4th Sunday in Ordinary Time 2026 - Healing Division through Humility

 

For the first six sundays of ordinary time this year, our second readings are taken from the first letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians.

Throughout his letters, St. Paul gives us a glimpse into those early Christian communities: the Philippians, the Galatians, the Ephesians, the Thessalonians, the Corinthians. Like our own, each of those communities had its own history, its unique and diverse gifts and particular challenges.

Paul praised the Philippians for instance, for their generous support of the poor, and for their commitment to working together. The Philippians took seriously the need for Christians to cooperate in the spread of the Gospel. Yet they were not without challenges. Paul had to address disunity and rivalry among them.

The Galatians too had their gifts. Paul describes the tremendous outpouring of the holy Spirit in Galatia; miracles, even, were evident there. Yet Paul had to address how members of the Galatian church were being swayed by a "different gospel," as he called it. Some members were insisting that gentiles had to be circumcised if they were to be saved. And where does Jesus teach that? He doesn’t. So, Paul had to correct their sacramental theology: that it is baptism, not circumcision which unites us to Christ, our Savior.

So, too, the Ephesians. Paul praised their strong faith in Christ and their love for the saints. He thanked God for the profound spiritual blessings evident among them. Yet, the Ephesians, too, had challenges. Paul detected some willful ignorance in them, hardness of heart, callousness, licentiousness and impurity. And so he challenged them to grow in Christian maturity—to get serious about casting off their old way of life and to put on the new way of Christ.

And then there were the Corinthians! Oh, the Corinthians. Thanks to St. Paul’s extensive correspondence with the Corinthians, we are better informed about the church at Corinth than probably any other first-century Christian community.

Paul extolled their knowledge, their eloquence in speech, and the diversity of their spiritual gifts. Yet,  just because they knew the faith and were eloquent in explaining it, didn’t mean they were living it. There were divisions and quarrels among them. The Corinthians had allowed the sexual immorality of the pagan culture take root in their community. They had disagreements about Christian marriage and food offered to idols. They also had arguments about theology.  They had issues with disorder in worship. Their church politics was causing division. All of these divisions, theological, earthly, and moral were threatening their mission and their souls.

This is why Paul began his letter, as we heard last week, urging the Corinthians to strive for Church unity—unity in faith, behavior, and worship. Why? Because division hinders the mission. It makes it hard to prove that Jesus is the Way of peace and reconciliation and holiness, if our divisions are disrupting that peace. So Paul urges the Corinthians to make every effort to strive for unity among them.

That concern for unity is exactly why Paul turns, in today’s passage, in our second reading, to the teaching on humility.

“Consider your own calling, brothers and sisters.” Our calling to what? To be first and foremost, witnesses of the Gospel. And it’s not because we were rich, powerful, and wise that God chose us, but because we are foolish, weak, and sinful, in other words, we were in need of saving. No amount of earthly riches and worldly knowledge or wisdom could get us to heaven. We can’t get to heaven on our own. We can’t find peace and joy and fulfillment on our own. We need God. We need Jesus Christ. And the Christian is first and foremost a soul who humbly admits he needs God.

That brings us directly to the Beatitudes. In the Gospel today, we hear the beginning of the Lord’s Sermon on the Mount, this series of short but powerful teachings, known as the beatitudes: teachings about the dispositions, attitudes, decisions Christians are to practice if we are going to live a blessed life on earth that leads to eternal blessedness in heaven.

The Lord begins his Sermon, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” It is not arbitrary that Jesus teaches this beatitude first. For it is not one Beatitude among many. It is the fundamental beatitude that is necessary to obtain the others—It is doorway to all the rest, and instruction that every Christian is to adopt at a fundamental level.

When the Lord says “blessed are the poor”, he’s not saying that poverty is holy. He’s not saying that all poor people are holy, and by virtue of their poverty, they are automatically going to heaven. He’s not saying that all Christians need to be materially poor.

What’s he saying. Fundamentally, essentially, To be poor in spirit is to recognize our need for God—not occasionally, not in emergencies, but always. It is the recognition that we cannot save, justify sanctify, or redeem ourselves. It’s to acknowledge that we are not only incomplete without God, we’re incomplete if God is not the absolute center and primary force of our lives, of every decision and relationship.

If poverty of spirit is not our fundamental disposition, and God is not the absolute center of our lives, then something else is. Something unholy. Pride. Pride, the deadliest of sins because it claims, I’m not poor in spirit, I can get to heaven on my own, I can be fulfilled without God.

Pride, is believing the same lie that the enemy told Adam and Eve in the Garden, you don’t need God, you don’t need to obey, you don’t need to give your heart to Him. You can make it on your own, you’ll be happier without Him.

Pride. It hinders advancement in the spiritual life because it makes God secondary to our own egos. It stalls conversion, halts repentance, obstructs spiritual growth, impedes the mission of the Gospel. It keeps us from the life-giving waters and mercy of Christ, the spiritual fire of the Holy Spirit, and the loving embrace of the Father.

But blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. To be poor in spirit means to open wide the doors of ones mind, soul, and heart to God.

This is why St. Paul stresses humility—poverty in spirit—as the remedy for the division and immorality in Corinth. Because as each member of the Church seeks God with their whole heart, mind, soul, and strength, they are brought in deeper union with God and with one another.

