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St. Monica, Devoted Mother

Saint Monica (c. 332–387 AD) is widely remembered today as a model of patience, relentless prayer, and unwavering hope. Born in Thagaste, in modern-day Algeria, she was raised in a Christian family and later married a pagan Roman official named Patricius. Her constant prayers were for the conversion and salvation of her son, Augustine.

As a young man, Augustine turned away from his faith, embraced a hedonistic lifestyle, and joined a heretical sect called Manichaeism. Rather than giving up on him, Monica spent over seventeen years following him across the Roman Empire—from Thagaste to Carthage to Rome and Milan—praying continuously for his heart to change. Her persistent faith famously moved Saint Ambrose, the Bishop of Milan, to reassure her: “It is impossible that the son of so many tears should perish.”

Her prayers were eventually answered. Augustine experienced a profound conversion, was baptized, and went on to become one of the most influential theologians and writers in Christian history. Monica died shortly after her son’s baptism, content that her life’s single greatest purpose had been fulfilled.

She encourages us to pray without ceasing, and to patiently await God’s work, which he accomplishes through his Holy Word of Christ.

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St. Lawrence, Deacon & Martyr

St. Lawrence, one of the seven deacons of Rome, cared for the Church’s poor and defended its temporal and spiritual needs. Martyred in 258 under Emperor Valerian, he remained faithful, even as he was roasted alive on a gridiron, reportedly declaring, “I’m well done on this side; turn me over.” He exemplifies courage, compassion, and faithful service. His witness demonstrates that serving the least of Christ’s brethren is an essential aspect of discipleship, and that faithful stewardship of the Church’s gifts glorifies God.

Lawrence inspires us to serve Christ through care for others. By His grace, Christ equips us for faithful service and strengthens us amid challenges. May Lawrence’s example encourage generosity, steadfastness, and courageous witness in our daily lives.

A weekday spoken Mass for the Feast of Lawrence is celebrated at All Saints in Jonesboro Monday, August 10 at 12:10pm.

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School

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St. Mary Magdalene

Mary of Magdala stands among the most compelling figures in all of the Gospels. Healed by our Lord of seven demons (Luke 8:2), she followed Him throughout His ministry, stood at the foot of the Cross on Good Friday (John 19:25), and came to the tomb early on the first day of the week to anoint His body. It was to her that the risen Christ first appeared — speaking her name in the garden — and it was she whom He sent to tell the disciples: “I have seen the Lord” (John 20:18). The ancient Church honored her with the title Apostola apostolorum — Apostle to the Apostles — recognizing that the Lord chose a woman, and this woman in particular, to be the first herald of the Resurrection. We give thanks to God for her faithful witness and for the mercy that made it possible.

Holy Mass for the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene is celebrated at All Saints in Jonesboro Wednesday, July 22 at 6:30pm.

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School

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Division of the Apostles

This ancient feast, observed on July 15, commemorates the tradition that after the Ascension the Twelve cast lots to determine which regions of the world each would evangelize, and then scattered from Jerusalem to preach the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Though not a scriptural account per se, it gives liturgical expression to the missionary vocation of the apostolic office and the universal reach of the Church’s witness. An old tradition, attested as early as the fourth century, holds that before their dispersal the Apostles together composed the Apostles’ Creed — each contributing one of its articles — as a common rule of faith to carry with them. The feast reminds us that the Church is not an institution that waits for the world to come to it.

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St. Ambrose of Milan (postponed)

St. Ambrose of Milan (c. 340–397) served as bishop during a critical period in the Church’s history. Known for his pastoral wisdom, theological clarity, and courage, Ambrose defended the faith against heresy and guided the Church with humility and strength. His preaching and teaching profoundly influenced Christian theology and worship, including the conversion of St. Augustine. Ambrose’s leadership reflects the wisdom praised in Scripture and the faithful stewardship of Christ’s household (Sirach 47; John 15).

Ambrose’s life encourages faithful teaching rooted in Christ. As branches abiding in the true Vine, may we be nourished by God’s wisdom and bear fruit in lives shaped by faith, humility, and service.

