SIMON PETER: THE ROCK

                      SIMON PETER: THE ROCK

                                by

                         Harriet Shikoski

To my Readers;

     Many details included in this story of Peter originated in the visions of Ven. Anne Catherine Emmerick (1774-1824).  She was a German Augustinian nun who was told in vision that she was priveleged to receive more visions than had any other person in history.  Her visions were recorded by Clemens Brentano, arranged and edited by the Very Reverend Carl E. Schmoger, C.SS.R. and translated from German into English.  In my turn I have also picked and arranged the material.

     How true are the details acquired in this fashion?  Even conceding that the private revelations to Sr. Anne Catherine were accurate, it would be a miracle indeed if they retained such accuracy after passing through so many human minds.  Bible references are included, not in an effort to prove the truth of the events described here, but to help you compare the two sources.

     Though the total accuracy may be questioned, I still believe that the following story of Simon Peter captures his true character and helps us to understand the man who, "wonderfully knit" by the Father, personally instructed by the Son, and inspired by the Holy Spirit, led the earliest Christians.

                                          H. S.

  

                      SIMON PETER - THE ROCK

     Simon was a Jew who lived in what we now call the first century A. D.  He was of the merchant class, the son of a man named John. (Matt 16:17)  John was sometimes known as John Zelotes because he had won an argument with the Romans over the right of navigation on the Sea of Galilee.  He had the reputation of being a wrangler and a quarreller.

     Simon's main business was a fishery but he also dealt in livestock and boat building.  He was an ambitious, hard-working man, and had prospered through the years for he owned several houses and three boats.

     Simon had married a woman with children and he considered her children to be his own.  The parents of Simon's wife lived with them.  Her mother was a tall, thin woman who tended to be sickly.

     They lived outside the city of Caparnaum.  The caravan route that ran from the east through Damascus, Jerusalem and Hebron to Egypt passed by Capharnaum, making it an active commercial center.  Caparnaum with its numerous vineyards and terraced gardens lay in a half circle around a mountain.  On top of the mountain grew wheat, thick and stout as rushes.  There were many beautiful brooks running down from the height into the lake.  The waters of the brook of Capharnaum flowed in front of Simon's house, where they were dammed near by into a beautiful pond where fish were kept.  All around were grassy places where nets were spread and bleached.

     At the time when Simon had his fishery, Caparnaum was an hour's walk away from the Sea of Galilee.  In his little boat Simon, with his fishing equipment, could sail down the stream that flowed past his home to his fishery on the Sea.

     Simon's house was neatly built and very long.  One could promenade on the roof and enjoy the beautiful view of the Sea of Galilee.  The house was surrounded by a courtyard and gardens.  There were side buildings, halls and sheds.

    
For years Simon had been hearing rumors about the birth of a savior.  He had heard John the Baptist speak, (Mark 1:7-8) and had received baptism.  Like many of his countrymen he yearned for a savior who would become their king, a king who would deliver them from the hated Romans.  While Simon had believed John's message, he had not become as enthusiastic a disciple of the Baptist as had his brother Andrew.  He had left the disciples following John and had gone back to his home and fishery.

     After Joseph's death and around the time of Jesus' 40 day fast at the beginning of His ministry, the Blessed Virgin was living outside the city of Capharnaum, toward Bethsaida.  At this time when Jesus started His ministry, He moved the center of His activity from Nazareth to Capharnaum. (Matt 4:13-17)

     One day Jesus came walking along the Sea, passing through a fence around Simon's fishery.  Simon with his brother Andrew were in one of the huts built on the shore for the accomodation of the fishermen.  Five boats lay at bay.  John and James, their father Zebedee, Simon's father-in-law, as well as others were on the boats.  Andrew was a baptized disciple of John the Baptist.  Simon and Andrew talked to Jesus.  He talked about the near coming of the Messiah but they did not yet know that Jesus was the One.  Jesus told them that He would come again.

     When Jesus taught in the school at Capharnaum, Simon and Andrew went to hear Him.  But the future Apostles, without exchanging words with Him, went back again to the Sea.

     It was common practice for the Jews to visit other places on the Sabbath.  One day Simon with Andrew, James Alpheus and Philip celebrated the Sabbath between Nazareth and Sephoris.  They went to hear Jesus, but He did not speak to any of them in particular.

     Jesus was at an inn in Gur when some of John the Baptist's disciples gathered.  Simon, Andrew, James Alpheus, Simon Zelotes, Thaddeus, John and James Zebedee were there.  Some spoke of the the mildness, meekness and wisdom of Jesus; while the followers of John the Baptist proclaimed his enthusiasm and austerity and extolled his interpretation of the Law and the Prophets.  Zebedee and his family had once lived fairly close to Nazareth.  John knew and loved Jesus even as a child, but even he talked enthusiastically of the Baptist.  Simon and Andrew spoke of the Baptist with zeal saying he was of a noble priestly family, (Luke 1:5,13) who had been educated by the Essenians in the wilderness, who would tolerate no irregularity, and who was as rigorous as he was wise.  Jesus' defenders retorted that Jesus also had been educated by the Essenians, that He had traveled and they stressed His mildness and wisdom.  John the son of Zebedee said no more when they stressed Jesus' loving care.

     While Jesus was gone up the mountain for His forty-day fast before beginning His mission, Simon, Andrew and the others did not know where He was.  When Jesus came down from the mountain He passed close to where John was baptizing.  When the Baptist caught sight of Him, he pointed to Him exclaiming, "Behold, the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world."  Andrew and some other disciples who had been near John hurried after Jesus. (John 1:29-30,36-40)

     Jesus talked to them about His teaching mission about to begin and of His intention to choose disciples to help Him.  Andrew recommended many of his own acquaintances, among them Peter, Philip and Nathanael.  Jesus had not asked Andrew to be a disciple; Andrew had come of his own accord.  He was eager to be near Jesus, and to serve Him.

     Andrew had been visiting some of his relatives when he informed his brother Simon that he had found the Messiah whom the Baptist had called "The Lamb of God."  Jesus was the Messiah and Andrew offered to take Simon to see Him. (John 1:40)  In contrast to Andrew Simon was more hesitant.  In the beginning he was always ready to think, "Oh, I am too weak for that!  That is beyond my strength."

     Simon and John, the son of Zebedee, were traveling to Gennabris on some fishery business when Andrew persuaded them to go first to meet Jesus.  Andrew presented his brother Simon to Him.  As Jesus greeted Simon He said, "You are Simon, the son of John; you shall be called Cephas."  [Cephas is the Aramaic word for "rock."]  (John 1:42)  Jesus talked to John about their next meeting.  John and Simon went on about their business while Andrew stayed with Jesus.

     Simon Zelotes (the son of Alpheus), had some employment in Gennabris.  He and his brothers, Thaddeus and James Alpheus, were in Gennabris for a feast where Jesus was expected.  There they met James and John, the sons of Zebedee.  Lazarus, Saturnin and the bridegroom of Cana also came to meet Jesus.  Jesus desired to give his followers time to talk about the reports being circulated about Himself, especially what Andrew and Saturnin had to say.  He wanted them to better understand each other.  Andrew in his zeal for his Master's interests rejoiced at the happy impression Jesus' teaching had made on the disciples.  He told them again and again all that he had seen at Jesus' baptism and the miracles He had performed.  Jesus called to Heaven to witness that they should see still greater things.  He talked about their own vocation.  They might still continue their present life, but when He would call them they should follow Him immediately.  Peter protested that he could not leave his old father-in-law.  Jesus relieved his anxiety and told him that for present only the heart should become detached from their work, but exteriorly they should continue until He called them.  Nathanael the bridegroom of Cana invited all of them to his wedding.  Many other friends and relatives of the Holy family were also invited to Cana for the wedding. (John 2:1-2)

     Simon owned three vessels, one of them very large, as long as a house.  The large vessel had, around the lower part of the mast, decks formed like terraces or galleries, one above the other.  These galleries were supported by posts at regular intervals, so that a view could be seen through the boat from side to side.  Canvas curtains could be drawn to form separate compartments like little cells.  The poles supporting the mast had projecting rounds to facilitate climbing.  On both sides of the vessel were floating casks, or barrels, like wings or fins, to prevent it from being blown over in a storm.  They could be filled with water or emptied to let the boat ride lighter or sink deeper in the water.  Some-times the fish that had been caught were preserved in them.  At either end of the vessel were planks that could be shoved out, providing access to the casks, other boats or to nets.  When not used for fishing, the vessels would be held in readiness to transport caravans or travellers across the Sea.

     About noon Jesus and some of His disciples were on a little hill commanding a view of the Sea of Galilee.  They saw Simon, John and James in their boats.  Simon's servants were handling a large boat belonging to him, but Simon was on a smaller one steering it himself.  Andrew's little boat was near that of Zebedee, but he himself was not there.  Some disciples asked Jesus how those men could still go around fishing after seeing what He had done and heard His teaching.  Jesus replied that He had not yet called them, that Simon especially carried on a large business upon which many depended for support, that He had told them to continue it, but to keep themselves ready for His call.  But while Simon attempted to take care of his business and household, he was drawn to Jesus' preaching, His mildness and His wisdom, and attended His discourses as much as he could.

     After Jesus cured his son, Zorobabel, the Centurion of Caparnaum, had a great banquet prepared to which all the servants and laborers of his numerous gardens were called.  The miracle was related to them, and all were deeply moved and believed in Jesus.  The news was soon spread throughout Capharnaum.  (Matt 8:5-13 & Luke 7:2-10)  Zorobabel sent an account of it to the Mother of Jesus and to the Apostles who were busy at their fisheries.  The news was also taken to Simon's mother-in-law who was then lying sick.

     At night Simon went with Jesus and other disciples to Jesus' Mother's house.  On the way Peter spoke of his household affairs, how he had neglected his fishery by being absent from it so much and how he must provide for his wife, his children and his mother-in-law.  John replied that he and James had to take care of their parents, and that was more important than taking care of a mother-in-law.  And so they bantered and teased each other.  Jesus observed that the time would soon come when they would give up their present fish to catch fish of another kind.

     Early the next day Jesus left His Mother's and went to Capharnaum.  Before reaching the gate to the city, He came to a house belonging to Simon who had assigned it to Jesus for His use and the use of His disciples.  Simon placed a pious old man there as steward.

     In Capharnaum Jesus preached and cured.  In the afternoon He, with all His disciples, retired to the house near the gate where Zorobabel had provided entertainment.

     When Jesus returned to His Mother's the disciples questioned whether they should go with Him next morning to the Sea.  Simon excused himself because of the bad state of his boat.

     Early the next day Jesus gave instructions while He and about twenty of His disciples went toward the Sea of Galilee, where the boats of Simon and Zebedee lay.  No Jews were fishing as it was a fast day.  Jesus next went to Simon's house.  As He entered with Simon, Simon said, "Master, we have had a fast day, but you have fed us."  Mary and other holy women were there with Simon's wife.  Simon's mother-in-law was so weak and sickly that in going around the house she had to lean against the walls for support.

     Jesus went from Capharnaum to Nazareth instructing the disciples on the way.  He counseled Simon to leave the borders of the Sea of Galilee, take up his abode in his house near Capharnaum and give up his business.  The disciples later left Jesus and returned to Simon's.

     Simon and Andrew with the help of their servants built a little boat especially for Jesus.  They were not only mariners and fishermen but ship builders as well.  Jesus' little boat could hold about ten men, fifteen at the most.  It was oval in shape, almost egg-shaped.  In the forepart and stern were enclosed places for storage and for accomodations for the washing of feet.  In the center the mast rose up with poles extending from it to the sides of the vessel for support.  Above and around these poles swung the sails.  Seats were arranged around the mast.  Jesus often used this boat to cross the Sea of Galilee or to sail among other boats.

     Jesus went down to the spot where Simon's men were waiting for Him.  Jesus landed above Bethsaida where Simon, Andrew, John, James Zebedee, James Alpheus and Philip waited for Him.  They all went to Simon's house where Mary and the other women were gathered.  Simon's mother-in-law was in bed sick.  Jesus went to see her but did not cure her yet.  During the meal the conversation was mostly about the fifteen Pharisees who had been sent to Capharnaum to spy on Jesus.  These Pharisees were angry because Jesus had not studied under them; He associated with common people such as Essenians, fishermen, publicans, and sinners; He presumed to teach without a mission from the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem; He had not gone to them for counsel and instruction; He was neither Pharisee nor Sadduce; He taught among the Samaritans; and He cured on the Sabbath.  They were furious at the thought that to render Him justice would be to denounce themselves.

     Because of the Pharisees, Jesus' friends and relatives did not want Him to teach in Capharnaum on the Sabbath.  Even His Mother was full of anxiety, and she expressed her opinion that He should go to the other side of the Sea of Galilee.  Jesus turned aside these objections with a few brief words and without explanations.

     There were great numbers of sick in Bethsaida and Capharnaum who flocked to Simon's house.  He accomodated many of them on his property, and the next morning Jesus healed a great number of them.  The evening before Jesus had told Simon that he should leave his fishery on the following day and help Him fish after men, that soon He would ask him to quit his fishery entirely.  Peter obeyed but not without doubts and embarrassment.  He was always of the opinion that life with the Master was too high for him.  He believed in Jesus, he saw His miracles, he shared freely his goods with the other disciples, he willingly did what was asked of him, but he felt himself unfit for such a vocation.  Added to the anxiety for his business were hearing such comments as, "He is only a poor fisherman and yet look at him!  Going around with the Prophet!" "His house is a den for fanatics and seditious persons!" and "See how he neglects his business!"  Peter was simple, attached to his ordinary occupations and would have preferred being left in peace with them.

     From Simon's home Jesus went through Bethsaida also curing in the different inns and along the street.  Simon with Andrew and some other disciples had arranged the sick comfortably in nooks and little gardens.  Refreshments had been prepared in Andrew's house.  There were some children there, Simon's step-daughter, Andrew's son and several others around eight or ten years.  There were also some old women.  All were standing in a covered porch outside the house waiting for the Prophet.  At last Jesus passed, turned His head toward them and gave them His blessing.  Jesus had used many different methods of curing, and as He did so He instructed His disciples.

     Without delay Jesus went with His disciples to Simon's place.  They urged Him to do so for they thought Simon's mother-in-law was dying.  She had become much worse and she now had a raging fever.  Jesus went straight into her room.  He stepped to her bedside, leaned against the bed half standing, half sitting, so His head approached hers.  He said some words to her and laid His hands upon her head and breast.  She became perfectly still.  Then standing before her, He took her hand and raised her to a sitting position saying, "Give her something to drink."  Her daughter brought something for her to drink, which Jesus blessed before it was given to her.  He then told her to rise.  She obeyed and rose from her low couch.  Her limbs were bandaged.  Disengaging herself from the bandages, she took a step and gave thanks to the Lord.  The entire household united with her in thanksgiving.

     At the meal which followed, she helped with the other women and, perfectly recovered, served at table. (Matt 8:14-15 & Mark 1:28-31 & Luke 4:38-39)

     After the meal Jesus with Simon, Andrew, James, John and several other disciples went to Simon's fishery on the Sea of Galilee.  In His instruction Jesus told them that they would soon give up their present occupations and follow Him.  Peter became quite timid and anxious.  He fell on his knees before Jesus, begging Him to think of his ignorance and weakness, a person entirely unworthy and unable to instruct others.  Jesus should not insist on his undertaking anything so important.  Jesus replied that He who gave health to the sick would provide them with whatever ability they would need for what they had to do.  The others were satisfied, but in his humility and simplicity, Simon could not understand how he could become not a fisherman, but a teacher of men.  However, Simon had already given much of his fishing business to Zebedee.

     Jesus and His disciples including Simon traveled to Naim.  Jesus had about thirty companions.  The path over the hill was narrow so some went before Jesus and others behind Him.  As they drew near to Naim they encountered a funeral procession at the city gate.  Four men were carrying the coffin.  The disciples formed rows along the sides of the road and Jesus passed through to meet the procession and said, "Stand still!"  Then He laid His hand upon the coffin and said, "Set the coffin down."  The bearers obeyed and the crowd fell back.  The mother of the dead youth and some other women who were following the coffin stopped.  They were veiled and grieving, the mother shedding silent tears.  Jesus kindly said to her "Woman, do not weep."  Jesus asked for some water and a little branch.  He was given a little vessel of water and a twig of hyssop.  He asked the bearers to open the coffin and loosen the bands.  Jesus raised His eyes to Heaven and prayed while the bearers removed the cover.  They loosened the bands, uncovered the face and freed the hands.  Jesus blessed the water, dipped the branch in it and sprinkled the crowd.  Then Jesus sprinkled the body and made the sign of the cross over him.  A black cloud-like figure issued forth.  Jesus then commanded the youth to rise.  He did and Jesus took him by the hand and led him to the arms of his mother. (Luke 7:11-15)  As He gave her son to her Jesus said to her, "Here, take your son back, but I shall demand him of you when he shall be regenerated in baptism."  With praise and thanksgiving the procession returned to her home.  Jesus and the disciples followed.  The boy's name was Martial.  His mother was the daughter of Simon's father-in-law's brother.  Tables were spread in the house and outside in the courtyard.  Everyone feasted.  Simon, as the widow's relative, was happy and at home in her place.  He acted somewhat in place of a father of the family.

     Jesus entered the garden of Simon's house.  It was enclosed by a hedge and all the preparations for baptism in it had been made.  There were several circular cisterns formed in the ground and surrounded by a little channel.  The water of the stream running near could be turned into the channel.  A long arbor made by screens and hangings was divided into compartments in which the neophytes could disrobe.  About fifty aspirants were baptised including some relatives of the Holy Family.

     As Jesus was curing some of the sick in the square before the synagogue of Capharnaum, Jairus, the chief of the synagogue came, prostrated himself before Jesus and asked Him to cure his dying daughter.  As Jesus started out with Jairus, messengers came to say that the girl was already dead.  Jesus told Jairus not to fear but to trust Him and he should receive help.  As they drew near a large crowd of minstrels and mourners had gathered.  The girl's father would not have willingly done anything to displease the Pharisees.  It was anxiety and necessity that drove him to Jesus.  If Jesus cured his daughter she would be restored to him; if He did not the father would have a triumph for the Pharisees.

     Jesus entered the courtyard taking with Him Simon, John and James Zebedee.  He said to the mourners, "Go away!  The girl is not dead but only sleeping."  The mourners laughed at him scornfully.  Jesus insisted on their leaving even the courtyard which He ordered to be locked.  Jesus stepped to her couch, her parents stood behind Him, the Apostles to His right at the foot of the bed.  Jeus raised her lightly in His arms, held her on His breast, and breathed upon her.  Then He laid her down, grasped one of her wrists and said, "Little girl, arise!"  Then she stood up, opened her eyes and supported by the hand of Jesus stepped from the couch to the floor.  Jesus asked her parents to give her something to eat.

     As they left Jesus told the Apostles that the parents had neither real faith nor upright intention, but raising the daughter from the dead was for her own sake and for the glory of God's Kingdom. (Mark 5:22-23,35-43 & Luke 8:41-42,49-56)

     Jesus had been teaching along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, Simon's large boat and Jesus' smaller one lay near.  The throng became very great.  Jesus with some of His disciples went on board His boat while the rest went on Simon's vessel.  From the boat Jesus talked about the parable of the sower and the tares in the field. (Mark 4:1-20 & Luke 8:4-15)

     When the instruction was over, they struck out across the lake.  Jesus' little boat was tied to the larger one with the disciples in Simon's boat taking turns in rowing.  Jesus sat on a raised seat near the mast, the others sat around Him and on the edge of the boat.  Jesus continued His instructions.  They landed near where a road ran from the shore to the houses of the publicans.

