30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
In our reading, Jeremiah is telling his people of the good news of their release from exile in Babylon. It is cause for joy and praise, especially for the blind, the crippled, those who are lost. All those who are weak will rejoice in God’s loving care. They are His children and He will take care of them.
In our gospel, Jesus was walking with some of his disciples and they passed a crowd of people. A blind man named Bartimaeus was sitting on the side of the road begging. He heard that Jesus was coming so he called out to Him. Some told him to be quiet but he shouted even louder. Jesus came over and asked him what he wanted. He said he wanted to be able to see. Jesus healed him and he became a disciple and began to follow Jesus on the road.
Special Saint/Feast Day: Blessed Angelo of Acri – October 30
Angelo was born in Acri, Italy, in 1669. As a young man, he decided to devote his life to God in the religious life. He tried to enter the Capuchin Order several times before they would accept. Finally, he was accepted the third time he tried.
After Fr. Angelo was ordained, he began preaching but he had little or no success. He put his trust in God instead of himself and he kept trying.
After 10 years of trying to preach well, Fr. Angelo’s preaching was a success! Many people came to hear him speak and were deeply touched by his message.
God gave Fr. Angelo not only the grace to preach well, but also many supernatural gifts, including healing and prophecy. Because of this, people came from far away to listen to his sermons and to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation with him. He was able to read their souls and give them just the right spiritual advice. Blessed Angelo died in the Capuchin house at 70 years old.
Sometimes we’re ready to give up after one try. Blessed Angelo can help us avoid becoming discouraged. By praying to him, we can receive the grace to trust more in God and less in ourselves. It’s this combination of humility and faith that will help us succeed.