Each of us does well to ask the Holy Spirit to helps us identify how we are called to better strive for and live out that first beatitude. What does it mean to be poor in spirit in my understanding of Catholic doctrine? What does it mean to be poor in spirit in my approach to and celebration of the Sacraments? What does it mean to be poor in spirit in my moral life—in my obedience to the commandments, the call to charity and the cultivation of the virtues? What does it mean to be poor in spirit, to throw open the doors of my heart in prayer?

May the Holy Spirit help each of us to identify who we can take more seriously this first beatitude, to grow in surrender and trust and obedience to God, who heals the wounds of sin and division for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

1st Week of Advent 2025 - Monday - The Centurion's Advent Faith

 “"Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” On this first weekday of Advent we read the powerful Gospel passage of the faith of the Centurion. The Centurion, a non-Jew, like us, believed that Jesus had the power to heal.

Out of all of the Gospels, why does Mother Church present us with this Gospel in particular on the first weekday of Advent?

Advent starts with desire: the ache for God to come close, to save, to heal, to set things right. The Centurion’s simple cry—“Lord… only say the word”—is the voice of every human heart waiting for Christ. Advent begins not with the instruction to make sure we buy the right presents or decorate our homes with the right amount of tinsel, but with a plea for mercy—humble longing, confident trust, and the recognition that we cannot save ourselves.

The fact that the Centurion is a Gentile is a signal that Christ came for all nations. So, On Day 1 of Advent, the Church reminds us: The Messiah is for the whole world. This echoes a constant theme we’ll hear from Isaiah throughout this season: of all nations streaming toward the mountain of the Lord.

The Centurion believes without seeing — Advent is a season of unseen hope. Jesus does not go to the house. He speaks a word. The servant is healed. Advent involves this kind of faith: a willingness to trust God before the fulfillment is visible, to believe the promises before the manger is filled, to hope for what we do not yet see.

And yet, this exchange between Jesus and the Centurion certainly foreshadows Christmas, at which we celebrate that God enters under our roof—not because we are worthy, but because He is merciful. 

Hence, the Centurion teaches us how to wait for Christ: with humility, with faith, with hope in God’s power to save, with a universal vision of a Messiah for all people, with the readiness to welcome Him under our roof

It is the whole spirituality of Advent packed into a single moment of great faith.

As the Lord enters our roof in the celebration of Mass today, in Word and Sacrament, may we learn from the humble Centurion in preparing well for Christmas for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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With humble trust in the Lord who speaks the saving word, let us present our prayers and petitions.

As we begin a new liturgical year and the season of Advent, we pray for the gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love to fill the Church, the world, and our hearts.  Let us pray to the Lord.

That Christ may guide the minds of those who govern us to promote authentic peace and justice according to God’s Holy Will. Let us pray to the Lord.

For the protection of our armed forces, police, and firemen and all those who risk their lives to preserve our security and freedom. For peace in those war-torn areas of the world and God’s protection of persecuted Christians. Let us pray to the Lord.

That, like the Centurion’s servant, those in need of healing—physical, emotional, or spiritual—may experience the saving word of Christ spoken over their lives. Let us pray to the Lord.

That as we receive the Lord in Word and Sacrament today, we may welcome Him with humble longing, confident trust, and a renewed desire to prepare well for Christmas.

For our beloved dead: That those who awaited the Lord in faith may now behold the fulfillment of every promise in the Kingdom of heaven.

God our Father, in Your mercy You sent Your Son as Savior of All nations. Hear these prayers we bring with faith, and grant us the grace to welcome Christ under our roof with humility and hope. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time 2025 - Conduct your affairs in humility

 During my Sunday homily, about a month ago, I reflected upon one of my favorite passages from the poet Dante—from the second volume of his Divine Comedy—the purgatorio. After making his way through the inferno, where he encounters the souls of the damned, Dante must make his way up the mountain of purgatory. And there he meets the souls, like himself, still in need of purification before they can enter heaven. 

In purgatory, the first group of souls Dante meets are those needing to be purified from the sin of pride. And these souls were undergoing a very unique type of purification—a remedy for their pride. Do you remember what it was? The souls of the prideful humbled themselves by carrying heavy weights on their backs, bowed down to the earth, and through prayer—particularly by praying the Our Father.

They refused to bow down to God as they should, in life, and they refused to pray as they should, so now, before entering heaven, they carried those heavy weights to teach them to humbly bow down to God as they should. And they prayed the Our Father, over and over, so that they could internalize that beautiful prayer of humble trust and surrender to the Will of God.

Humility. Humility is at the heart of our readings this sunday. In the first reading, the great Old Testament teacher, Sirach, taught his young students, “conduct your affairs with humility”…the greater you are, the more you need to humble yourself. 

Sirach here is certainly foreshadowing the teachings of Jesus. In the Gospel, Jesus told a parable all about humility: take the lowest place at the banquet, “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and everyone who humbles himself will be exalted". 

Humility. It is to be one of the defining characteristics of our lives as Christians, because it was defining characteristic of Jesus himself. Though he was God, Jesus “humbled Himself” by becoming obedient to the point of death—even to death on a cross.

The Gospels recount the humble nature of Jesus’ birth. He was born to a humble virgin and wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger in straw poverty. He grew up in obscurity. The Gospels have nothing to say about the majority of his life, except that he was humbly obedient to his parents in the house of Nazareth.

His humility is seen throughout his public ministry; Jesus did not have a house of his own. While in Capernaum, he stayed in the house of Simon Peter. He surrounded himself not with the rich and powerful, but poor fishermen. He associated with public sinners, and ministered not primarily to the wealthy, but those who could not repay him: the poor, the sick, the lame, and the demon possessed.

