August 2.   In one study group they considered the question, “How do you all here, men and women feel about women using their feminine wiles to manipulate men and get their own way, and even colluding and using other women for this?  Talk to one another, as men and women about this for a moment.” Someone very quickly brought up the case of the judge and the secretary who had taken him to court and accused him of harassment.  Feedback was almost unanimous from men and women that manipulation is not the way to achieve any kind of balance. It is not fair.  Rayhab concluded.  “Thank you, we are definitely going to have to unpack this much more.”

Scripture:  When Herod’s birthday came the daughter of Herodias danced before the company and pleased Herod, so that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask.   Prompted by her mother she said, “give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.”   Matthew 14: 1-12.  Pope Francis.   The equal dignity of men and women makes us rejoice to see old forms of discrimination disappear, and within families there is a growing reciprocity.  From AL 54 . JUBILEE:   May the Christian community always be prepared to defend the rights of those who are most vulnerable, opening wide its doors to welcome them, lest anyone ever be robbed of the hope of a better future.  SNC 13.   Act and pray. For the needs of families of all kinds to grow in love and acceptance.