Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin
Gospel: Mark 7:1-13
The New Teaching of Jesus

Today, the Church celebrates the memorial of Saint Scholastica. The Gospel for today’s Mass is taken from the Holy Gospel according to Saint Mark, which reveals a debate between Jesus and the Pharisees and scribes who came from Jerusalem.

In our daily lives, we often pay close attention to our outward appearance before others. For instance, when attending public events, we may beforehand arrange for a haircut, take a bath, and put on attire reserved only for festive occasions. Likewise, when conversing with others, we are particularly mindful of our external presentation, as we always wish to display our best side to the world. The Pharisees were much the same; they placed great emphasis on their outward appearance. Thus, upon noticing that Jesus and His disciples did not observe the customs they rigidly upheld, they began to reproach them: “Why do Your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?”

Similarly, when we participate in the Mass, we often fixate on the demeanor of the priest, lectors, and altar servers at the altar, yet we neglect the presence of God. In our minds, if those serving at the altar—the priest, lectors, and altar servers—do not conduct themselves in the sacred liturgy exactly as we envision, we are quick to pass judgment upon them.

Today, let us imitate Saint Scholastica, seeking Christ with single-hearted devotion rather than pursuing mere external rituals. For while the liturgy holds importance, our personal relationship with Jesus Christ is of far greater significance. Saint Scholastica was devoted to the Savior Christ throughout her entire life, and her thoughts were always in harmony with His. Having been united with the Lord Jesus through the Sacrament of Baptism, we are called to be conformed to Him in every aspect.

As we celebrate anew the Memorial of the Virgin Saint Scholastica, we pray, O Lord, that, following her example, we may serve you with pure love and happily receive what comes from loving you. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

©Totus Tuus 2026
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica