holy Trinity and the hosts of heaven. Even if we ourselves don’t feel so excited about repentance, all that counts is that the One receiving the gift likes it.

Therefore, give God the gift of repentance. “Blessed are we, O Israel; for what pleases God is known to us!” (Bar 4:4)

Prayer: Father, may I be preoccupied with showing my love for You.

Promise: “I have come to rate all as loss in the light of the surpassing knowledge of my Lord Jesus Christ.” —Phil 3:8

Praise: David made the commitment to monthly Confession. Shortly after, he found he wanted to go even more frequently.

(For a related teaching on The Secret of Confession, view, download or order our leaflet 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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ONLY ALL IS ENOUGH - One Bread, One Body, 11/04/2026

Wednesday, November 4, 2026, St. Charles Borromeo

Philippians 2:12-18
Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14
Luke 14:25-33

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ONLY ALL IS ENOUGH
“My life is to be poured out.” —Philippians 2:17

Many Christians feel that they don’t have to be totally abandoned to the Lord in order to be pleasing to Him and to do His will. They feel that it is sufficient to go to Church and try to live a decent life. The Lord proclaims the very opposite. If we aren’t so taken up with following Jesus that it seems by comparison that we “hate” our wives, children, family, and selves, we will not be able to build God’s kingdom and win the war against the evil one (see Lk 14:26ff). If we don’t take up the daily cross of self-sacrifice and dying to self, we cannot be disciples of Jesus (Lk 14:27). If we don’t renounce all our possessions and be willing to give up anything and everything for Jesus, we cannot be His disciples (Lk 14:33). He calls us to be selfless stewards of the possessions God has given us, so our possessions do not possess us, but are used generously for the Kingdom of God. Furthermore, we should surrender everything to Jesus not reluctantly but cheerfully (2 Cor 9:7) and joyfully (see Phil 2:17).

Give all to Jesus. He gave all to us on the cross. Consider it a privilege to give all. Life in Christ is a life of total giving. Nothing else will do. Look at Jesus crucified. Do a one-minute crucifix novena. Look at a crucifix for at least one minute a day for nine days. Decide to love Jesus with all your heart (Lk 10:27).

Prayer: Father, may the love of Christ impel me to total love (2 Cor 5:14).

Promise: “Prove yourselves innocent and straightforward, children of God beyond reproach in the midst of a twisted and depraved generation — among whom you shine like the stars in the sky while holding fast to the word of life.” —Phil 2:15-16

Praise: St. Charles sold his bed to help those who were dying of a plague.



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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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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MIND YOUR ATTITUDE - One Bread, One Body, 11/03/2026

Tuesday, November 3, 2026, St. Martin de Porres

Philippians 2:5-11
Psalm 22:26-32
Luke 14:15-24

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MIND YOUR ATTITUDE
“Have this mind among yourselves, which was in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 2:5, RSV-CE

In the Greek, the word often translated as “attitude” in Philippians 2:5 can also be translated as “mindset.” Today’s psalm response reveals Jesus’ mindset from the cross: “I will praise You, Lord, in the assembly of the people” (see Ps 22:26). Today’s Gospel passage likewise reveals God the Father’s mindset: He wants His house to be full (Lk 14:23).

Jesus humbly became a slave (Phil 2:7), fulfilling His Father’s will. Moreover, He did this out of love rather than compulsion. St. Paul echoed this mindset when he wrote: “I have been crucified with Christ, and the life I live now is not my own; Christ is living in me” (Gal 2:19-20). He also wrote: “To me, ‘life’ means Christ” (Phil 1:21), and “The love of Christ impels us…[we] live no longer for [ourselves], but for Him” (2 Cor 5:14-15).

Everything Jesus did was to please His Father. Though Psalm 22 begins with the crucified Jesus feeling forsaken by God (Ps 22:2), it was through Jesus experiencing this forsakenness that we could approach Him as Savior and Messiah. Jesus died for us (Rm 5:8) even though we ignored Him and excused ourselves from His Father’s banquet (Lk 14:18-20). Thus, we can confidently approach Jesus and offer our lives to Him. For His mindset is: “This is My body, to be given up for you” (see 1 Cor 11:24).

