+ St. Bartholomew was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus (most
likely the one also known as Nathanael). Born
in Galilee, he was originally a close friend of Philip who brought him to
Jesus. He also may have written a gospel which is now lost: it is mentioned in
other writings of the time. He may have preached in Asia Minor, Ethiopia, India
and Armenia. He was martyred in Albanopolis, Armenia by being flayed alive. His
relics are at St. Bartholomew-on-the-Tiber Church in Rome; and in the cathedral
in Canterbury, England. His patronage is against nervous and neurological
diseases, twitching, leatherworkers, shoemakers, tanners and trappers.
Our gospel passage today is of
the calling of Nathanael who is brought to Jesus by Philip. Jesus likes what he
sees and knows that he will be a good, holy and honorable disciple to the end;
and that he will see the great things of the Kingdom beyond all imagining!
May we persevere like
Nathanael/Bartholomew and trust in God’s never-failing help when difficult
times come our way: for it is in facing them with faith, and with never-ending
hope, that the glory of the Son will always shine afterwards! To apply these sentiments
to our particular situation in our day today: the Church itself needs to come
to terms with its inability to properly address issues that involve the most
innocent and vulnerable in our midst: children, who are the victims of
unbridled sexual maledictions of the hierarchy, both senior and supportive;
and the country is in the
midst of a constitutional crisis and very soon impeachment process to one who
is a clear pawn of the Devil himself: no doubt about that. He needs to be
removed from office, for his own safety, and the integrity of our system of
governance,
Rabbi,
you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel, [you and none other!]
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