July 6, Tuesday Weekday

The house of Israel trusts in the Lord. — Psalm 115:9 

Mass Readings: Hosea 8:4-7,11-13 / Matthew 9:32-38 

Vocations 

I was in a seminary for three years before the conclusion of Vatican II. After reading today’s Gospel about the lack of laborers for the harvest, and our need to pray for more laborers, I’m reminded of a vocations hymn we seminarians sang: “The harvest is great, but the laborers are few. Come join the ranks, Mother Church needs you.” 

Unfortunately, I can’t get the silly tune out of my head now, but the sentiment calls for serious thought and prayer, especially at a time when parishes are closing because of a lack of priests. The Church is lucky that I was never ordained, but surely there are many young and not-so-young men who might be reached by our prayers for more laborers for the harvest. 

Prayer: Lord of the harvest, send more laborers into the field.