Today's readings:

• First reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 12-20
• Gospel: Luke 8: 1-3

In today's first reading, St. Paul passionately defends the core belief of the resurrection. He stresses that without the resurrection, both Christ's and our own, the Christian faith would be meaningless. This highlights the central role of hope in eternal life through Jesus’ victory over death. For Paul, Christ’s resurrection is the foundation of Christian belief, offering assurance that life does not end with death.

In the Gospel, we see Jesus continuing His mission of preaching the Kingdom of God, accompanied by the Twelve Apostles and several women who played an important role in supporting His ministry. The presence of these women, including Mary Magdalene and others, underscores the significant role that women played in the early Christian community, contributing to the spreading of the Gospel with their resources and dedication.

The Serenity Prayer, widely used in recovery programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, was written by theologian Reinhold Niebuhr in the early 20th century. The most common version goes as follows:

God, grant me the serenity

to accept the things I cannot change,

courage to change the things I can,

and wisdom to know the difference.

We have included the longer version of the prayer as well and we hope it resonates with you.

Peace be with you.

Today's readings:

• First reading: Corinthians 15: 1-11
• Gospel: Luke 7: 36-50

In the first reading, St. Paul reminds the Corinthians of the core message of the Gospel: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that this truth is foundational for Christian faith and salvation. He also humbly acknowledges his own unworthiness as an apostle, attributing everything to God's grace.

The Gospel recounts a powerful moment of forgiveness. Jesus contrasts the Pharisee’s judgmental attitude with the profound love and repentance of the sinful woman, who anointed His feet. Her actions, full of humility and love, demonstrate the transformative power of God's mercy. This passage invites us to reflect on our own need for forgiveness and how we show love and gratitude for God's mercy.

Today we also honor Saint Januarius, the bishop and martyr whose blood is famously venerated in Naples. He reminds us of the ultimate witness to faith through sacrifice and perseverance.