Holy Martyrs of Japan Catholic Church

06/03/2026

Who is ready for some Cardinals Baseball this summer!!

Many thanks to DAN La CHANCE
For his wonderful donation of St Louis Baseball Cardinals tickets!!❤️

Dan has graciously donated 10 games of baseball tickets with 4 seats together for our silent auction at our annual picnic on Sunday July 14th❤️

Seats are in section 153
Row 15
Seats 11- 14

Game dates:

July 8 against Brewers

July 22 against Diamond Backs
July 23 against Diamond Backs
July 24 against Diamond Backs

July 29 against Cubs

August 10 against Phillies
August 11 against Phillies
August 12 against Phillies
August 25 against Orioles

Sept 14 against Giants

Times of game start will be on bidding sheets

Silent auction hours are noon to 5pm day of picnic

The silent auction is held in our large covered pavilion. Bidding sheets are on tables, tickets will be handed out after all bidding has stopped and winners are announced.

Again thank you so very much to Dan LaPlant for his wonderful donation❤️

06/02/2026

WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF THE ALTAR?
Understanding the Heart of Catholic Worship

“At every Mass, the altar stands at the center of Catholic worship. Yet many Catholics do not realize that even the altar itself contains rich symbolism and sacred meaning.”

Every Catholic has seen the altar.

It is the focal point of the celebration of the Holy Mass, the place where the Eucharistic sacrifice is offered and where heaven and earth meet in worship.

Yet many Catholics know surprisingly little about the altar itself.

In Catholic tradition, the altar is not simply a table. It is one of the most sacred furnishings within a church because it represents Christ Himself and serves as the place where the sacrifice of the Cross is made present sacramentally during the Mass.

Understanding its parts helps Catholics appreciate both its beauty and its profound spiritual significance.

1. WHAT IS THE ALTAR?
The altar is the sacred table upon which the Eucharistic sacrifice is celebrated.

From the earliest centuries of Christianity, the altar has been regarded as the center of liturgical worship.

It is here that bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
For this reason, the Church requires that the altar be treated with great reverence and dignity.

Before Mass, the altar is prepared.
During Mass, it becomes the center of the Eucharistic celebration.

After Mass, it remains a sacred reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and presence.

2. THE ALTAR MENSA
The mensa is the flat upper surface of the altar.
The word mensa comes from the Latin word for “table.”

This is the part upon which:
* the corporal is placed
* the chalice rests
* the gifts are presented
* and the Eucharistic sacrifice is celebrated

Because of its sacred purpose, the mensa is treated with particular reverence.

3. THE ALTAR BASE OR SUPPORT
Beneath the mensa is the altar’s supporting structure.

Depending on the church, this may consist of:
* pillars
* solid stone supports
* carved wood
* or other dignified materials
Its purpose is both practical and symbolic.

Just as Christ is the foundation of the Church, the altar stands firmly upon its base.

4. THE ALTAR CLOTH
The altar cloth is the white cloth placed upon the altar.

The Church requires that at least one white altar cloth cover the mensa during the celebration of Mass.
The cloth serves both practical and symbolic purposes.

It reflects the dignity of the altar and recalls the linen cloths associated with Christ’s burial.

5. THE RELICS OF SAINTS
In many churches, relics of saints are placed beneath or within the altar.
This ancient Christian practice dates back to the early Church, when Mass was often celebrated over the tombs of martyrs.

The presence of relics reminds Catholics of the communion of saints and the witness of those who gave their lives for Christ.

6. THE ALTAR CROSS
Near or upon the altar is a crucifix or altar cross.

The cross reminds worshippers that every Mass makes present the one sacrifice of Christ on Calvary.
The Eucharist and the Cross can never be separated.

The altar cross helps keep this truth before the eyes of the faithful.

7. THE ALTAR CANDLES
Candles are placed upon or near the altar during Mass.

They symbolize:
* Christ the Light of the World
* reverence
* prayer
* and the sacredness of the liturgical celebration

The number of candles used may vary depending on the liturgical occasion.

8. THE ALTAR STEPS (WHERE PRESENT)
In some churches, the altar is elevated by one or more steps.

These steps help distinguish the sanctuary from the nave and emphasize the importance of the altar as the center of worship.

They also remind believers that the liturgy draws them toward heavenly realities.

IN SUMMARY: THE HEART OF CATHOLIC WORSHIP
The altar is far more than a piece of church furniture.

It is the sacred place where Christ’s sacrifice is sacramentally made present and where the faithful gather around the Eucharistic mystery.

Its various parts; the mensa, base, altar cloth, relics, altar cross, candles, and steps, each contribute to its beauty, dignity, and spiritual meaning.

Every time Catholics attend Mass, the altar quietly proclaims the central mystery of the Christian faith:
Christ died, Christ is risen, and Christ remains present among His people.

Today, reflect:
When I look at the altar during Mass, do I recognize it as the sacred center of Catholic worship?

“The altar is the table of sacrifice, the table of the Lord, and the heart of the church’s liturgical life.”

If this helped you understand your Catholic faith better, share it and tell us:
Which sacred object or place in the Church would you like us to explain next?

SOURCE:
Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1182)
General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM 296–308)
Dedication of a Church and an Altar
Code of Canon Law
Church Teaching on Sacred Liturgy

Be Prayerful. Be Inspired
©Catholic Dailies

06/02/2026

06/01/2026

JUNE IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
Major Devotions, Feasts & Solemnities

“A month centered on the Eucharist, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and some of the Church’s greatest saints.”

As May draws to a close with its special focus on the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Church enters June with her eyes fixed firmly on Jesus Christ.

