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MAY, 2013
GOSPEL OF JOHN
Hi, Just a short
note of thanks for the home study bible course. It has helped me very
much in my readings. I was wondering if there is a reason why John's
Gospel is not included? Matthew, Mark and Luke are there why not John?
Just wondering. Many thanks again.
Kevin, Dublin
Dear Kevin, thank you for bringing that to my attention. I intended to
include a page on John and somehow it got overlooked. I will put the
page up on my web site as soon as I can. Blessings of the Risen Christ,
Kay
DAILY WORD OF LIFE
Is it possible to
get Daily Word in print so I can see the physical paper? I like the old
fashioned way. Picket
Dear Friend, I understand what you mean about preferring paper. I don't
have an e-reader for that reason. I like reading books. You are welcome
to print out anything you want from my web site. Blessings in the Risen
Christ.
Kay Murdy
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com
APRIL, 2013
PERMISSION TO REPRINT
Dear Kay, My name
is Sr Louise and I belong to the congregation of the Daughters of Our
Lady of the Sacred Heart. I am from Kiribati Island in the Central
Pacific and I am here in Nauru Island working as a missionary, doing
pastoral ministries and helping with the young children. Also we have
our Gospel sharing every week with the Catholic people. I found your
website and I am touched with reflections you shared in Daily Word Of
Life. The reason to email you is to ask permission if I could use your
reflections to help me to understand the content of the Bible. You have
an inspiring insight which I thought can help others to share from your
point of view. Thanking you in advance and looking forward to hearing
from you. Best wishes to you and family, Sr Louise OLSH
Dear Sr Louise, I am delighted that you find my readings helpful for
yourself and the people you serve. You are welcome to use whatever you
want as long as you credit the source. Blessings of the Risen Christ.
Kay Murdy
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com
WEB SPEAK
Mrs. Murdy, I
just want to tell you something about your Website. I'm there often but
I have a system called Web Speak by Toshiba in my Toshiba Laptop
computer that allows me to hear any section or a complete page of your
Website. I learn a lot from your site. Hearing it is fantastic from what
you teach. Thank you, Peter
MARCH, 2013
DAYBREAKS LENTEN BOOK
This email is to
say a big thank you for the wonderful and soulful reflections that fill
Daybreaks this Lent. Since 2002 women have been gathering with our
community here in Sydney. The women loved gathering so much that we now
meet every term. The format
is prayer, reflection and conversation in the context of a meal. We have
been on a wonderful journey over that many years first of all exploring
women in the gospels, the Old Testament, contemporary women and the
issues facing our world and church. In recent years I've been sending
Daybreaks to accompany us through Lent and Advent. I just want you to
know many of the women have commented on how wonderful they have found
your reflections. Many are grandmothers and know you are writing from
the heart of a grandmother and they love it. So we have boosted sales by
110 copies! I hope you are preparing the advent Daybreaks! So thanks
once again, Kay, for nourishing so many of us here in Australia as we
journey through the Lenten season. Love and blessings, Leone, Sydney,
Australia
Dear Leone, I can't tell you how much your words have meant to me.
Whenever I write, I never know if my words will have any effect on
people who read them. Your words have encouraged me. The people of
Australia are very dear to me, ever since Fr. Kevin O'Grady wrote to me
and invited me to teach in his parish in North Ryde. Since that time I
have made five trips to teach in Sydney, Brisbane and Cannes, mostly on
the Book of Revelation, which is very dear to me. Thank you again for
your kind words. May the Lord continue to bless you and the people you
serve. Kay Murdy
DAYBREAKS LENTEN BOOK
Ms. Murdy, I have
been enjoying "Daybreaks" immensely this Lenten season. I picked it up
in church and have been doing the daily readings. Do you have anything
that expands for a year to be read daily that could just be reread every
year? Sincerely, Debra
Dear
Debra, check out my daily readings on my web site:
www.daily-word-of-life.com'
PURCHASING A CATHOLIC STUDY BIBLE
Hello, my name is
Bessy. I am looking for a Catholic Bible to study the word. I'm a person
who has heard the word but never studied the Bible. God has enter my
life and I would like to have a study Bible please recommend a Bible. In
advance I thank you for your time. Bless you, Bessy
Dear Bessy, Catholic Bibles are an important way of understanding our
Catholic Faith. Simply reading the Bible can be confusing, so reliable
Bibles are indispensable. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of
excellent resources. There are several Catholic Bible translations that
may be used, one of the most popular being the New American Bible (NAB)
translation, Donald Senior, Editor. A recent publication is the Little
Rock Catholic Study Bible, Catherine Upchurch, Editor. Along with great
commentaries, there are colorful maps, timelines, photographs, charts
and articles explaining the Catholic Church's use of the Bible, and the
people and places of the biblical world. You can find these in a number
of different editions, hard and soft bound, paperback, etc. Check them
out at www.Amazon.com I hope this is
a help to you. Blessings on your journey with God's Word. Kay
JANUARY 2013
WEBSITE
Mrs. Kay Murdy, I
found your site looking for Catholic Bible information and have to say
you are of great help....! Thank you, Peter. Have a Happy and Holy New
Year.
Dear
Peter, you have no idea how much your affirmation means to me. I hope
you continue to visit my web site. Blessings in the New Year. Kay
LOVING THE
ARTS
Kay, I saw you on
Youtube and your loving of art so I am sending you this link to my
Watercolor painting site to enjoy I hope.
http://watercolornojoke.weebly.com. Peter
Dear
Peter, you are an incredible artist. I wish you great success in
marketing your work.
