St. Peter Chanel (Feast Day April 28) 

1803-1841 

St. Peter Chanel was born in the diocese of Belley, France. After his ordination to the priesthood, he found himself in a rundown country parish and completely revitalized it in 3 years. However, his heart was set on missionary work, so in 1831, he joined the newly formed Society of Mary (Marists) which concentrated on missionary work at home and abroad. In 1836, St. Peter was appointed Superior of a little band of missionaries sent to proclaim the Faith to inhabitants in Western Oceania. After an arduous ten-month journey, St. Peter went to the Island of Futuna (northeast of Fiji) accompanied by a lay brother and an English layman. At first, they were well received by the pagans and their king. However, the king’s jealousy and fear were aroused when the missionaries learned the language and gained the people's confidence; he realized the adoption of the Christian Faith would lead to the abolition of some of the prerogatives he enjoyed as both high priest and sovereign. When the king’s son asked to be baptized, persecution by the king reached a climax. Fr. Chanel was clubbed to death. Within two years after his death, the whole island became Catholic and has remained so. He was canonized by Pope Pius XII in 1954. Peter Chanel is the first martyr of Oceania and its patron. 

·    What happens to a branch when it is cut off a vine? What is Jesus trying to teach us through this analogy?

·    In what way does the story of the vine and the branches describe your relationship with Jesus?

·       Jesus says, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you.” What would you ask of Jesus today?

·       The saints lived exciting lives of heroic service and evangelization. What do you think God is calling you to do to serve his Church?

Family Nature Walk

Encounter God in nature by going for a walk today and looking for different types of vines and branches. Notice the similarities and the differences. How many types can you find? Discuss how they connect to the Gospel today. Consider collecting items to make a nature collage once you get home.

Crunchy Chicken Salad

Grapes grow on vines. Think about today’s Gospel as you enjoy this crunchy salad made with grapes!

4 cups cubed cooked chicken breast meat

1 cup diced celery

1 cup seedless green grapes (cut in half)

1 cup cashews

lettuce

salt and pepper to taste

Dressing:

¾ cup mayo (not Miracle Whip)

¼ cup sour cream

Combine chicken, celery and grapes. Toss with the dressing. Serve on a bed of lettuce with the cashews sprinkled on top.

ACTS Prayer

This prayer will help you to stay close to Jesus. It has a simple formula using the acronym, ACTS. Spend time reflecting and sharing on the following prayer prompts.

A—Adoration—I praise You, God, for…

C—Confession—I am sorry for…

T—Thanksgiving—I am thankful for…

S—Supplication—I ask You for…

Where do you see images of vine and/or branches around your church?

Invite someone who has stopped going to church to come to Mass with you next week.

The lifespan of vines can vary, but some types can survive for over a hundred years.