Traditionally dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, June is one of the richest months in the Catholic calendar. It is filled with Eucharistic celebrations, beloved devotions, powerful solemnities, and saints whose lives continue to inspire Christians around the world.

For Catholics, June is not merely another page on the calendar. It is a spiritual journey that invites us to deepen our love for Christ, strengthen our devotion to the Eucharist, and grow in holiness through the witness of the saints.

Here are some of the major Catholic devotions, feasts, and solemnities of June 2026.

1. THE MONTH OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
June 1-30
The entire month of June is traditionally dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The Sacred Heart represents Christ’s infinite love, mercy, compassion, and sacrifice for humanity. Throughout this month, Catholics are encouraged to reflect on God’s love revealed in Christ and to respond with greater faith, prayer, and devotion.

Many Catholics observe:
* Eucharistic Adoration
* First Friday Devotions
* Acts of Reparation
* Consecration to the Sacred Heart
* and daily prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

June reminds us that the Heart of Christ continues to burn with love for His people.

2. CORPUS CHRISTI NOVENA
May 29 - June 6, 2026
The Corpus Christi Novena prepares the faithful for the celebration of Corpus Christi and helps deepen appreciation for the gift of the Holy Eucharist.

During these nine days, Catholics meditate on:
* the Real Presence of Jesus
* the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass
* Eucharistic Adoration
* and the transforming power of Holy Communion

It is a beautiful opportunity to prepare our hearts for one of the Church’s most important Eucharistic celebrations.

3. SOLEMNITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI
June 7, 2026
(Sunday Observance in many dioceses)
Corpus Christi, meaning “Body of Christ,” celebrates Jesus truly present in the Eucharist; Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.

This solemnity reminds Catholics that the Eucharist is not merely a symbol but Christ Himself, given for the life of the world.

Many parishes mark the occasion through:
* Eucharistic Processions
* Adoration
* Benediction
* and special parish celebrations

It remains one of the most profound celebrations of Catholic Eucharistic faith.

4. FEAST OF JESUS CHRIST, THE ETERNAL HIGH PRIEST
June 11, 2026
(Where Observed)
This feast honors Jesus as the eternal and perfect High Priest who continually intercedes for humanity before the Father.

It reminds Catholics that Christ remains the source of all priesthood and that every Catholic priest shares in His priestly ministry.

It is also a special day to pray for:
* priests
* seminarians
* vocations
* and holiness within the clergy

5. SOLEMNITY OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
June 12, 2026
The Feast of the Sacred Heart is the spiritual high point of the month.

Rooted in Sacred Scripture and enriched by centuries of Catholic devotion, this solemnity highlights Christ’s immense love for humanity.

The Sacred Heart reminds believers that God’s love is:
* personal
* merciful
* sacrificial
* and always inviting us back to Him

It remains one of the most beloved celebrations in Catholic spirituality.

6. MEMORIAL OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY
June 20, 2026
Celebrated immediately after the Sacred Heart of Jesus, this memorial honors the loving and faithful heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Church places these two celebrations side by side to remind believers of the unique union between Jesus and His Mother in God’s plan of salvation.

Mary’s heart points Catholics toward:
* obedience
* humility
* faithfulness
* and complete trust in God

7. SOLEMNITY OF THE NATIVITY OF SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST
June 24, 2026
Saint John the Baptist occupies a unique place in salvation history.
He prepared the way for Christ and boldly called people to repentance.

The Church celebrates his birth because of his extraordinary mission as the Forerunner of the Messiah.

His words continue to challenge Christians today:
“He must increase; I must decrease.” (John 3:30)

John remains a powerful model of humility, courage, and faithful witness.

8. SOLEMNITY OF SAINTS PETER AND PAUL
June 29, 2026
This great solemnity honors two pillars of the early Church.

Saint Peter represents the apostolic foundation of the Church and the ministry entrusted to the successors of the Apostles.

Saint Paul represents missionary zeal and the call to bring the Gospel to all nations.

Though very different in personality and background, both gave their lives for Christ and helped shape the Church we know today.

Their feast reminds Catholics of the Church’s apostolic roots and universal mission.

IN SUMMARY: A MONTH OF THE EUCHARIST AND THE HEART OF CHRIST
June is one of the most spiritually rich months in the Catholic year.

Through Corpus Christi, the Sacred Heart, the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Saint John the Baptist, and Saints Peter and Paul, the Church invites believers to deepen their relationship with Christ and His Church.

At the center of all these celebrations stands one message:
Jesus Christ loves His people and continues to remain with them through the Eucharist, His Church, and the communion of saints.

As we journey through June, may every feast, devotion, and solemnity draw us closer to the Heart of Christ.

“The Sacred Heart of Jesus is the spiritual heartbeat of June.”

Which June celebration are you looking forward to most?

JUNE PRAYER
Sacred Heart of Jesus,
guide us through this new month.

Deepen our love for the Eucharist,
strengthen our faith,
bless our families,
protect Your Church,
and lead us closer to You each day.

May June be a month of grace,
peace, holiness, and spiritual growth.

SOURCE:
General Roman Calendar (2026)
Roman Missal
Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Universal Norms on the Liturgical Year and the Calendar

Be Prayerful. Be Inspired
©️ Catholic Dailies

06/01/2026

In 2026, the feast days for the Three Holy Hearts fall on the following dates:

Sacred Heart of Jesus: Friday, June 12, 2026

Immaculate Heart of Mary: Saturday, June 13, 2026

Most Chaste Heart of Saint Joseph: Wednesday, June 17, 2026 (Celebrated on the first Wednesday following the Feast of the Sacred Heart).

06/01/2026

Clean up of our church grounds for the annual picnic is next Saturday June 6th, 9am.

Any and all help is very much appreciated, thank you!