"I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me."
—Matthew 25:40

This passage from Matthew reminds us of Jesus’ presence in each person – most visible in those who are suffering. Whatever is done on behalf of the least among us is done to Jesus.

Living in the Spirit of Jesus is to live like Jesus, to see people as Jesus did. We are called to put the needs of others before our own. Thinking and acting in this way could require heroic efforts. When we find examples of people who achieve this, we find holiness.

Many people model holiness for us. Some teach us how to live, such as Jean Vanier and Mother Teresa. Some teach us that preparing for death is part of living, like Joseph Cardinal Bernardin and Sr. Thea Bowman. Every day we can find people around us who are living and dying as holy people. We learn, we imitate, we become holy.


Related Materials

Graced Moments–
Prayer Services for the Lives of Teens

These prayer services address contemporary issues to encourage holiness in young people. Services include, "From the Blessing of Drivers Licenses" and "Keys to Prayer at the Death of a Classmate." Each has introductory notes and a list of materials needed. Most also include creative ritual activities.

Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725).

Volume 1
ORDER NUMBER: 1-58459-075-0

Fireside Catholic Youth Bible
This New American Bible compiled for teens includes a collection of insightful and though-provoking articles.

Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725).

ORDER NUMBER: 1-55665-454-5 Hardcover
ORDER NUMBER: 1-55665-454-4 Softcover

Thematic Plans and Activities for Catholic Youth
Session plans designed for use with the Fireside Catholic Youth Bible.

ORDER NUMBER: 1-55665-051-5

Fireside Catholic Youth Bible Music CDs
This companion CD includes 21 songs related to the Fireside Youth Bible.

ORDER NUMBER: 1-55665-062-0