TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 22 MARCH
March 22, 2026
Day Twenty-Nine of Lent – Jesus is Lifted Up on the Cross
March 23, 2026
HIDDEN SERVICE CAN GLORIFY GOD
“AND YOUR FATHER WHO SEES IN SECRET WILL REWARD YOU.”
— MATTHEW 6:6
Saint Nicholas Owen lived much of his life unnoticed by the world, working quietly as a Jesuit lay brother. A skilled carpenter, he constructed ingenious hiding places—“priest holes”—to protect persecuted priests in England. Though his work was hidden, it saved countless lives. His example shows that even unseen acts, done with love, have immense value before God.
COURAGE IN THE FACE OF PERSECUTION
“BE FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH, AND I WILL GIVE YOU THE CROWN OF LIFE.”
— REVELATION 2:10
During the harsh persecution of Catholics under Elizabethan rule, Nicholas risked his life repeatedly to shelter priests. Despite constant danger, he continued his mission with unwavering courage. Even when arrested, he refused to betray others, demonstrating heroic fidelity to Christ in the face of death.
LOYALTY TO GOD ABOVE ALL
“WE MUST OBEY GOD RATHER THAN MEN.”
— ACTS 5:29
Nicholas Owen remained steadfast in his commitment to God’s will, even when it meant defying unjust laws. He assisted Jesuit priests in their ministry, fully aware of the consequences. His loyalty was not to earthly authority when it opposed God, but to the truth and mission entrusted to him.
HUMILITY IN GREATNESS
“WHOEVER HUMBLES HIMSELF LIKE THIS CHILD IS THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.”
— MATTHEW 18:4
Though he accomplished extraordinary work, Nicholas remained humble and preferred to remain unknown. He never sought recognition or praise, choosing instead to serve quietly. His humility reminds us that true greatness lies in surrendering oneself completely to God’s purpose.
ENDURANCE IN SUFFERING
“I CONSIDER THAT THE SUFFERINGS OF THIS PRESENT TIME ARE NOT WORTH COMPARING WITH THE GLORY TO BE REVEALED.”
— ROMANS 8:18
Nicholas was captured and subjected to brutal torture in the Tower of London. Despite intense suffering, he did not reveal any secrets that would endanger others. He endured pain with steadfast faith, offering his suffering to God until his death. His endurance stands as a powerful witness to the strength that comes from trust in God.
SACRIFICIAL LOVE FOR OTHERS
“GREATER LOVE HAS NO ONE THAN THIS, THAT SOMEONE LAY DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS.”
— JOHN 15:13
Saint Nicholas Owen ultimately gave his life to protect others. His silence under torture safeguarded many priests and fellow believers. His life was a reflection of Christ’s own sacrificial love—choosing to suffer so that others might live.
