Rosary Roadmap of Salvation

Monday, January 20, 2025

Inauguration Day History

Inauguration Day is a significant event in the United States, a solemn grandeur that underscores the continuity of governance and the democratic values which form the bedrock of the nation. It visually embodies the peaceful transition of power, a cornerstone of democracy, and affirms the president-elect's readiness to uphold the responsibilities of the highest office in the country.

Inauguration Day's history stretches back to April 30, 1789, when George Washington took the oath of office in New York City. Since then it has been held, with some variations, every four years to swear in the President-elect for a term of four years. From Thomas Jefferson riding his horse to the Capitol in 1801 to John F. Kennedy's legendary 1961 address, each inauguration holds unique moments etched into the annals of American history.

Inauguration Day is more than just ceremony; it is filled with numerous events including the oath-taking, the inaugural address, parades, inaugural balls, and sometimes, religious ceremonies. Although the constitutionally ordained date of the event was March 4 until 1937, the 20th amendment changed it to January 20 to reduce the 'lame-duck' period. Therefore, it is held every four years on January 20, or the following day if it falls on a Sunday.

Facts about Inauguration Day
  • The Twentieth Amendment of the US Constitution changed the date from March 4th to January 20th.
  • The only President to take the oath of office without placing his hand upon a Bible was Theodore Roosevelt in January 1901. He was sworn in with an uplifted hand.
  • The US Constitution mandates that the person take an oath or affirmation before he/she can take office.
  • Various Presidents have added their own twist to the swearing in ceremony, including kissing the Bible, or adding the words so help me God in closing.
Top things to do for Inauguration Day
  • Attend the Inauguration in person by traveling to Washington D.C. the week of January 20th.
  • Watch the Inauguration happen live via television or internet broadcast.
  • Say a prayer for the new President.
  • Watch the Inauguration Parade as it proceeds towards the White House.

Christopher’s Corner

·         National Oatmeal Month “My last name in German is oatmeal”

·         Spirit hour[9]St. Agnes Brandy Tomorrows Saint Agnes

·         Bucket List trip[10]: Prague, Bohemia, Czech Republic

·         Eat waffles and Pray for the assistance of the Angels

·         Religion in the Home for Preschool: January

·         Carnival Time begins in Catholic Countries.

·         Try[11]Arista alla Fiorentina

·         National Coffee Break Day

·         Take a Walk Outdoors Day

·         MondayLitany of Humility

·         National Cheese Lovers Day

·         Drops of Christ’s Blood

·         Plan winter fun:

o   Soak in hot springs

o   Hit the snow slopes

o   Ride a snowmobile

o   Go for a dog sled ride

o   Ride a hot air balloon

·         How to celebrate Jan 20th

o   Feeling adventurous? Start your day with a leisurely walk outdoors. Embrace nature and soak in the fresh air. Next, dive into the cheesy goodness of your favorite cheese dishes to celebrate National Cheese Lovers Day. Indulge in a cheese platter or whip up a simple grilled cheese sandwich. Feeling peckish after all that cheese? It’s time to raise awareness for penguins. Learn more about these adorable creatures, watch a documentary, or support a penguin conservation organization.

o   Take a break and savor a cup of coffee for National Coffee Break Day. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, black or sweet, take a moment to enjoy every sip. Pump up the jams for National Disc Jockey Day. Host a mini dance party at home, create your own DJ playlist, or simply groove to your favorite tunes.

o   Spread love and acceptance on International Day of Acceptance. Share positive messages on social media, practice kindness, or educate yourself about different cultures and beliefs. Capture all these memorable moments on National Camcorder Day. Record a day-in-the-life video, create a fun vlog, or revisit old footage to relive cherished memories.

o   End your day on a sweet note by treating yourself to some buttery and crunchy buttercrunch to mark National Buttercrunch Day. Whip up a batch of homemade buttercrunch or pick some up from a local store. Each holiday offers a unique way to add fun and excitement to your day. So go ahead, mix and match these celebrations to create a one-of-a-kind experience that you’ll never forget. Enjoy!



January 20 Monday-Saint Sebastian, Martyr

Martin Luther King 

1 Peter, Chapter 3, Verse 13-16

13 Now who is going to harm you if you are enthusiastic for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer because of righteousness, blessed are you. Do not be AFRAID or terrified with fear of them, 15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, 16 but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame.

Archbishop Sheen explained that suffering is an integral part of becoming a new person in Christ by the giving up the self and ego in sacrifice to the other. 