So many of his teachings are about humility: “blessed are the poor in spirit” are the opening words of his great sermon. In other words, if you wish to become great in the eyes of God, you must become completely dependent upon God. 

Jesus tells stories highlighting examples of humility like that of the tax collector and the pharisee. It is the tax collector who humbly admits himself to be a sinner in need of God who is exalted by Jesus, and not the supposed religious expert who thought he was doing everything right in his own eyes.

When his disciples argued about which one of them would be the greatest, Jesus rebukes them, saying, “The kings of the Gentiles lord their power over their subjects … But it must not be so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant.”

Humility. St. Augustine, doctor of the Church, whose feast was this last week on August 28 said, “If you should ask me what are the three most important virtues, I would tell you they are humility, humility, and humility…if humility does not precede all that we do, our efforts are meaningless.”

St. John Vianney said: “humility is to the various virtues what the chain is to a rosary. Take away the chain and the beads are scattered; remove humility, and all the virtues vanish.”

Humility is the foundation for the life of holiness and for all the virtues, which is why humility, “poverty of spirit” is listed as the first of the beatitudes. 

So what does it mean to “conduct your affairs with humility” as Sirach teaches? Well, what affairs? Humility is needed in our family lives, towards your spouse, toward your children, toward your parents, towards your bishop, towards your fellow parishioners. It is needed in your business decisions, toward strangers, toward cashiers and waitresses, and slow bank tellers when you are in a hurry. 

Humility. It’s the recognition that I am not more important than anyone else. It means putting others’ needs before our own, even when we’re tired or inconvenienced. It means asking, “How can I serve?” rather than “What do I get out of this?” 

Humility does NOT mean simply having a low-open of yourself, or inflicting an inferiority complex on yourself. As C.S. Lewis famously observed, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” Do you see the difference?

We spend an awful lot of time and energy thinking about ourselves, comparing ourselves to others, and we are sadder for it. Constantly worrying about social standing leads to social anxiety. Constantly focusing on what others have leads to envy and resentment, which makes us bitter.

Humility on the other hand, frees us from self-preoccupation, from the pride which poisons joy.

A humble person understands that their life, abilities, opportunities, and even their faith are gifts from God, not entitlements or achievements of their own making. And in recognition that God is the source of our blessings, the response of the humble heart is gratitude. A humble heart, is a grateful heart.

Humility isn’t easy. If it was, the word of God wouldn’t spend so much time teaching and commanding it. Humility takes effort. Cultivating gratitude over envy, shifting from self-preoccupation to service, takes real effort. But this is the Way. This is the Way of Christ. Without taking humility seriously, we will never progress very far in the spiritual life on earth, and we are likely setting ourselves up for a very very long and uncomfortable purgatory.

So, let’s ask the Lord to help us to grow in this most Christ-like of virtues, after all, he wants us to grow in it. We’ll certainly be happier for it, and holy, too, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

12th Week in Ordinary Time 2025 - Monday - Humble self-examination

 In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches many lessons about the attitudes and actions that Christians need to practice: we need to pray, fast, give alms, we need to forgive if we wish to be forgiven, we need to be willing to make peace with our brother, and be willing to suffer for the Gospel.

We heard from the part of his sermon today where Jesus teaches his followers about judging others. He tells us to stop condemning what needs to change in others without changing what needs to change in ourselves. 

This is one of the most challenging teachings of Christ, because it calls us to a deep honesty—complete honesty—about our own hearts, attitudes, and motives. It is easy to notice the faults of others—their selfishness, their bad temper, their hypocrisy. But it is much harder to notice, let alone admit, the ways that we ourselves are failing to love as we should. We look at ourselves with rose colored glasses, while looking at others with laser focus. 

The Lord’s teaching to remove the speck from our own eye is a call to humility and conversion. It challenges us to look inward, to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what needs healing and repentance in our lives. 

The humility of self-examination is one of the most vital, yet most difficult, virtues in the spiritual life. It is the quiet, honest posture of the soul that says: “Lord, I know I am not yet who you call me to be. Show me the truth about myself—not to discourage me, but to heal me.”

At its core, humble self-examination is the refusal to live on the surface of life. It is a deliberate turning inward, not in self-absorption, but in the hope that God will reveal what lies beneath: our mixed motives, our hidden resentments, our pride, our attachments, our wounds.

This kind of humility recognizes that we are complex creatures—capable of great love, but also of deep selfishness. We don’t always understand why we act the way we do, or why certain patterns repeat themselves. And so we ask the Holy Spirit to shine light into our inner life.

To follow Christ means being willing to do the hard work of interior transformation. And when we do that work, we begin to see others differently—not as people to condemn, but as fellow sinners in need of mercy because we’ve seen how deeply we need mercy ourselves, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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Mindful of the Lord’s call to examine our hearts and to grow in compassion and humility, let us bring our needs before the God of mercy and truth.

For the Church: That all Christians may respond to Christ’s call to interior conversion, growing in humility, self-awareness, and love of neighbor.

For leaders of nations and all who hold authority: That they may govern with wisdom and justice, and seek peace rooted in mutual respect and the dignity of all people.

For an increase in compassion, an end to war and terrorism, and for the protection of the most vulnerable.

For those who are sick, poor, or burdened by suffering: That they may experience the comfort of God’s mercy and the support of a compassionate community.