Check out my book proposal:
Song of the Dove: A Story of Mary of Nazareth.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TydFbkIiaU
Blessings, Kay
DECEMBER, 2012
WEBSITE
I just wanted to
tell you how much I appreciate your website I look forward to being on
here daily for my prayers. If I type in the wrong words and cannot find
your site I get scared. I hope you get a big response from older
Catholics who look for these prayers so you may continue this site.
Thank you again may God bless you -Allison
Dear Allison, thank you so much for your kind words. They mean so much
to me, especially at this time. My husband's only brother died and
within a week's time (on Thanksgiving), his brother's daughter died
suddenly. In addition, one of my dearest friends passed away. Your
encouragement lifts my spirit. Blessings in this Advent Season of
waiting and hope. Kay Murdy
HOME BIBLE
STUDY
Hi Kay, My name
Is Paul from Sydney Australia. I'm also a Catholic. But I just want to
know if you have a On Line Course or Home Study so I can study the Bible
from home please. Thank You, God Bless you
Dear Paul, if you go to the home page of my web site, you can access my
Home Bible Study. Just click on the various categories and enjoy.
Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and New Year. Kay
NOVEMBER, 2012
BIBLICAL RESOURCES
Dear Kay, Peace
to you. I wish to express my gratitude to your column and materials.
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com My name is Pauline at the present
doing my diploma study in India for Bible and Theology. I am surfing for
a materials on Catholic official site on Biblical Obedience. May I
request for your assistance on any link that may be helpful. I highly
appreciate your help. Hope to hear from you. I will sure keep you in my
prayer. Thanks and God bless Kay. Pauline
Dear Pauline, thank you for your kind words. You might check out Fr.
Felix Just, S.J. web site:
http://catholic-resources.org/ Fr. Just has extensive material
on many biblical resources. May you be blest in your pursuit of a
Biblical diploma. Kay Murdy
OCTOBER, 2012
MESSIANIC SECRET
Hi, I have
question that relates to the Gospel of Mark. Jesus repeatedly instructed
the disciples and the people that he healed not to tell anyone. Has
anyone determined Why? This is puzzling to me and I haven't been able to
find any info as to what the reason may have been--realizing it will be
speculation. Thanks, Linda
Dear Linda, Biblical scholars call this the Messianic Secret. What is
the reason for the secret? Certainly if Jesus is the Messiah or the
Christ (two words in different languages saying the same thing) he
should want people knowing about this. Why is Jesus so adamant that this
secret be kept? In Jesus' day, the popular understanding of the Messiah
was of a powerful liberator who would free the people from Roman
oppression. In addition, because Jesus was a healer, he was afraid that
the people would think of him as a mere wonder-worker. Jesus was telling
his disciples, "You cannot understand the Messiah until you understand
his suffering" and "You cannot follow me unless you unite your own
suffering to mine to receive eternal life." After the crucifixion, Jesus
tells the disciples to go out and proclaim his kingdom. But until that
takes place the people would not understand what the Messiah must do.
So, immediately after telling the disciples to keep it secret that he is
the Messiah, he tells them that he must suffer and die. Peter, the one
who said that Jesus was the Messiah, did not understand the gravity of
his own statement. I hope this helps answer your question. Blessings,
Kay
SEPTEMBER, 2012
DAILY WORD OF LIFE
Dear Kay: Thank
you so much for your permission to use some of your materials with my
class. Of course I will give credit and recommend your web page. As I
said, it's very pedagogical, and among the best Catholic pages I came
across on introductory explanations of the Bible. Nice to be in touch
with you. Do you know by any chance Felix Just SJ? He has a very nice
web page too on biblical resources from which I've also taken some
materials along with yours. In the Lord Jesus, Fr. Kevin, Kenya
Thank you Fr. Kevin for your kind words. Yes, I do know Fr. Felix. He is
one of our professors at our Catholic Bible Institute in Los Angeles,
CA, which I help coordinate. He is a very good teacher, and a nice guy I
might add. You might be interested in my book: "What Every Catholic
Needs to Know about the Bible" published by Resource Publications:
www.rpinet.com Fr. Felix was a great help to me when I was working on
it. Sorry, but my Spanish is very limited so I would be unable to use
your materials. Blessings and Peace, Kay
BIBLE QUESTION
Hello Kay, I have
a question if you can answer it for me. In Philippians 2:7 it says Jesus
emptied himself ,i used to think he gave up his power of God when he
came to the earth.i have read from other places that it is not true that
he was completely God. If not, who is the one who gave him the power to
do his works on earth. Was it the Holy Spirit or the Father. thank you.
Armando
Dear Armando, this is a short explanation of this important passage. I
hope it is of help to you. Blessings, Kay
Philippians 2:7 does not teach that Christ emptied himself of His deity
(Greek "kenosis" the 'self-emptying' of one's own will and becoming
entirely receptive to God's divine will). Rather, to His divinity He
added humanity (i.e., He was “made in the likeness of men”). For the
first time, He was subject to such things as hunger, thirst, pain,
disease, and temptation (cf. John 19:28; Hebrews 4:15). In short, He
came to Earth as a God-man. Jesus clearly taught, and the rest of Holy
Scripture confirms, that He is Son of God and Son of man (Mt.16:13-17).
In the Creed of Chalcedon the early fathers rightly affirmed that Christ
"must be acknowledged in two natures, without any commingling, or
change, or division or separation." In Philippians 2:6-8 Paul quotes a
hymn; but there is no passage in the New Testament which so movingly
sets out the utter reality of the godhead and the manhood of Jesus
Christ. In the Nicene Creed we say that Jesus is "consubstantial" with
the Father.
AUGUST,
2012
DAILY SCRIPTURE COMMENTARIES
Hello, my name is
Eric Guadiana and I seeking a Catholic site where I can get daily
scripture with commentary. Do you have a direction to lead me to get one
sent to me each day to my email. Thank you in advance and that is
wonderful of your choice of studies. I am a 4th degree Sir Knight with
the Catholic church from Mesa Arizona. Again thank you. Eric
Hi Eric, My web site has a daily commentary on the weekday and Sunday
gospels of the Liturgy. You can check it out at:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com
Hope this is what you are looking for. Blessings, Kay
WEB SITE
Kay, I
started reading your website today including the online Bible Study with
all the questions and answers. I find them very straight
forward and easy to understand. I plan to read for 1 hour each
day. If you have any other activities, please don't hesitate to email
and invite me. Congratulations on a job well done in putting together
this website. I glad to find a new friend in your person. Take Care.
NITZ from San Jose, Ca
Thank you Nitz, it's readers like you who take the time to write their
appreciation that makes the work I do worthwhile. I hope you continue to
use my online Bible Study, and also the daily reflections on the gospels
of the liturgy. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.
By the way, the publisher of my books, Resource Pub., Inc., is in San
Jose. Blessings, Kay
HOW TO READ THE BIBLE
Hello, I have
been wanting to read my Bible for who know how long. I am full of
excuses. I think the my main reason is because I am looking for someone
to hold my hand as I read it. Not a physical person, but rather a
website commentary or CD or DVD, something
that is free or does not cost an arm and a leg. I have been very
persistent in my search of who knows what. Which is how, I came across
your website. When I get confronted by non Christians, I get this
problem that they don't want to listen to what I am presenting to them.
They firmly believe that their faith is 'it' and that's that. What I
need is a good neutral starting point. If you can help me, then please
do. I will greatly appreciate it. Peace, Maldonado
Dear Maldonado, a good starting point is to forget about trying to
convince people of other religious traditions that you are right and
they are wrong. You are falling into the same trap as they have, just
from the other side. Instead, trust in your Catholic faith to provide
you with guidance, not just answers like a textbook. Paul says: "For in
hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for
what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with
patience endurance" [Rom 8:24-25]. Go to my Home Bible Study, which you
can find on the home page
of my web site, and begin with the first lesson on the Catholic
Understanding of Scripture. Then you can go on to read other pages. As
you read the commentaries on the gospels, keep your bible handy so you
can check for yourself. And be ready to embark on a great adventure that
will send you on a journey for the rest of your life. Blessings, Kay
MAY 2012
RECOMMENDATION
ON BIBLE RESOURCES
Hello Kay, thank
you for the information you gave me a while back. It was helpful. l am
interested in buying a lexicon, concordance and have seen interlinear
bibles that have Greek, Hebrew and English all together have seen some
of each but don't know which to choose.can you recommend one for each
book. Thank you. Armando
Hi Armando, I'm glad that the information I gave you was helpful.
Personally, I don't find a concordance all that useful. If you have a
good Catholic Study Bible such as the New American version published by
Oxford University Press, or The Little Rock Catholic Study Bible,
published by Liturgical Press, you can get that information from the
excellent footnotes they provide. As for an Interlinear Bible, I don't
have one. I think you need to examine a copy in a bookstore and ask for
recommendations. Blessings in your deeper search for God's Word. Kay
BIBLE RECOMMENDATIONS
Hello Kay Murdy,
I googled "easy to read and understand Roman Catholic bible" and I found
your website which I am looking forward to going back into after I send
this email. I have "St. Joseph" "New Edition of the Holy Bible",
copyright 1962. The preface of this edition suggests that I will enjoy,
understand and appreciate the Sacred Writings - but I don't! Is there a
Catholic Bible which you recommend for daily enrichment and
understanding? I'm 71 and I have been divorced since the 1970's and went
to confession and received Holy Communion until mid 90's. I do go to
Mass, but do not receive Communion. I want to - but can't seem to get
myself to that Confessional. Thank you for listening, Ellie
Dear Ellie, I'm glad you found my web site helpful and hope you make use
of the many pages I offer on studying the bible at home. You should
invest in a new bible as the one you are using is outdated. There have
been many advances in biblical scholarship since 1962 (pre Vatican II).
You can purchase these at a good Catholic Bookstore or online at
www.Amazon.com. As far as
Confession, check with your fellow parishioners as to a good confessor
who is understanding of your situation. Don't be afraid. You are
depriving yourself of the grace of the Sacraments. I'm sure you will
find a welcome home. Blessings of the Risen Lord, Kay
MARCH
2012
BOOKS ON THE LIFE OF JESUS
Dear Mrs. Murdy,
I found your website a few days ago and was absolutely delighted. I have
been searching and searching endlessly for a Catholic Bible and a
Catholic website that I could trust. I found them both! Now, I am
looking for some adult books on the life of Jesus. I am looking for
stories of Christ. I know there are books out there but I want the
Catholic version. Also they have to be in paperback. If you could direct
me or perhaps give me some titles of books, I would very much appreciate
your help. Thank You, Dolores
Dear Dolores, thank you for your kind words. You might check out Stephen
Binz, Threshold Bible Study:
http://www.pastoralplanning.com/TBS/TBShome.html He has a variety of
studies on the bible and also themes such as the Eucharist. Hope this
helps. Blessings of the Easter Season. Kay
P.S. Pray for the publication of my book: Song of the Dove, a Story of
Mary of Nazareth. It follows Mary from youth to old age, which of course
follows the life, death and resurrection of her Son.
