Amos - Prophet and Saint for Oppressed Peoples

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St. Amos – A Prophet and Saint for Oppressed People

God called Amos to travel to the northern kingdom of Israel to prophesy to the people there.

www.ncregister.com

Curiously, Amos began his prophecies with accusations and warnings toward the kingdoms that neighbored Israel, including his own kingdom of Judah. However, soon his words focused in on Israel itself. It was a time of affluence and satisfaction for many in the northern kingdom. A prosperous growth had given some of the people a strong sense of gratification; sadly, many became greedy and selfish. They paid little heed to the deprived and trampled upon them without care or concern.

Amos spoke out against this unkind treatment of the poor and warned of dismal consequences. He also warned the people that any pious offerings or sacrifices would be valueless if those presenting the offerings were simultaneously insensitive toward the less fortunate. Amos met with Amaziah, the priest of the Israelite city Bethel, and challenged the irreligious ways of Israel. Amaziah could not bear to hear Amos’s words; he found them too challenging to his comfortable way of life. Amaziah angrily ordered that Amos leave Israel. Amos evidently ignored the command and continued to preach to the people of Israel for a while longer, hoping to persuade them to live more godly lifestyles.

An interesting article about the Prophet Amos, an Old Testament prophet and saint for oppressed peoples.

The author of the article includes a suggested Novena based on 9 readings from the Book of Amos.