For the faithful departed: That, purified by God’s mercy, they may see Him face to face and rejoice in His presence for eternity.

Loving Father, You see into the depths of our hearts and call us gently to repentance and healing. Hear these prayers we offer and grant us the grace to grow in humility and love, through Christ our Lord.

5th Week of Easter 2025 - Monday - Being taught by the Holy Spirit

 Already we draw near to the end of the Easter Season and the great feast of Pentecost. Our Scripture readings have even begun to signal the coming feast of the Holy Spirit. 

In the Gospel today, the Lord announces, “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name—he will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I told you.”

The Holy Spirit helps each Christian to be open to being taught continually by God and following in the footsteps of Jesus—of truly being his disciple.

The Holy Spirit helps us to remain humble enough to recognize that we do not have all the answers ourselves. He helps us to remain open to being corrected, instructed, guided in the ways of life, in the teachings of Jesus.

A Christian who has shut himself off from learning is no doubt obstructing--is no doubt hindering--the work of the Holy Spirit in his life. 

Rather, the Holy Spirit reminds us of the need to engage personally with Scripture, and  setting aside time for prayer and reflection, deliberately creating space in our lives for the Holy Spirit to speak to us and remind us of Christ’s words.

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit helps us to put the truths of our faith into action. It is not enough merely to know the teachings of Jesus intellectually—we must strive to embody them in our daily lives. When Jesus commands us to love our neighbors, to forgive others, and to serve those in need, the Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill these commands concretely and generously.

The Holy Spirit, helps us to remember the teachings of Jesus especially when we need them most. When we are facing a difficulty, temptation, or trial, when we are confused about how we are to act as a Christian, the Holy Spirit reminds us of the Gospel: the demands of discipleship, the closeness of God, the perfection for which we are to strive. 

The Holy Spirit also helps us remember Jesus’ teaching when others need us to respond to their sufferings. He reminds us “that which you did for the least of my brothers, you did for” Jesus. 

As we prepare to celebrate Pentecost, let us consciously renew our openness to the Holy Spirit. May we humbly commit ourselves more deeply to the life-long process of being taught, reminded, and transformed by the Holy Spirit, so that our lives may continually reflect the teachings of Jesus, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

 

As we prepare to celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, let us open our hearts to God’s grace and ask for the Spirit’s guidance in our lives.

For all Christians, that we may remain humble and open to the Spirit’s instruction, constantly growing in our understanding and practice of the faith, let us pray to the Lord.

For all who are struggling with confusion, doubt, or temptation, that the Holy Spirit may remind them of Christ’s nearness and strengthen them in holiness and hope, let us pray to the Lord.

For those who teach the faith—parents, catechists, clergy, and educators, that the Holy Spirit may guide their words and example, helping others to encounter Christ through them, let us pray to the Lord.

For the sick, the dying, and those in need of comfort, that the Holy Spirit, the Consoler, may fill them with peace and strength, let us pray to the Lord.

For our beloved dead, that the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead may bring them into eternal life, let us pray to the Lord.

Father, send your Holy Spirit into our hearts to teach us, remind us, and transform us in the image of your Son. Hear the prayers we offer today and grant us the grace to live as faithful disciples of Jesus. Through the same Christ our Lord.

2nd Week of Lent 2025 - Tuesday - Conversion of the Pharisee within

Do I practice my faith out of genuine love for God and neighbor, or am I more concerned about how others perceive me?

Do I judge and burden others harshly, pointing out their faults while neglecting my own need for conversion?

Have I allowed pride or self-righteousness to creep into my heart, distancing me from God and others?

In today’s Gospel, Jesus sharply criticizes the Pharisees—not because they lacked religious devotion, but because their hearts were filled with pride, hypocrisy, and the desire to be praised by others. They followed the rules outwardly, yet inwardly their hearts were far from God. Lent is a season to honestly confront the ways these same pharisaic attitudes may exist within us and to courageously root them out.

Jesus highlights three dangerous attitudes among the Pharisees: hypocrisy, pride, and the misuse of authority. The Pharisees loved recognition and respect. Their actions—long tassels, widened phylacteries, and honored seats—were not motivated by love of God but by love of self. Their piety was an outward show, not inward devotion. 

Our Lenten scripture this morning challenges us to root out the Pharisee within by embracing authentic humility—humility, not merely as an ideal, but as a daily discipline.

Humility means honestly acknowledging our weaknesses and turning to God’s mercy. It means setting aside self-importance and serving others joyfully. Lent especially calls us to acts of quiet charity and unseen sacrifices, not for praise, but because we truly seek Christ’s way.

Today, Jesus invites each of us to seek the conversion of the Pharisee within—to abandon pride, to renounce hypocrisy, and to walk in humble service. For, as Jesus promises, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Only by rooting out the attitudes of pride and self-righteousness from our hearts can we truly become disciples who reflect Christ’s humble and merciful love.

May this Lent help us grow in humility and sincerity, as we learn again to walk in the humble footsteps of Christ for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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Seeking God’s will in all things, let us humbly present our petitions to our merciful Father.

For the Church throughout the world, that we may faithfully preach the Gospel not only in words but through humble and loving service.

For leaders of nations and those in authority, that they may exercise their responsibilities with integrity, humility, and genuine concern for the good of all, especially the weakest among us.

For our parish community, that during this Lenten season we may sincerely examine our hearts, rooting out attitudes of pride, hypocrisy, and judgmentalism, and grow in humble love and service to others

For the health of Pope Francis, and for all who carry heavy burdens, especially those burdened by guilt, shame, or discouragement or serious illness, that they may encounter compassionate hearts and experience Christ’s mercy and healing

For all the faithful departed, that having humbled themselves before the Lord, they may be exalted in the joy and peace of heaven, especially N.

Father, help us to humble ourselves before you and root out all that separates us from your love. Hear and answer these prayers we offer today with hearts sincerely seeking you, through Christ our Lord.

February 5 2025 - St. Agatha, virgin martyr - God chooses the weak to shame the strong

 

For the feast of the virgin martyr, St. Agatha we read from st. paul’s letter to the Corinthians in which St. Paul explains that God’s ways often defy human logic and expectation. God choses the foolish, weak, lowly, and despised of the world, to shame the worldly wise, strong, and powerful.

The virgin martyrs like Agatha, Agnes, Anastasia, Cecilia, Barbara, Ursula, Philomena, Kateri Tekakwitha, Maria Goretti, were not rich and power women in the eyes of the world. They were considered foolish, weak, lowly, and even despised. But God chose them, to witness and teach the world what is truly important.

Saint Agatha was a beautiful Sicilian woman who had consecrated herself to Christ—to be His bride—to spend her life in his prayerful service and consecrated virginity.

When she refused the romantic advances of a pagan man, he turned her into the authorities. Since she would not offer the pagan sacrifice, she was imprisoned, tortured, and eventually killed.

This woman, who witnessed to her Lord with her life, is now remembered and honored 1800 years after her death. Children and churches have been named after her. Statues of her have been venerated by countless souls.

In St. Agatha, we see the profound truth that God delights in using the small, meek, and unassuming to accomplish great things. Her witness stands as a luminous reminder that our age,  or social standing do not determine our ability to serve Christ. What is required is faithfulness, courage, and a willingness to embrace God’s call, no matter the cost.

Like Agatha, who gave her entire being to the service of the Lord, we too are called to see beyond worldly measures of success or worth. When we entrust ourselves wholeheartedly to the Savior, in any place we find ourselves—at home, at work, in our parish, or within our families—God can use us to spread His love, protect the vulnerable, and witness to the transforming power of grace.

Today, inspired by St. Agatha’s radiant example, let us pray for the courage to fully entrust ourselves to the Lord—to serve him any way we can, anyway that he calls us to serve Him. Wherever you find yourself, prayerfully entrust yourself to God’s will, put yourself at His disposal even if that means suffering to bring about a greater good, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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Let us bring our prayers before God our Father, who delights in raising up the lowly and humble for His purposes, as we honor the witness of Saint Agatha:

For the Church: That all Christians may remain faithful to Christ and courageous in witnessing to the Gospel in every circumstance.

For the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalized: That God, who chose the weak of the world to shame the strong, may empower and protect them, granting them justice and hope through His grace.

For consecrated women and men: that they may bear witness to God’s love through their vows, inspire others to deeper faith, and be faithful signs of Christ’s presence in the world.

That St. Agatha, patron saint of breast cancer patients, may bring healing and strength to all those who suffer disease or illness.

For our departed brothers and sisters: That they may enjoy the fullness of eternal life in the company of all the saints.

Heavenly Father, You reveal Your power by choosing the weak and lowly. Hear our prayers. And through the intercession of St. Agatha, strengthen us to persevere in faith, and make our lives a reflection of Your love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

4th Week of Ordinary Time 2025 - Tuesday - Fall at the feet of Jesus

 Throughout the Gospels, we read of many different reactions to Jesus:

Some, like the apostles, left everything to follow him. Some, drew near to him for miracles, but walked away when it came time to abide by his teachings. Some reacted with downright vehemence, tearing their garments in anger.

In today’s Gospel, St. Mark describes a number of reactions to Jesus. 

Jairus, a man of considerable eminence, approached Jesus and fell at His feet, asking in faith for him to heal his daughter. In the incident that followed, when Jesus asked who had touched him, the hemorrhaging woman also approached and fell at his feet, her faith a conduit for healing. Then we heard of the he servants of Jairus’ household. They approached with little faith, doubting Jesus possessed the power necessary to save the little girl. 

In highlighting these different reactions to Jesus, we are challenged to consider how we are reacting to him. Maybe there were points in our life when we’ve reacted like the people in Nazareth, wanting to silence Him by all means necessary. Maybe, now, after coming to faith, we fluctuate. There are moments where we fall down at his feet in worship like Jairus, when we reach out to the hem of his garment to be healed like the woman with the hemorrhage, but sometimes, even after encountering him over and over, working miracles, delivering souls from evil, we still doubt he has the power to save us. Our faith fluctuates. Why?

Our faith fluctuates for many reasons—perhaps because we rely too heavily on our own strength, or we fear entrusting certain areas of our lives to the Lord. But the stories of Jairus and the hemorrhaging woman show us that we do not need perfect faith to encounter Jesus; what we need is the humility and courage to turn to Him, however uncertain we may feel.

Notice that He does not scold or reject anyone who approaches Him, even with faltering faith—He responds with compassion and healing. 

Like Jairus and the woman with the hemorrhage, or task is to recognize our need for Jesus, and to fall at his feet asking for help. So often, we continue to commit the same sins over and over, or we fail to see real spiritual growth because we do not ask for help. It’s okay to admit even that you are unfilled in life. Ask God for help to find fulfillment. Maybe it’s your routine that needs to change, maybe simply your outlook. But the Lord will help you find fulfillment, if you turn and ask for help.

Today, let us commit ourselves anew to drawing near to Christ, trusting that He can do what we cannot do for ourselves, and allowing His power to transform our lives for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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Confident that Jesus meets us with compassion when we turn to Him in faith, let us bring our needs and the needs of the world before our loving Father:

For the Church – that all believers may draw near to Christ with humble and courageous faith, trusting in His power to guide and heal us.

For world leaders and those in authority – that they may look to the Gospel for wisdom in fulfilling their duties and serving the common good

For those struggling with doubt or wavering faith – that they may, like Jairus and the hemorrhaging woman, find the grace to place their trust in Jesus’ transforming love.

For the sick and those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit – that, by approaching the Lord in prayer, they may experience His healing presence and compassionate care.

For all who have died, especially N. that they may be welcomed into the fullness of life and peace in God’s kingdom.

Heavenly Father, receive the prayers we offer this day. May each of us, with humble hearts, draw close to Your Son for healing and deliverance. Grant us the faith to trust in His power to save us, for He lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

31st Week in Ordinary Time 2024 - Tuesday - The humble attitude of Christ

Today's reading from Paul's letter to the Philippians is one of the most beloved passages in the New Testament—Paul's Christological hymn. 

The hymn focuses on Christ—his pre-existence as the co-equal eternal Son of the Father, his incarnation, his humble self-emptying, and his saving death on the cross. Paul uses this hymn to teach the Philippians about humility, urging them to emulate Christ's attitude in their relationships with one another. True Christian unity depends on each member of the community sharing the humble mindset of Christ, who was obedient to the Father's will.

How are we called to embody this Christ-like humility? First, like Christ who "did not regard equality with God something to be grasped," we must let go of our need to always be in control--or to prove your opinion correct. This might mean listening more than speaking or admitting when we've made a mistake rather than defending our pride.

Second, as Christ "took the form of a servant," we too must seek opportunities to serve, especially in ways that might seem beneath our status. This could mean being the first to volunteer for unglamorous tasks, helping a colleague even when we're busy, or quietly doing household chores that no one notices.

Third, following Christ's example of being "obedient unto death," we are called to persevere in doing good even when it costs us. This might mean caring for other people despite our own fatigue, remaining patient those with whom we disagree, or standing up for truth even when it makes us unpopular.

In Holy Communion today, we approach the one who empties himself that we may be full of life. As St. Augustine said, to receive Holy Communion worthily we must seek to become what we receive—not one who grasps at power, but one who seeks to serve.

Jesus makes of himself a total offering, a total gift of himself for the good of others, and every Christian must strive to make that the animating force of their life. This certainly involves seeking conversion from pride to humility every day. 

Let us pray for the grace to empty ourselves as Christ did, that we may decrease so He may increase in us. May we, like Christ, become bread broken for others, poured out in loving service to all we meet for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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For unity in the Church, faithfulness to right teaching, detachment from worldly vices, courage in the Church’s evangelizing mission, and humility in all of our interactions and relationships.

May citizens of our nation today take seriously the responsibility of voting. May our election system be free from corruption and may its integrity be defended. May civility prevail in all of our political affairs and may those with differing political views may work together for a good, just, and righteous society. May our most sacred liberties be protected, especially the right to life.

For all victims of war, for peace in the Holy Land, an end to the violence and the consolation of the suffering. May God come to the assistance of the communities and families devastated by terrorism and war; and may world leaders work together for peace. 

For the impoverished and sick and those experiencing any sort of trial: that Jesus the Bread of Life will be their sustenance, and that Christians will be instruments of God’s mercy for all those in need.  

We pray in a special way during this Month of November for all of the faithful departed; for the deceased members of our family, friends, and parish, for deceased clergy and religious, and for those who have fought and died for our freedom.

O God, you know that our life in this present age is subject to suffering and need, hear the prayers of those who cry to you and receive the prayers of those who believe in you. Through Christ our Lord.

25th Week in Ordinary Time 2024 - Wednesday - Humbling seeking what we truly need

 There is a common theme in our readings today. It was subtle in the Old Testament reading, and only slightly more explicit in the Gospel. It involves trust, trusting in God.

In the reading from Proverbs, this humble soul makes a heartfelt prayer to God requesting only the things he believes are essential for living a righteous and fulfilling life: “Put falsehood and lying far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches; provide me only with the food I need, lest, being full, I deny you.” Notice the two things he asks for.

The first request is for personal integrity. The speaker asks God to keep dishonesty and deceit away from him. This reflects a desire to live truthfully, both in words and actions, avoiding the moral corruption that comes with lying. 

Dishonesty erodes our integrity. Lying often involves shifting blame or avoiding accountability, which prevents learning from mistakes. It leads to isolation—becomes no one trusts a liar. Falsehood brings separation from God—who is Truth itself. Small lies can lead to larger deceptions, gradually desensitizing individuals to wrongdoing. Once lying is rationalized, it becomes easier and easier to justify larger sins. This humble request to be kept from falsehood is fundamental to living a blessed life. 

The second request is about material wealth. The prayer asks for a balanced provision—neither extreme wealth nor extreme poverty. Each of those extremes come with their own sets of temptations and challenges. Rather, the prayer asks for just enough for sustenance. This is akin to asking God for our “daily bread” as Jesus taught his disciples in the Lord’s prayer.  