     When Matthew saw Jesus coming he became confused and withdrew into his private office.  Jesus continued to approach and from the opposite side of the road called to him.  Matthew hurried out, prostrated before Jesus and said he was not worthy that He should talk to him, but Jesus said, "Matthew, arise and follow Me!"  Matthew arose and said he would immediately and joyfully give up all things and follow Him. (Matt 9:9)  He went with Jesus back to where he was greeted by his half-brothers, Thaddeus, Simon Zelotes and James Alpheus.  Matthew had received John's Baptism and had since lived conscientiously.  He had been called Levi before but was now known as Matthew. (Mark 2:13-19 & Luke 5:27-32)

     The next morning Jesus went out to the Sea of Galilee about a quarter of an hour's walk from Matthew's dwelling.  Simon and Andrew were preparing to launch out on a fishing venture.  Jesus called to them, "Come and follow Me!  I will make you fishers of men!"  They immediately pulled up their boat and abandoned their work.  Jesus went on a little farther to the ship of Zebedee who with his sons, John and James, was mending nets on board.  Jesus called the two sons to come to Him and they obeyed immediately, while Zebedee remained on board with his servants.  Then Jesus sent Simon, Andrew, James and John into the mountains to a pagan encampment to baptise all whom Jesus prepared to receive it during the last two days. (Matt 4:18-22 & Mark 1:16-20)

     Jesus had spoken to the fishermen before about following Him but with His consent they had not constantly devoted their time to Him.  They themselves had not yet taught.  Simon was engaged not only in the fishery, but also in agriculture, raising animals.  It was harder for him to drop his business affairs.  In addition to business affair problems, Simon suffered from a feeling of his own unworthiness and his fancied lack of ability to teach.  Andrew had followed Jesus longer and was already more detached from business affairs than his brother.

     Simon, Andrew, James and John went to the pagan encampment to baptise.  Water was brought from the brook in a large basin.  The neophytes knelt in a circle, their hands crossed on their breast.  Simon held the basin while Andrew scooped up the water with his hand three different times sprinkling the heads of the neophytes.  John and James went around outside the circle laying their hands on the newly baptised.  These latter then withdrew and others took their places.

     Periodically they discontinued the ceremony and talked about Jesus, His parables, His doctrine and His miracles.  Simon was very animated in his delivery using many gestures.

     That evening they assembled at Matthew's.  A great crowd gathered and pressed around Jesus.  The Lord then took the twelve Apostles and Saturnin on Simon's boat and commanded them to row across the Sea of Galilee toward Tiberias.  Jesus was worn out by the press of the crowd.  He laid down near the mast.  The oars rested upon the high sides of the boat and struck far out into the water.  They had long handles and the rowers were obliged to stand high.  Although there was a roof over Him, Jesus could see over the whole lake, but He fell asleep.  A hard wind arose dashing waves against the boat.  The sails were furled.  Great danger threatened.  In anxiety they woke Jesus saying, "Master! have you no care for us?  We are sinking!"  Jesus arose, looked out over the water, and said quietly and earnestly to the storm, "Peace! Be still!"  Immediately all became calm.  Jesus' companions were struck with fear and whispered to one another. "Who is this Man that can control the waves?"  Jesus reproved them for their fear and lack of faith. (Matt 8:23-27 & Mark 4:36-41 & Luke 8:22-25)

     After the storm was stilled they went back to Capharnaum.  It was crowded with sick, some considered incurable and others near death.  They had heard of Martial, the youth of Naim, who had been brought back to life, and other astonishing miracles.  Simon's house outside the city, his courtyard, out buildings and sheds were crowded with them.  Tents and shelters of all kinds were put up and provisions, food etc., were supplied.  Some holy women were there to help.  The widow of Naim and Mary Cleophas, both of who were related to Simon, were there.

     Simon's wife supervised the domestic affairs of his house outside the city.  His mother-in-law and step-daughter took care of the house near the lake that Simon had given over for Jesus' use.  Some of the Apostles who had been fishermen asked and obtained Jesus permission to go back to their old profession as there was a great need for fish to feed the multitude.  Jesus taught and cured, at the same time He gave out alms.  With His own hands He gave to each what they needed, clothing, various materials and covers, bread and money.  These alms were supplied by the holy women and came from gifts given by well wishers who had more than they needed.

     Later Jesus gave a discourse near Simon's fishery.  The Apostles who had been fishing all night were cleaning their nets not far away.  When the press of the crowd became too great Jesus signaled the fishermen and they rowed His boat to where He was standing.  Jesus and some of His followers entered it.  It was rowed out a short distance and then up and down while Jesus talked to the crowd on shore.  He related several parables of the Kingdom of God, the one in which the Kingdom is compared to a net cast in the sea, (Matt 13:47-50) and the one of the enemy who sowed cockle among the wheat. (Matt 13:24-30)

     As the evening closed Jesus told Simon to go out on the Sea of Galilee and fish.  Simon was slightly vexed but replied, "We have labored all night and have taken nothing but at Your word I will let down the net."  Then he with the others took his boat out on the lake.  Jesus said good-bye to the crowd and entered His own boat with some of His followers.  They followed Simon's boat and after Jesus told Simon where to drop the nets, they rowed His little boat to a landing place near Matthew's.

     The fishermen cast out the net but were soon unable to raise it.  They dragged it out of the deep water into shallow water.  The net gave way in places.  They inserted scoops formed like little boats into the net, seized the fish with their hands and put them in smaller nets and in the casks that floated at the sides of the boats.  They called to those on Zebedee's boat who came and emptied a part of the net.  They were actually terrified at the sight of so many fish.  Never before had anything like it happened.  Simon was confounded.  He felt that they had never really appreciated Jesus the way they should have.  He felt how vain and fruitless had been their struggle, and now at a word from Him they had caught at one draught more than they had ever done in months.

     When the net was relieved of part of its weight, they rowed back to shore, dragged it out of the water and were awed at the amount of fish it still contained.  Jesus was standing on the shore.  Peter fell at His feet exclaiming, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man."  But Jesus answered, "Fear not, Simon!  From now on you shall catch men!"  Simon was quite overcome by the thought of his own unworthiness and vain concern for the things of this life. (Luke 5:4-11)

     The disciples spent the next day transporting their fish.  A large portion was given to the poor.  The pagans bought a great many, and many more were taken to Capharnaum and Bethsaida.

     Toward evening Jesus went to Simon's house outside the city.  There during the night by torch light, Jesus cured many sick, men and women, who had been abandoned because their maladies were considered unclean.  The rest of the night Jesus spent in prayer.

     Some of those who had fished the night of the miraculous draught asked Jesus if they too should go with Him, for that miracle had relieved them of the worry of going hungry.  They felt all was in His hands, but Jesus told them that they should baptize those still in Capharnaum and after that to continue fishing.  The huge number of strangers then in and around the city would need extra supplies.

     Jesus went up the mountain to give His "Sermon on the Mount."  He began by stating the Eight Beatitudes and then went on to explain them.  He devoted fourteen days to instructions on these Beatitudes, spending the intervening Sabbath in Capharnaum. (Matt 5:1-11)

     While going down from the mountain where He had been teaching, He began instructing His followers, telling them of the suffering and persecutions in store for them.  He slept that night in Simon's boat.  The next day He went to Simon's house where a crowd awaited Him.

     Whenever Jesus found Himself alone with His Apostles and disciples He prepared them for their mission.  One day He led the Twelve to a retired spot near the lake, placed them in order mentioned in the Gospel and conferred upon them the power of healing and casting out devils. (Matt 10:1-6)  To the other disciples He gave only the power to baptize and impose hands.  The power to heal and to drive out the devil was bestowed by a blessing Jesus gave.  He addressed them, promising to be with them always and to share with them all that He possessed.  All wept and Jesus Himself was very much moved.  The Apostles were enthusiastic, expressing their readiness to obey Him in all things and to remain true to Him.  Jesus replied that they would be afflicted with hardships and that evil would glide in among them.  This referred to Judas.

     After these instructions Jesus, The Twelve, and some of the disciples rowed to the east bank of the lake.  Some possessed came running toward them.  Jesus delivered them.  Some of the Apostles, Simon, Andrew, John and James, went into a little village where they cured many sick and delivered the possessed.

     It was quite dark when Jesus was walking on the water.  His followers were in a boat a little eastward of the middle of the Sea of Galilee, almost opposite Tiberias.  The wind was high and contrary.  The disciples were weary of rowing.  When they saw Jesus they were afraid for they didn't know if it was He or His spirit.  Jesus called out, "Fear not!  It is I!"  Then Simon cried out, "Lord, if it is You, ask me to come to You upon the waters."  Jesus said, "Come!"

     Simon leaped on the little ladder and out of the boat.  He hurried along for a short distance toward Jesus as if on level ground.  But when he began to think more of the sea, the wind and the waves than he did of Jesus, he grew afraid and started to sink.  He cried out, "Lord, save me!" as he sank up to his breast and stretched out his hand.  Instantly Jesus was there, took his hand and exclaimed, "Oh you of little faith, why did you doubt?"  They entered the boat and Jesus reproached Simon and the others for their fear. (Matt 14:23-33 & Mark 6:45-51 & John 6:16-21)

     At the close of the Sabbath Jesus taught in the synagogue.  He then went to Simon's house outside the city gate and spoke on the Beatitude: Blessed are the poor in spirit.  Next He prepared His disciples for their coming missions.

     Crowds around Capharnaum became too great and excited.  They were poor and thought it would be great to be supported by Him.  They were under the impression that Jesus, like Saul or David, would be anointed king and establish His throne in Jerusalem.  Jesus told them to go back to their homes, do penance, keep the commandments and practice the lessons He had taught them.  His kingdom was far different than what they thought and no sinner would have a part in it.

     Jesus left Capharnaum with the Twelve and about thirty disciples.  He took them up a mountain where He instructed them upon their vocation.  They should proclaim the advent of the Kingdom, that the last chance for doing penance had come, and that the end of John the Baptist was near.  They should baptise, impose hands, and expel demons.  He taught them how to conduct themselves, how to recognize true from false friends, and how to refute the false.  He told them none should be greater than the others.  They should live piously, poorly and humbly, and not be burdensome to any.  The Apostles, He said, should carry little flasks of oil and He taught them how to consecrate it and how to use it to effect cures. (Mark 6:7-13)  Jesus told them, "Today you will be everywhere welcomed, but a time will come when they will persecute you."

     After that the Apostles knelt down in a circle around Jesus Who laid His hands upon the head of each; the disciples He only blessed.  The Apostles then divided into two groups.  Simon, James Alpheus, John, Philip, Thomas and Judas and some of the disciples remained with Jesus.  All shed tears on separating.  Their Apostolic mission began in earnest.

     In Cariathaim Simon and James Alpheus baptised while the others laid their hands on the neophytes.

     When Jesus was in Nazareth, Simon, Matthew and James Zebedee were in Upper Galilee.  Toward ten o'clock they arrived in Nazareth.  That night they left Nazareth with Jesus.

     From a beautiful plateau where there was a stone chair from which by-gone Prophets had taught, Jesus taught upon the first four of the Eight Beatitudes and related some parables about penance and the coming of the Kingdom.  The Apostles listened with great attention because each in his own peculiar way was to repeat this lecture on his next mission.

     With the exception of Simon, John and some of the disciples who were to stay with Him, Jesus sent the Apostles and disciples out on missions.  Jesus blessed them before they left, gave them some more instructions on curing the sick and driving out demons, and blessed the oil that was to be used for the sick.

     Jesus, Simon and John journeyed rapidly.  They seldom stopped to rest.  Jesus told them that the end of John the Baptist was near and after that happened His enemies would pursue Him.  It was not lawful to expose one's self to one's enemies.  Jesus wanted to console the Baptist's relatives and prevent any unwise reaction.  During their journey Jesus instructed the Apostles on prayer, repeating the parable of a man knocking on his friend's door during the night and begging the loan of three loaves of bread. (Luke 11:5-10)

     When they reached Antipatris, Simon and John went through the city announcing the instruction about to be given in the synagogue.

     Jesus cured the sick of all kinds of maladies, and followed by a crowd, went to the synagogue, where the Pharisees and a great multitude waited for Him.

     When Jesus spoke the Pharisees smiled derisively and looked at one another.  They went on jeering and laughing.  When Jesus left the synagogue with Simon and John, the Parisees continued their insults behind His back, ascribing His miracles to sorcery and the devil.  In the synagogue the Pharisees said to Jesus that He should be on His guard lest Herod would imprison Him with The Baptist if He went on this way.  Jesus made no answer.  About five o'clock in the afternoon Jesus, Simon and John left Antipatris and traveled south.

     Jesus with Simon and John entered Lazarus' garden.  Lazarus came out to meet Him, conducted them into the house, washed their feet and offered them refreshments.  Joseph of Arimathea was there.  Jesus stayed in the house and spoke with no one except the family members and the holy women.  Only with His Mother did He speak of John's death for she knew of it by interior revelation.  Jesus told her to return to Galilee within a week to avoid crowded road conditions.  Herod's guests would a little later be traveling from Machaerus to their homes.

     Jesus and His companions went to Juttah, the Baptist's birthplace.  The son of Zachary's brother, also named Zachary, occupied the house and managed affairs.  At the family meal Jesus taught.  Afterward The Blessed Virgin, Jesus, Simon, John and the Baptist's three disciples, James, Heliacim and Sadoc (the three sons of Mary Heli) went into the room where The Baptist had been born.  Jesus disclosed that John the Baptist had been put to death by Herod.  Deep grief overcame all of them.  Jesus wept with His sorrowful listeners. (Matt 14:3-11 & Mark 6:17, 27-28)

     After Jesus returned to Caparnaum and its vicinity, He spent the whole day at Simon's with the Twelve Apostles and the disciples.  A multitude was waiting for Him but He remained shut up in the house.  He called the Apostles and disciples before Him, two by two, as He had sent them forth, and received from them their reports of all that had happened to them.

     The crowd around the house became greater and greater.  Jesus and His followers slipped away secretly.  They hurried to Simon's boat.  They ferried across the lake, landed near Matthew's custom-house and climbed the mountain for Jesus wanted to instruct them in solitude.  But the multitude had caught a glimpse of their departure.  The crowd followed, some over the lake, some around the lake.  Jesus' party was again surrounded by them.

     The disciples ranged the people in order and Jesus again began His instructions on the Beatitudes and prayer.  He again explained the first petition of the Our Father. (Matt 6:9-13)

     The instructions over, the multitude dispersed.  The next day at the place where this Sermon on the Mount had been delivered, Jesus and the Apostles and disciples retired higher up the mountain to a shady solitary spot.  Besides The Twelve there were 72 disciples present.

     Jesus instructed His followers upon the work in store for them.  They should take neither purse nor money nor bread but only a staff and a pair of sandals.  Wherever they were ungraciously received they should shake the dust from their shoes.  He called them the salt of the earth, and spoke of the light that must not be put under a bushel, and of the city seated upon a mountain.  Still He did not inform them of the full measure of persecution they would receive. (Luke 9:1-5)

     The main point of the instruction was the distinctive line drawn between the Apostles and the disciples.  The Apostles, He said, should send and call the disciples just as He Himself had sent and called His Apostles.  Among the disciples Jesus likewise formed several classes, setting those who had been disciples the longest and were the best instructed, over those who had more recently joined.  He then addressed to them words of earnest and touching instruction, and imposed hands on the Apostles as a ratification of the dignity to which He had raised them.  The disciples He had merely blessed.

     Next morning when Jesus and the Apostles returned to the mount upon which He had taught the Eight Beatitudes, He found the multitude assembled.  Jesus and the Apostles began to heal and instruct.  Teaching and healing went on until after four o'clock.  All this time the crowd had nothing to eat.  They had followed from the day before and the scant provisions they had brought were exhausted.  Many were weak and needed nourishment.  The Apostles noticed this and asked Jesus to close the instruction so that the people could find food and lodging for the night.  Jesus replied, "They need not go away for that.  Give them something to eat!"  Philip answered, "Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii of bread, and give them to eat?"  (A denarius was worth a day's wage for a laborer.)  He said this with some unwillingness for he was afraid Jesus would send them, in spite of their fatigue, to gather up from the vicinity sufficient bread for all that crowd.  Jesus answered, "See how many loaves you have!" and went on with His discourse.

     There was in the crowd a servant who had been sent by his master with five loaves and two fish as a present to the Apostles.  Andrew told this to Jesus with the words, "But what is that among so many?"  Jesus ordered the loaves and fish to be brought.  When they were laid before Him he continued explaning the petition in the Our Father for daily bread.  People were fainting, children were crying for bread.  Jesus in order to try Philip asked him "Where shall we buy bread that these may eat?"  Philip answered, "Two hundred denarii would not be sufficient for all this crowd."  Jesus then said, "Let the people be seated, the most famished in fifties, the others in groups of a hundred, and bring Me the baskets of bread that you have on hand."  The disciples set before Him a row of shallow baskets woven of broad strips of bark, such as were used for bread.  Then they scattered among the people whom they arranged in fifties and hundreds all down the terraced mountain.  Jesus was above, the people seated below Him on the mountain side.

     On a high mossy bank Jesus directed a broad napkin to be spread, upon which were placed the five loaves and two fish.  Another man brought a couple of honey combs and they too were laid on the napkin.  While the disciples seated the people, Jesus cut the five loaves with a bone knife, and divided the fish (which had been split down lengthwise) into cross pieces.  Jesus now blessed the bread, fish and honey.  He began to break the bread into pieces and these again into smaller pieces.  Every portion immediately increased to the original size of the loaf.  A piece of fish was placed on each portion and then a small quantity of honey.  There was no diminution in the fish and the honeycomb appeared to increase.  Thaddeus laid the portions in the flat baskets which were carried to those in most need, to those in sets of fifty first.  As soon as the empty baskets were brought back they were exchanged for full ones.  The work went on for about two hours until all were fed. (Matt 14:15-22 & Mark 6:35-44 & Luke 9:12-17 & John 6:5-11)

     When the people finished eating it was growing dark.  Jesus told His disciples to go down to their boats and cross the lake to Bethsaida.  They took with them the baskets of bread and departed at once.  The Apostles and some of the disciples who had joined Jesus more recently remained a little longer, and then left on Simon's boat.  Jesus dismissed the multitude.  He had scarcely left the spot on which He was teaching when the shout arose, "He has given us bread!  He is our King!  We will make Him our King!"  Jesus disappeared into the solitude and gave Himself to prayer. (John 6:12-15)

     Simon's boat was delayed during the night by contrary winds.  They rowed vigorously but were driven south of the right course.  Jesus walked on the sea.  He was shining with light.  Rays darted from Him.  His reversed image could be seen in the water under His feet.  The Apostles on Simon's ship glanced up and saw Him coming.  Wherever He approached the sea became calm, but a fog rested upon the water so He could be seen only at a distance.  Although the Apostles had once before seen Him walking like this, still the unusual and specter-like sight filled them with terror.

