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by Fr. Patrick Henry Reardon There is wisdom and merit in the impulse to study the writings of Peter and Mark together; the First Epistle of Peter and the Gospel of Mark were both composed at Rome, in close sequence, and, as far as we can determine, in the context of the same crisis: the persecution of Christians in the aftermath of the fire that broke out in the capital on July 19 of the year ... More...
by Fr. Patrick Henry Reardon This sermon was the subject of some measure of animated discussion in yesterday’s Adult Sunday School class.Please, understand that this text was meant to be heard, not read. Consequently, at several points it exhibits certain truncation of ideas more explicitly spelled out in the vocal presentation. Rhetorical grammar and literary composition are two distinct ... More...
by Fr. Patrick Henry Reardon After the Apostle Peter was released from prison, we read, "he departed and went to another place" (Acts 12:17). The evidence indicates that Peter, before his life was over, went to several other places. Some time later we find him, for example, at Antioch (Galatians 2:11). Since Luke traveled mainly in the company of Paul, the Acts of the Apostles tells little ... More...
by Fr. Patrick Henry Reardon When we consider the oral tradition that preceded the writing of the Gospels, it is essential to consider its personal quality; only a few individuals were able to speak to the ministry and teaching of Jesus with recognized authority: the Apostles whom he had chosen. The Evangelists, in their composition, did not draw on rootless sources and anonymous testimonies. The ... More...
by Fr. Patrick Henry Reardon St. Luke's account of the Parable of the Sower includes features not found in the corresponding passages of Mark and Matthew; one of these is the form of the final verse, translated thus in the NKJV: "But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience" (Luke 8:15). The ... More...
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