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THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, NOVEMBER 13, 2022






A reading of the holy Gospel according to Lk 21:5-19


While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, "All that you see here-- the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down." Then they asked him, "Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?" He answered, "See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he,' and 'The time has come.' Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end." Then he said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky. "Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives."

REFLECTION

It will lead to your giving testimony.


In the prayer missal, Magnificat, we are introduced to many followers and martyrs for Christ in the meditation section. Their writings are picked to emphasize a thought or make a point or celebrate their feast day.


Christoph Probst holds such an honor.


Probst, 23, was a medical science student who served as a German sergeant during World War II in a medical company of the Air Force. He was executed by the Nazis on February 22, 1943, after the Gestapo discovered he belonged to the White Rose movement. This organization wrote and distributed anti-Nazi pamphlets that called on German citizens to resist Hitler.


Christoph was not born into a specific religion but he always was drawn to the existence of God. His friends were Catholic and their faith influenced him greatly. He was turned in by a "good Nazi" and after a quick trial was sentenced to death for distributing pamphlets against the regime and therefore, treason.


Before he was executed, he asked if a Catholic priest could visit him. He requested to be baptized and was received into the faith. The following hour he was guillotined along with the founders of the White Rose, Hans and Sophie Scholl.


We never know when the Holy Spirit works. Probst's friends were testimony of their Catholic faith. For our part may we live a good Catholic life, an example for all about what awaits them in eternity.


God bless you


(1) Magnificat, November 2022

(2) https://aleteia.org/2018/12/07







PAPA Foundation
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