     Then they recalled the first time they saw Jesus walking on the water and Simon, once more desirous of showing his faith, again cried out, "Lord, if it is You, ask me to come to You."  Jesus replied, "Come!"  This time Simon ran a greater distance toward Jesus, but his faith was still not strong enough.  He was already close to Him when he again thought of the danger and began to sink.  He stretched out his hand and cried, "Lord, save me!"  He did not sink as deeply this time as he had before.  Jesus spoke, "Oh you of little faith, why do you doubt?"  When Jesus came into the boat all cast themselves at His feet crying, "Truly, you are the Son of God!"  Jesus reproved them for their little faith, instructed them some more on the Our Father.  He ordered them to steer more to the south.  They now had a favorable wind and reached their destination quickly. (John 6:16-21)

     Jesus allowed Simon to come to Him on the water in order to humble him, for He knew very well that he would sink.  Simon was very fiery and strong in believing, but in his zeal he wanted to prove his faith to Jesus and the disciples.  By his sinking he was preserved from pride.  The others did not have sufficient confidence to follow Simon's example.  Though they could see his faith was greater than their own, yet it was not as strong as it ought to be.

     Several days later Jesus and the others sailed to the region of Capharnaum, where they landed unnoticed and went at once to Simon's.  When Jesus ascended the height behind Simon's house over which ran the shortest route from Capharnaum to Bethsaida, the multitude, encamped around it, followed Him.  Jesus admonished them, "Amen, amen, I say to you.  You seek Me not because you have seen miracles, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.  Do not labor for the meat which perishes, but for that which endures to life everlasting, which the Son of Man will give you.  For God the Father has set His seal on Him." (John 6:22-28)

     As Jesus with the Apostles and disciples journeyed from Capharnaum to Cana, He stopped in the region of Giskala.  He arranged The Twelve in three separate rows revealing to each his own peculiar disposition and character.  Simon, Andrew, John, James Zebedee and Matthew stood in the first row; Thaddeus, Bartholomew, James Alpheus and the disciple Barsabas in the second; Thomas, Simon Zelotes, Philip and Judas Iscariot in the third.  Each heard his own thoughts and hopes revealed to him by Jesus.  All were strongly affected.  Jesus again spoke of the hardships and sufferings in store for them.  Again He used the expression, "Among you is a devil."  The three rows did not establish any hierarchy or subordination among the Apostles.  They were classed merely according to their disposition and character.  Jesus gave further instructions on exactly how to proceed in the future when healing the sick and exorcising the possessed.  He imparted to them the power, the courage, and the ability to impose hands and anoint with oil to effect what He Himself could do.  They stood around Jesus and rays darted toward them of different colors according to the nature of the gifts received and the peculiar disposition of each.  They exclaimed, "Lord, we feel ourselves endowed with strength!  Your words are truth and life!"

     Jesus instructed His followers on many points.  Among other things He said that whoever would not renounce all his property and his relatives and follow Him faithfully in His time of persecution could not be His disciple.  He said many who had abandoned Him would return again.  The disciples asked whether that young man who wanted to first bury his father would return, and whether Jesus would receive him for he appeared to them to deserve it. (Matt 8:21-22)  But Jesus showed them how the man clung to earthly things.  The expression, "To bury one's father" was a figure of speech which meant, "to put one's affairs in order."  The young man wanted to put his affairs in order and obtain a division of the inheritance between himself and his old father, in order to secure his own share before separating from him.  "Let the dead bury their dead" meant to let those dead in spirit take care of the material things that so concerned them.

     When Jesus spoke of the young man's desire for temporal goods, Peter exclaimed, "Thank God, I have never had such thoughts since I have followed You!"  Jesus rebuked him, telling him he should be silent on the point until asked to speak.

     Jesus with the Apostles and disciples retired up into a mountain.  He commanded them to pray.  Before daybreak they gathered around Jesus.  The Twelve stood around Him in a circle.  On His right were first John, then James Zebedee, and thirdly Simon.  The disciples stood outside the circle, those who had been followers the longest nearest the center.  Jesus asked them, "Who do men say that I am?"  The Apostles and disciples repeated various theories they had heard in different places; some said He was John the Baptist, others thought He was Elias, still others thought He was Jeremias.  They all related whatever they had heard and then remained in expectiation of Jesus' reply.  There was a short pause.  Jesus was very grave.  At last He said, "And you, for whom do you take Me?"  No one felt impelled to answer.  Only Simon, full of faith and zeal!  He took a step forward into the circle, with hand raised like one solemnly affirming, exclaimed loudly and boldly, "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God!" (Mark 8:27-29 & Luke 9:18-20)

     Jesus replied with great earnestness, His voice strong and animated, "Blessed are you, Simon, son of John, because flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven!  And I say to you, you are a rock and upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.  And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of heaven, and whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatever you shall loosen on earth shall be loosened in heaven." (Matt 16:13-19)

     Jesus made this response in a manner both solemn and prophetic.  He appeared to be shining with light.  Simon, in the same spirit in which he proclaimed the Godhead, received Jesus' words with full knowledge of their significance.  He was deeply impressed by them.

     Jesus' words were spoken to Simon (now called Peter, which means The Rock) just at the moment of sunrise.  Simon Peter alone understood.  The other Apostles did not fully comprehend because they still had earthly ideas.  They thought Jesus intended to bestow on Simon the office of High Priest in His Kingdom.

     Now Jesus told the Apostles in plain words that He was the Christ, the promised Messiah and He applied to Himself all passages of the prophets concerning the Messiah.  They then left the mountain. (Matt 16:20)

     Simon Peter drew near to Jesus to ask Him for information.  He was so full of faith and ardor that he thought his work was to begin immediately.  He asked whether in this or that case he could absolve from sin.  Jesus set his mind at ease, telling him he would later on know all things clearly, that they would be different than what he expected, and that a new law would be substituted for the old.

     As they proceeded on their journey Jesus began to enlighten His Apostles on what was ahead, that He would be maltreated, scourged, mocked and put to death.  Simon Peter was so distressed at the thought of Jesus being maltreated and put to death that he spoke to Him in private, exclaiming against such suffering, such treatment.  He would rather die himself than let it happen to Jesus.  "Far be it from you, Lord!  This shall not happen to you," he exclaimed.  Jesus turned to him gravely and said with warmth, "Get behind Me, Satan!  You are a scandal to Me.  You savor not the things that are of God, but the things that are of men!" and then walked on. (Matt 16:21-23 & Mark 8:31-33)

     Simon Peter was struck with fear.  Why had Jesus a short time before said that not by flesh and blood but by a revelation from God had Peter declared Him to be the Christ, but now He called him Satan.  Why had He reproached him because he protested against His sufferings, saying that he did not speak according to God but according to human desires and considerations.  In sorting all this out in his own mind, Simon Peter became more humble and looked upon Jesus with greater faith and admiration.  He was now more convined of the reality of the sufferings awaiting Jesus.

     In the afternoon He sent the disciples right and left to teach and to cure.  Taking with Him Peter, John and James Zebedee, He proceeded up Mount Thabor by a footpath.  Jesus paused frequently explaining to them many mysteries and praying with them.  They had no provisions for Jesus had forbidden them to bring any saying they would be satiated to overflowing.

     Jesus withdrew with them into a deep grotto.  It was like the grotto on the Mount of Olives to which Jesus so often retired to pray.  Jesus continued His instructions.  He spoke of kneeling to pray, and told them that they should henceforth pray earnestly with hands raised on high.  His words were extraordinarily loving, like those of one inspired, and the Apostles were wholly inebriated by them.  He told them that He would show them who He was, they should see Him glorified, that they might not waver in faith when His enemies would mock and maltreat Him, or when they should see Him in death shorn of all glory.

     The sun had set and it was dark.  He became brighter and brighter.  Apparitions of angelic spirits hovered around Him.  Peter saw them and asked, "Master, what does this mean?"  Jesus replied, "They serve Me!"  Peter quite out of himself stretched forth his hands exclaiming, "Master, are we not here?  We will serve You in all things!"  Jesus meantime continued to shine with ever increasing splendor unti He became as if transparent.  The three Apostles were so penetrated, so ravished, that when the light reached a certain degree they covered their heads, prostrated on the ground and remained there lying.

     The Apostles lay, ravished in ecstasy, prostrated on their face.  Three shining figures approached Jesus in the light.  Their coming appeared natural as if they had stepped out of dark into the light.  Two of them appeared in more definite form, more like bodily form.  They were Moses and Elias, who spoke to Jesus.  The third was Malachias, who was more ethereal, more spiritual and who spoke no words. (Malachi 1:1 & 4:4-5)

     Jesus spoke with Moses and Elias about all the sufferings He had endured and of all that awaited Him.  The prophets expressed their emotion and joy.  Their words were full of sympathy, consolation, reverence and praises to God.  Their being together appeared perfectly simple and natural.  Moses and Elias did not look aged or decrepit as they had when they left the earth, but were in the bloom of youth.

     The Apostles raised their heads, gazed long upon the glory of Jesus and beheld Moses and Elias.  The Prophets separated from Jesus and vanished toward the east.  Peter, ravished with joy, exclaimed, "Master. it is good for us to be here!  Let us make here three tabernacles, one for You, one for Moses and one for Elias!"  Peter meant that they had no need for another Heaven, for where they were was so sweet and blessed.  By the tabernacles he meant places of rest and honor, the dwelling of saints.  He said this in the delirium of his joy, in his state of ecstacy, without knowing what he was saying.

     When they returned to their usual waking state a cloud of white light descended upon them.  The heavens opened above Jesus revealing a vision of the Most Holy Trinity.  God the Father like an aged priest sat on a throne.  A stream of light descended upon Jesus, and the Apostles heard a voice saying, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.  Hear Him!".  Fear and trembling fell upon the Apostles.  Overcome by the sense of their own human weakness and the glory they beheld, they cast themselves face down on the earth.    Jesus went to them, touched them, and said, "Arise, and fear not!"  They rose and found Jesus alone.  A gray dawn was glimmering.  The Apostles were silent and intimidated. (Matt 17:1-8 & Mark 9:2-8 & Luke 9:28-36)

     Jesus told them He had allowed them to see the Transfiguration of the Son of Man in order to strengthen their faith, that they might not waver and be scandalized when they witnessed His humiliation, and they might at that time strengthen their weaker brethern.  He again aluded to the faith of Peter who, enlightened by God, was the first of His followers to penetrate the mystery of His divinity.  He spoke of the rock upon which He would build His Church.  They united again in prayer before descending the mountain in morning light.

     While going down Jesus impressed upon the Apostles that they should tell no one about the vision until the Son of Man should have risen from the dead. (Matt 17:9 & Mark 9:9-9)  They became more timid and reverencial in Jesus' presence since hearing the words, "Hear Him!"  They thought with sorrow and anguish on their past doubts and wants of faith.  As daylight advanced and they descended farther, the wonderful impression they received began to fade.  They discussed their surprise at the expression, "Until the Son of Man is risen from the dead."  "What does that mean?" they asked one another, but they did not ask Jesus about it.

     They had not reached the foot of the mountain before they met people coming with their sick.  A crowd gathered at the foot.  The disciples He had sent on missions returned.  The disciples guessed from the manner of the three Apostles that something unusual had occured.

     While Jesus was staying at Peter's house, some people from the synagogue of Capharnaum asked Peter, who was outside, "Doesn't your Master pay the tribute, the two didrachmas?"  Peter answered, "Yes," and when he went into the house Jesus asked him, "What is your opinion, Simon?  From whom do the kings of the earth receive tribute or custom?  From their own children, or from strangers?"  Peter answered, "From strangers," and Jesus replied, "Then the children are free!  But that we may not scandalize them, go to the sea and cast in a hook and that fish which will come up first, take; and when you open its mouth you shall find a stater.  Take it and give it to them for you and Me!"  Peter went in simple faith to his fishery, let down one of the hooks kept there always ready for use, and with it drew up a very large fish.  He felt in its mouth and found an oblong yellowish coin which he used to pay the tribute for Jesus and himself.  The fish was so large that it gave the whole company a plentiful dinner. (Matt 17:24-27)

     Jesus, the Apostles and some of the disciples went to Bethsaida.  They were very tired and needed care and attention.  They went to Andrew's where their feet were washed, baths were made  ready, fresh garments provided and a meal prepared.  Jesus was very busy helping them.  Peter pleaded with Jesus to stop serving, saying, "Lord, are You going to serve!  Leave that to us."  But Jesus replied that He was sent to serve and what He did for these disciples He did for His Father.  Again He spoke of humility; he that serves all others shall be the greatest; but whoever lowers himself to help his neighbor, not to comfort a needy brother but to gain distinction by it, is a double dealer, a server to the eye.  Such a person already has his reward for he serves himself and not his brother. (Matt 20:26-28 & Mark 9:35 & Luke 14-11)

     Early in the morning in Garisima Jesus sent the disciples and Apostles out on a mission.  Upon the Apostles and those disciples who had been with him the longest, Jesus imposed hands; the others He merely blessed.  This filled them with new strength and energy.  The imposition of hands was not priestly ordination but an imparting of grace and vigor to the soul.  Jesus spoke of the value of obedience to superiors. (John 7:16-19 & John 13:16-17)

     One day Jesus, the Apostles and disciples went down to the lake.  At some distance from the shore Jesus' boat was bound to Peter's.  They were left to float without oar or rudder for Jesus wanted to talk with the disciples undisturbed by the crowd.  It was a beautiful day.  Sails were stretched for shade.  They spent all day on board listening to Jesus.  Peter was very eager to talk.  With a certain amount of self-satisfaction he reported how much good had been done.  Jesus told him to be quiet.  Peter, who so loved his Lord, regretted his zealousness and held his peace.  Judas had a powerful desire for praise but managed to conceal it, not that he was afraid to sin but because he was concerned about what the others would think of him. (Proverbs 27:2 & Matt 6:1)

     The next day Jesus took all the Apostles and disciples to the mount of instruction near Gabara.  He was very affectionate to them, often addressed them as "My beloved children."  He asked them to relate their experiences so that all could hear what had happened to them, saying, "My dear little children, now will be seen who has loved Me and in Me, My Heavenly Father; and who has published the word of salvation and wrought cures in order to do My will, not to do his own will, nor for the sake of vain renown."  They began to relate their experiences; first, an Apostle, and after him the disciple that had accompanied him.

     Peter began eagerly to tell of the different kinds of possessed that came his way, how he treated them and how Satan had departed before him when commanded to in the Name of Jesus.  In his enthusiasm he forgot the rebuke he had received on board the boat.  Once more he was fire and zeal, reporting that several possessed, who had not been freed by some disciples, came his way, but he, Peter, had easily expelled the devils.  Jesus silenced him with a look.  Then raising His eyes toward heaven said, "I have seen Satan falling from the heavens like lightening."  Jesus reproved not only Peter for his too great warmth, but also others who had, either in thought or word, yielded to a spirit of boasting.  He told them they should act and work in His name and by Him in humility and faith, never harboring the thought that one could do more than another.  He said, "Behold, I have given you power to tread upon serpents and scorpions and upon all the might of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.  But rejoice only in this, that your names are written Heaven." (Luke 10:17-20)

     Jesus with the Apostles and disciples went to the synagogue before the usual hour that all might hear what He said to His followers and to show that He had no need to teach in secret.  He warned them against the Pharisees and false prophets, told them to be vigilant and explained the parable of the good and watchful servants, contrasting them with the slothful.  Peter asked if His words were meant for all His hearers or only for the disciples.  Jesus spoke to Peter as if he were the master of the house, the overseer of the servants.  He praised the good house holder and at the same time condemned severely the negligent one that did not fulfill his duty. (Matt 25:14-30)

     The Pharisees reproached Jesus for not receiving a certain young man among His disciples.  They said it was because the youth was well-educated and Jesus knew He could not silence him as He could the others.  They again accused the disciples of irregular conduct, of uncleanliness, of stripping the wheat ears on the Sabbath, of gathering fruit on the wayside, of eating out of time, of ill-breeding and of many other things.  They reproached Peter in particular with being a wrangler and quarreller like his father.  Jesus defended the Apostles and disciples.  They might indeed be joyful, He said, as long as the Bridegroom was with them. (Matt 9:15)  Then Jesus withdrew, to pray alone.  The Pharisees hired the rabble to throw stones after His followers, but God protected them.  They did not know where Jesus had gone.

     A father from a shepherd village came to Jesus and begged Him to go back with him for his daughter was lying dead.  Jesus accompanied him to his home, as did Peter, John and James Zebedee who had been with Jesus.  The little girl about seven years old had alreadty been dead four days.  Jesus laid one hand on her head, the other on her breast, and raising His eyes to heaven prayed, whereupon the child rose up alive.  Jesus then told the Apostles that they should do the same in His name.  The father had strong faith and was full of confidence.  When his wife died after Jesus' death he became a disciple.  The little girl restored to life became very pious also.

     Next Jesus, Peter and John visited the shepherd huts that lay scattered about and cured many of the sick that were there.  Jesus and Peter helped celebrate a marriage.  The bridal couple returned from their nuptial ceremony escorted by friends and relatives.  Jesus gave them an instruction on marriage after which He reclined at table with Peter and the priest, while the bridegroom waited on them.  The priest became angry that the most honorable places had been given to strangers, Jesus and His Apostles.  The priest hunted up some Pharisees who later on unexpectedly attacked the Lord and called Him to account.  Jesus remained calm even though one of them had pulled His mantle from His shoulder.  As they could neither harm Him or win an argument with Him, they left.

     After the resurrection of Lazarus, the Pharisees began pursuing stronger measures against Lazarus, Jesus and Jesus' followeres.  Jesus sent His Apostles and disciples on missions scattered in all directions.  He Himself left on a long journey.  The appointed spot for them to meet again was Jacob's Well.

     When He came back, Jesus travelled more by night in order that the news of His return to Judea might not set off some sudden uprising among the people.  The country stretching out from Jericho to Samaria was one of indescribable loveliness.  Almost the whole road was bordered by trees.  The fields and meadows were green and the brooks flowed sweetly along.  Jacob's Well was surrounded by beautiful grassy plots and shade trees.  The Apostles Peter, Andrew, John, James Zebedee and Philip were waiting for Jesus.  They wept for joy at seeing Him again and washed His and the disciples feet.  Jesus was very grave.  He spoke of His approaching Passion, of the ingratitude of the Jewish officials and of the judgement in store for them.

     The meal over, Jesus demanded that the synagogue be opened for Him.  He spoke of signs and miracles, which are of no avail when in spite of them people forget their own sinfulness and want of love for God.  Preaching was for them more necessary than miracles.  The Apostles asked Jesus to express Himself more clearly, for they did not understand Him.  What, Jesus demanded, had He gained by signs and miracles, by the feeding of the five thousand, by the raising of Lazarus, since even they themselves were hankering after more.  Peter and John were of one mind with their Master, but the others were dissatisfied.  Jesus explained that it was because the Apostles and disciples should confirm His doctrine by miracles that He did not perform any now.  They would perform even more that He Himself had done. (Matt 10:1)

     All the Apostles were in Jerusalem but they went to the Temple separately and by different directions.  Jesus taught in the circular hall in which He had spoken in His twelfth year.  In this instruction Jesus alluded to the Cenacle without naming it, of their assembly in it, and of the partaking of a strengthening and life-giving Food in which He Himself would remain with them forever.  Mention was made of His secret disciples.  He excused them saying that their caution was necessary, for they had a different vocation.