Ask the Father to transform you by the renewal of your mind (Rm 12:2). Have the same mindset as Jesus (Phil 2:5).

Prayer: Father, give us the mind and mindset of Jesus (1 Cor 2:16).

Promise: “I want My house to be full.” —Lk 14:23

Praise: St. Martin de Porres, a Dominican in Lima, Peru, spent much of his time ministering to the poor and sick. He was a dear friend of St. Rose of Lima.

(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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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THERE’S A PLACE FOR US - One Bread, One Body, 11/02/2026

Monday, November 2, 2026, All Souls

Wisdom 3:1-9
1 Corinthians 15:51-57
Psalm 23:1-6
John 6:37-40
View Readings

Listen to Fr. Al Daily Bread Radio Program

THERE’S A PLACE FOR US
“Chastised a little, they shall be greatly blessed.” —Wisdom 3:5

There is both a quantity and quality of fruit that God expects us to produce in our earthly life (see Mt 21:33ff; Lk 13:6-9; Jn 15:1ff; 15:16). Our fruit of personal holiness and “good works” (Rv 14:13) “must endure” (Jn 15:16).

God is our Judge, Who “will test the quality of each man’s” good works and holiness (see 1 Cor 3:13). Some of the dead who die in the Lord will not have lived a life as fruitful as God expected. God in His mercy will still grant them eternal life. Thus, these deceased folks “will suffer loss,” yet “will be saved, but only as one fleeing through fire” (1 Cor 3:15).

There is a degree of “holiness without which no one can see the Lord” (Heb 12:14). What happens with the above folks who are granted eternal life yet are lacking in the enduring fruit and holiness God requires? Jesus has gone to “prepare a place” for us (Jn 14:2). As the above Scriptures indicate, He also has to prepare us for the place. If we have died in Christ, but aren’t yet prepared for His place (see Heb 12:14), then Jesus has to finish the job before He can take us into the heavenly feast. The Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit (Jn 16:13), has taught that the above Scriptures and other truths indicate the existence of a “place” of purification (see Mal 3:2-3) we call purgatory. In purgatory, the souls of those who have not prepared themselves sufficiently in their time on earth are purified for the awesome privilege of seeing God face to face. Since they are fellow members of the Body of Christ (Lk 20:38), we need them and they need us (1 Cor 12:21ff). Let us help them with our prayers.

Prayer: There is both a quantity and quality of fruit that God expects us to produce in our earthly life (see Mt 21:33ff; Lk 13:6-9; Jn 15:1ff; 15:16). Our fruit of personal holiness and “good works” (Rv 14:13) “must endure” (Jn 15:16). God is our Judge, Who “will test the quality of each man’s” good works and holiness (see 1 Cor 3:13). Some of the dead who die in the Lord will not have lived a life as fruitful as God expected. God in His mercy will still grant them eternal life. Thus, these deceased folks “will suffer loss,” yet “will be saved, but only as one fleeing through fire” (1 Cor 3:15). There is a degree of “holiness without which no one can see the Lord” (Heb 12:14). What happens with the above folks who are granted eternal life yet are lacking in the enduring fruit and holiness God requires? Jesus has gone to “prepare a place” for us (Jn 14:2). As the above Scriptures indicate, He also has to prepare us for the place. If we have died in Christ, but aren’t yet prepared for His place (see Heb 12:14), then Jesus has to finish the job before He can take us into the heavenly feast. The Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit (Jn 16:13), has taught that the above Scriptures and other truths indicate the existence of a “place” of purification (see Mal 3:2-3) we call purgatory. In purgatory, the souls of those who have not prepared themselves sufficiently in their time on earth are purified for the awesome privilege of seeing God face to face. Since they are fellow members of the Body of Christ (Lk 20:38), we need them and they need us (1 Cor 12:21ff). Let us help them with our prayers.

Promise: “No one who comes will I ever reject.” —Jn 6:37

Praise: Praise the Father of love, the risen Savior, and the Spirit of truth!