At the marriage of my oldest son his little brother was asked to say something at the reception. Vincent got up (he is 6’6”) and while all eyes were on him stated, “First Chris called Kate and there was the telephone ring: then there was a bond establish and the trust ring began: then after some time came the engagement ring: and naturally followed the wedding ring: but Chris I have to warn you that after today there is one more ring; for now begins the suffer ring. 

Christian suffering begins at home: for it is in the home the Lord develops the understanding heart when one discovers the imperfections of the other and makes sacrifices seeking the good of the other as other.

St. Sebastian[1] The name of Sebastian is enveloped in a wreath of legends. By birth he was Milanese. Perhaps the persecutor of Christians had left Milan, or had not yet arrived, or had become momentarily more tolerant. Sebastian believed that here there was no opportunity for combat, or that it had already passed. So, he went to Rome, the scene of bitter opposition arising from the Christians' zeal for the faith. There he suffered; there he gained the crown." St. Sebastian was widely venerated during the Middle Ages, particularly as a protector against the plague. Paul the Deacon relates that in 670 a great pestilence at Rome ceased when an altar was dedicated in his honor. The Breviary account of the saint is highly legendary; in part it reads: "Diocletian tried by every means to turn Sebastian from the faith of Christ. After all efforts had proven fruitless, he ordered him tied to a post and pierced with arrows. When everyone thought him dead, a devout woman named Irene arranged for his burial during the night; finding him still alive, she cared for him in her own house. After his recovery he appeared again before Diocletian and boldly rebuked him for his wickedness. Enraged by the saint's sharp words, the emperor ordered him scourged until he expired. (Remember that in our Lords scourging; He paid particularly for the sins of the flesh) His body was thrown into a sewer."

Things to Do:[2]

·         Read a longer account of St. Sebastian's life.

·         St. Sebastian's Day is marked in Sicily and in Kerala, India with huge celebrations. Try a Sicilian or Kerala dish for dinner tonight in honor of the saint.

·         If you have an athlete in your family teach them the prayer to St. Sebastian.

Litany of St. Sebastian[3]

Lord, have mercy on us!         Christ, have mercy on us!

Lord, have mercy on us!        

Christ hear us!             Christ, graciously hear us!

God, the Father of heaven,                                         Have mercy on us!

God, the Son, Redeemer of the world,                       Have mercy on us!

God, the holy Ghost,                                                               Have mercy on us!

Holy Trinity, one God,                                                           Have mercy on us!

Holy Mary, Queen of Martyrs,                                                           Pray for us.

Saint Sebastian,                                                                                               Pray for us.

Invincible Martyr,                                                                               Pray for us.

Knight, noble by birth and fame,                                            Pray for us.

Glorious warrior and martyr of Christ,                                   Pray for us.

Patron and mirror of Christian soldiers,                                 Pray for us.

Despiser of the world,                                                                         Pray for us.

Conqueror of Satan,                                                                            Pray for us.

Comfort of the dying,                                                                         Pray for us.

Consoler of the afflicted,                                                                    Pray for us.

Announcer of the word of God,                                              Pray for us.

Protector and Patron of countries and cities,              Pray for us.

Saint Sebastian, perfect in virtue and wisdom,          Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, lover of God and men,                         Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, might in word and work,                                  Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, who didst strengthen the Christians in torments and death,                                                                                                                            Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, who didst fortify those wavering in their faith,

Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, who didst encourage the doubting to persevere to the end,                                                                                                                             Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, who, in flamed with love of God, didst despise the pains inflicted by the tyrant,                                                                   Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, surrounded by celestial light,                           Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, instructed by the holy Angels,                         Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, giving speech to the dumb,                              Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, who for defending the truth wast wounded by arrows,                                                                                                                                   Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, who wast put to death with clubs,                    Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, who wast crowned with eternal glory,             Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, great intercessor for us with God,                    Pray for us.

St. Sebastian, endowed with power from God to avert pestilence and all contagious diseases,                                                                    Pray for us.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world: Spare us, O Lord!

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world: Graciously hear us, O Lord!

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world: Have mercy on us, O Lord! Christ, hear us! Christ, graciously hear us!

Let us pray. Mercifully look on our weakness, O almighty God; since the weight of our own evil deeds bears us down, may the glorious intercession of Thy blessed martyr Sebastian be our protection Through our Lord Jesus Christ Thy Son, Who with Thee and the Holy Ghost liveth and reigneth, one God, world without end. R. Amen.