     When the Apostles and disciples alone were standing around Jesus He touched on many things that would take place after His return to His Father.  To Peter He said he would have much to suffer, but he should not fear, he should stand firm at the head of the Community (the Church) which would increase wonderfully.  For three years he, together with John and James Alpheus, should remain with the faithful in Jerusalem.  He spoke of the youth who would be the first to shed his blood for Him, and of the conversion of His persecutor, but without mentioning the names of Stephen and Paul.  He predicted the persecutions that would arise against Lazarus and the holy women.  He told Thomas and Matthew to go to Ephesus in order to prepare the country where at a future date Jesus' Mother and many of those who believed in Him would live.  They wondered greatly at Mary's going there to live.  Jesus told them they would all meet twice in Jerusalem before going to distant lands to preach the Gospel to pagans.

     This instruction caused great anxiety among the Scribes and Pharisees.  They held a meeting in Caiaphas' house and issued a prohibition against anyone harboring Jesus and His disciples.  They set spies to watch for Him.  Jesus, Peter, John, James Zebedee, Lazarus and the Blessed Virgin with six of the holy women remained hidden at Lazarus'.  They were in the subterranean apartments in which Lazarus lay concealed during the persecution against him.  They were comfortabley fitted with carpets and seats. (John 12:9-11)

     Meanwhile Jesus sent out a band of the oldest disciples to go to Jerusalem, some to the house of Mary Marcus, others to Veronica, to Nicodemus, to the sons of Simeon and to friends like them to notify them of His approaching entrance into Jerusalem.

     After that He Himself with all the Apostles and the rest of the disciples set out for Bethphage.  The holy women led by Mary followed.  When the party reached a certain house on the road they paused for a considerable time.  Jesus sent two of the disciples to Bethphage with covers and mantles to prepare the ass which they had been directed to say the Lord had need.  Meanwhile Jesus instructed the immense crowd. (Matt 21:1-6 & Luke 19:29-36 & John 12:13-15)

     Jesus arranged His procession.  The Apostles He ordered to proceed, two and two, before Him, saying that from this moment and after His death they should everywhere head the Community (the Church).  Peter went first, followed by those that were to bear the Gospel to the most distant regions, while John and James Alpheus immediately preceded Jesus.  All carried palm branches.  As soon as the two disciples that were waiting near Bethphage spied the procession coming, they hurried forward to meet it taking with them the two animals.  The she-ass was covered with trappings that hung to its feet, the head and tail alone being visible. (Mark 11:1-7)

     Jesus put on a beautiful festal robe of fine white wool which was brought for that purpose.  It was long and flowing with a train.  The broad girdle that confined it at the waist bore a lettered inscription.  He put around His neck a wide stole that reached to the knees, the two ends of which had brown embroidery.  The two disciples helped Jesus mount on the cross-seat on the ass.  The animal had no bridle, but around its neck was a narrow strip that hung down loose.  The riderless animal ran by the other's side.  Eliud and Silas walked on either side of the Lord, Ermenzear walked behind Him, and the other disciples followed.  The holy women, two and two, brought up the rear; the Blessed Virgin, who up to this time had stayed in the background now went at their head.  As the procession moved forward all began to sing and the people of Bethphage followed like a swarm. (Mark 11:1-10)

     In Jerusalem vendors and the people that the disciples had notified that the Lord was coming, began joyfully to adorn the road.  They planted trees, binding the tops of them together to form arches, and hung them with yellow fruit like apples.  The people spread their garments in His path and broke branches off the trees to wave and strewed them in His way.  Children rushed out from schools and ran rejoicing with the crowd.  Veronica, who had two children with her, threw her own veil in the way and snatching another from one of the children, spread that down also.  She then joined the other holy women.  Jesus wept, many of the Apostles wept too, when He told them that many who were now shouting praises would soon deride Him, and that a certain one would betray Him.  He looked upon the city and wept over its coming destruction.  The nearer to the Temple the more magnificent was the ornamentation of the road.  Crowds came pouring out of the city to meet Jesus, the Apostles and disciples who were approaching with songs and canticles.  To walk from the city gate to the Temple usually took about half an hour, but the procession this Palm Sunday took three hours. (Matt 21:7-11 & Luke 19:37-44)

     On the following morning when Jesus was going from Bethania to Jerusalem with some of the disciples, they found the fig tree that Jesus had cursed entirely withered. (Mark 11:12-14)  John and Peter halted by the roadside near the tree.  When Peter showed his astonishment Jesus said to them, "If you believe, you shall do still more wonderful things.  Yes, at your word mountains will cast themselves into the sea.  Whatever you ask when you pray believe that you shall receive it and it shall be given to you.  Whenever you pray forgive anything anyone has against you so that your Heavenly Father may forgive you." (Matt 21:19-22 & Mark 11:20-26)

     After the meal Jesus spoke of the approach of the time when the Son of Man would be teacherously betrayed.  Peter stepped forward and asked why He always spoke as if one of them were going to betray Him.  He could believe that one of the disciples might betray Him, but he would answer for the Twelve that they would not betray Him!  Peter spoke boldly as if his honor had been attacked.  Jesus replied with great warmth, even greater warmth than when He said to Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan!"  He said that without His grace, without prayer, they would all fall away, that the hour would come in which they would all abandon Him.  There was only one who wavered not, and yet he too would flee, though he would come back again.  Jesus meant John who at the moment of Jesus' arrest fled leaving his mantle behind.  All became very much troubled excepting Judas, who, while Jesus was talking put on a friendly insinuating air.

     When they asked Jesus about the Kingdom that was to come, His answer was inexpressibly kind.  He told them that another Spirit would come and only then would they understand all things. (John 16:7-11)  Then He spoke of troublesome times to come when all would have to suffer.  He recalled to them the many times they had misunderstood Him and His own forbearance with them; in like manner should they treat sinners after His departure.  When Peter reminded Him that He Himself had sometimes been full of fire and zeal, Jesus explained the difference between true and false zeal. (John 2:13-17)

     Jesus spoke of the mingling of water and milk, naming it an intimate commingling that no one can separate.  This figure signified Jesus' own union with His followers, and He dwelt upon the mild and nutritive properties of milk.  Jesus spoke of His own union with them, which would be accomplished at the Last Supper and which could not be dissolved by anything.  He spoke to them about baptism and the other sacraments.  They should, after His death, baptise at the Pool of Bethsaida all that would come and ask for it.

     Peter, who had been appointed by Jesus chief over the others, asked whether they were always to act in this manner without first proving and instructing people.  Jesus answered that the people would be wearied out with waiting for feast days and pining meantime in aridity; therefore the Apostles should not delay to do as He had just told them.  When they received the Holy Spirit, they would always know what they should do.  He addressed some words to Peter about penance and absolution, and afterward spoke to all of them about the end of the world and the signs that would precede it.  A man enlightened by God would have visions about it.  By these words He meant John's revelations.  He said that the fountain of living water which flowed from Calvary's mount would at the end of the world appear to be entirely poisoned, though all good waters would finally be gathered into the Valley of Josaphat.  All water was to become once more baptismal water.

     Jesus spoke of so many things that He would still do that Peter, conceiving new hope that He would remain longer on earth, said to Him that if He were to fulfill all of those things, He would have to abide with them until the end of the world.  Jesus then spoke of the essence and effects of the Last Supper.  He said He was about to celebrate His last Pasch.  Peter asked where He intended to do so.  Jesus answered that He would tell him in good time, and after that He would go to His Father.  Peter asked whether He would take with Him His Mother whom they all loved and reverenced so much.  Jesus answered that she would stay with them some years longer.

     The Apostles did not understand Jesus' words.  They were under the impression that He would die, or perhaps vanish from their sight.  As late as the preceding day, when He was speaking of the persecution against Him, Peter said that He might again withdraw from these parts and they would accompany Him.  He had gone away once before during the persecution after the raising of Lazarus, and He could now go again.

     Toward evening Jesus left the Temple, saying that He would never enter it again in the body.  This scene was so touching the Apostles and disciples cast themselves on the ground crying aloud and weeping.  Jesus wept also.  Judas shed no tear, though he was anxious and nervous as he had been during the last days.

     Before the break of day Jesus spoke to Peter and John at some length about what they should order, what preparations they should make in Jerusalem for the eating of the Pascal lamb.  They had questioned Jesus the day before upon where this supper was to be held.  Jesus told the two Apostles that they would, when ascending Mount Sion, meet a man carrying a water pitcher, one whom they already knew as he was the same that had attended to the Paschal meal for Jesus the year before at Bethania.  They were to follow him into the house and say to him, "The Master bids us say to you that His time is near at hand.  He desires to eat the Pasch at your house."  They should then ask to see the supper room, which they would find prepared and there they should make ready all that was needed.

     The two Apostles, reaching a point of Sion higher than the Temple Mount, turned toward the south and met the man described by Jesus.  They followed him and when near the house delivered Jesus' message.  He was Heli, the brother-in-law of Zachary of Hebron.  He showed great pleasure at seeing them and learning of their errand.  He had already been ordered to prepare a supper, but had not known for whom.  Heli went with his servants every year to the feast, hired a supper room, and prepared the Paschal meal for people who had no friends in the city. (Mark 14:12-16 & Luke 22:1-13)

     On this occasion Heli had hired the dining hall of a spacious old house belonging to Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea.  It stood in an open court surrounded by courtyards with massive walls, and between rows of shade trees.

     When Peter and John left Heli, they turned off to the right, went down the north side of the mount through Sion, crossed a brook, proceeded by a path between hedges to the other side of the ravine that lay before the Temple, and to a row of houses south of it.  Here was the house of old Simeon, now occupied by his sons who were disciples in secret.  The two Apostles spoke with Obed, the eldest, who served in the Temple.  Then Peter and John went with another son to the cattle market were the Paschal lambs were for sale.  Simeon's son picked out four which he took to the Coenaculum and that afternoon took part in preparing the lambs for the Last Supper.

     Peter and John continued their preparations, giving orders for many things.  They went to the inn where many of the disciples were staying.  They went to Veronica's house.  She was married to Sirach, who was a member of the Council.  From Veronica the two Apostles received all kinds of table service, which they carried to the Coenaculum in covered baskets.  They also received from Veronica the chalice which Jesus used in the institution of the Blessed Sacrament.

     When Peter and John reached the Coenaculum with the chalice, the mantles of ceremony were already lying in the anteroom where they had been brought by some disciples.  They draped the walls of the supper room, opened the apertures in the roof and prepared three hanging lamps.  Then Peter and John went out to the Valley of Josaphat and summoned the Lord and the other Apostles.

     Jesus and His followers ate the Paschal lamb in three separate groups of twelve, each presided over by one who acted as host.  Jesus and the twelve Apostles ate in the hall itself; Nathanael with twelve of the oldest disciples in one of the side rooms; and in another side room with twelve more disciples sat Eliachim, the son of Cleophas and Mary Heli.  Eliachim had been a disciple of John the Baptist.  The holy women took their meal in one of the side buildings near the Coenaculum.

     Jesus gave an instruction upon the Paschal lamb and the fulfillment of what it symbolized.  As time was drawing near and Judas had returned, they began to prepare the tables.  They put on the traveling garments of ceremony and changed their footwear.  The tunic was tucked up into a girdle and the side sleeves were turned up.  Each took a staff in hand and walked in pairs to the table at which each stood in his place, his arms raised and the staff resting upon one.  Jesus stood by the center of the table.  All started chanting, "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel," "Praised be the Lord," etc.  The table was in the shape of a horseshoe, and opposite Jesus in the inner part of the half circle was a space left free for the serving of the dishes.  John sat at Jesus' right, Peter on His left.

     In the center of the table lay the Paschal lamb on a dish, its head resting on the crossed forefeet.  All around the edge of the dish were bunches of garlic.  Other dishes contained bitter herbs, garlic and other green herbs.  Small round loaves served as plates; bone knives were used.

     While the Apostles were eating the herbs, Jesus continued to converse with them lovingly.  He said, "One among you will betray Me, one whose hand is with Me in the dish.  At these words the Apostles became very much troubled.  They asked, "Lord, is it I?" for all knew that they did not understand Him perfectly.  Peter was anxious lest it might be him, for he had so often received reproofs from Jesus.  He leaned behind Jesus and motioned to John to ask the Lord who it was.  John was reclining at Jesus'right and as all were leaning on the left arm in order to eat with their right, John lay with his head close to Jesus' breast.  At the sign from Peter, John approached his head to Jesus' breast and asked, "Lord, who is it?"  Jesus said, "He to whom I shall give the morsel dipped."  Jesus dipped into the sauce the bread folded in lettuce and offered it to Judas who was also asking, "Lord, is it I?"  Jesus looked at him lovingly and answered in general terms.  To give bread dipped was a sign of love and confidence.  Jesus did it with heartfelt love to warn Judas and ward off the suspicions of the others.  But Judas was inflamed with rage.  John understood the traitor was Judas when Jesus handed the bread to him and John set Peter's mind at ease by a glance. (Matt 26:20-25 & Mark 14:17-21 & John 13:21-26)

     The Apostles rose from the table and while putting on and arranging their robes as was the custom before solemn prayer, the master of the feast with two servants took away the table and put back the seats.  Jesus ordered some water to be brought to Him in the anteroom.  Jesus, standing in the midst of the Apostles spoke to them long and solemnly.  He spoke of His Kingdom and His going to His Father.  He gave them instructions upon penance, the knowledge and confession of sin, contrition, and justification.

     While the preparations for the washing of feet were made the Apostles got into a dispute as to who among them should have first place in His Kingdom, for He had expressly announced that He was about to leave them and that His Kingdom was near.  They were strengthened anew that He had a secret force in reserve and that He would achieve some earthly triumph at the very last moment.

     Jesus in the anteroom commanded John to take a basin, and James Alpheus a leather bottle of water.  James carried the bottle before his breast, the spout resting on his arm.  As they entered the hall Jesus reproved the Apostles for the strife that had arisen among them.  He said that He Himself was their servant, and that they should take their places on the seats for Him to wash their feet.  They obeyed, taking the same order as at table.  Jesus went from one to another, and from the basin held under them by John, with His hand scooped up water over the feet presented to Him.  Then taking in both hands the long end of the towel around His waist, He dried their feet, and then moved on with James to the next.  John emptied the water after each one into the large basin in the center of the room and then returned to the Lord with the empty one.

     At this humble washing of His Apostles' feet Jesus was full of love.  He did not perform it as if it were a mere ceremony, but as a sacred act of love springing from His heart.  By it He wanted to give expression to the love that burned within.

     When He came to Peter, Peter through humility objected.  He said, "Lord, do You wash my feet?" and the Lord answered, "What I do, you do not know now, but you shall know hereafter.  Then Jesus said privately to Peter, "Simon, you have deserved that My Father should reveal to you who I am, where I came from, and where I go.  You alone have known and confessed it, therefore I will build My Church upon you, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.  My power will continue with your successors until the end of the world."  Then Jesus pointed to Peter while saying to the others, "Peter shall be My representative with you when I shall be gone from among you.  He will direct you and make known to you your mission."  Then Peter said, "Never shall you wash my feet!" and the Lord replies, "If I do not wash you, you will have no part with Me!"  Thereupon Peter exclaimed, "Lord, wash me! not only my feet, but also my hands and my head!" to which Jesus replied, "He that is washed needs only to wash his feet, but is clean wholly.  And you are clean, but not all."  At these last words Jesus was thinking of Judas. (John 13:3-11)

     Jesus had spoken of the washing of feet as of a purification from daily faults, bacause the feet coming in continual contact with the earth in walking are constantly liable to become soiled.  This was a spiritual foot-washing, a kind of absolution.  However Peter in his zeal, looked upon it as too great a humiliation for His Master.  He knew not that to save him, Jesus would the very next day humble Himself way down to the very shameful death of the cross.  Jesus delivered an instruction upon humiliation.  He told them that he who was the greatest among them should be the servant, and that in the future they should in humility wash each other's feet.

     At the command of the Lord the master of the feast again set up the table which he raised a little higher.  He then set two jugs under the table, one holding water, the other wine.  Peter and John brought from the back part of the hall the chalice they had brought from Veronica.  They carried it between them in its case, holding it on their hands.  It looked like they were carrying a tabernacle.  They placed it on the table before Jesus.  The plate with the ribbed Paschal loaves, thin and whitish, stood near under a cover and the other half of the loaf that had been cut at the Pascal Supper was also on the table.  There was a wine and a water vessel, also three boxes, one with thick oil, another with liquid oil and a third empty.  A flat knife lay near.

     The breaking and distributing of bread and drinking out of the same cup were customary at feasts of welcome and farewell.  They were used as signs of brotherly love and friendship.  Jesus elevated this custom to the dignity of the Most Holy Sacrament.

     Jesus' place was between Peter and John.  The doors were closed for everything was conducted with secrecy and solemnity.  When the cover of the chalice had been removed and taken back to the recess in the rear of the Coenaculum, Jesus prayed.  He explained the Last Supper rite and the ceremonies that were to accompany it, like a priest teaching others the Holy Mass.

     Then Jesus drew the chalice closer to Him, took from it the little cup that it contained and set to the right and left the six smaller cups that stood around it.  He next blessed the Passover loaves.  Elevating the plate of bread with both hands He raised His eyes toward Heaven, prayed, offered, set it down on the table and again covered it.  Then taking the chalice He received into it wine poured by Peter and water poured by John.  The water He blessed before it was poured into the chalice.  He then added a little more water from the small spoon, blessed the chalice, raised it on high, praying and offered, and set it down again.  After that Jesus held His hands over the plate upon which the loaves had lain, while at His bidding Peter and John poured water on them.  Then with the spoon that He had taken from the foot of the chalice, He scooped up some of the water that had flowed over His own hands, and poured it upon theirs.  Lastly that same plate was passed around and all the Apostles washed their hands in it.

     During this time Jesus was becoming more and more recollected.  He told the Apostles He was about to give them all that He possessed, even His very self.  He seemed to be pouring out His whole Being in love, and He became perfectly transparent, like a luminous apparition.

     In profound rcollection and prayer, Jesus broke the bread into several morsels and laid them one over another on the plate.  With the tip of His finger, He broke off a scrap from the first morsel and let it fall into the chalice and at the same time the Blessed Virgin received the Blessed Sacrament although she was not present in the Coenaculum.

     Again Jesus prayed and taught.  His words, glowing with fire and light, came forth from His mouth and entered all the Apostles except Judas.  Jesus took the plate with the morsels of bread and said, "Take and eat.  This is My Body which is given for you." (Matt 26:26 & Mark 14:22 & Luke 22:19)  While saying these words He stretched forth His right hand as if giving it a blessing and as He did so a brilliant light emanated from Him.  His words were luminous as also the Bread, which as a body of light entered the mouths of the Apostles.  It was as if Jesus Himself flowed into them.  All of them were penetrated with light, bathed in light.  Judas alone was in darkness.  Jesus presented the Bread first to Peter, then to John, and next made a sign to Judas.  Thus Judas was the third to whom Jesus presented the Blessed Sacrament, but the word of the Lord turned back from Judas' mouth.  Jesus said to Judas, "What you are about to do, do quickly."  The Lord then administered the Blessed Sacrament to the rest of the Apostles, who came up two and two, each one holding for his neighbor a little stiff cover with an ornamental edge that had laid over the chalice.

