Optional Memorial of Saint Angela Merici, Virgin

Brief Background:

St. Angela Merici (1474–1540) was an Italian woman of deep faith who dedicated her life to the Christian education of girls at a time when such education was rare. Living during the turmoil of the Renaissance, she saw that renewing society had to begin with forming the young in faith and virtue. In 1535, she founded the Company of St. Ursula (the Ursulines), a community devoted to teaching and spiritual formation, trusting that holiness could be lived in everyday life. Because of this mission, St. Angela Merici is honored as the patron saint of educators, teachers, and those who work in the formation of youth, especially young women. Her life reminds us that patient, faithful teaching can quietly transform the world.

REFLECTION:

When I was reading from the Second Book of Samuel in today’s reading, one small detail caught my attention and stirred my curiosity: “As soon as the bearers of the ark of the LORD had advanced six steps, he sacrificed an ox and a fatling.” I often find myself drawn to these little details in Scripture and asking, Why does it say that? Why six steps?

As I reflected on it, it strangely reminded me of COVID and the six- or ten-foot distance we were all told to keep—a “safe distance,” a reminder to be careful, to be mindful of one another. Then my thoughts went to the Communion line. Sometimes I notice how eager we are to step forward, even before the person in front of us has fully stepped aside. I understand the excitement—we want to receive the Lord—but in our eagerness, we can also lose something of the reverence of the moment.

Then I noticed something else in the verse: it does not say they advanced six steps—it says “the ark of the Lord had advanced six steps.” In other words, it is God who is going before them. They are not leading God; they are following Him. They are not rushing ahead of His presence; they are walking behind it. That alone is a powerful reminder for us: in our spiritual life, we are not meant to get ahead of God, but to let Him lead.

Earlier in the same chapter, Uzzah touched the Ark when it began to tip, and he died. It was a shocking and painful moment, but it taught David and the people that God’s presence is not something to be treated casually, even with good intentions. So this time, David does not rush. After only six steps, he stops and offers sacrifice. It is his way of saying, Every step in God’s presence matters.



This is not about fear; it is about love and reverence. And from that reverence flows great joy—David dances before the Lord with all his might. True worship always holds these two together: deep respect and deep joy. This reading invites us to look at our own lives and ask: Do we rush past God, or do we let Him go before us, setting the pace, while we follow with reverence and joy?