Life First[4] 9 Days for Life

9 Days for Life is a "digital pilgrimage" of prayer and action focused on cherishing the gift of every person's life. A multi-faceted novena highlighting a different intention each day provides reflections, bonus information, and suggested actions. Join to receive the novena through the 9 Days for Life app, daily emails, or daily texts. See below for information on how else you can get involved! #9DaysforLife #OurPrayersMatter

 Day Five

Intercession: May each person suffering from the loss of a child through abortion find hope and healing in Christ. 

Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be 

Reflection: After more than four decades of legalized abortion, many children’s lives have been ended, and many parents and family members suffer that loss—often in silence. Yet God’s greatest desire is to forgive. No matter how far we have each strayed from His side, He says to us, “Don’t be afraid. Draw close to my heart.” Be assured that it is never too late to seek God's forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. 

Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)

·         Abstain from meat today. If you are already abstaining from meat today, skip your favorite snack, too.
 

·         Pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy (www.usccb.org/divine-mercy-chaplet) for those who are suffering the loss of a child through abortion, asking that they find healing and peace.
 

Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

 


Day 222

PART TWO: THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY

SECTION TWO-THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS OF THE CHURCH

CHAPTER THREE-THE SACRAMENTS AT THE SERVICE OF COMMUNION

Article 7-THE SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY

III. Matrimonial Consent

1625 The parties to a marriage covenant are a baptized man and woman, free to contract marriage, who freely express their consent; "to be free" means:
- not being under constraint;
- not impeded by any natural or ecclesiastical law.

1626 The Church holds the exchange of consent between the spouses to be the indispensable element that "makes the marriage." If consent is lacking, there is no marriage.

1627 The consent consists in a "human act by which the partners mutually give themselves to each other": "I take you to be my wife" - "I take you to be my husband." This consent that binds the spouses to each other finds its fulfillment in the two "becoming one flesh."

1628 The consent must be an act of the will of each of the contracting parties, free of coercion or grave external fear. No human power can substitute for this consent. If this freedom is lacking the marriage is invalid.

1629 For this reason (or for other reasons that render the marriage null and void) the Church, after an examination of the situation by the competent ecclesiastical tribunal, can declare the nullity of a marriage, i.e., that the marriage never existed. In this case the contracting parties are free to marry, provided the natural obligations of a previous union are discharged.

1630 The priest (or deacon) who assists at the celebration of a marriage receives the consent of the spouses in the name of the Church and gives the blessing of the Church. The presence of the church’s minister (and also of the witnesses) visibly expresses the fact that marriage is an ecclesial reality.

1631 This is the reason why the Church normally requires that the faithful contract marriage according to the ecclesiastical form. Several reasons converge to explain this requirement:
- Sacramental marriage is a liturgical act. It is therefore appropriate that it should be celebrated in the public liturgy of the Church;
- Marriage introduces one into an ecclesial order, and creates rights and duties in the Church between the spouses and towards their children; - Since marriage is a state of life in the Church, certainty about it is necessary (hence the obligation to have witnesses);
- the public character of the consent protects the "I do" once given and helps the spouses remain faithful to it.

1632 So that the "I do" of the spouses may be a free and responsible act and so that the marriage covenant may have solid and lasting human and Christian foundations, preparation for marriage is of prime importance.

The example and teaching given by parents and families remain the special form of this preparation.
The role of pastors and of the Christian community as the "family of God" is indispensable for the transmission of the human and Christian values of marriage and family, and much more so in our era when many young people experience broken homes which no longer sufficiently assure this initiation:

It is imperative to give suitable and timely instruction to young people, above all in the heart of their own families, about the dignity of married love, its role and its exercise, so that, having learned the value of chastity, they will be able at a suitable age to engage in honorable courtship and enter upon a marriage of their own.

Martin Luther King[5]

 Today we celebrate the legacy of a man who died and lived to create a culture of justice that ensures the dignity of all men, women, and children in America. Our church also recognizes the need for dignity not only for mankind but also in marriage and it is only when we recognize the grandeur of His works that we begin to realize that every man, woman, and child is a wonder wroth by His hands.

The reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968) championed a movement that was based on love and his ideal was to obtain justice by nonviolent means as expressed in this speech.

Hate begets hate; violence begets violence; toughness begets a greater toughness. We must meet the forces of hate with the power of love. Our aim must never be to defeat or humiliate the white man, but to win his friendship and understanding. “The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy, instead of diminishing evil, it multiplies it. Through violence you may murder the liar, but you cannot murder the lie, nor establish the truth. Through violence you may murder the hater, but you do not murder hate. In fact, violence merely increases hate. Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” 

Character is Destiny[6] 

According to John McCain a person or nation’s character determines its destiny. McCain points out in his book Character is Destiny the person who most exemplifies the characteristic of fairness is that of Martin Luther King, Jr.  