     Jesus next raised the chalice by its two handles to a level with His face, and promounced into it the words of consecration. (Matt 26:27-28 & Mark 14:23-24 & Luke 22:20)  While doing so He was wholly transfigured and transparent.  He was as if passing over into what He was giving.  He caused Peter and John to drink from the chalice while it was yet in His hands, then set it down.  With the little spoon John removed some of the Sacred Blood from the chalice to the little cups, which Peter handed to the other Apostles, who two by two drank from the same cup.  Judas did not return to his place.  He left without prayer or thanksgiving.

     The remains of the Sacred Blood in the chalice the Lord poured into the small cup that fitted into it, then holding His fingers over the chalice, He bade Peter and John to pour water and wine over them.  This ablution He gave to the two to drink from the chalice, pouring what remained into the smaller cups and passed them down among the other Apostles.  Jesus wiped out the chalice, put into it the little cup that contained what was left of the Sacred Blood, laid upon it the plate with the remains of the consecrated Paschal Bread, replaced the cover, wrapped the whole in a linen cloth, and deposited it in its case among the smaller cups.  After the resurrection the Apostles partook of Communion from this Bread and Wine consecrated by Jesus.

     Jesus instructed the Apostles on how they were to preserve the Blessed Sacrament in memory of Him until the end of the world.  He taught them the necessary forms for making use of and communicating It, and in what manner they were by degrees to teach and publish the Mystery.  He told them when they were to receive the remains of the consecrated Species, when to give some to the Blessed Virgin, and how to consecrate It themselves after He should have sent them the Holy Spirit.

     He instructed them upon the priesthood, the sacred unction, and the preparation of the Chrism and the Holy Oils.  Three boxes, two with a mixture of balsam and oil, also some cotton stood near the chalice case.  They were so formed that they could be placed one upon the other.

     After that Jesus anointed Peter and John, on whose hands at the institution of the Blessed Sacrament He had poured the water that flowed over His own and who drank from the chalice in His hand.  Jesus imposed hands upon Peter and John, first on their shoulders and then on their heads.  During this action they joined their hands and crossed their thumbs.  As they knelt, the Lord anointed the thumb and forefinger of each of their hands with Chrism, and made the sign of the Cross with it on their head.  He told them this anointing would remain with them to the end of the world.  James Alpheus, Andrew, James Zebedee and Bartholomew were likewise consecrated.  The Lord twisted crosswise over Peter's breast the narrow scarf that he wore around his neck, but the others He drew it across the breast, over the right shoulder and under the left arm.

     Jesus at this anointing of these Apostles communicated to them something supernatural.  He told them that after they had received the Holy Spirit they were to consecrate bread and wine for the first time, and to anoint the other Apostles.  On the day of Pentecost and before the great baptism, Peter and John imposed hands on the other Apostles and eight days later on several of the disciples.

     The Lord blessed fire in a brass vessel.  It burned continually even during the long absence of the Apostles.  It was kept near the spot in which the Blessed Sacrament was deposited.  Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus took care of the Sanctuary and the Cenacle in the Apostles' absence.

     After the holy ceremonies were concluded, Jesus again delivered a long instruction and prayed several times with deep recollection.  He appeared to be conversing with His Heavenly Father and to be overflowing with love and enthusiasm.  The Apostles also were full of joy and zeal.  Jesus also spoke privately to Peter and John in reference to some of His earlier instructions.  They were to communicate them to the other Apostles according to the capacity of each for such knowledge.

     Jesus alluded several times to His traitor.  When Peter vehemently protested that he would certainly remain faithful to Him, Jesus said, "Simon, Simon!  Behold Satan has desired to have you that he may sift you as wheat.  But I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and you, being once converted, confirm your brethern."  When Jesus said that where He was going they could not follow, Peter again exclaimed that he would follow Him, even unto death.  Jesus replied, "Amen, amen, I say to you.  Before the cock crows twice you will deny Me three times!" (Luke 22:31-34 & John 13:36-38)

     When revealing to the Apostles the trying times they would encounter Jesus asked, "When I sent you without purse or money or shoes, did you want anthing?"  They answered, "No!"  Then He replied, "But now he that has a purse, let him take it, and likewise money; and he that does not have any, let him sell his coat and buy a sword.  For I tell you, that this that is written must be fulfilled in Me; "And with the wicked was He reckoned.  For the things concerning Me have an end."

     The Apostles understood these words in a carnal sense, and Peter showed Him two swords, short and broad like cleavers.

     Jesus said, "It is enough.  Let us go hence!" (Luke 22:35-38)  Then they recited the hymn of thanksgiving and put aside the table.

     As they made their way to the Mount of Olives, the Apostles were still full of the enthusiasm and devotion inspired by the reception of the Most Holy Sacrament.  They crowded eagerly around Jesus and expressed their love in different ways, protesting that they would never abandon Him.  Peter exclaimed, "Although all should be scandalized in You, I will never be scandalized in You."  The Lord replied, "Amen, I say to you that in this night before the cock crows, you will deny Me three times."  Peter insisted "Yea, though I should die with You I will not deny You!" (Matt 26:30-35 & Mark 14:26-31)

     Jesus sadness continued to increase.  It was about nine o'clock when Jesus reached Gethsemani with the disciples.  Darkness had fallen upon the earth but the moon was lighting up the sky.  Jesus told eight of the Apostles to stay in the Garden of Gethsemani where there was a kind of summer house built of branches and foliage.  Then He took Peter, John and James Zebedee with Him, crossed the road and went up to the Garden of Olives.  Jesus said, "My soul is sorrowful even unto death."  It was at that point that He said to the three Apostles, "Remain here and watch with Me.  Pray lest you enter into temptation." (Matt 26:36-38 & Mark 14:32-35)

     Jesus concealed Himself in a grotto and His agony began.  About half past ten He staggered to His feet and, bathed in sweat and often falling, tottered rather than walked to where the three Apostles were.  Exhausted with fatigue, sorrow and anxiety under temptation, they had fallen asleep.  Jesus went to them like a man overwhelmed with sorrow, whom terror drives to the company of his friends, and also like a shepherd who, though himself trembling to the utmost, looks after his flock which he knows to be in danger, for He knew that they too were in anguish and temptation.  He sank down beside them from grief and exhaustion.

     He said, "Simon, sleepest thou?"  At these words they awoke and raised Him up.  He said, "What!  Could you not watch one hour with Me?"  They found Him terrified, disfigured, pale, trembling and saturated with sweat.  Had He not appeared surrounded by the light so well known to them, they would not have recognized Him.  John said to Him, "Master!  What has befallen You?  Shall I call the other disciples?  Shall we take to flight?"  Jesus answered, "Were I to live, teach, and work miracles for thirty-three years longer it would not suffice for the accomplishment of what I have to fulfill before this time tomorrow.  Do not call the eight!  I have left them where they are because they could not see Me in this suffering state without being scandalized at Me.  They would fall into temptation, forget the many things that I have said to them, and lose confidence in Me.  But you who have seen the Son of Man transfigured, may also see Him in this hour of darkness and complete dereliction of soul, nevertheless watch and pray, lest you fall into temptation, for the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak."  These words referred both to Himself and to the Apostles.  Jesus wished by them to exhort His followers to perseverance, and to make known to them the struggle of His human nature against His overpowering sorrow.  Jesus returned to the grotto, His anguish on the increase.

     In His great distress, Jesus cried out in loud anguish.  The three Apostles sprang up in fright.  They listened to Jesus and were on the point of hastening to Him, but Peter stopped John and James saying, "Stay here!  I will go to Him"  He hurried forward and entered the grotto, crying, "Master!  What has happened to You?"  But he paused in terror at the sight of Jesus bathed in blood and trembling with fear.  Jesus made no answer and appeared not to notice Peter.  Peter returned to the other two and reported that Jesus had answered only by sighs and groans.  They covered their heads and sat weeping and praying.

     Jesus turned as if fleeing from the grotto and went back again to the disciples.  They were not lying on their sides as they had on the first occasion.  They had sunk back on their knees with their heads covered as people of that culture did when in sorrow or prayer.  Worn out with grief, anxiety and fatigue, they had fallen asleep.  When Jesus approached trembling and groaning they awoke.  They did not at first recognize Him.  His breast was sunken, His form bent, His face pale and blood-stained, His hair in disorder and His arms stretched out to them.  He begged them to console His Mother and Magdaline.  He stood speaking for some moments, but the Apostles kept quiet, not knowing what to say.  When Jesus wanted to go back to the grotto He did not have the power to do so.  John and James led Him.  When He entered the Apostles left Him and went back to their place.

     As Jesus lay prostrate on His face in the grotto, an angel came and ministered to Him.  He remained in the grotto a few minutes longer, absorbed in prayer and thanksgiving.  He had been supernaturally strengthened to such a degree that He was able to walk with a firm step to the Apostles.  Though pale and exhausted His bearing was erect and resolute.  He had wiped His face with a linen cloth, and with it smoothed down His hair.

     When Jesus reached the Apostles, He found them lying on their side asleep.  The Lord said to them, "This is not the time to sleep.  You should arise and pray, for the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man shall be betrayed into the hands of sinners.  Arise, let us go!  Behold, the traitor is approaching!  Oh, it were better for him had he never been born!"  The Apostles sprang up.  Peter exclaimed vehemently, "Master, I will call the others, that we may defend You!"  But Jesus pointed out to them that at some distance in the valley a band of armed men were approaching with torches.  Jesus spoke, "Let us go to meet them! I shall deliver Myself without resistance into the hands of My enemies." (Matt 26:36-46 & Mark 14:32-42 & Luke 22:39-46)

     When Jesus with the three Apostles went out upon the road between Gethsemani and the Garden of Olives, Judas and a band of soldiers approached.  Jesus took some steps toward the band and said in a loud distinct voice, "Whom do you seek?"  The soldiers were awaiting the traitors sign, the kiss.  Peter and the other Apostles gathered around Judas calling him a thief and a traitor.  Not wanting the Apostles to know he had betrayed Jesus, he tried to free himself with lies and excuses, but some soldiers came up with offers of protection, thus openly witnessing against him.

     Jesus said, "Judas, do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?"  The soldiers immediately formed a ring around Jesus.  Judas wanted to flee at once, but the Apostles would not allow it.  They rushed upon the soldiers, crying out, "Lord, shall we strike with the sword?"  Peter, more impetuous than the rest, seized his sword and struck at Malchus, the servant of the High Priest, and cut off a piece of his ear.  Malchus fell to the ground thereby increasing the confusion.  Jesus said, "Peter, put up your sword, for whoever takes the sword will perish by the sword.  Do you not think that I cannot ask My Father to send Me more than twelve legions of angels?  Shall I not drink the chalice that My Father has given Me?  How will the scriptures be fulfilled if it shall not be done this way?"  Then He added, "Let Me heal the man!" and going to Malchus, He touched his ear and prayed, and at that moment it was healed.  The guard surrounded Jesus, mocking Him, and said to the crowd, "He has dealings with the devil.  It was by witchcraft that the ear appeared to be cut off, and now by witchcraft it appears to be healed." Matt 26:47-54 & Mark 14:43-48 & Luke 22:47-51 & John 18:10-11)

     After Jesus' arrest Peter and John followed the procession at a distance. (Matt 26-58 & Mark 14:51-52)  When it entered the city, they ran hurriedly to some good acquaintances whom John knew among the servants of the High Priest.  They wanted to find some way of entering the judgement hall to which their Master would soon be brought.  These acquanintances of John were messengers attached to the court.  They had orders to scour the whole town to awaken many members of the Council to call them to a meeting.  They supplied Peter and John with mantles such as they themselves wore, and let them assist in calling members to the Council, and then enter the hall themselves under cover of the mantles.  All were to be excluded from the judgement hall of Caiaphas except the bribed rabble, the soldiers and the false witnesses.  Nicodemus, Joseph of Arimathea, Sirach and some other individuals well disposed toward Jesus belonged to the Council, but their names were deliberately omitted from the list of the invited.  The Apostles were able to deliver the message to their Master's friends.

     Shortly before the procession with Jesus arrived before the High Priest Caiaphas, Peter and John entered the outer court of the house, still enveloped in the messenger mantles.  Through the influence of one of the servants known to him, John was fortunate enough to make his way through the gate to the inner court which was at once closed behind him.  Peter had been kept back a little by the crowd and when he reached the closed gate the maidservant in charge would not let him pass.  John interposed but Peter would not have gotten in had not Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, who came just then, said a good word for him. (John 18:15-16)  Once inside they laid aside the mantles, giving them back to the servants.  When Jesus passed Peter and John, He glanced at them lovingly, though without turning His head for fear of betraying them.

     When Jesus solemnly uttered the words, "I am He," Caiaphas rent his garments cying out, "He is guilty of death!"  John and Peter had suffered much from having to listen silently and passively to the abuse to which Jesus was subjected.

     John in his deep affection thought only of the Blessed Virgin.  He feared that she would suddenly hear the dreadful news from an enemy.  Casting a glance at Jesus which said, "Master, You know well why I am going."  He hurried from the judgement hall to seek the Blessed Virgin as if sent to her by Jesus Himself.

     But Peter could not go, he loved Jesus too much.  He could scarcely contain himself.  He wept but tried to hide his tears.  Filled with anxiety and exhaustion, he felt the chilliness of the night and timidly approached the fire in the atrium.  He tried to conceal his deep trouble as best he could, but around the fire were all kinds of low-lived wretches warming themselves.  He didn't know what he was doing, but he could not leave his Master.  The portress approached the fire as all were jesting at Jesus and His disciples.  She, like a bold woman, fixed her eyes on Peter and said, "You too are one of the Galilean's disciples!"  Peter, startled, alarmed, and fearing rough treatment from the rude crowd answered, "Woman, I do not know Him."  With these words, wishing to free himself from any more remarks, he arose and left the atrium.  At that moment  somewhere outside the city a cock crowed.

     As Peter was making his way out, another maidservant caught sight of him and said to the bystanders, "This man also was with Jesus of Nazareth."  They at once questioned him, "Are you also one of His disciples?"  Peter, greatly troubled and perplexed answered with an oath, "Truly, I am not.  I don't even know the Man!" and hurried through the inner to the outer court, to warn some of his acquaintances whom he saw looking over the wall.  He was weeping and so full of grief and anxiety for Jesus that he hardly gave his denial a thought.

     Peter, being allowed to go out, found some of the disciples who were anxious about their Master.  They questioned Peter about  Jesus, but he was so excited and so fearful of betraying himself that he advised them in a few words to go away, as there was danger for them where they were.

     Peter could not rest anywhere.  His love for Jesus drove him back into the inner court.  They let him in again because of Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea.  He did not enter the judgement hall but entered the circular hall back of the tribunal.  In that hall Jesus was dragged about and abused by the vile rabble.  Just as they dragged Jesus crowned with straw around the circle, Jesus cast a glance of earnest warning upon Peter, a glance that pierced him to the soul.  But when still struggling with fear he heard someone say, "What fellow is that?" he went back to the courtyard.  Seeing that he was attracting notice he went back to the fire in the atrium.  Someone said, "Truly, you also are one of His adherents!  You are a Galilean.  Your speech betrays you."  Peter began to evade the remark and to leave when a brother of Malchus stepped up to him and said, "What! did'nt I see you with Him in the Garden of Olives?  Didn't you wound my brother's ear?"

     Peter became like one beside himself with terror.  He tried to free himself.  He bagan in his impetuous way to curse and swear that he did not know the Man, and ended by running out of the atrium into the court.  The cock again crowed.  Just at that moment Jesus was being led from the circular hall and across the court down into the prison under it.  He turned toward Peter and cast upon him a glance of mingled pity and sadness.  Forcibly and with terrifying power, the word of Jesus fell upon his heart, "Before the cock crows twice, you will deny Me three times!"

     Worn out with grief and anxiety, Peter had entirely forgotten his presumptuous protestation on the Mount of Olives, to rather die with his Master than to deny Him.  He had paid no heed to the warning Jesus had then given him.  The enormity of his fault rose up before him and well nigh broke his heart.  He had sinned.  He had sinned against his ill-treated, unjustly condemned Savior who was silently enduring the most horrible outrages, who had so truly warned him to be on his guard.  Filled with remorse and sorrow he covered his head with his mantle and hurried into the outer court weeping bitterly.  He no longer feared being accosted.  To everyone he met he would willingly have proclaimed who he was and how great was the crime he had committed.  The Lord had left Peter to his own strength, so he became weak, just as they always do how lose sight of the words, "Pray and watch, that you do not enter into temptation." (Matt 26:69-75 & Mark 14:66-72 & John 18:25-27)

     The Blessed Virgin with sorrowful heart wanted to be as close to Jesus as she could get.  John, escorting her, Mary Magdalen and some other holy women, reached the outer court of Caiaphas.  They withdrew into a corner under the gateway leading into the inner court waiting.  At last the door opened and Peter, weeping bitterly, his head covered and his hands outstretched, rushed out.  The glare of the torches added to the light of the moon enabled him to recognize John and the Blessed Virgin.  It seemed to him that conscience, which the glance of the Son had aroused and terrified, stood before him in the person of the Mother.  The soul of Peter quivered when Mary asked him, "Oh Simon, what about my Son?  What about Jesus?"  Unable to speak or to endure the look of Mary's eyes, Peter turned away wringing his hands.  But Mary persisted, "Oh Simon, son of Cephas, you do not answer me?"  In deepest woe Peter exclaimed, "Oh Mother, do not speak to me! Your Son is suffering cruelly.  Do not speak to me!  They have condemned Him to death, and I have shamefully denied Him three times!"  When John drew near to speak to him, Peter, like one crazed by grief, hurried out of the court and fled from the city.  He did not pause until he had reached that cave on the Mount of Olives where Jesus had often prayed.  There he prayed long and wept many bitter tears. (Luke 22:61-62)

     The individuals, who on the previous night had given entrance to Peter and John, were converted after the crucifixion.  They fled to the caves in which the disciples were concealed.

     After Jesus' burial Peter, James Zebedee and James Alpheus met Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus in the city.  All wept.  Peter was especially impassioned in his expressions of grief.  He embraced Joseph and Nicodemus with tears, accused himself, lamented that he had not been present at the death of the Lord, and thanked them for providing a tomb for Jesus.  All were quite beside themselves with sorrow.  They agreed that the door of the Cenacle should be opened upon their knocking.  They then separated in order to seek other disciples who were scattered in various directions.

     Later the Blessed Virgin and her companions knocked at the Cenacle and were admitted.  By degrees most of the Apostles and some of the disciples entered.  The men changed their garments and then stood under the lamp celebrating the Sabbath.  They ate lambs at different tables around the Cenacle, but it was not the Paschal lamb.  They had eaten that the day before.  At the close of the Sabbath John, Peter and James Zebedee visited the holy women to mourn with them and to console them.

     Mary Magdalen had found the tomb empty.  She ran to the Cenacle like one beside herself and knocked violently on the door.  Some of the disciples were still asleep, while several others were up and were talking together.  Peter and John opened the door.  Magdalen, without entering, uttered the words, "They have taken the Lord from the tomb!  We don't know where," and ran back to the garden of the sepulchre.  Peter and John followed her, John outstripping Peter.