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School
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The Resurrection of Our Lord

The Resurrection of Our Lord proclaims Christ’s victory over sin, death, and the grave. On the third day, the tomb was found empty, and the angel announced that Jesus had risen, just as He said (Mark 16:1–8). This feast stands at the center of the Church’s confession, declaring that Christ is our Passover who has been sacrificed and raised for us (1 Corinthians 5:7–8). The Resurrection assures believers that death has been defeated, and our own resurrection and eternal life have been secured in Christ.

The risen Christ calls us from fear into faith and from death into life. As the Church rejoices in His victory, may this feast renew our hope, strengthen our trust in God’s promises, and fill us with joy that Christ lives and reigns forever.

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School
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Holy Saturday

Holy Saturday is the quiet day between the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. His body rests in the tomb, while He descends to proclaim His victory over death and the grave (1 Peter 3:18–19). The Church keeps this day in stillness, holding together the sorrow of burial and the promise of resurrection.

In the Church’s teaching, this descent is not defeat but triumph. Lutheran dogmaticians such as Martin Chemnitz, Johann Gerhard, and Johannes Quenstedt emphasized that the hypostatic union was not broken in Christ’s death. Though His body and soul were separated, both remained united to His divine person. Thus, the One who descended is the same Christ who was crucified and buried—the victorious Lord who proclaims His triumph even in death.

Holy Saturday teaches us to wait upon the Lord in faith. When all seems hidden, Christ is still at work. His rest in the tomb is not defeat, but the completion of His saving labor.

May we learn this holy stillness, trusting that as Christ lay in the grave, so He will rise—and with Him, all who belong to Him.

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School
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Good Friday

Good Friday stands at the heart and center of the Christian faith, commemorating the suffering and death of Jesus Christ for the redemption of the world (John 18:1–19:42). Betrayed, condemned, and crucified, Christ bears the sin of humanity and fulfills the Scriptures. His cross reveals both the gravity of sin and the immeasurable depth of God’s mercy. The Church gathers in solemn reflection, confessing that by His wounds we are healed and that His death is the source of our life.

At the cross, we behold the cost of our redemption and the fullness of Christ’s love. Good Friday calls us to repentance, humility, and trust in the One who gave His life for us. May this day deepen our faith in Christ crucified and strengthen our hope in His saving work.

Readings: Hosea 5:15b—6:6 / Exodus 12:1–11 / John 18:1—19:42

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School
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Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday commemorates the night on which our Lord Jesus Christ instituted the Holy Supper and gave His disciples the new commandment of love. On this night, Christ humbled Himself to wash His disciples’ feet (John 13:1–15) and gave His Body and Blood for the forgiveness of sins (1 Corinthians 11:20–32). The Church remembers this day as the beginning of the great Three Days, in which Christ willingly enters His Passion for the salvation of the world. Maundy Thursday reveals the depth of Christ’s love, expressed through humble service and sacrificial giving.

Christ’s love is not spoken only in words but enacted in service and self-giving. As He kneels before His disciples and gives Himself for them, we are taught what love truly is. May this day draw us into deeper gratitude for Christ’s mercy and shape our lives in humble service toward one another.

Readings: Exodus 24:3–11 / 1 Corinthians 11:20–32 / John 13:1–15

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School
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Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday commemorates Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed with palms and praise (Luke 19:29–40). The crowds hailed Him as King, though His reign would soon be revealed through suffering and the cross. This day marks the beginning of Holy Week, directing the Church to the mystery of Christ’s humble kingship and His willing journey toward the Passion.

Palm Sunday calls us to follow Christ not only in moments of triumph, but also in obedience and faith through suffering. May this day strengthen our trust in Christ the King, who comes in humility to bring salvation through the cross.

Readings (Palm Sunday Procession): Exodus 15:27—16:7a / Luke 19:29–40
Readings (Palm Sunday Mass): Philippians 2:5–11 / Matthew 26:1—27:66

All Saints Classical Lutheran School forms children in this inheritance. Learn more at classicaljonesboro.org

All Saints Classical Lutheran School