(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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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THE SAINTLY SPIRIT - One Bread, One Body, 11/01/2026

Sunday, November 1, 2026, All Saints

Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14
1 John 3:1-3
Psalm 24:1-6
Matthew 5:1-12
View Readings

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THE SAINTLY SPIRIT
“Who are these people all dressed in white? And where have they come from?” —Revelation 7:13

Some people think that the name for this holy day, “All Saints,” means that all people become saints and go to heaven. However, “the gate that leads to damnation is wide, the road is clear, and many choose to travel it. But how narrow is the gate that leads to life, how rough the road, and how few there are who find it!” (Mt 7:13-14)

How do we escape damnation and become a saint, that is, become holy? We become holy not by our power but by the Holy Spirit (see Zec 4:6). We become holy when in one Spirit we are baptized into one body (1 Cor 12:13). We grow in holiness as we follow the lead of the Spirit, Who makes us holy (Gal 5:25). “If by the Spirit” we “put to death the evil deeds of the body,” we will live and become holy (Rm 8:13). If we pray in the Spirit (Eph 6:18; Jude 20) and love in the Spirit (see Gal 5:22), we will become holy as the Lord is holy (1 Pt 1:16). We will become holy in every aspect of our conduct (1 Pt 1:15) as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19). May this holy day be truly holy by the power of the Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit!

Prayer: Father, I choose to be poor, sorrowing, and lowly in my hunger for righteousness and holiness (see Mt 5:3-6).

Promise: “We are God’s children now; what we shall later be has not yet come to light. We know that when it comes to light we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” —1 Jn 3:2

Praise: “They cried out in a loud voice, ‘Salvation is from our God, Who is seated on the throne, and from the Lamb!’ ” (Rv 7:10)

(For a teaching on today’s Gospel, view, download or order our leaflet The Beatitudes, or listen to, download or order AV 44-3 or V 44 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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GET A LIFE! - One Bread, One Body, 10/31/2026

Saturday, October 31, 2026,

Philippians 1:18-26
Psalm 42:2-3, 5
Luke 14:1, 7-11

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GET A LIFE!
“To me, ‘life’ means Christ.” —Philippians 1:21

I live in Jesus, Who has completely changed my life. “Those things I used to consider gain I have now reappraised as loss in the light of Christ. I have come to rate all as loss in the light of the surpassing knowledge of my Lord Jesus Christ. For His sake I have forfeited everything; I have accounted all else rubbish so that Christ may be my Wealth” (Phil 3:7-8).

I find my life at the foot of His cross. “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. I will not treat God’s gracious gift as pointless” (Gal 2:19-21).

I find my life in Jesus, Who came that I “might have life and have it to the full” (Jn 10:10). “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, Who has strengthened me” (1 Tm 1:12). “In Him Who is the Source of my strength I have strength for everything” (Phil 4:13).

Jesus, I draw my life from Your Resurrection from the dead (1 Pt 1:3). I rejoice in You, Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life (Jn 11:25). You came to give me eternal life (Jn 3:15), and I hope to spend eternity gazing upon Your face (1 Cor 13:12). You are Life (Jn 14:6), and You are my life.

“My soul longs for You,” O Jesus (Ps 42:2). You are the Author of my life (Acts 3:15), and I give my life to You. To me, life means You (Phil 1:21).

Prayer: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” (Acts 7:59).

Promise: “Everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled and he who humbles himself shall be exalted.” —Lk 14:11

Praise: Teenage Emma gave up a lead role in the play so that her friend could get that part

(Are you looking for men who want to grow in faith and love of the Lord? We offer our Men’s Retreat Dec. 4-5. Call 513-373-2397 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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FINISHING SCHOOL - One Bread, One Body, 10/30/2026

Friday, October 30, 2026 ,

Philippians 1:1-11
Psalm 111:1-6
Luke 14:1-6

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FINISHING SCHOOL
“He Who has begun the good work in you will carry it through to completion.” —Philippians 1:6

Hours before His death, Jesus prayed to His Father: “I have given You glory on earth by finishing the work You gave Me to do” (Jn 17:4). At His death, Jesus “said, ‘Now it is finished.’ Then He bowed His head, and delivered over His spirit” (Jn 19:30).