     John reached the tomb before Peter.  He stood outside the entrance of the cave and stooped to look through the outer doors of the sepulchre at the half-opened doors of the tomb, in the center of which he saw the winding sheet lying.  It was rolled together from both sides toward the middle, and the spices were wrapped in it.  The bandages were folded around it.  The linen that covered the sacred face was lying to the right next to the wall.  It too was folded.  John now followed Peter into the tomb, saw the same things and believed in the resurrection.  All that the Lord had said, all that was written in scriptures was now clear to them.  Peter took the linens with him under his mantle.  Both went back by the little gate belonging to Nicdemus, and John once more got ahead of Peter.  The two Apostles were so amazed at what they had seen that they remained silent and thoughtful.  The disciples at the Cenacle would not at first credit Magdalen's report until the return of Peter and John who confirmed it. (Luke 24:1-12 & John 20:1-9)

     Nicodemus prepared a meal for the Apostles, the holy women and the disciples.  It was held in the open entrance hall outside the Last Supper room.  Thomas was not present.  All that took place at this feast was strictly in accordance with Jesus' directions which He had given to Peter and John.  The two Apostles related to the eight other Apostles, who were standing around them in a circle, the instructions Jesus had given them about how the Blessed Sacrament was to be handled and distributed.  All had put on their festal garments.  Besides their vestal mantles, Peter and John had stoles crossed on their breast and fastened with a clasp.  The other eight wore stoles over one shoulder and across the breast and back and fastened under the arm.  Peter and John had been ordained priests by Jesus, the others were deacons.

     After the instructions, the holy women came.  Peter addressed them with some words of instruction.  Some disciples came and John served them while they were washing their feet.

     The meal was conducted with ceremony.  The guests prayed standing and ate lying, while Peter and John taught.  At the end of the meal a flat ribbed loaf was placed before Peter which he divided into small pieces which he distributed right and left on two plates.  A large cup was sent around and out of it each one drank.  Although Peter had blessed the bread it was not a sacrament, only an agape, a love feast.  Peter said they should all desire to be one, as was the bread they were eating and the wine they were drinking.  After that they sang psalms while standing.

     When the tables were moved aside, the holy women retired.  The disciples ranged on either side while the Apostles walked up and down between them, teaching and imparting to these ready disciples all they could about the Blessed Sacrament.  It was the first catechetical instruction after Jesus' death.  They declared that they would have all things in common, would resign all things to each other, and would live perfectly united.  Deep emotion flooded over them.

     Early in the morning Peter and John went with Andrew into the hall of the Last Supper.  While they put on their priestly robes, the other Apostles entered the entry hall.  The three Apostles entered the Holy of Holies which was curtained off to form a little chamber.  They carried the Communion table forward into the hall, lit the lamp of sacrifice in the center of the hall, and placed the Blessed sacrament in its case on the table.  The other Apostles, Thomas among them, took their places around the table.  Peter uncovered the Sacred Host.  Andrew and John bowing reverently received the Blessed Sacrament.  Peter then passed the plate around and each one communicated himself.  Into the chalice which did not have much of the Blessed Blood, they poured some wine and water and drank of It.  After communion they sang Psalms and prayed, covered the chalice and carried it along with the table back to its place.

     After that Thomas went to some little place near Samaria with a disciple from that part of the country.

     On the evening of the same day many of the disciples and all the Apostles except Thomas assembled with Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea in the hall of the Last Supper, the doors being closed.  They stood in a triple circle under the lamp that hung from the center of the ceiling and prayed.  All wore long, white garments.  Peter, John and James Alpheus were vested in robes that distinguished them from the rest.  Peter wore a stole around his neck.  It was broader from the shoulders down than it was around his neck, and was crossed and fastened on the breast with a little blank shield in the form of a heart and ornamented with stones.  When in prayer all held their hands crosswise on their breast.  The Apostles occupied the inner circle under the lamp, the two other circles were formed by disciples.  Peter stood between John and James with his back toward the closed entrance.  Only two were behind him and the circle was not closed in front of him but open toward the Holy of Holies.  Peter preached at intervals during the prayers.

     Although Jesus had appeared to Peter, John and James, yet the greatest number of Apostles and disciples did not fully believe in His resurrection.  They still felt uneasy, as if His presence was not a real corporeal one, but only a vision similar to those the prophets had.

     All had ranged again for prayer after Peter's instruction when Luke and Cleophas, hurrying back from Emmaus, knocked at the closed doors of the courtyard and received admittance.  They told of their trip and how they had met Jesus and had walked with Him.  Their joyful news interrupted the prayer, but scarcely had they begun again to pray when Jesus came through the closed doors.  He was robed in a long white garment simply girded.  They did not seem to be aware of Him until He stood in their midst under the lamp.  They were very much amazed.  He showed them His hands and feet and, opening His garment, disclosed the wound in His side.  He spoke to them, and seeing they were very much terrified, He asked for something to eat.  Peter took from a recess a deep oval dish covered with a white cloth and give it to Jesus.  In the dish were a piece of fish and some honey.  Jesus gave thanks and blessed the food, ate some and gave a portion of it to some, but not to all.  He also gave some to His Holy Mother and some other women who were standing in the doorway. (Mark 16:12-14 & Luke 24:13-43 & John 20:19-20)

     Jesus taught and imparted strength.  In a wonderful way Jesus' instructions were heard by the Apostles only.  Light streamed over them from His hands, His feet, His side, and His mouth as He breathed upon them.  It flowed upon them.  They became interiorly recollected, and felt themselves imbued with power to forgive sins, to baptise and heal and impose hands.  If they drank any poisonous thing they would not be harmed by it.  Jesus explained to the Apostles several points of Holy Scripture relative to Himself and the Blessed Sacrament, and ordered the Blessed Sacrament be venerated at the close of Sabbath solemnities.

     Jesus spoke also of the Mystery contained in the Ark of the Covenant.  He said that the Mystery was now His Body and Blood, which He gave to them forever in the Sacrament.

     Lastly He told them to go in a couple of days to the region of Sichar and there proclaim His resurrection.  Then He vanished.  The Apostles and disciples sang canticles of praise and thanksgiving.

     The Apostles went with some disciples, among them Luke, in the direction of Sichar.  As they started out Peter said joyfully, "We shall go to sea and catch fish," by which he meant souls.  They separated and went different ways, teaching at inns and public places of the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus.  This was a preparation for the conversions of Pentecost.

     They met together again at the inn outside Thanath-Silo.  Thomas joined them.  Thomas had kept a little aloof from the followers of Jesus and was somewhat weakened in faith.

     Peter taught until late at night in the school of Thanath-Silo.  He spoke freely about how Jesus had been treated, of His predictions and teachings, of His love and of Judas treachery and wretched end.  The people were amazed and troubled for they loved Judas, who in Jesus absence had assisted many by his readiness to serve and had even wrought miracles.  Peter did not spare himself, but told of his flight and denial with bitter tears.  His hearers wept with him.  Peter then called upon the people to leave all things, to join the new Community and to follow Jesus.  All were much impressed with Peter's words and many were converted.  They wanted the Apostles to remain longer with them, but Peter said they had to go back to Jerusalem.

     The Apostles returned from the region of Sichar.  James Alpheus left earlier to see the Blessed Virgin.  She gave him a priestly vestment which the holy women had made for Peter.

     It was so late when the Apostles assembled in the house of the Last Supper that they could not partake of the meal prepared for them.  They had to begin the Sabbath solemnities.  After the foot washing, they put on their robes of ceremony.  The lamps were lighted.  The curtains were opened before the Holy of Holies and the seat upon which Jesus had reclined at table at the institution of the Holy Eucharist was placed before it.  They spread a cover over it and laid upon it their prayer rolls.  Peter knelt before it, John and James Alpheus a little in the rear, the rest of the Apostles behind them, then the disciples.  When they knelt they bowed their head toward the ground, burying their face in their hands.  The cover was removed from the chalice, but the white linen cloth was still left hanging over it.  Only those disciples were present who were already initiated into the mystery of the Blessed Sacrament, just as those who had been taken on the journey to Sichar were those who had seen the Lord after His resurrection that they might be able to attest to the fact.

     Peter with John and James Alpheus at his side delivered a meditation and prayer.  After that, standing under the lamp, they began the usual ceremonies of the Sabbath.  When all was over they took a repast in the outer hall.  In the Supper Hall itself there was no more eating after the institution of the Holy Eucharist except the taking of the Bread and Wine.

     After the close of the Sabbath, the Apostles laid aside their robes of ceremony.  A great meal was spread in the outer hall.  It was a love feast like the one that had taken place the Sunday before.  Thomas did not come until after the meal when they returned to the Supper Room.  Peter, John and James Alpheus again put on the vestments that distinguished them as priests.  Thomas came and passed through the Apostles who were already robed.  As he went the Apostles questioned him, protesting against his behavior.  But he behaved like one in a hurry to vest, and as if he could not credit the account given him of the wonderful things which had happened in that place.  The lamp was lit.  The Blessed Virgin and Magdalen entered and remained standing on either side of the door, their arms crossed upon their breast.

     As soon as Mary and Magdalen entered the doors were closed and all arranged for prayer.  Peter stood before the lamp, his face toward the Holy of Holies.  John and James Alpheus were at his side.  Peter stood between the two with his back to the door, the two holy women were standing behind him at some distance.

     At the end of their prayer, there was a pause, then they began to speak of going to the Sea of Tiberias and of how they would disperse.  Jesus, resplendent with light, walked into the Supper Room and stepped between Peter and John who fell back on either side.  Everything in the hall appeared to suddenly become large and bright.

     Jesus' first words were, "Peace be to you!"  Then He spoke with Peter and John, rebuking them for deviating a little from His instructions.

     Thomas, very much frightened at the sight of the Lord, drew back.  But Jesus, grasping his right hand in His own right hand, took the forefinger and laid the tip of it in the wound of His left hand; then taking the left hand in His own left hand, placed the forefinger in the wound of His right hand; lastly again taking Thomas' right hand in His own right He put it, without uncovering His breast, under His garment and laid the fore and middle fingers in the wound of His right side.  With the exclamation, "My Lord, and my God!" Thomas sank down as one unconscious, Jesus still holding his hand.  The nearest Apostles supported him and Jesus raised him by the hand. (John 20:24-29)

     Jesus did not disappear immediately after Thomas' declaration of faith.  He continued to speak to the Apostles and asked for something to eat.

     Jesus told the Apostles why He stood in the midst of them although they had abandoned Him, and why He did not place Himself nearer to those who had remained faithful to Him.  He told them that He had commissioned Peter to confirm his brethern, and explained why He had given him that charge.  Then turning to them all, He told them why He wished to give them Peter for a leader although he had so recently denied Him.  He must, He said, be the shepherd of the flock, and He enlarged upon Peter's zeal. (Psalm 119:137-141)

     John brought out the large, colored, embroidered mantle which James Alpheus had received from Mary.  He also brought out a hollow, slender staff high and bent at the top like a shepherd's crook.  The mantle was white with red stripes and on it were embroidered in colors wheat, grapes, a lamb and other symbols.  It was wide and long enough to reach to the feet.  It was fastened over the breast with a little four cornered metal shield and bordered down the front with red stripes that were crossed by shorter ones which had letters on them.  It had a collar and a kind of hood of sky blue color.

     Peter knelt down before Jesus who gave him a round morsel to eat.  With it Peter received some special power.  Strength and vigor poured into his soul when Jesus breathed upon him.  Jesus put His mouth to Peter's mouth, then to his ears and poured strength into each of the three.  It was something the Holy Spirit was to quicken and vivify in Peter at Pentecost.  Jesus laid His hands on him, gave him a special kind of strength, and invested him with chief power over the others.  He then placed on him the mantle that John, who was standing next to Him, was holding on his arm, and put the staff into his hand.  While performing this action, Jesus said that the mantle would preserve in him all the strength and virtue that He had just imparted to him, that he should wear it whenever he had to make use of the power with which he had been imbued.

     Peter addressed the assembly in his new dignity.  He had become, as it were, a new being, a man full of vigor and energy.  While Peter was speaking Jesus disappeared.  No alarm, no exclamations of surprise broke in upon the attention with which Peter's words were received.  He appeared to be endowed with strength entirely new.  The discourse ended, they sang a Psalm of thanksgiving.

     Before going to the Sea of Galilee, the holy Apostles went over the Way of the Cross to Mount Calvary, and then to Bethania where some disciples joined them.  They went in several companies and by different routes to the Sea.  Peter went with John, James Zebedee, Thaddeus, Nathanael of Cana, John Mark and Silas to Tiberias.  All chose routes away from cities.  They went to a fishery outside Tiberias which Peter had held on lease, but which was then rented by another man.  Peter said that he had not fished there for three years.  They went aboard two boats, one somewhat larger and better than the other.  They gave the large one to Peter.  Nathanael, Thomas and one of the fisherman's servants entered the boat with Peter, who insisted on rowing himself.  Although so distinguished by Jesus, he was exceedingly humble and modest, especially before Nathanael, who was polished and educated.

     All night with torches they cast their nets but always drawing them up empty.  At intervals, they prayed and sang songs.  When day was beginning to dawn they approached the eastern side of the Sea.  The Apostles were worn out and wanted to cast anchor.  They had laid aside their garments while fishing and were about to put them back on when they saw a figure standing behind the reeds on the shore.  It was Jesus.  He cried out, "Children, have you any meat?"  They answered, "No!"  Then He cried out again, telling them to cast the net to the west of Peter's boat.  They did it, and John had to sail around to the other side of the boat.  And now the net was so heavily filled that John recognized Jesus and called to Peter across the water, "It is the Lord!"  At these words Peter instantly girded his coat about him, leaped in the water and waded through the reeds to the shore where Jesus was standing.  But John pushed on in a boat very light and narrow that had been fastened to the fishing boat.  It held only one man and was used only for shallow water near land.  Peter was already standing by Jesus when John came up.

     Those on the boats began to call to them to help draw in the net.  Jesus told Peter to go bring in the fish.  They drew the net to land and Peter emptied it on land.  There were one hundred fifty-three different kinds of fish.  This number signified the number of the new believers who were to be gained at Thebez.  There were on the boats several people employed by the fisherman of Tiberias, who took charge of the fish and boats while the Apostles and disciples went with Jesus, who had invited them to come and eat.  The Apostles were much surprised to see the fire and a fish, not of their own catching, also bread and honey cakes. (John 21:1-13)

     After the meal Jesus and the Apostles rose from eating, walked up and down the shore, and at last stood still while Jesus solemnly addressed Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?"  Peter timidly answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you!"  Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs!"

     After a pause, Jesus again asked Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?"  Peter, very timidly and humbly for he was thinking of his denial, again answered, "Yes, Lord, You know that I love You!"  Jesus again addressed him solemnly, "Feed My sheep!"

     After another pause and still walking Jesus said one more, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?"  Peter grew troubled at the thought that Jesus asked him so many times as if He doubted his love.  It reminded him of his thrice repeated denial, and he answered, "Lord, You know all things, You Know that I love You!"  John thought, "Oh, what love must Jesus have, and what ought a shepherd to have, since He thrice questions Peter, to whom He  confides His flock, concerning his love!"  Jesus again said, "Feed My sheep!  Amen, amen I say to you, when you were younger you girded yourself and walked wherever you wished.  But when you are old you will stretch out your hands and another shall gird you and lead you where you would not go.  Follow Me!"

     Then Peter had a vision of his own martyrdom and of John's future sufferings.  While Jesus was predicting his death to Peter, Peter glanced at John and thought, "Shall this man whom Jesus loves so dearly be crucified like Him?"  Then Peter pointed to John and asked, "Lord, what shall become of this man?"  Jesus, to rebuke his curiosity answered, "So if I will to have him remain until I come, what is it to you?  You follow Me!" (John 21:15-22)

     Of the fish that the Apostles caught none were eaten at that meal.  When Jesus said that they should be brought to shore, Peter spread them at His feet that they might be counted.  By this it was acknowledged that they had caught the fish not by themselves or for themselves, but by His miraculous power and for Him.  Likewise the souls they caught for Jesus would be for Him, and would be done by His power.

     That afternoon Peter and his companions returned to the man who had charge of Peter's fishery.  Peter related the miracle that they had witnessed, the apparition of the Lord, the meal and the abundant draught of fish, and gave an instruction on leaving all things and following the Lord.  When the fisherman saw the boats returning laden with fish and hearing his son's account of the miracle, he resolved to abandon all his worldly goods.  The fishery was handed over to another and he with his two sons went that night to join the disciples.

     Toward dawn the next morning the Apostles reached a synagogue.  A great many disciples were here to whom Peter related the miracle of the fish.  He taught in the school taking for his subject the miraculous draught and the following of the Lord.  There was a large crowd, many of them sick and some possessed.  Peter was the only one that healed on this occasion and he did it in the name of Jesus.  The other Apostles and disciples served and taught.  The people were carried away with Peter's words for his whole deportment had undergone an entire change since the last two apparitions.  He was full of inspiration, full of gentleness.  He so touched the hearts of these people that they wanted to follow him right away and he had to command many of them to go back to their homes.

     Peter went with the other Apostles, the disciples and many of the people to an elevated region.  The hill was not much higher than the houses surrounding it.  Five pathways planted with hedges and trees ran up the hill.  The view from the top of the hill extended far around the country and over the Sea of Galilee.  The well of Capharnaum was at the base of this elevated plateau.  The Apostles and disciples knew they were to gather here.  The Mother of Jesus, Veronica and all the other holy women were there.  Peter's wife and daughter and the wives of Andrew and Matthew had come from Bethsaida.  They scattered around, some under sheds, some in the open air.  Peter related to the Apostles and the women the miraculous draught of fish, and then went up the hill where the disciples had already arranged the people.  In the center stood the teacher's pillar overgrown with moss.  One could mount into it as into a pulpit.  The pillar was furnished with steps so that the people could see over one another.  Peter placed five Apostles, each on one of the five pathways leading up, and they taught the people who could not hear Peter because of the crowd.  Peter himself spoke of the passion, the resurrection, the apparitions of the Lord and the obligation of following Him.

     Jesus came up the mount approaching by the same route Peter had taken.  The holy women who were standing on one of the paths prostrated before Him and He spoke to them as He passed.  Resplendent with light He stepped in through the crowd.  Many shuddered and became alarmed; these did not remain faithful.  Then Jesus went to the pillar on which Peter was standing.  Peter resigned his place and stood opposite to Jesus, who then addressed the multitude.  He spoke of abandoning one's relatives, of following Him and of the persecution they would have to endure.  About two hundred of His hearers left when they heard Him talking about such things.  He uttered some very grave words upon the sufferings and persecution of those who would follow Him upon the earth, and He alluded to their eternal reward.  He told them that they should first remain in Jerusalem.  After He sent them the Spirit they should baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and should at once establish a Community.  He told them how they should disperse, form distant Communities, meet together once more, again separate for far off countries, and receive at last the baptism of blood. (Matt 28:16-20)

     Jesus vanished.  His disappearance was like a light suddenly extinguished in their midst.  Many fell prostrate on their face.  Peter again taught and prayed.  This was Jesus' principal apparition in Galilee, where He taught and gave proof of His resurrection to all.  The other apparitions were more private.

     After this apparition, Peter, Thaddeus, Andrew and James Alpheus went back to the region of Sichar and healed many sick whom they had not been able to cure before.  Their fault had been that in wishing to imitate the great dignity and reserve of Jesus in His demeanor, they had assumed an air of importance.  They had not given humbly what they had received, but gave as if coming from themselves.  When they humbled themselves, knelt down by the sick and begged their pardon for failing to assist them, the sick were all healed.

     The Apostles gathered in Bethania with about three hundred of the faithful, among them fifty women.  They had given over their goods to the community.  The Blessed Virgin had come from Jerusalem to Bethania and was staying in Martha and Magdalen's house.  A great love feast was held in the open hall of Lazarus' court.

