St. John the Apostle (Feast Day December 27)

6 – 100

The apostle John, along with Peter and James, was one of Jesus’ closest friends. These three alone were privileged to be present at the Transfiguration, the raising of the daughter of Jairus, and the agony in Gethsemane. Many scholars believe that the apostle John is the author of the Gospel of John, three New Testament Letters, and the Book of Revelation. The Gospel of John refers to him as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (see John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2), the one who reclined next to Jesus at the Last Supper, and the one to whom Jesus gave the honor of caring for his mother. John was the only apostle with Jesus when he died on the cross. 

·       Why do you think Jesus wanted Peter, James, and John to see him transfigured?

·       Imagine you were on the mountain with Peter, James, and John. What would it be like to hear the voice of God say, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him"?

·       How does today’s Gospel affect your image of Jesus?

·       Jesus loved the apostle John very much. Jesus loves you just as much. How does it make you feel to know that Jesus knows and loves you?

Go Fishing

Casting a line with the kids is a classic, relaxing way to spend a lazy summer day. Find a local lake or stream and go fishing as a family. It’s an opportunity to get away from hectic schedules to enjoy the fresh air, learn about the environment, and even develop patience. Best of all, fishing is quality time spent together talking, laughing, and sitting quietly side by side. 

Root Beer Float

Celebrate National Root Beer Float Day with this easy recipe!

3 scoops Vanilla Ice Cream

1 can Root Beer

Add 3 scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream to a tall glass. Pour Root Beer over ice cream and serve with a straw or a spoon.

Prayer of Appreciation

Begin with the sign of the cross. Then everyone takes a turn sharing one thing they really appreciate about each person in the family. End with the Our Father:

Our Father, Who art in heaven,

Hallowed be Thy Name.

Thy Kingdom come.

Thy Will be done,

on earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil. Amen.

During the Eucharistic prayer, the bread and wine are changed into the body and blood of Christ. Today, watch closely for this moment in the liturgy.

In today’s Gospel, God the Father tells the apostles to listen to Jesus. Each day this week, read a passage from the Gospel of Matthew and spend 5 minutes listening to what God wants to say to you through this passage.

August 6^th is National Root Beer Float Day!