Both requests—the request for integrity and for daily bread—entail a trust that the Lord will provide what he needs.

In the Gospel, Jesus sends out the twelve with just enough for their mission. And notice, he sends them out to preach and cure and cast out demons, without any form of material support: without food, without money, or even a change of clothes.  But he did equip them spiritually for their mission. Having spent powerful, life changing time with Jesus—hearing his teaching, witnessing his divine authority in the miracles he performed, he equipped them with Faith and the Word of God. 

Similarly, in pursuing our vocation to holiness and our share in the mission of the Church —in living a blessed life on earth that leads to beatitude in heaven—we do well to seek only what we truly need: the grace of living honest humble lives, the grace to trust that the Lord equips us sufficiently for the task before us. 

May we entrust our needs to the Lord today—for all that we truly require for holiness and for heaven, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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That all members of the Church may strive for personal integrity and holiness, living truthfully in word and deed.

That those in positions of authority may govern with honesty and justice, rejecting deceit, corruption, and working always for the common good.

That those experiencing poverty or abundance may avoid the temptations associated with their circumstances, and that we may seek only what we truly need, trusting that the Lord equips us sufficiently for our mission and supporting one another in faith.

That those who are burdened by illness or hardship may find comfort in God's provision and the support of the faithful community.

That the departed may be received into God's eternal embrace, especially…

Heavenly Father, we entrust our needs to You, confident in Your loving providence. Hear our petitions and grant us what we truly need. Through Christ our Lord.

12th Week in Ordinary Time 2024 - Tuesday - Laying your troubles before God

During the reign of Hezekiah, King of Judah, in the late 8th century BCE, the Assyrian Empire, under King Sennacherib, was expanding aggressively. After subjugating various neighboring nations, Sennacherib turned his attention to Judah, laying siege to fortified cities and eventually threatening Jerusalem itself.

And what was Hezekiah’s response to this threat? Instead of cowering in fear or surrendering or engaging in a violent military solution, which probably wouldn’t have gone well anyway due to the size of the Assyrian army, King Hezekiah takes the matter to the Temple, spreads out the letter from Sennacherib, the Assyrian King, before God, and prays for deliverance. 

Hezekiah’s prayer acknowledges God’s sovereignty over all the kingdoms of the earth and God’s power over all the creations of man, contrasting the true God of Israel with the false gods of the nations destroyed by Assyria. God is not like the idols made by human hands. The living God who controls the fate of nations.

The prophet Isaiah then assured Hezekiah that God has heard his prayer and will save Jerusalem.

The climax of the story is the miraculous intervention by the angel of the LORD, who strikes down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, leading to Sennacherib’s retreat to Nineveh where he is eventually murdered by his own sons. This dramatic turn of events serves as a powerful testament to the belief that God actively intervenes in human affairs to protect His people, especially when they show unwavering faith.

This story is an example of the power of prayer and the efficacy of turning to God in times of crisis. When we are facing an Assyrian army of our own, we must turn to God for guidance and trust in God’s providence. 

Hezekiah demonstrated humility by acknowledging his limitations and seeking divine help openly. Strength lies in honestly recognizing our vulnerabilities and being open to seeking help and counsel from others and the wisdom of the scriptures and saints.  

Hezekiah righteous leadership and commitment to his faith were key factors that led to divine favor and protection. So, too, our faith matters. Our prayer matters and brings similar divine favor and protection to our loved ones and the church. 

In the Gospel, the Lord speaks of two ways: one that leads to destruction and one that leads to life. Hezekiah shows us the way of life today: trusting in God, living righteously, praying with conviction and humility, heading the wisdom of the prophets. May we follow the example of such holy ones for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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For the Church, that we may always turn to God in times of crisis and demonstrate unwavering faith in His providence. Let us pray to the Lord.

For world leaders, that they may govern with righteousness and humility, seeking divine wisdom in their decision-making. Let us pray to the Lord.

For those facing overwhelming challenges, that they may find strength in prayer and trust in God's power to intervene in their lives. Let us pray to the Lord.

For our community, that we may resist the temptation of false idols and instead place our trust in the living God who controls the fate of nations. Let us pray to the Lord.

For all who feel threatened or besieged, that they may find courage in the example of King Hezekiah and seek God's protection. Let us pray to the Lord.

For each of us, that we may choose the path that leads to life by living righteously, praying with conviction, and trusting in God's guidance. Let us pray to the Lord.

For the grace to recognize our own limitations and vulnerabilities, and the wisdom to seek help from others and from the teachings of the saints. Let us pray to the Lord.

For all who have died, may they rejoice forever in the presence of the Lamb of God, especially X….

Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. Through Christ our Lord

8th Week of Ordinary Time 2024 - Tuesday - The last shall be first

 

In the ancient world, wealth, power, and privilege were considered signs of blessing from God. But the Lord gives a contrary teaching. 

“Many that are first will be last, and the last will be first". Here Jesus reverses the expectation of the worldly minded.  

Greatness in the kingdom of God comes not from power, but humility, not from wealth, but generosity, not in gaining possessions, but in giving oneself away. 

And to the extent that we give ourselves away in loving service—we will find meaning, happiness, fulfillment, and joy that nothing else in the world can give. It is by giving ourselves away—giving of our time, talent and resources, that we store up treasure in heaven.

In yesterday’s Gospel passage from St. Mark, we heard of the rich man who goes away sad after his encounter with Jesus. He had asked the Lord what it takes to inherit eternal life, and the Lord instructed the rich man to go and sell his possessions and follow him.

