ST NORBERT, OPTIONAL MEMORIAL, SATURDAY OF THE NINTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME, JUNE 6, 2026
- Olivia M. Bannan
- Jun 6
- 2 min read
REFLECTION
The story of St Norbert was Déjà vu! Riding a horse, lightening strike, thrown off the horse, knocked unconscious and the Lord spoke to him. “Turn away from evil, and do good. Seek peace and pursue it.” His story reminded me of St Paul and his encounter with God. Perhaps some of us can identify with the “jolt” that changed our lives and drew us closer to God.
St Norbert was born into wealth and privilege, living a comfortable life, lacking for nothing. However, God had better plans for him and Norbert gave up worldly ambitions and devoted himself entirely to God. He embraced a life of poverty, preaching and service, seeking no recognition but God’s glory. He entrusted everything to the Lord. He retired to a monastery and three years later was ordained a priest. Sent by Pope Gelasius II he became a missionary priest, founded the community of clergy - Norbertines. As archbishop he reformed the clergy. Died in 1134.
The widow probably had no choice in her poverty but she embraced her love for God by offering what she had, prayers, sacrifices and most likely acts of kindness. She and St Norbert challenge us to examine our hearts. God does not measure our gifts but sees the size of our love with what and how we give.
Today their stories inspire us to live with humility and generosity - that our gifts, though small, should be offered with great love and trust in God.
🙏🏻♥️🙏🏻♥️🙏🏻♥️