St. Rais (Feast Day September 23) 

c. 303 

Rais was an Egyptian maiden. According to one account, she was the daughter of a Christian priest living in Alexandria, Egypt. At age twelve, she was sent to live in a women's monastery at Tamman. During a time of widespread persecution of Christians during the reign of the Roman emperor Diocletian, she went to a well to draw water with other nuns. On the way, they saw a ship with a group of nuns, monks, and other Christians in chains on their way to torture and death. By God's grace, Rais was touched by a desire to suffer for the Lord. Rais confessed herself to be a Christian, berated the abusers, and insisted that they kill her as well if they were killing Christians. She was immediately imprisoned with the others. They were all taken to the Egyptian town of Antinopolis, where Rais was the first of the group to be beheaded.

·    Why was it hard for the disciples to grasp the idea that Jesus would be killed?

·       What does Jesus mean when he says, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all”?

·       Share a time when you have welcomed someone “in Jesus’ name,” that is, for the sake of Jesus.

·       St. Rais had a desire to suffer for the Lord. Do you know anyone who is willing to endure hardships for the Lord? Tell a story about this person.

Camping

As Jesus and his disciples traveled around Galilee, they most likely camped a lot. Turn your backyard into your own personal campsite! It’s a fun and easy way to experience the great outdoors in a way that Jesus did. Create a backyard camp by pitching a tent, setting up camping chairs around a fire or a camping stove, and cook up some delicious campfire recipes. Turn off technology and enjoy the great outdoors. If the weather is bad, set-up a campground inside your home. Don’t forget to sing your favorite camp songs!

Ancient Appetizers

Serve food that your family’s favorite Bible heroes ate. Make a first century Palestine “charcuterie” board by creating a plate of appetizers that includes rustic loaves of bread or crackers, including those made with ancient grains, such as spelt or millet. Finger foods include dried fruits such as figs, dates or apricots, and sliced olives. Ensure that pits are fully removed for the safety of small teeth. Add some hummus and pita bread and enjoy!

Praying with Music

As a family, listen to the Song of the Cross (Love lifted on the Cross). You should be able to find the song on YouTube or wherever you stream music. Reflect on the lyrics what Jesus’ death and resurrection mean to you.

Who comes in during the procession at the beginning of Mass? Who is first and who is last?

Look for as many opportunities as possible this week to put someone else's needs before your own.

In ancient society, children were viewed as nonpersons who had no legal rights or status of their own. To receive a little one is to accept, lovingly serve and care to for those who need it and cannot repay it.