WEB SITE
Mrs. Murdy: I am
teaching an Overview of the Bible in our church on Wednesday nights. As
I was browsing the web, I found your website. I like it. Very good
information. Gregg
Thank you Gregg, I'm glad you found my web site useful. Good luck on
your class presentations. I'm sure they will be a benefit to all your
students. The quote from Jeremiah 29 is one of my favorites. Blessings,
Kay Murdy
BIBLE VERSES
Kay, I was not
successful in finding where Jesus prophesizes His death. It took me
almost 1/2 to find where Peter walks on water, just by skimming the
Gospel! Thanks. Geri
Hi Geri, here are some texts where Jesus speaks of his death and
resurrection.
Matthew 20:18-19
"Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be
handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn
him to death,
and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and
crucified, and he will be raised on the third day."
Matthew 26:1-2
When Jesus finished all these words, he said to his disciples,
"You know that in two days' time it will be Passover, and the Son of Man
will be handed over to be crucified."
Matthew 26:31-32
Then Jesus said to them, "This night all of you will have your
faith in me shaken, for it is written: 'I will strike the shepherd, and
the sheep of the flock will be dispersed'; but after I have been raised
up, I shall go before you to Galilee."
Mark 8:31
He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly
and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and
be killed, and rise after three days.
Mark 10:33-34
"Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be
handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn
him to death and hand him over to the Gentiles who will mock him, spit
upon him, scourge him, and put him to death, but after three days he
will rise."
Luke 18:31-33
Then he took the Twelve aside and said to them, "Behold, we are
going up to Jerusalem and everything written by the prophets about the
Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be handed over to the Gentiles and
he will be mocked and insulted and spat upon; and after they have
scourged him they will kill him, but on the third day he will rise."
John 20:9
For they did not yet understand the scripture that he had to rise
from the dead.
Kay Murdy
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com
BIBLICAL SOURCE OF THE ROSARY
Ms. Murdy. My
name is Hollis and I have been a Catholic all of my life. In fact I am a
6th generation catholic. I am in need of some information to settle my
heart and to give me greater stability in my faith, please help. What
bible verse can I look at that that instructs us to pray the rosary, the
Hail Mary and all other novenas? In his Holy Name, Hollis
Dear Hollis, the Hail Mary comes from the first chapter of Luke: "Hail,
favored one! The Lord is with you," (Lk 1:28) and Elizabeth's greeting
to Mary: "Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of
your womb" (v 42). The 150 Hail Mary's correspond to the 150 Psalms in
the bible. Novenas stem from the nine days of waiting before the descent
of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:15). I hope this is a help to you. Blessings
of Lent, Kay
FEBRUARY
2012
GENERAL NORMS FOR THE GLORIA IN MASS
Kay, Concerning
the Gloria, I would like to know the "correct" interaction of the choir
and the congregation when singing the Gloria. Currently, a member of the
choir comes to the mike, says/speaks a part of the Gloria, and invites
us all to sing/respond with "Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth
Peace to Men of Good Will", then the person on the alter speaks another
part and invites us to sing again " Glory to God in the highest etc. I
feel that when the person from the choir is saying the words for me; I
would like to proclaim the words myself with the congregation. Is there
any particular rule/format that should be followed? Are both ways valid
i.e. the whole congregation saying or singing the Gloria or a choir
person singing it in parts with the congregation responding as mentioned
above? Thanks you for your help. Trish
Dear Trish, the General Norms on the Gloria are as follows: The Gloria
is begun by the priest or by a cantor or a choir, but is sung by
everyone together, or by the people alternately with the choir, or by
the choir alone. If not sung, it is to be recited either by all or by
two parts of the congregation responding to each other. Note: The Gloria
is sung or said on Sundays outside Advent and Lent, on solemnities and
feasts, and in special, more solemn celebrations. Hope this is a help.
Blessings, Kay
DECEMBER
2011
NEW BIBLE
Dear Kay, My
Bible is in tatters and I would like to replace it with a good
translation Bible. What would you recommend? I would also like to
eventually get a Study Bible. Blessings. Mary
Dear Mary, there is an old saying, "If your bible is falling apart that
probably means that you are not." It sounds like yours is well used, so
it is time to replace it. Check out the Little Rock Catholic Study
Bible, Liturgical Press:
http://www.littlerockscripture.org/en/Default.aspx?gclid=CObS0Krm86wCFQVwhwod1AKBTg
It is a great one-stop resource for reading, praying and
studying the bible. It uses the New American translation which is the
same one you hear at Mass. God's blessings on your journey with God's
Word. Kay
LITURGICAL
DANCE
Dear Kay, I am
having trouble accepting dancing as an appropriate form of prayer during
the Liturgy of the Word. Two young women did an interpretive dance to a
recorded hymn in front of the congregation. I know it was Gaudete Sunday
and that Gaudete means rejoice, but it is a stretch for me to see this
as a "Happy Dance for God". I really liked your explanation of the
Liturgy as God speaking to us in real time but I felt distracted and
disconnected during what our liturgical minister referred to as
"Liturgical Dance" I am just curious as to what your opinion or thoughts
on this matter might be. Have you ever been witness to this type of
thing during the mass? Am I being too unkind and judgmental in thinking
this was inappropriate? Would appreciate hearing from you on this
matter. Sincerely, Denise
Dear Denise, I have seen Liturgical Dance used in parish liturgies and
also at the Religious Education Congress. When done with dignity and
beauty it can be a lovely expression of prayer. The Constitution on the
Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, gives the norms for
adaptation of the liturgy to the character and the traditions of the
various peoples: "In matters which do not affect the faith or the
well-being of an entire community, the Church does not wish, even in the
Liturgy, to impose a rigid uniformity; on the contrary, she respects and
fosters the genius and talents of various races and people. Whatever in
their way of life is not indissolubly bound up with superstition and
error, she looks upon with benevolence and if possible keeps it intact,
and sometimes even admits it into the Liturgy provided it accords with
the genuine and authentic liturgical spirit."