St. Paul, having the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16), stated in the last years of his life: “I put no value on my life if only I can finish my race and complete the service to which I have been assigned by the Lord Jesus” (Acts 20:24). Paul proclaimed: “The Lord stood by my side and gave me strength, so that through me the preaching task might be completed” (2 Tm 4:17). Before his death, Paul also proclaimed: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tm 4:7). Paul assured the church of Philippi: “I am sure of this much: that He Who has begun the good work in you will carry it through to completion, right up to the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil 1:6).

The Lord has called us to make our lives beautiful temples of the Spirit to His glory (see 1 Pt 2:5; Eph 2:21). Our concern is that we may not “complete the work” (Lk 14:29). Then all who see our lives will not give glory to God; rather, they will jeer at us and say: “They began to build what they could not finish” (see Lk 14:30).

However, because we have been baptized into Christ and have the mind of Christ, we can confidently say: “The Lord will complete what He has done for me” (Ps 138:8).

Prayer: Father, may I cross Your finish line.

Promise: “He took the man, healed him, and sent him on his way.” —Lk 14:4

Praise: Charles prays, studies the Church’s teachings (especially the Bible), and reads the lives of the saints to help increase his faith.

(For a related teaching on Am I Going to Heaven?, listen to, download or order AV 54-3 or V 54 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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ARMED AND DANGEROUS - One Bread, One Body, 10/29/2026

Thursday, October 29, 2026 ,

Ephesians 6:10-20
Psalm 144:1-2, 9-10
Luke 13:31-35

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ARMED AND DANGEROUS
“Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, the word of God.” —Ephesians 6:17

Life is a wrestling match against demons (Eph 6:12). Our offensive weapon in this battle is the Holy Spirit working through His Word and in prayer (Eph 6:17-18).

To defeat the devil, we need to do what Jesus did when He was tempted (Mt 4:4, 7, 10) — we must wield the sword of God’s Word (see Rv 1:16) in the power of the Spirit. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (see Rm 10:17). Therefore, the Word of God is the basis for faith. Moreover, we must grow strong in our “holy faith through prayer in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 20). Both proclaiming God’s Word in the Spirit and praying in the Spirit strengthen our faith. By such faith, we conquer the world (1 Jn 5:5) and claim Jesus’ victory over Satan, the prince of the world. The Spirit gives us the gift of faith (1 Cor 12:9) and the fruit of faith (Gal 5:22). Moreover, faith is how we move mountains (Mt 17:20) and destroy the strongholds of the evil one (2 Cor 10:4).

Consequently, Satan repeatedly tempts us to sin and thereby stifle the Spirit (1 Thes 5:19). This is his attempt to disarm us. We must resist his temptations and thus live the life in the Spirit, the life of faith and victory.

Prayer: Father, may I be armed and Satan disarmed (Lk 11:22), and not vice versa.

Promise: “Pray that I may have courage to proclaim it as I ought.” —Eph 6:20

Praise: Jim’s wife felt her parish was dead and wanted to leave the Catholic Church. Jim refused to allow her to leave. Years later, the two are major leaders in several Catholic ministries.

(For a related teaching on Spiritual Warfare, view, download or order our leaflet 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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MISSION IMPOSSIBLE? - One Bread, One Body, 10/28/2026

Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Sts. Simon & Jude

Ephesians 2:19-22
Psalm 19:2-5
Luke 6:12-16

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MISSION IMPOSSIBLE?
“He called His disciples and selected twelve of them to be His apostles…Judas son of James.” —Luke 6:13, 16

At the Last Supper, St. Jude, also called Thaddeus (Mt 10:3; Mk 3:18), asked Jesus the question, “Lord, why is it that You will reveal Yourself to us and not to the world?” (Jn 14:22) Because of Jude’s foresight, all of us know how Jesus answered that question: “Anyone who loves Me will be true to My word, and My Father will love him; We will come to him and make Our dwelling place with him. He who does not love Me does not keep My words” (Jn 14:23-24). We receive the revelation of Jesus and the indwelling of the Father and the Son by knowing and obeying Jesus’ words.

St. Jude might be lesser known among the apostles, but he is:

• chosen personally by Jesus to be one of the twelve Apostles (Lk 6:13-16),
• a martyr,
• a foundation stone in the heavenly Jerusalem (Rv 21:14),
• part of the foundation of the one holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church (Eph 2:20),
• a traveling evangelist, preaching God’s Word in Iraq, Libya, Turkey, and Armenia, and
• a patron saint of impossible cases, along with St. Rita of Cascia. Believe with St. Jude that “nothing is impossible with God” (Lk 1:37).