     Afterward Peter gave an instruction before a great multitude.  There were spies among the listeners.  When Peter announced that they should leave all and join the Community and that he would give them what they needed, the spies laughed derisively.  Peter had nothing himself, they said.  He was only a poor fisherman, a vagrant, who could hardly support his wife at home.  Peter still continued to teach, more on the command of Jesus than from any interior, quickening sentiment which the Apostles received only with the Holy Spirit.  Since his reception of the mantle from Jesus and the meal of fish (which indeed was not a material fish) at which he received special power, he had become another being.  All recognized him as the head, the mouth and the hand of the Community.

     At Jesus' prediction respecting Peter's death and John's furture, it was understood that Peter in his successors was forever to provide for the guiding and feeding of the flocks while John should stand ever at the source of the water that was to refresh and irrigate the meadow and quicken the sheep.  Peter's influence belonged more to time, more to the exterior condition and therefore it was divided among his successors; but John's was more interior, that it consisted more in inspiration.  Peter was more like the rock, the edifice; John was more like the wind, a cloud, a thunderstorm, a son of thunder, a voice-sender.  Peter was more like the frame, the cords and the tone of a harp; John was the sighing of the breeze through its strings.

     About fifty soldiers came from Jerusalem to Bethania.  They were guards belonging to the Temple and the High Priests, who began to guard Lazarus' place.  Also some deputies of the Sanhedrin appeared at the Council House in Bethania and summoned the Apostles before them.  Peter, John and Thomas presented themselves and replied boldly and openly to the charge that they had convened assemblies and caused disturbance among the people.  The magistrates of Bethania opposed the Council representatives from Jerusalem, saying that if they knew anything against those men, they ought to take them into custody, but they must not disturb the peace by the presence of soldiers.  Peter, in order to avoid giving offence, dismissed one hundred and twenty-three of the assembled Faithful.  Those from the greatest distance were directed to remain in the dwellings in the neighborhood, for they already had all things in common.  The fifty women also withdrew and lived together in separate abodes.  Peter gave orders for all to return to Bethania before the day of Christ's ascension.

     The Apostles left Bethania and went to the house of the Last Supper where they prayed under the lamp before the Holy of Holies.  They could no longer reach the house of the Last Supper through the city, for the road on that side had been partly destroyed by the Jews, who had expelled from their society and from public offices all that had declared themselves for Jesus, and that fraternized with the disciples.  In some places they had dug pitfalls into which the followers of Jesus might fall, but some of the vicious enemies plunged into them themselves.

     On the night before His wonderful Ascension, Jesus was in the inner hall of the house of the Last Supper with the Blessed Virgin and the Eleven.  The disciples and the holy women were praying in the side halls.  Toward morning prayers were solemnly recited under the lamp.  Jesus again imparted to Peter jurisdiction over the others, again laid upon him the mantle he had been given before.  He also gave some instructions on baptism and the blessing of water.

     Before leaving the house, Jesus presented the Blessed Virgin to the Apostles and disciples as their Mother, their Mediatrix and their Advocate, and she bestowed on Peter and all the rest her blessing which they received bowing very low.

     At dawn of day, Jesus left the house of the Last Supper with the Eleven.  The Blessed Virgin followed them closely, the disciples at some little distance.  They passed through the streets of Jerusalem where all was quiet, the inhabitants still sound asleep.  At every moment the Lord became more earnest, more rapid in speech and action.  The route they took was that of the Palm Sunday procession.  Jesus went with them over all the paths trodden by Him during His Passion in order to inspire them by His teachings and admonitions with a lively appreciation of the fulfillment of the Promise.  He instructed them on the accomplishment of the words of the Prophets and upon the Promises.  On those sites which their enemies had laid waste, over which they had heaped stones, through which they had opened ditches or which they had rendered impassable in other ways, Jesus ordered the disciples in His train to go on ahead and clear away all obstructions, which they quickly did.  Just before the gate that led to Mount Calvary, Jesus turned aside from the road to a delightful spot shaded by trees.  Jesus paused to teach and comfort the little flock.  Meanwhile day dawned brightly, their hearts grew lighter and they even began to think that Jesus would still remain with them.

     New crowds of believers came.  Jesus took the road that led to Mount Calvary, but turned off and went around the city to the Mount of Olives.  Jesus paused awhile with the crowd in an exceedingly cool and lovely spot.  He spoke to them a long time like one who is closing his discourse and coming to a conclusion.  His hearers divined that the hour of parting was near, and yet they had no idea that the time would be so short.  The sun was already high.  The people in Jerusalem were all on the alert, amazed at the crowds of people around the Mount of Olives.  Out of the city crowds were pouring in bands.  They consisted of all who had gone out to meet Jesus on Palm Sunday.  The narrow roads were thronged, though around Jesus and His own the space was left free.

     At each instant, Jesus shone more brightly and His motions became more rapid.  The disciples hastened after Him but it was impossible to overtake Him.  When He reached the top of the mountain, He was resplendent as a beam of white sunlight.  A shining circle, glancing in all the colors of the rainbow, fell from heaven around Him.  Jesus himself shone still more brightly than the glory around Him.  He laid His left hand on His breast and raising the right turned slowly around, blessing the whole world.  Jesus did not impart it with the flat open hand like the rabbis, but like the Christian Bishops.

     The rays of light from above united with the glory emanating from Jesus and He disappeared, dissolving in the light of Heaven, vanishing as He arose.  It appeared as if one sun was lost in another, as if a spark floated into a flame.  He disappeared as it were into a cloud of light. (Luke 24:50-51)

     Out of that cloud something like dew, like a shower of light fell upon all below, and when they could no longer endure the splendor they were seized with amazement and terror.  The Apostles and disciples nearest to Jesus were blinded by the dazzling glare.  They were forced to lower their eyes, while many prostrated themselves on their faces.  The Blessed Virgin was standing close behind them and gazing calmly ahead.

     After some moments the splendor began to diminish.  The whole assembly was in deep silence, their souls swayed by varying emotions.  They gazed fixedly up at the brightness which continued visible for a long time.  Two figures appeared in this light.  They looked small at first but seemed to grow larger and larger as they descended.  They were clothed in long white garments and each held a staff in one hand.  They looked like Prophets.  They made no motion, stood perfectly still but their voice like trumpets resounded loud and clear, "You men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up to heaven?  This Jesus who is taken up from you into heaven shall so come as you have seen Him going into heaven." (Acts 1:9-11)

     After these words the figures vanished.  The brightness remained for a while longer and then disappeared, like daylight fading before the darkness of night.  The disciples were stunned for they now comprehended what had happened.  The Lord had left them and gone to His Heavenly Father!  Many stunned by grief and amazement fell to the earth.  When the glare had faded entirely they rose again and the others gathered around them.  They formed groups, the Blessed Virgin stepped forward and they stood recovering themselves, talking together and gazing upward.  At last the Apostles and disciples went back to the house of the Last Supper, and the Blessed Virgin followed.  Some were weeping like children that refused to be comforted; others were lost in thought.  The Blessed Virgin, Peter and John were very calm and full of consolation.  However some among the different groups remained unmoved, unbelieving and full of doubts.  They withdrew from the rest.

     It was past noon before the crowd dispersed.  The Apostles and disciples now felt themselves alone, forsaken and restless, but by the soothing presence of the Blessed Virgin they were conforted and put entire confidence in Jesus' words that she would be to them a Mediatrix, a Mother and an Advocate.  They regained peace of soul.

     A certain fear stole over the people in Jerusalem.  Many closed doors and windows, others gathered together in groups.

     On the following days the Apostles were always together in the house of the Last Supper.  The Blessed Virgin was with them.  The Apostles kept themselves very much aloof.  No one not belonging to the great crowd of Jesus' followers came to them.  The Apostles guarded more against persecution and gave themselves up to earnest and well regulated prayer.  The disciples dispersed in bands throughout the other apartments of the same property.

     The election of Matthias to the Apostlate was held in the house of the Last Supper.  Peter was clothed in his Episcopal mantle and was standing in the center of the circle formed by the Apostles.  Peter proposed Joses Barsabas and Matthias, both of whom were standing off among the bands of disciples.  There were some among the disciples who wanted to be chosen in Judas' place.  The two mentioned had never thought of such a thing, and had no desires on the subject.  Next day the lots were cast, Joses Barsabas and Matthias being excluded from the assembly.  When it was found that the lot fell to Matthias, some one went into the disciples' apartments and led him to the Apostles. (Acts 1:15-26)

     On the eve of Pentecost the whole interior of the Last Supper room was ornamented with green branches and vases of flowers.  Green garlands were looped from side to side.  The screens that cut off the side halls were removed, only the gate of the outer court was closed.  Peter in his Episcopal robe stood at a table under the lamp in front of the Holy of Holies.  On the table lay rolls of writing.  Opposite him in the doorway leading from the entrance hall stood the Blessed Virgin, her face veiled, and behind her in the entrance hall stood the holy women.  The Apostles stood in two rows turned toward Peter.  The disciples ranged behind the Apostles and took part in the hymns and prayers.  Peter blessed, broke and distributed bread, first to the Blessed Virgin, then to the Apostles and then to the disciples.  They kissed his hand, the Blessed Virgin included.  Besides the holy women there were in the house of the Last Supper one hundred twenty of Jesus' followers.

     After midnight there arose a wonderful movement in all nature.  It communicated itself to all present as they stood in deep recollection, their arms crossed on their breast.  Stillness pervaded the house.  Toward morning a glittering white cloud came down from heaven and drew near to the house.  It floated over the city like a luminous mass of fog until it stood above Sion and the house of the Last Supper.  It seemed to contract and to shine with constantly increasing brightness until at last with a rushing, roaring noise as of wind, it sank like a thunder cloud floating low in the atmosphere.  Many people of Jerusalem seeing the cloud hurried in terror to the Temple.  The whole thing was like a storm that had suddenly gathered, that instead of rising from the earth came down from heaven, that was light instead of dark, that instead of thundering came down with a rushing wind.  It was like a warm breeze full of power to refresh and invigorate.

     The luminous cloud descended low over the house and with increasing sound the light became brighter.  There shot from the rushing cloud streams of white light down upon the house.  The streams intersected one another in sevenfold rays, and below each intersection they resolved into fine threads of light and fiery drops.  The point at which the seven streams intersected was surrounded by a rainbow of light in which floated a luminous figure with outstretched wings, or rays of light that looked like wings, attached to the shoulders.  In that same instant the whole house and its surroundings were penetrated through and through with light.  The five branched lamp no longer shone.  The assembled Faithful were ravished in ecstasy.  Each involuntarily threw back his head and raised his eyes eagerly on high, while into the mouth of everyone there flowed a stream of light like a burning tongue of fire.  It looked as if they were breathing, as if they were eagerly drinking in the fire, and as if their ardent desire flamed forth from their mouth to meet the entering flame.  The sacred fire was poured forth on the disciples and the holy women.  The flames descended on each in different colors and in different degrees of intensity.  All were full of emotion, with joy and confidence.  They gathered around the Blessed Virgin who was the only one perfectly calm, the only one that retained a quiet, holy self-possession.  The Apostles embraced one another.  A new life full of joy, of confidence and of courage had been infused into all.  They ranged for prayer, gave thanks and praised God with great emotion.  The light meanwhile vanished.  Peter delivered an instruction to the disciples. (Acts 2:1-4)

     Between the house of the Last Supper and the Pool of Bethsaida were several sheds and public lodging places where some disciples were staying.  They too received the Holy Spirit.  An extraordinary movement pervaded all nature.

     In the house of the Last supper, Peter imposed hands on five of the Apostles who were to help teach and baptise at the Pool of Bethsaida.  They were James Alpheus, Bartholomew, Matthias, Thomas and Jude Thaddeus.

     Baptism at the Pool of Bethsaida had been arranged by Jesus Himself for this day's feast.  The Apostles and disciples went in solemn procession, two by two, from the House of the Last Supper to the Pool.  Some of the disciples carried a leathern bottle of holy water and an asperges.  The five Apostles whom Peter had imposed hands on separated, each taking one of the five entrances to the Pool, and addressed the people with great enthusiasm.  Peter ascended the teacher's chair that had been prepared for him on a terrace near the Pool.  When the Apostles spoke, the multitude hearkened in amazement, for everyone listened to what sounded to him like his own language.  It was owing to this astonishment of the people that Peter lifted up his voice as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. (Acts 2:14-40)

     Many presented themselves for baptism.  Peter, assisted by John and James Alpheus, solemnly blessed the water.  Peter sprinkled the holy water, which they had brought in the leathern bottle, in five streams over the Pool with the asperges.  The preparations for baptism and the baptism itself occupied the whole day.  The neophytes approached Peter's chair in bands and by turns, the other Apostles preaching and baptising at the entrances.  The Blessed Virgin and the holy women were busy in the synagogue near the Pool, distributing the white garments to the newphytes.  The neophytes leaned upon a railing, the water was scooped up in a basin and then with the hand poured three times over the head.  It flowed again through a channel into the pool below.  One basin held enough water for ten couples.  Every two baptized gave place to two neophytes upon whom they laid their hands as sponsors.  Those baptised here were those who had received John's baptism only.  The holy women were baptised too.  Three thousand were added to the Community that day.  On the following days also, preaching and baptising went on at the pool.  Before the Apostles and disciples went down for these duties, they received the blessing of the Blessed Virgin. (Acts 2:41-47)

     The Pool of Bethsaida had been neglected and falling into decay.  After Jesus had healed the paralytic (John 5:2-9), the pool was again frequented more often, though all the more hateful to the Pharisees.  It had all been repaired.  The old synagogue near the pool was also repaired and after Pentecost was made into a church.  Peter, John, Andrew, and James Alpheus took turns preaching at the different places around the pool and on the terrace upon which was Peter's chair of instruction.  A great many of the faithful were always in attendance.  Activity of all kinds were carried on throughout the whole Community at all times; praying, weaving, plaiting and every kind of work for the new church and for the poor.

     On the eighth day after Pentecost the Apostles spent the whole night praying in the house of the Last Supper.  At daybreak they went with many disciples to the Temple where a feast was being celebrated.  The Blessed Virgin and the holy women had gone to the Temple before them.  In front of the entrance a triumphal arch had been erected.  Beneath this arch Peter addressed a great crowd of people in powerful language.  He told them openly that no punishment, neither scourging nor crucifixion, should deter them from publicly proclaiming Jesus Christ.  He then entered the Temple and preached from the teacher's chair that Jesus had so often occupied.  After his sermon they all prayed.  A cloud of light hovered over the Temple and rays streamed down upon them.

     Toward eight o'clock that morning they left the Temple.  In the court of the heathens they formed a long procession, two by two, first the Apostles, then the disciples, and then the baptised and the newly converted.  They proceeded to Sion to the house of the Last Supper.  The Blessed Virgin and the holy womern had left  the Temple before them in order to kneel alone before the Blessed Sacrament and pray.  The women had gone into their cells adjoining the church of Bethsaida.  There they lived, two by two, occupying their time washing and preparing baptismal garments for the newphytes and arranging for the distribution of them.

     When the procession reached the courtyard of the Last Supper house, the new converts were ranged in order by the Apostles.  Peter and John went into the house and escorted the Blessed Virgin to the door of the entrance hall.  She was clothed in robes of ceremony.  She wore a long white mantle with embroidered facings down the sides.  Over her veil was a narrow scarf that hung down on either side.  It was kept in place with a wreath.  Peter addressed the new converts and presented them to the Blessed Virgin as to their common Mother.  He led them forward in bands of twenty, one band after another, and they recieved the benediction of the Blessed Virgin.

     After that a solemn service was celebrated in the Last Supper room into which the side halls and entrance hall was thrown open.  In the sanctuary over the altar hung a festal wreath of green leaves and flowers.  Peter, vested in his episcopal mantle, celebrated holy mass using the Last Supper chalice.  John and James Alpheus served him.  All the ceremonies--the Offertory, the pouring of wine into the Chalice, the washing of fingers and the Consecration--were performed just as Jesus had at the institution of the Holy Eucharist.  Wine and water were poured at different sides of the altar, on one end of which were lying the rolls of scripture.  After Peter had communicated, he handed his two assistants the Sacrament, the Bread and the Chalice.  Then John handed the Sacrament first to the Blessed Virgin, then to the Apostles and the six disciples who afterward received priestly ordination, and to many others.  The communicants knelt before a narrow linen cloth which was held at each end by two persons.  The faithful did not partake of the chalice.

     The six disciples who now received ordination were by it advanced to a rank above the disciples but below the Apostles.  Mary brought vestments for them and laid them on the altar.  The disciples ordained were Zacheus, Nathanael, Joses Barsabas, Barnabas, John Mark, and Eliud, a son of the aged Simeon.  They knelt, two by two, before Peter, who addressed them and read prayers from a little roll.  John and James Zebedee held lights in one hand and laid the other on their shoulders, while Peter imposed his on their head.  Peter cut some hair from their head and placed it on the altar, then he anointed their head and fingers from a box John was holding.  Next the vestments were put on, the stole being crossed under the arm and then in front over the breast.  Peter blessed the faithful with the large chalice of the Last Supper in which reposed the Blessed Sacrament.

     The Apostles and disciples went in procession with the Blessed Sacrament from the house of the Last Supper to the new church.  Before setting out Peter, standing in the entrance to the courtyard and surrounded by about twenty of the disciples, delivered a public discourse before many people.  He spoke in fiery words.  The course of the procession wound down to the new church near the Pool, Peter bearing in his hands the Blessed Sacrament.  The chalice was covered with a white linen, something like a bag, which was suspended from his neck.  The Blessed Virgin walked after the Apostles with the other women and the disciples.  The Blessed Sacrament was placed in the new tabernacle on the altar.  The tray full of Blessed Bread had also been brought.  The floor of the church, like that of the house of the Last Supper, was covered with colored carpets.  The faithful entered barefoot.

     Mary and the other women went after that to the church of the Pool of Bethsaida.  The Apostles, disciples and neophytes went there also in procession and singing.  Peter gave an instruction from the pulpit in reference to the order to be observed in the new Community.  No one, he said, was to have more than the others.  All must share what they had and provide for the poor newcomers.  His discourse included thanks for the Savior's graces and blessings upon the Community.

     Baptism was administered next.  People from far off countries left all that belonged to them and came together to form one with the Community of Jesus.     Everyone who was baptised after Pentecost were instructed in Bethsaida Church on the Most Blessed Sacrament and prepared for receiving It by the Apostles.  Peter celebrated mass.  The Apostles were the first to receive from Peter after his own communion.  The communicants were so numerous that the church could not hold them and many had to stand outside.  The first to receive left the church to allow others to enter.  The communicants did not kneel, but stood reverently bowed while receiving.

     Peter wrought more miracles than all the others.  He drove out devils, raised the dead and healed.