In favor of the insertion of artistic dancing into the liturgy,
reference can also be made to the text of Gaudium et Spes, nn.
53, 57, 58. The cited texts speak of manifestation of culture in
general, and of art which elevates with the true and beautiful. They do
not speak of dancing in a specific manner. Dancing also can be an art.
As an art which, by means of the body, expresses human feelings, the
dance is especially adapted to signify joy. Thus, among the mystics, we
find intervals of dancing as an expression of the fullness of their love
of God. Recall the cases of Saint Theresa of Avila, Saint Philip Neri,
Saint Gerard Majella. When the Angelic Doctor wished to represent
paradise, he represented it as a dance executed by angels and saints.
The dance can turn into prayer which expresses itself with a movement
which engages the whole being, soul and body. Generally, when the spirit
raises itself to God in prayer, it also involves the body. When King
David brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, "David danced before
the LORD with all his might" [2 Sam 6:14]. Blessings and Joy of Advent,
Kay
LORD IS MY SHEPHERD PRAYER
Kay, Do you know
the title and the full version of the prayer that contains the
following: "Heal the sheep who are wounded, touch the sheep who are in
pain, clean the sheep who are soiled, warm the lambs who are cold."
Thank you, Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth, I found the prayer under two titles, The Lord Is My
Shepherd and Prayer for Renewal. The full text is below. Blessings of
Advent. Kay
Lord, we are Your people, the sheep of Your flock.
Heal the sheep who are wounded,
touch the sheep who are in pain,
clean the sheep who are soiled,
warm the lambs who are cold.
Help us to know the Father's love
through Jesus the Shepherd and through His Holy Spirit.
Help us to lift up that love, and show it all over this land.
Help us to build love on justice and justice on love.
Help us to believe mightily, hope joyfully, love divinely.
Renew us that we may renew the face of the earth.
Amen.
NOVEMBER
2011
DAILY WORD OF LIFE
Kay, I look
forward to your daily reflections as I do my meditations. I usually
print them out a week at a time and share with my wife. Thank you for
your ministry. John
LECTIONARY
BASED BIBLE STUDY
Kay Murdy, This
is a wonderful website thank you for creating it. I am a Youth Minister
at Saint Mary Magdalene Parish in Waupaca, WI. I am currently trying to
start a Lectionary based Bible Study for high school juniors and
seniors, but I am having trouble finding a good resource. I am wondering
if you have any recommendations? Thank you and God Bless,
Joseph
Dear Joseph, thank you for your kind words. Lectionary based bible
studies are my favorite. I facilitate a group of 50 people, mostly
retired, every Friday morning after Mass. People tell me how much it
enriches their Sunday worship. The resources I use are: Foundations in
Faith (Year A, B, C) published by RCL, Resources for Christian Living;
The Paulist Liturgy Planning Guide (Year A, B, C) published by Paulist
Press, and Living Liturgy (Year A, B, C) published by Liturgical Press.
You could probably find these on the publishers' web sites. Of course
these are only springboards for what I do from week to week. I usually
start with someone lighting a candle, saying a prayer for their
intentions, and then playing appropriate music. Then I read the first
reading with a brief commentary as to its meaning when the text was
written. I do the same for the second reading and the gospel. Then I ask
questions related to their lives to be shared together in the large
group or in small groups. Sometimes I have an activity of one sort or
another. I like to keep changing it up so they don't get bored with the
same format. Let the Holy Spirit be your guide. I hope this helps.
Blessings on your service to our youth. Happy Advent, Kay
LOOKING FOR PRAYER
I have been
attending Spanish Mass and they conclude the celebration with a
response-type prayer that I've never heard in English. My Spanish is
"iffy" at best but some of the responses are "Cleanse me" or "Wash me",
"Hear me", "Call me". It concludes with a longer communal prayer that
goes too fast for me to keep up with. I asked Fr. Raymundo to send it to
me and gave him my email... but now he's on Sabbatical in Rome. Any
clues?? The Spanish version would be best since that's what they are
using in Mass. Thanks in advance, Michael
Dear Mike, I think the prayer you are looking for is the Anima Christ,
or Soul of Christ. Blessings of Advent, Kay
SOUL of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, save me.
Blood of Christ, inebriate me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
O good Jesus, hear me.
Within Thy wounds, hide me.
Separated from Thee let me never be.
From the malignant enemy, defend me.
At the hour of death, call me.
To come to Thee, bid me,
That I may praise Thee in the company
Of Thy Saints, for all eternity.
Amen.
BIBLE VERSION
Hello Kay, I
purchased a new American bible as recommended in your web page. I saw
you recommended the New American bible catholic study bible from oxford
university to someone in an email. Do you prefer that one from that press
to other new American bibles? Also I was interested in buying a good
news bible, but was discouraged by reading other peoples' feedback, that
it was not translated correctly. I saw some examples, and it is written
in a more simple way that people can understand. What do you think? And
is there one you prefer and of which press? Thank you. Armando
Dear Armando, the New American Bible is an accurate translation and the
one we hear at Mass, which is why I recommend it, especially if you get
the Study Edition. Collegeville as a new version that is very helpful
for this purpose. The Good News Bible is not a paraphrase but written in
simple language, especially for young people. It is a good version for
your own personal reading. The choice is up to you. Blessings, Kay
CATHOLIC PRAYERS
Dear Kay Murdy, I'm Brazilian in Caçapava, a little city in the State of
São Paulo. I have 43 years old, I'm married with Regina, with who I have
two teenagers - one girl and one boy. I work in Johnson & Johnson for
three years and for this I have necessity to talk in English. I studied
for many time and I don't get to speak English yet then I decided to
learn prayers in English and I found your site. I loved it, and now I
want to thank you for beautiful prayers in your site. I wish the
blessing of our God, Father Almighty, for you and your family. Sergio
Dear Sergio, thank you for your kind words. I'm glad you like the
prayers on my web site and hope you find other things that interest you.
Check out my daily readings and Home Bible Study. You can access these
pages below. Blessings, Kay
OCTOBER
2011
DAILY READINGS
Hi my name
is Carmel and I would like to get a daily Bible verse emailed to me. I
am a Catholic and attend Sunday Mass but do not understand the Bible.
Would you know how I can get it. Carmel
Dear Carmel, you can get my commentaries on the
weekday and Sunday readings of the Mass on my web site. I also have a
home bible study that you can access. Check out:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com
Blessings on your journey
with God's word. Kay Murdy
LECTIONARY
What bible verses
are not used in the three year mass cycle?
Hi David, Check out Fr. Felix Just's website as he has compiled a list
of readings used in the mass. Blessings, Kay
http://catholic-resources.org/Lectionary/Statistics.htm
 PRAYER
TO GUARDIAN ANGEL
I am looking for
a prayer called the Angel of God for my aunt. Her husband is not doing
very well and she asked me to look on the internet for it but I am
having a hard time finding it. Could you please help me. Harmony,
Kamloops, BC
Dear Harmony, here is the prayer to our Guardian Angel that you are
looking for. I will put your Aunt's husband on my prayer page of my web
site. Blessings and Peace, Kay
Angel of God, my guardian dear, To whom God's love commits me here,
Ever this day, be at my side, To light and guard, Rule and guide. Amen.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says: "From infancy to death human
life is surrounded by the angels watchful care and intercession. Beside
each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to
life. Already here on earth the Christian life shares by faith in the
blessed company of angels and men united to God." [336]
AUGUST
2011
HOME BIBLE STUDY
Hello Kay, How
can I buy a copy of the Home Bible Study? It sounds like just what I've
been searching for. Thank you so much. Louise
Hi Louise, I don't have a printed copy of my Home Bible Study, but you
can access it on my web site:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com Go to Home Bible Study on the menu
of the home page. Then you can open the introduction or whatever page
you wish. Thank you for your interest. By the way, I have a book titled:
"What Every Catholic Needs to Know about the Bible" published by
Resource Publications: http://www.rpinet.com/allw.html. It sells for
$9.95 plus shipping. Blessings, Kay
JULY
2011
WEB SITE AND PRAYER
Thank you for
your website. I appreciate the guidance you provide in understanding our
daily and Sunday readings. Sometimes I run into what I call "brain lock
and block" and forget to receive His word with my heart. Your comments
help me unlock the block and start receiving His word without
frustration and with my heart. I would also like to share a prayer with
you that brings me comfort. The chaplet of The Divine Mercy is very
important to me
and helps keep me focused on why our Savior was sent to us. The
inexhaustible mercy of our Father is our true source of life and I feel
so blessed that my heart has been opened to receive this gift. When I
run into difficulties or feel down or just need reassurance I say the
following prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior of all mankind,
fountain of our Father's Mercy, I trust in You. The prayer is my
adaptation of the prayer on the Divine Mercy painting of Jesus our Lord.
This short prayer reminds me of who Jesus is, His purpose for coming,
what He continues to bring us and where my trust for true meaningful
life should be. Thank you, Robert
Dear Robert, thank you so much for taking the time to write. I
appreciate your reflections on the meaning of prayer in your life. Your
Divine Mercy prayer is beautiful. I'll check to be sure I have it on my
web site. Blessings and Peace, Kay (Check out my web page on prayer by
accessing the link on the bottom of this page.)
CATHOLIC BIBLE
Hi I was
wondering what would be a good bible version to use. Thank you , Betty
Hi Betty, I use either the New American Bible or the New Revised
Standard Bible. Both are acceptable for Catholic use. Check out the new
Little Rock Catholic Study Bible:
http://www.littlerockscripture.org I had the opportunity to
review a copy and I am very impressed at the great resource it provides
for bible study. Blessings, Kay
Prayer for Travelers
Hi Kay, I was
wondering if you could suggest a prayer or Novena I can say for my son
who is traveling (by Car) from Massachusetts to South Dakota to build a
home for a poverty stricken family on an Indian Reservation. I have been
looking for a prayer or Novena but, I am confused on which one might be
best. I want to do some type of prayer for safety. Any help you can
offer would be appreciated. Thank you, Lauri
Dear Lauri, hear
is a prayer I found on
www.beliefnet.com which you can use in praying for your son,
although any prayer is heard by God. Blessings, Kay
O
Almighty and merciful God, who has commissioned your angels to guide and
protect us, may they be our companions from our setting out until our
return. Clothe us with their invisible protection; keep from us all
danger of collision, of fire, of explosion, of falling; and finally,
having preserved us from all evil, and especially from sin, guide us to
our heavenly home. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
WEARING A CROSS
Dear Ms. Murdy, I would be
very grateful to you if you would provide me with a quotable source of
Father Murphy-O'Connor's comment regarding the wearing of a cross being
like wearing a miniature electric chair. My sincere appreciation to you.