Prayer: Father, may I “persevere in [Your] love, and welcome the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ which leads to life eternal” (Jude 21).

Promise: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims His handiwork.” —Ps 19:2

Praise: “Glory be to this only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Majesty, too, be His, might and power from ages past, now and for ages to come. Amen” (Jude 25).

(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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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THE VICTORY OF THE SMALL AND SLOW - One Bread, One Body, 10/27/2026

Tuesday, October 27, 2026,

Ephesians 5:21-33
Psalm 128:1-5
Luke 13:18-21

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THE VICTORY OF THE SMALL AND SLOW
“To what shall I compare the kingdom of God?” —Luke 13:20, RSV-CE

The kingdom of God at first appears to be small while our culture of death is mammoth. Furthermore, the kingdom of God often seems slow in developing. It seems as if it takes forever to make even a little progress. This could be very discouraging. However, a tiny mustard seed will eventually grow to become “a large shrub” (Lk 13:19), and yeast will slowly, imperceptibly, yet effectively cause a mass of dough to rise (Lk 13:21). If we’re small and slow in a big-time, high-speed, high-tech culture of death, we can still have hope for victory in Jesus’ parables and promises.

Jesus promises to do what we think impossible (see Lk 1:37). In our weakness, His power will reach perfection (2 Cor 12:9). He makes “all things work together for the good of those who love” Him (Rm 8:28). If we believe in Jesus, we will do greater works than He did (Jn 14:12). Jesus will do more than we ever “ask or imagine” (Eph 3:20). “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). The small, slow people of God’s kingdom will be the conquerors of the world (1 Jn 5:5; cf 2 Pt 3:9) and even more than conquerors (Rm 8:37). Praise Jesus!

Prayer: Father, make the small and slow big-hearted and quick to hear (Jas 1:19), forgive, and love.

Promise: “Defer to one another out of reverence for Christ.” —Eph 5:21

Praise: Thirty-five years ago, a few Catholic home-schooling families began a small support group. After growing slowly for a few years, the group now consists of dozens of families.

(If you think you may be called to homeschool your children, consider viewing, downloading or ordering our leaflets Home-Schooling and Home-Discipling and/or There’s No Place Like Home-(Schooling) 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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UNSHACKLED - One Bread, One Body, 10/26/2026

Monday, October 26, 2026,

Ephesians 4:32—5:8
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Luke 13:10-17

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UNSHACKLED
“Should not this daughter of Abraham here who has been in the bondage of Satan for eighteen years have been released from her shackles on the sabbath?” —Luke 13:16

Jesus laid His hand on a woman who had been shackled, bound, and chained for eighteen years with health problems, and she was freed (Lk 13:11-13). “Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, fastened with double chains, while guards kept watch” (Acts 12:6). Jesus freed Peter from the shackles of his chains in prison shortly before he was to be executed.

Jesus came “to proclaim liberty to captives, recovery of sight to the blind and release to prisoners, to announce a year of favor from the Lord” (Lk 4:18-19). Jesus brought a perpetual jubilee year of liberation. When Jesus “ascended on high, He took a host of captives and gave gifts to men” (Eph 4:8).

Jesus is called the Lamb, which is the symbol of the Israelite nation being freed from the shackles of Egyptian slavery. Jesus is called the Redeemer, that is, the One Who has paid the price to set us free. Jesus is the Truth (Jn 14:6), and the Truth will set us free (Jn 8:32). “That is why, if the Son frees you, you will really be free” (Jn 8:36).

Right now, ask Jesus to free you from the shackles of any chains, bondage, compulsions, or addictions. Even if you have had these chains for years, Jesus will free you now. Pray: “Jesus, Lamb, Redeemer, Truth, Lord, Savior, and God, have mercy on me and set me free.” You are free in Jesus.

Prayer: Jesus, unshackle me for a ministry of setting captives free.

Promise: “As for lewd conduct or promiscuousness or lust of any sort, let them not even be mentioned among you; your holiness forbids this.” —Eph 5:3

Praise: After twenty years of drug addiction, John was set free in an instant, the instant he turned to his Redeemer.

