April 13, St. Martin I

Glory and praise for ever! — Daniel 3:52

Mass readings: Daniel 3:14-20,91-92,95 / John 8:31-42 

‘Next!’ 

St. Martin I, who was the pope from about 644 to 655, holds the distinction of being the last pontiff to be martyred. (Thanks be to God.) His biographers also point out he was banished by the Byzantine emperor and “contrary to his express wishes, the people of Rome elected a successor immediately after his banishment and virtually forgot about him once the new pontiff . . . had been installed.” 

Most of us have been there/done that, on both sides. We’re laid off or retire and hear nothing from former colleagues. A longtime parish volunteer can’t help anymore and we never take the time to reach out to him or her. Whom can I get in touch with this Easter season?

Prayer: Lord, help me reach out to those who are feeling lonely and forgotten.