April 18, 2026

1At that time, as the number of disciples continued to grow, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. 3Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, 4whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5The proposal was acceptable to the whole community, so they chose Stephen, a man filled with faith and the holy Spirit, also Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicholas of Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6They presented these men to the apostles who prayed and laid hands on them. 7The word of God continued to spread, and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly; even a large group of priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

1Psalm 33 Praise of God’s Power and Providence I - Rejoice, you righteous, in the LORD; praise from the upright is fitting. 2Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; on the ten-stringed lyre offer praise. 4For the LORD’s word is upright; all his works are trustworthy. 5He loves justice and right. The earth is full of the mercy of the LORD. 18Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon those who fear him, upon those who count on his mercy, 19To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive through famine.

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16When it was evening, his disciples went down to the sea, 17embarked in a boat, and went across the sea to Capernaum. It had already grown dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18The sea was stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. 19When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they began to be afraid. 20But he said to them, “It is I. Do not be afraid.” 21They wanted to take him into the boat, but the boat immediately arrived at the shore to which they were heading.