John said of King:

From a jail cell he wrote a letter that is one of the most celebrated documents in American history and summoned his country to the cause of justice. “My Dear Fellow Clergymen,” it began. Recognizing that his correspondents were “men of genuine good will and your criticisms sincerely set forth,” he promised to respond in patient and reasonable terms. They were reasonable terms, and undeniably fair, but patient they were not.

We have waited for more than 340 years for our constitutional and God-given rights. . . . Perhaps it is easy for those who have never felt the stinging dark of segregation to say, “Wait.” But when you have seen vicious mobs lynch your mothers and fathers at will and drown your sisters and brothers at whim; when you have seen hate-filled policemen curse, kick and even kill your black brothers and sisters; when you see the vast majority of your twenty million Negro brothers smothering in an airtight cage of poverty in the midst of an affluent society; when you suddenly find your tongue twisted and your speech stammering as you seek to explain to your six-year-old daughter why she can’t go to the public amusement park that has just been advertised on television, and see tears welling up in her eyes when she is told that Funtown is closed to colored children, and see ominous clouds of inferiority beginning to form in her little mental sky, and see her beginning to distort her personality by developing unconscious bitterness toward white people; when you have to concoct an answer for a five-year-old son who is asking: “Daddy, why do white people treat colored people so mean?”; when you take a cross-country drive and find it necessary to sleep night after night in the uncomfortable corners of your automobile because no motel will accept you; when you are humiliated day in and day out by nagging signs reading “white” and “colored”; when your first name becomes “nigger,” your middle name becomes “boy” (however old you are) and your last name becomes “John,” and your wife and mother are never given the respected title “Mrs.”; when you are harried by day and haunted by night by the fact that you are a Negro, living constantly at tiptoe stance, never quite knowing what to expect next, and are plagued with inner fears and outer resentments; when you are forever fighting a degenerating sense of “nobodiness” then you will understand why we find it difficult to wait. There comes a time when the cup of endurance runs over, and men are no longer willing to be plunged into the abyss of despair.

America still struggles internally and externally to arrive at the place Dr. King had summoned us to, that exalted place that had been the highest ambition of our Founding Fathers and the highest value we recommend to the rest of the world; the place where all people are recognized as equal and endowed by their Creator with inalienable rights. African Americans recognize the debt they owe Dr. King’s courage, wisdom, and unshakable sense of fairness. But Americans of European descent owe him a greater one. At the cost of his life, he helped save us from a terrible disgrace, the betrayal of our country, and the principles that have ennobled our history. And that is a debt we must happily bear forever. 

Martin Luther King Facts & Quotes[7] 

·         Martin Luther King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.  He was 35 years old, which made him the youngest Peace Prize winner at that time.

·         I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.

·         Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?

·         Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

·         Hate is too great a burden to bear. 

Martin Luther King Top Events and Things to Do 

·         Visit thekingcenter.org to find out about local events and ways you can help promote unity, justice, and fight racism.

·         Become a mentor to an underprivileged person in your community through Big Brothers, or another similar organization.

·         Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.  For more info see the Official memorial website.

·         Donate to the United Negro College Fund or other charities that promote college degree attainment by minorities.

·         Watch a movie about MLK. Some popular films include: Our Friend Martin (1999), Selma (2014) and The Witness (2008)

Penguin Awareness Day[8] was created to celebrate everybody’s favorite zoo animal! Find out more about penguins, explore what others have to say about penguins, why not visit your local zoo to share the penguin love! You don’t have to wait until Penguin Awareness Day, because penguins can be loved all year long!

Daily Devotions

·         Unite in the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them in fasting: Today's Fast: For the intercession of the angels and saints

·         Offering to the sacred heart of Jesus

·         Drops of Christ’s Blood

·         Universal Man Plan

·         Rosary



[1]http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2017-01-20

[3]https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=1125

[4]http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/january-roe-events/nine-days-of-prayer-penance-and-pilgrimage.cfm

[6] McCain, John and Salter, Mark. (2005) Character is destiny. Random House, New York.

[9]Foley, Michael P... Drinking with the Saints: The Sinner's Guide to a Holy Happy Hour (p. 370). Regnery History. Kindle Edition.

[10] Schultz, Patricia. 1,000 Places to See Before You Die: A Traveler's Life List Workman Publishing Company. Kindle Edition.

[11] Sheraton, Mimi. 1,000 Foods To Eat Before You Die: A Food Lover's Life List (p. 800). Workman Publishing Company. Kindle Edition.













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