The Introit, Prayer and Gradual inspire us with confidence as we too "go up" with faith (Offertory) and charity (Communion). Today a Roman priest, St. Valentine, who fell in 270 to martyrdom, is remembered as a priest/physician who helped Christians being persecuted for the Faith. Although not commemorated in the Mass, pray for his intercession to help those suffering persecution or sickness.
The week ahead:
Monday 15th February 2021:
Feast of SS Faustinus and Jovita Mm., brothers, who suffered martyrdom at Brescia, Italy in 117, and are patrons of the city. Mass of the prior Sunday may be celebrated with commemoration of the martyrs or Mass of the martyrs may be celebrated.
Tuesday 16th February 2021:
Ferial day. Mass of the prior Sunday, or a votive Mass, may be celebrated. Where the practice of the 40 Hours or Quarantore devotion takes place, a Votive Mass of the Blessed Sacrament is entirely suitable.
Ash Wednesday 17th February 2021:
Distribution of ashes precedes the Mass. This marks the beginning of Lent and is a day of fast and abstinence. Two small collations, not adding up to one meal, and one full meal make the traditional Catholic fasting obligation. No meat at all this day constitutes the abstinence regulation for those 7 years and above. Fasting traditionally applies to those between 21 and 59, not the sick.
Furthermore: during Lent: Every Friday is a day of strict abstinence which is traditionally a strict obligation for all Catholics age 7 and above under penalty of sin. Catholics traditionally maintain a fast and have meat only with the main meal daily during the 40 days of Lent. Sundays are not part of the 40 days of Lent.
Thursday after Ash Wednesday, 18th February: Commemoration of St. Simeon E. M., son of Cleophas and Mary, who was close to Our Lady, Bishop of Jerusalem, crucified for the Faith in 106 at age 120.
Friday after Ash Wednesday, 19th February
Saturday after Ash Wednesday, 20th February
Proper Masses of these days: Audívit Dóminus