October 4, 2003, Memorial of St. Francis of Assisi.

A reading from the book of Nehemiah.

In the month Nisan of the 20th year of King Artuxerxes, when the wine was in my charge, I took some and offered it to the king. As I had never before been sad in his presence,

the king asked me, Why do you look sad? If you are not sick, you must be sad at heart.

Though I was seized with great fear, I answered the king, may the king live forever. How could I not look sad

when the city where my ancestors

are buried lies in ruins

and its gates have been eaten out by fire?

The king asked me,

What is it then that you wish?

I prayed to the God of heaven

and then answered the king.

If it pleased the king, and if your servant is deserving of your favor, send me to Judah,

to the city of my ancestors' graves to rebuild it.

Then the king and the queen seated beside him asked me how long my journey would take and when I would

return.

I set a date that was acceptable to him, and the king agreed that I might go.

I asked the king further, if it pleased the king, let letters be given to me for the governors

of West of Euphrates, that they may afford

me safe conduct until I arrive in Judah. Also a letter for Asaph, the keeper of the royal

park, that he may give me wood for timbering the gates of the temple citadel, and for the

city wall, and the house that I shall occupy.

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