Solemnity of the Holy Martyrs in Viet
Nam
(Sunday,
November 17, 2013)
A. Introduction
to the Holy Mass
Dear
Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Good
morning!
We
celebrate this Sunday the solemnity of the Holy Martyrs in Viet Nam. They are honored by the Church as valiant
heroes, not in killing people but in dying in the battle for faith in the Lord
Jesus Christ. They are witnesses who
shed their blood in defense of the saving truth which they love and want to
share with neighbors.
We
pray to the Lord in this Hoy Mass to grant us strength in living up to what we
believe and being faithful even at the cost of our life to Christ Whom we love.
Please
all stand to sing the entrance hymn.
B. Introduction
to the Readings
a)
First Reading 2 Mc 7:1.20-23.27b-29
The
mother reminds her children of how God the Creator gave them life when they were
conceived in her womb. It is the
Almighty God Who will restore life to those who risk their lives to observe His
Commandments.
b)
Second Reading Rom 8:31b-39
For
Saint Paul only by loving Christ to the point of giving up everything, even our
own life, can we make a worthy return to Him for His great love with which He
died on the cross so as to gain for us life ever-happy and ever-lasting.