Best wishes, Bob
Dear Bob, I was unable to find the quote you are looking for about
wearing a cross is like wearing a miniature electric chair. But whoever
said it, the quotation emphasizes that as far as the forms of execution
go, the cross was one of the cruelest known. It was abolished in 315 AD
because it was so cruel. Nevertheless, the cross is the symbol of our
Christian faith and we wear it out of love for our Lord who died on the
cross to save us. For that reason, we wouldn't wear a miniature electric
chair or noose or other forms of capital punishment (which I hope will
be abolished one day). Blessings, Kay
JUNE
2011
Dear Madam, I recently got a
hold of the wonderful publications you are doing and wish to get these
regularly. Could you please advise on how to subscribe for the same so
that may have these publications? Best Regards, Francis, Tanzania
Dear Francis, you can check out my daily commentaries and bible studies
on the web at:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com If you have a cell phone with aps,
you can subscribe to iGodtoday for a one time fee of $1.99 for my daily
video commentaries. My books and the magazine I write for can be
purchased from Resource Publications, Inc. at www.rpinet.com. Thank you
for your interest. Blessings, Kay Murdy
APRIL
2011
DAILY WORD OF LIFE
Ms. Murdy, We have been using your Daily Gospel at the VA in Long Beach
for a few years, but now I receive a message that the page is no longer
available. Is there another title that we should use? We use you message
for both Catholic and Protestant services. Thanks for your past
meditations and I look forward to using them again in the future. In
Christ, George V., D.Min, BCC, Chief, Chaplain Service
Hi George you should be able to access the home page at:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com.
If you are going directly to the daily gospel readings go
to:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com/daily_word1.htm.
I had to change that page due to some copyright issues
regarding graphics I was using. Hope you continue to use my daily
commentaries and that they will bless God's people who have served our
nation. Blessings on this Easter Day. Kay Murdy
HOME BIBLE STUDY
Hi Kay, the non
Catholics have a five year plan for reading the entire bible from start
to finish. Do we have a home program to do the same? Don
Hi Don, I don't know of a specific five year reading plan but I highly
recommend the new Little Rock Catholic Study Bible that offers a wealth
of information in a single volume. It will be published in June but you
can check it out on line and order a copy if you like. Little Rock also
offers numerous materials for group or personal study of God's Word.
http://www.littlerockscripture.org/en/Detail.aspx?ISBN=9780814626795
I also have a home bible study on my website that may offer
some help.
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com Blessings, Kay
FEBRUARY 2011
MEANING OF TERM
'LITURGY'
Hi Kay, I'm
trying to know the difference between Liturgy and Mass. I've read a lot
of the history on the net, but, LA Cathedral's site has Sunday "Mass"
and Tuesday confession listed as " Liturgy." I thought they where the same.
Thank you, Jerry - a Catholic.
Dear Jerry, Liturgy (leitourgia) is a Greek word meaning
originally a public duty, a service to the state undertaken by a
citizen. In Christian use liturgy meant the public official service of
the Church, that corresponded to the official service of the Temple in
the Old Law.
Liturgy often means the whole complex of official services, all the
rites, ceremonies, prayers, and sacraments of the Church, as opposed to
private devotions. So liturgy means rite; we speak of the Byzantine Rite
or the Byzantine Liturgy. In the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern
Orthodox Church there are seven traditional 'rites' accepted as
instituted by Jesus: Baptism; Confirmation; Eucharist; Penance; Holy
Orders; Matrimony and Anointing of the Sick. In the same sense we
distinguish the official services from others by calling them
liturgical; those services are liturgical which are contained in any of
the official liturgical books of a rite. In the Roman Church, for
instance, Compline is a liturgical service, while the Rosary is not. I
hope this explanation helps. Kay
ON-LINE BIBLE
COURSES
Dear Kay, Peace
be with you. I am looking for a Catholic Bible College or on-line
scriptural studies program that is accredited. Could you please email
any resources I can follow-up on? Thank you so much, Elizabeth
Dear Elizabeth, check out:
http://scriptureschool.org/biblestudyprograms.aspx
I hope it is a help to you. God's blessings on your life-long
study of God's Word. Kay
COPYRIGHT ISSUES
Dear Kay Murdy, I do appreciate your Daily Word Of Life/. A BIG Thank
You. I use it almost every day. Thus I think it incredible IRONY that
You should write today: "Please Note: Due to issues regarding copyright
images ...." etc. and "Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God
what belongs to God." Yours is after all a free site and ALL beauty +
creativity and even Copyright belongs to Jesus + Heavenly Father!!!
Anyway I am truly SORRY if this Issue has caused You difficulties. Best
Wishes, *HUGS* God's Peace Is With You, Geoff
Dear Geoff, thank you for your kind words.
Due to issues regarding copyright images, I am removing many
graphics until I can verify my right to use them or to replace them with
others. Blessings, Kay
MASS CHANGES
Hello Mrs. Murdy,
I love your work, " Daily Word of Life" Liturgy of the Word. Will you
becoming out with a revision since changes are coming up? I again
appreciate you visuals and language used, it is so easy to work with
when I teach religion. Thank you for your time, Yolanda, Lomita, CA.
