Third Sunday of Easter, Year C
In our reading, the high priests and leaders had warned the apostles not to teach about Jesus anymore. They continued to teach others anyways. The leaders talked to the apostles and Peter and the apostles replied that they must obey God and not them. They know that it is Jesus who forgives those who change and ask for forgiveness. The leaders beat the apostles and sent them away telling them to stop teaching about Jesus. The apostles knew Jesus was with them and were happy to be on his side.
In our Gospel, we hear how Jesus died on the cross just a short time ago and it was time for some of his disciples to get back to work. Many of them were fishermen. They spend the night trying to catch fish and haven't caught anything. How frustrating that must be. Jesus sees them from the shore and tells them to put their nets to the right side of the boat. They do, and catch so many fish it is hard to reel them in. They have breakfast of bread and fish with Jesus. Jesus asks Peter if he loves him, not once, but three times. Yes, Lord, you know that I love you. Feed my lambs and sheep. We are also called to "feed his sheep" by spreading the word of God.
Special Saint: St. Damien Joseph de Veuster of Molokai – May 10th
Joseph de Veuster was born in 1840 to Belgian farmers. He joined the Fathers of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Joseph chose the name “Damien” when he entered the Sacred Hearts Congregation. He was good natured, generous, tall and strong.
Missionaries were needed in Hawaii. Damien who was still studying to become a priest asked to go. He went home to his family to say goodbye and took an 18 week voyage by ship.
He finished his studies and was ordained a priest in Hawaii. He spent 9 years among the people there, travelling on horseback and canoe. He built chapels with the money he could raise.
Father Damien volunteered to go to the island of Molokai where people were dying of leprosy. He chose to stay there and never leave.
Father Damien worked on the island for 18 years until he finally died from leprosy on April 15, 1889 at 49 years old.
Let us ask St. Damien to give us some of his bravery and generosity. There are so many people who need our love and support. St. Damien will help us respond to them with joy and kindness.