     It was about three hours after noon when Peter and John went up to the Temple with several of the disciples.  Mary and some of the holy women went too.  A lame man had been brought on a litter and laid at the door of the Temple.  On their arrival Peter and John spoke to him.  Then Peter stood under an awning in the open square on the south side of the Temple, his back to that part of the building in which was the altar of sacrifice, and addressed the people in fiery speech.  During his instruction some soldiers and priests conferred together.  When Peter and John turned again toward the Temple, they were accosted by the lame man and petitioned for alms.  He was lying outside the door, very crippled, leaning on his left elbow, while vainly trying to raise something with the crutch in his right hand.  Peter said to him, "Look up!" and when the man obeyed he continued, "I have no gold or silver, but what I have I give you!  In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, arise and walk!"  Peter raised him by the right hand, while John grasped him under the shoulder.  The man, full of joy and vigor, stood upon his feet and leaped around cured, and ran with shouts of triumph through the halls of the Temple. (Act 3:1-8)

     Twelve Jewish priests who were there seated on their chairs looked with outstretched neck in the direction of the tumult and as the crowd around the cured man increased, they left their seats and withdrew.  Peter and John went into the forecourt where Peter mounted the teacher's chair from which Jesus had taught as a Boy of twelve.  Peter preached long and in words full of inspiration.  It was already dark when the Temple soldiers seized him, John and the cured man.  They were thrown into a prison near the judgement hall in which Peter had denied the Lord.

     The next day the three were taken with much ill-usage by the soldiers up the same flight of stairs upon which Jesus had stood, and there tried by Caiaphas and some other priests.  They asked Peter and John by what power or by what name had they used.  Peter with great warmth spoke of the Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth who had been crucified, stating "He is the stone which you the builders rejected, which has become the head of the corner." (Isaiah 28-16 & Matt 21:42)

     Since everyone knew that the man's handicap had not been feigned and he was now leaping and running, the priests realized that these followers of Jesus could not be punished for this cure without risking a disturbance among the people.  Instead of a more severe penalty they, demanded that the two Apostles not speak or teach in that Name, then set them free. (Acts 4:1-23)

     The rest of the Apostles had passed the night in the house of the Last Supper in continual prayer for the prisoners.  When Peter and John returned and told them all that had happened, their joy burst into a loud act of thanksgiving, and the whole house shook, as if the Lord wanted to remind them that He was still among them, and had heard their prayer. (Acts 4:31)  Then James Alpheus said that Jesus, when He appeared to him alone on the mountain in Galilee, had told him that when, after Peter and John upon going up to the Temple would be imprisoned and then set free, they should keep themselves somewhat retired for awhile.  At this news the Apostles shut up everything.  Peter suspended the Blessed Sacrament in a bag hung from his neck and went with the others to Bethania.  They went in three different bands.

     When they returned again to Jerusalem, they were even more enthusiastic and more determined than ever.  Peter declared that now was the time to discover who had preserved the Spirit sent by Jesus, now was the time to labor, to suffer persecution and to give up all things.  Whoever did not feel himself strong enough for this should depart.  About a hundred of those who had recently joined the Community withdrew.

     When Peter accompanied by John and seven other Apostles went again to teach in the Temple, he found numbers of sick lying on litters under tents in the Valley of Josaphat.  Many others were lying as far as the steps to the Temple.  Peter performed most of the cures.  The others cured some but they helped Peter more than they cured by themselves.  Peter cured only those that believed and were desirous of joining the Community.  In those places in which the sick lay in two rows opposite each other, those upon whom Peter's shadow fell while he was busy with the opposite row were also cured, Peter willing it. (Acts 5:12-16)

    

     When the high priest saw the multitudes that came to the Temple to listen to Peter and the others he became jealous and ordered the Apostles arrested.  They were put in the common jail, but during the night an angel of the Lord appeared, opened the gates to the jail and led the Apostles forth telling them to go back to the Temple grounds and continue to preach to the the people the new life.  At dawn they went back to the Temple and continued their teaching about Jesus.

     When the high priest convoked the Sanhedrin, they sent for the prisoners.  Though the jail was securely locked, the prisoners were gone.  While they were trying to decide what to do, someone came up to them and told them that the prisoners were in the Temple teaching the people.

     The captain with his guard went to bring the Apostles back to the Sanhedrin.  They used no force because they were afraid of being stoned by the people; the Apostles came with them willingly.

     The High Priest said to them, "We gave you strict orders not to preach about that name, yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us responsible for that Man's Blood."

     Peter spoke up, "Better for us to obey God than men!"  With fire and zeal he told the Sanhedrin how God had raised up Jesus and exalted Him, and that they were witnesses to it.

     The members of the Sanhedrin were furious and wanted to kill the Apostles, but one of their members, Gamaliel, addressed the Council, telling them about Theudas and also Judas a Galilean at the time of the census.  Both had individually built up a large following which had dispersed when the leader had died. Gamaliel counseled, "Let them alone.  If their purpose or activity is human in its origins, it will destroy itself.  If on the other hand, it comes from God, you will not be able to destroy them without fighting God himself."

     Gamaliel persuaded the Sanhedrin not to put them to death.  Instead they had them whipped and ordered them not to speak again about the name of Jesus.

     The Apostles left, full of joy that they had been worthy of ill-treatment for the sake of the Name.  They went out and continued spreading the Good News of Jesus the Christ. (Acts 5:17-42)

     In their first reunion three years after the crucifixion the Apostles gathered together all who belonged to the body of the Church Community.  They assisted Peter in a solemn Council in the Last Supper room.  They accompanied him to the Holy of Holies where John laid on Peter the mantle, another placed the miter on his head, and another put the crosier in his hand.  After all had received Communion from Peter, robed in his sacred vestments and surrounded by the Apostles, he addressed a large crowd of disciples and new converts.  He said that it was not becoming for the Word of God to be neglected for the care of clothing and nourishment, consequently Lazarus, Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea could not with propriety oversee the temporal interests of the Community as they had been doing, for they had now become priests.  As priests they should give themselves continuously to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.

     Then he explained the order observed in the distribution of alms, of household affairs, and of widows and orphans.  Stephen, a slender, handsome youth stepped forward and offered himself for the services needed.  Besides Stephen those who were ordained deacons were Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas.  Peter laid his hands upon them and crossed the stole under their arm.  While he did so a light was infused upon those who had not yet received the Holy Spirit.  After that the treasures and goods of the Church Community were delivered over to the seven deacons.  The house of Joseph of Arimathea was also given over to the deacons for their use in distributing alms.  The treasures and goods given over were coins of all kinds, materials, coverlets, clothing, vessels and various kinds of furniture for plain housekeeping. (Acts 6:1-8)

     On the day following the giving over of the treasury to the deacons, the Apostles dispersed into Judea.

     There arose a great persecution against the Church at Jerusalem.  Saul had held the cloaks of those who stoned Stephen to death. (Acts 7:58-60)  He continued persecuting the Community, entering house after house and dragging away men and women, committing them to prison.  Thomas and Matthew had already prepared a home in Ephesus for Mary.  After this new storm arose Mary allowed John to escort her from the violence in Jerusalem to the home in Ephesus.

     Philip went to Samaria where he taught, healed and drove out unclean spirits.  The people believed Philip and were baptised by him, both men and women.  A man named Simon, a magician, bewitched the people who believed he had the power of God.  This Simon also believed Philip's teaching and was baptised.  He wondered greatly to see the signs and miracles that Philip performed.

     When the Apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the Word of God and were baptised, but had not yet received the Holy Spirit, Peter and John went there to lay hands on them that the Holy Spirit might come upon them.

     When Simon the magician saw that by the imposition of hands the Holy Spirit was received he offered money to Peter, asking Peter to give him the power to bring the Holy Spirit upon whomever he wished to lay his hands.  Peter told him, "Keep your money to yourself to perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money.  You can have no part or lot in this matter for your heart is not right in the sight of God.  Do penance for your wickedness and pray to God that you will be forgiven for the thought you harbored in your heart, for you are bitter and in the bonds of evil."  Simon answered Peter, asking him to pray for him. (Act 8:5-24)

     Peter went back to Jerusalem and continued to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

     Saul, who had persecuted the Church Community, was converted and preached Jesus in the synagogues.  He grew more powerful and confounded the Jewish authorities at Damascus, affirming that Jesus was the Christ. (Act 9:22)  The Church entered a period of peace.

     Peter visited the saints in the different places in Judea, Galilee and Samaria.  In Lydda he healed a man named Eneas who had been in bed for eight years.

     In Joppe a good woman named Dorcus took sick and died.  The disciples hearing that Peter was in the neighboring town of Lydda, sent for him.  When he entered the chamber where she lay all the widows stood around him, weeping and showing him the coats and garments that Dorcas had made for them.  Peter told them to leave, then knelt down and prayed.  He turned to the body and said, "Tabitha, arise."  She opened her eyes and seeing Peter she sat up.  Giving her his hand he lifted her up.  When he called the widows to come in, he presented her to them alive. (Act 9:31-43)

     Peter was praying when he had a vision.  He saw the heaven opened and something like a linen sheet let down by its four corners.  On it were all kinds of four-footed animals, creeping things and birds.  A voice said to him, "Arise, Peter, kill and eat."  Peter answered, "Certainly not!  I have never eaten anything that is common and unclean.!"

     Then the voice spoke to him again and said, "What God has cleaned do not call unclean."  This happened three times before it was taken back into heaven.

     While Peter was pondering the meaning of this vision three men came looking for him, and the Spirit said to Peter, "There are three men looking for you.  Go to them and do not doubt for I have sent them."  The men had been sent by a Gentile named Cornelius, a centurion who wanted Peter to come and instruct him.

     When Peter came Cornelius fell at his feet to adore Peter.  Peter lifted him up saying, "Arise, I am only a man like you."  He told the assembly, "It is detestable for a Jew to associate with someone of a different nation, but God has showed me to call no man common or unclean."  He continued, "God is not a respecter of persons.  Everyone who fears Him and is just, is acceptable to Him."

     Peter continued to instruct these people and as he did so the grace of the Holy Spirit poured out upon the gentiles.  The Jews were astonded when they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.  Peter exclamed, "Can anyone forbid water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit the same as we?"  They were all baptized. (Act 10:9-48)

     When the Apostles and brethern who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God, they argued with Peter.  The circumcised asked him why he had gone among the uncircumcised and eaten with them.  Peter told them of the vision he had had when he heard the voice saying, "What God has cleaned do not call unclean." Peter exclaimed, "Who was I to stand up against God?" (The Holy Spirit)  Before this the Gospel had been preached only to Jews but now the Church under the leadership of Peter carried its message to non-Jews.  The hand of the Lord was with them and a great number were converted to Him. (Act 11:1-21)

     Herod Agrippa began a new persecution against the Community.  James Zebedee was taken before the Sanhedrin, tried for blasphemy, and was beheaded.  When Herod saw that this pleased the Jewish authorities, he had Peter arrested and thrown in prison.  Unceasing prayer was offered up to God for him by the Church.

     Peter was in chains sleeping between two soldiers when a light shone in the room, an angel appeared and tapped him saying, "Rise quickly."  The chains fell off his hands.  The angel told him to put on his garment and sandals and follow.  They passed through the first and second wards and through the iron gate which opened for them by itself.  Then the angel left.  Peter had thought he had seen a vision, but now he came to his full senses and realized that the Lord had indeed sent His angel to deliver him from Herod.

     He went to the house of Mary, the Mother of Mark, and knocked on the gate.  At first they thought it was Peter's spirit, but he continued knocking.  When they opened the gate Peter told them how the Lord had brought him out of prison and asked them to tell James Alpheus, who was then the Bishop of Jerusalem, what had happened.  After that Peter left for another place.

     When Herod found out Peter was gone he questioned the prison keepers and commanded that they be put to death. (Act 12:1-19)

     After Mary had lived near Ephesus for three years, she had a great desire to visit Jerusalem.  John and Peter conducted her there.  She arrived in the evening twilight but before she entered the city she visited the Mount of Olives, Mount Calvary, the Holy Sepulchre and all the Holy places around Jerusalem.  She was so sad, so moved by compassion that she could hardly walk.  Peter and John supported her under the arms.  She was in Jerusalem when the Apostles assembled to hold a Council, and she assissted with her advice.  The Council had been called to settle a dispute about whether the converted gentiles had to follow the law of Moses.

     Some who had left Judea taught that unless men followed the Jewish law and was circumcised after the manner of Moses they could not be saved.  This was in direct conflict with Paul and Barnabas.  To settle the issue they sent Paul, Barnabas and some who held a contrary view to Jerusalem to ask the Apostles and priests for a judgement. (Act 15:1-4)

     After much discussion Peter spoke, "God, Who knows the hearts of men gave testimony, giving to them the Holy Spirit as well as to us, and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith."  It was decided to lay no further burden on the converted Gentiles than some necessary things; to eat no food that has been sacrificed to idols; to eat no blood; to eat no animal that has been strangled; and to refrain from sexual immorality. (Act 15:7-29)

     It was at this Council that the Apostles drew up the Creed, made rules, relinquished all they possessed, distributing it to the poor, and divided the Church into dioceses.  After this Council they separated again and went into far off heathen countries.  Mary returned to Ephesus.

     As the Blessed Virgin felt the end of her life approaching she called the Apostles to her by prayer, according to Jesus' directions.  At her prayer the Apostles received through angels the call to her side at Ephesus.  The journeys of the Apostles, so distant and so remote, were not made without divine assistance.  They labored everywhere according to the particular needs of the people.  They carried with them the bones of the Prophets or those of the first Christian martyrs.  They placed these relics before them in time of prayer or when offering the Holy Sacrifice.

     When called to Mary, Peter was in the region of Antioch.  Andrew, who shortly before had been in Jerusalem, was not far from Peter.  As Peter was lying one night near a wall, a resplendent youth appeared to him, took his hand and bade him rise and hasten to Mary.  He told him he would meet Andrew on the way.  Peter, who had grown stiff from age and fatigue, rose to a sitting position and listened to the angel's words.  Then he stood up, put on his mantle and started on his journey.  He soon met Andrew who had been called by the same apparition.  After traveling some distance they met Thaddeus, who had also received a calling.  They journeyed together to Mary and found John with her.  She was already near death.  She was lying calmly on her couch in her sleeping place.

     On entering the house, the Apostles laid aside their mantles, staves, pouches and girdles, allowing their robes to fall in broad folds.  They did not sleep in the house but outside under light awnings.

     The front apartment of the house was prepared as a place suitable for prayer and offering the Holy Sacrifice.  The Apostles all went together into Mary's sleeping chamber to take leave of her.  Mary sat upright; the Apostles knelt in turn as she prayed over each and blessed him.  When Peter stepped up to the couch he had a roll of scriptures in his hand.

     An altar was placed before the Crucifix of the Blessed Virgin, and Peter celebrated the Holy Mass.  Tapers, not lamps, were burning on the altar.  Mary was in a sitting position on her couch.  After Communion, Peter gave the Blessed Sacrament to all present.

     Peter bore the Blessed Sacrament to Mary in the cross hanging on his breast, and John carried the chalice containing the Most Sacred Blood.  Thaddeus brought forward a little incense basin.  Peter gave Mary the last anointing.  Next he administered Holy Communion which she received sitting up without support.  Then she sank back again on her pillow and after the Apostles offered a short prayer she received the chalice from John, but not now in so upright a position.

     After Communion Mary spoke no more.  A pathway of light rose from Mary up to heaven.  The body of the Blessed Virgin lay, radiant with light upon the couch.

     Andrew and Matthias prepared the place of burial.  Andrew was especially active in preparing the grotto and settin up a door firmly in front of the tomb proper.

     While the women prepared the body the Apostles prayed.  Peter and John approached the body in their mantles of ceremony.  John carried a vessel of oil with which Peter anointed, in the form of a cross with the accompanying prayers, the forehead, hands and feet of the holy body.  The arms and hands were bound crosswise on the breast.

     When it came time to bear the coffin to the grotto, Peter and John raised it in their hands and carried it through the door of the house.  Outside it was again laid on the litter which Peter and John then raised upon their shoulders.  Six of the Apostles took turns carrying it.

     Four of the Apostles bore the coffin into the grotto and placed it in the hollow of the tomb.  All went in, one by one, where they knelt in prayer, and took leave of her body.  The tomb was shut.  Before the entrance to the grotto they made a trench which they planted so thickly with blooming flowers and bushes covered with berries that one could gain access to it only from the side, and that only by making his way through underbrush.

     The next day when the Apostles were engaged in choir service, Thomas made his entrance.  He was greatly grieved when he heard that the Blessed Virgin was already buried.  He wept with an abundance of tears for he could not forgive himself for arriving late.  The Apostles gathered around him, embraced him, and set before him bread, honey and a beverage.  After that they accompanied him to the tomb.  Two disciples bent the shrubbery to one side.  John loosened the three straps that bound the coffin.  They raised the lid and to their intense astonishment beheld only the empty winding sheets lying like a husk or shell in perfect order.  The Apostles gazed in amazement.  John cried out, "She is no longer here!"

     When they entered the house John laid the folded linens on a little table before the altar.  The others were in prayer but Peter went a little apart, as if pondering some mystery.  After that he celebrated divine service at the altar before Marys' crucifix.

     Before the Apostles left Mary's house to journey again to  distant places, they rendered the grotto of the tomb wholly inaccessible by raising an embankment of earth before the entrance.  The Apostles with tears and embraces took leave of one another after they had once more celebrated solemn service in Mary's house.  It was the last time the Apostles gathered together, even then James Zebedee was no longer with them; he had already suffered martyrdom from Herod. (Acts 12:1-2)

     An Apostle or disciple often returned at different times to pray in Mary's house.  Out of devotion and in reverence for the Blessed Virgin, churches were built by the Faithful in the same style as her house, with the altar occupying the place of her fireplace.  Her Way of the Cross and her tomb were for a long time devoutly visited by the Christians.

     Peter continued to shepherd the flock.  He had begun in Jerusalem ministering to the Jewish people.  As Christianity spread so did his loving care.  It spread throughout Judea, Samaria, Galilee and ever expanding territories.  He came to the understanding that "God shows no partiality," and administered to the Gentiles and Jews alike. (Acts 11:12,17-18)   Christianity continued to spread until it covered the whole civilized world.

     The center of civilization was Rome.  Paul had been arrested by Roman authoirities in Jerusalem and brought to Rome for trial.  For at least two years Paul was imprisoned before being brought to trial. Peter was frequently in Rome on his journeys to and from the Christian Community that had grown there and the Churches that had been established in various other places.  He had won a number of converts in Rome with his fiery sermons.

     In July, 64 AD, the weather in Rome had been hot and dry.  A strong wind was blowing when a fire broke out.  Much of that city went up in flames.  The people blamed Nero.  To divert public scorn from himself he found a scape goat, the Christian Community.  Had not Paul said that the world would be destroyed by fire and that his King would come after the destruction?  Nero now claimed that the Christians had planned to burn Rome and him in it so they could set up Paul, or maybe Peter, as king.

     Nero ordered all the Christians arrested.  "Immense multitudes" were sent to their death, including Paul.  Peter had been in Rome at the time of the fire but had escaped its flames.  When the persecution flared Peter was urged to flee for safety as some of the brethern feared that the Faith could not be preserved without him.

     While in hiding just outside Rome Peter had a vision.  His Master was entering the city with a cross-beam strapped to His shoulders, just as it had been before His crucifixtion in Jerusalem.  Peter asked Him where He was going.  The Lord replied that He was going to Rome to be crucified again.  Then Peter realized it was not God's will for him to take flight.  Jesus had prayed in His agony, "Not My will but Thine be done."

     On the shore of the Sea of Galilee Jesus had told Peter, "When you are old, you will stretch out your hands and another shall gird you and lead you where you would not go."  Peter remembered the Risen Christ saying, "You follow Me!"  Now he followed his beloved Lord through the fire of crucifixtion, that he might also follow Him to the Heavenly Jerusalem.