(To help you become unshackled, view, download or order our booklet The Truth Will Set You Free 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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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A “WHOLE” IN MY HEART - One Bread, One Body, 10/25/2026

Sunday, October 25, 2026, 30th Sunday Ordinary Time

Exodus 22:20-26
1 Thessalonians 1:5-10
Psalm 18:2-4, 47, 51
Matthew 22:34-40
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A “WHOLE” IN MY HEART
“You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart.” —Matthew 22:37

We disciples of Christ are called to holiness. We are also called to “whole-liness.” We are to love God with our whole heart, our whole soul, and our whole mind (Mt 22:37).

It all begins with God’s love for us. “The love of God [is] poured out in our hearts” (Rm 5:5). God’s poured-out love fills our hearts with love for Him and for others (Mt 22:37). So “we, for our part, love because He first loved us” (1 Jn 4:19). Now we are full of God’s love.

True love, however, is not satisfied with being full. Love wants to grow and is always searching for a never-ending increase of still more love. Impelled by love (2 Cor 5:14), we ask God to give us a new heart (Ez 36:26). Now God pours out His love again (Rm 5:5) and our whole heart is filled. Overflowing with love, we can’t help but respond to God with more love. Therefore, we ask God to “enlarge” our hearts (Acts 20:32) so we can love Him more deeply. We even reach the point where we love God so much that we abide in God and God in us (1 Jn 4:16).

This cycle of love continues until the day of our death. On that day, we should have a huge heart of love for the Lord. At our death, we who love the Lord with our whole heart will rejoice as we see “what God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 Cor 2:9). We will see Him “face to face” (1 Cor 13:12).

Prayer: Father, I can’t love You if I don’t love Your people. Help me to love myself, then love my neighbor as myself (Mt 22:39).

Promise: “Praised be the Lord, I exclaim, and I am safe from my enemies.” —Ps 18:4

Praise: “Praise the Lord, O my soul; I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God while I live” (Ps 146:1-2).

(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 One Bread, One Body covering the period October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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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HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? - One Bread, One Body, 10/24/2026

Saturday, October 24, 2026, St. Anthony Mary Claret

Ephesians 4:7-16
Psalm 122:1-5
Luke 13:1-9

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HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?
“Cut it down.” —Luke 13:7

One possible way to view the parable in today’s Gospel passage is to consider yourself to be the owner of the vineyard and God to be the Gardener. As the owner, we want to discard the fig tree which has not produced any fruit for three years. God is the Gardener (see Gn 2:8), and He never gives up on any person. Think of a person you would like to remove from the garden of your life. This person never does anything productive for you. He or she clutters up your life and exhausts your energy (see Lk 13:7, NAB), and so you want to discard this person.

As the owner of the vineyard, we are tempted to say, “Kill it! Rid the garden of the likes of it! It’s not worthy to live!” (see Acts 22:22) Yet God, the Gardener, is ever patient, ever caring, ever “fertilizing” (see Lk 13:8). God’s patience is always focused on salvation (2 Pt 3:9; 1 Tm 2:4). God “descends” (see Eph 4:9) to give special care to what we, the owners, want to discard. But God the Gardener won’t even let us “pull up the weeds,” for He knows that, mysteriously, we ourselves might also be uprooted (see Mt 13:29).

How patient God is! How much He longs to seek and save the lost (Lk 19:10). He sends fertilization in the form of His nourishing Word (Mt 4:4) and His Sacraments, especially His Eucharistic Body, to those most in need. Ask the Lord to give you His own mind (1 Cor 2:16) and His heart of love for the unlovable.

Prayer: Father, give me Your eyes, heart, and mind (1 Cor 2:16), so I might view the people in my life as You view them (1 Jn 4:17).

Promise: “Let us profess the truth in love and grow to the full maturity of Christ the Head.” —Eph 4:15

Praise: St. Anthony Mary Claret founded a religious institute of missionaries known as the Claretians.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Give our Bible Telephone Line a try. Call 513-823-3111.)

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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 October 1, 2026, through November 30, 2026, by Presentation Ministries. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 1, 2026"

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

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