Dear Yolanda, as far as I know the changes in the Mass to be implemented
in Advent, 2011, will only affect the Sacramentary (prayers of the Mass)
and not the Lectionary readings. Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad
that my work is a help to you. Blessings, Kay
DAILY WORD OF
LIFE
Dear Kay, thank
you for the site and for having the grace and love of our Lord to
support each other in Prayer. Your site is a true blessing and I have
genuinely been touched by all the work that has been done on your site.
as a convert of six years to Catholicism your site allows me to be able
to truly have material for my growth and knowledge. Kerrie
DAILY READING
GUIDE
Dear Ms. Murdy, I
came across your name as I was searching for a bible study guide. For
the last several years, I used the God's Word Today booklet. I
especially liked the "book" theme that allowed me to be focused on a
specific book of the Bible. Then, last year in June, they discontinued
publication and transferred subscribers to The Word Among Us. It
is good, but there is no monthly theme...which I really liked. So...this
evening I was doing a search on-line for something that might be closer
to a monthly theme-based study. Are you aware of one? Would you
recommend one? Thank you for your consideration of this request for
information. I do appreciate it. Best! Joan
Dear Joan, I use The Word Among Us for my lectionary based study
group in the parish. People find that studying the readings for the
upcoming Sunday Liturgy gives them a better understanding of God's Word.
There is a unity and continuity to the liturgical readings which you
will discover as you read from Sunday to Sunday, or even daily,
especially with the Old Testament and Gospel readings. In addition to my
daily gospel readings on my web site, I have a home bible study that you
can check out:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com. Go to the bottom of the Home page
and click on Home Bible Study. I have all four gospels and the Book of
Revelation there as well as many pages on how to read and pray God's
Word. Liturgical Press has many resources for study of a particular
book. Check www.litpress.org. And
Stephen Binz has many commentaries on various books at Brazos Press:
www.brazopress.com. I hope this
is a help to you. Blessings, Kay Murdy
DAILY COMMENTARY:
Mt 5:17-37
Thanks for the
commentary. I read the above gospel last night in preparation for
Minister to the Sick last night and said to myself…”what will I say?
What is my message…?” Your insight was a big help to me as I have been
able to combine my thoughts with your commentary for a message for the
parishioners of Silver Sky Assisted Living. God Bless, Vince, St.
Joseph, Las Vegas, Nevada
JANUARY 2012
DAILY GOSPEL
READINGS
Hi Kay, I
hope you are fine and carrying on the Ministry of Catechizing God's
people. I have just read your profile on the net about your apostolate
in the Catholic Community. I'm Called Fr. Boniface Barasa, a Catholic
Priest in the Contemplative Evangelizing Congregation in Kenya Africa. I
hold a Masters Degree in Sacred Liturgy from The Catholic University of
Eastern Africa in Kenya Africa. Concerning your Apostolate, would it be
possible for you to to please be emailing your daily Scriptural
meditations on the Daily readings? Be blessed and may God's great work
go head through your commitment to your ministry. Yours In Christ and
Mary. Fr. Boniface Barasa
Dear Fr.
Boniface, thank you for your kind words. I do not email my daily
commentaries as they can be easily accessed on my web site. They are
always updated two weeks in advance. I also have a section on Liturgy
which can be accessed from my home page:
http://www.daily-word-of-life.com. I hope this will be of help to
you in your ministry in Kenya. Blessings and Peace, Kay Murdy
RIGHT WORDS TO
PRAY
Hello Ma’am, This night-prayer was taught to me by my grandmother, and I
have been saying it ever since. However, I feel it might contain some
mistakes, and even though I have checked various sources, it seem to be
unavailable; except for similar versions, and that too only in part. So
if you happen to know about it, I request you to kindly read and correct
it.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I give you my heart and my soul;
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, assist me in my last agony;
Jesus, Mary and Joseph; may I breathe forth my soul in peace__? A
blessed company.
God bless this house from roof to floor,
Twelve apostles guard the door,
Four great angels sit at my bed-
Two at my feet, two at my head;
Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
Bless the bed which I lie on
And if I die before I wake,
I pray to God my soul to take.
Thank You, Sincerely, Tessy.
Dear Tessy, first of all there is no wrong way to pray. The words that
touch your heart are the ones you should use. There are many versions of
your grandmother's prayer on the internet. You can see by the variety
that your intention in praying is the most important. Blessings and
Peace in your home and family. Kay
WHO IS THE
BELOVED DISCIPLE?
Dear Kay: thank
you for daily gospel and would you kindly clarify this: is John the
evangelist the same John the Beloved Apostle- thank you for your answer
and time. Nella
Dear Nela, thank you for your kind remarks. Regarding your question, the
title "beloved disciple" is attributed to Jesus' disciple John as he
laid his head in sorrow upon Jesus' breast at the Last Supper (Jn
13:23). And he was the only one of the Twelve who did not forsake Jesus
in the hour of his Passion. He stood faithfully at the cross when Jesus
made him the guardian of his Mother (Jn 19:26). John is credited with
the authorship of three epistles and one Gospel, although many scholars
believe that the final editing of the Gospel was done by others shortly
after his death. He is also supposed by many to be the author of the
book of Revelation, also called the Apocalypse, although this
identification is less certain due to the difference in style and
language. I hope this helps. Blessings, Kay |