Due to his unwillingness to detach from his possessions, the rich man departs from Jesus, not with the joy of discipleship, but with sadness. There is always sadness when we are unwilling to follow where Jesus beckons, to give-up with God invites us to give-up!

Jesus is the model and master of self-giving. He doesn’t just tell us the way to heaven, he shows us the way through his self-emptying, his self-giving, his total donation of himself to the Father.

May we seek that holiness of life shown to us by Our Lord, and thus come to share with him in the joys of heaven for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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That Christians may respond generously to the perpetual call to holiness through prayer, fasting, and works of charity. 

For our young people beginning summer vacation, that they may be kept safe from the errors of our culture and kept in close friendship with Jesus through prayer and acts of mercy.

That during this month of May, all people may turn their hearts to the Blessed Virgin Mary, seeking her aid and imploring her intercession with increased and fervent devotion, imitating her example of Faith, Hope, and Love.

For all the needs of the sick and the suffering, the homebound, those in nursing homes and hospitals, the underemployed and unemployed, immigrants and refugees, victims of natural disaster, war, and terrorism, for all those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and those who will die today, for their comfort, and the consolation of their families.

For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.

Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. Through Christ our Lord

7th Week in Ordinary Time 2024 - Wednesday - Humility in decision making

 St. Augustine said that his three favorite virtues were “humility, humility, and humility”. And that is a fitting quip for a saint, as it appears that our Lord felt the same way. The very first beatitude preached by Jesus on the Sermon on the Mount is about humility. We heard it echoed in our reponsory this morning: “Blessed are the poor in spirit”. To be poor in spirit isn’t to rub dirt on our faces and deprive ourselves of sustenance in order to imitate the homeless.

To be poor in spirit means to be humble before God. Jesus’ followers must recognize on a fundamental level that we are dependent upon God for everything: for our biological life, for the time on earth that we’ve been given, and for the gift of eternal life. You cannot begin ascending the mountain of beatitude until you recognize that you cannot climb it on your own. You can’t even see the mountain, let alone climb it. 

In the short passage from the Letter of James this morning, St. James too emphasizes humility.

 St. James addresses those who are making plans about their future activities, such as going to a town, doing business, and making a profit. 

He reminds them that they do not know what their life will be like tomorrow. Life is uncertain and fragile, likened to a "puff of smoke" that appears briefly and then vanishes. There but for the grace of God go you and I. 

James condemns the arrogance of living without reference to God. These planners hadn’t even considered what God’s will was for their life. 

Often times, our young people talk about what they want to be when they grow up without any consideration of what God wants for them. This is why so many don’t even consider for a moment a priestly or religious vocation. They want to be an athlete or internet influencer because they want the fame and the money. Not considering that the selfish pursuit leads to unhappiness. 

Our secular society breads this sort of practical atheism that even many Christians fall into, making decisions, planning for the future, without reference to God, without seeking God’s will. And it’s a habit that really takes a miracle to break. 

Whenever we are at a crossroads, we need to seek God’s will. We need to take the time to kneel down and ask God for guidance, and have the patience to wait for an answer, and to discern, to ensure that we aren’t just following our own willfulness, or own earthly attractions, to weigh our desires against the teachings of Christ and the call to holiness, and to pray with the words of Christ in the garden, “not my will, but thy will be done”

Humility is to mark our every decision, humility which subjects the entirety of our lives to the will of God and the truth and goodness revealed in Christ for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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That Christians may respond generously to the perpetual call to prayer, fasting, and works of charity. 

For our young people beginning summer vacation, that they may be kept safe from the errors of our culture and kept in close friendship with Jesus through prayer and acts of mercy.

That during this month of May, all people may turn their hearts to the Blessed Virgin Mary, seeking her aid and imploring her intercession with increased and fervent devotion, imitating her example of Faith, Hope, and Love.

For all the needs of the sick and the suffering, the homebound, those in nursing homes and hospitals, the underemployed and unemployed, immigrants and refugees, victims of natural disaster, war, and terrorism, for all those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and those who will die today, for their comfort, and the consolation of their families.

For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.

Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. Through Christ our Lord

7th Week of Ordinary Time 2024 - Tuesday - Ordinary Christianity is Extraordinary

 

After five weeks of Lent, Holy Week, the Paschal Triduum, Easter Sunday, seven weeks of Paschaltide, and Pentecost, we’ve returned to Ordinary Time.  We will observe Ordinary Time, from now until the end of the liturgical year in November.  

The major seasons of the liturgical year—Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter—bring with them extraordinary anticipation and preparations and the celebration of extraordinary events—the birth of Christ and his saving death and resurrection.

But let us not forget that in ordinary time, when we are considering the ordinary teachings of Christ throughout his public ministry—the Lord’s ordinary activity is anything but ordinary. 

Jesus Christ is God speaking to us and teaching us. And the words, lessons, and actions of his ordinary public ministry guide us to become extraordinary. The ordinary life of the Christian is extraordinary compared to the ordinary life of the world. 

The ordinary way of the world is broken and Christ offers extraordinary wholeness. The ordinary way of the world is foolish and Christ offers extraordinary wisdom. Left to its own devices, the world ordinarily sinks into chaos, man devolves into tribalism, selfish individualism, warfare over resources. But Christ offers another way—an extraordinary way—of order, unity, and peace. 

Today’s Gospel is a perfect example of the extraordinary way of Christ. The disciples are arguing about who will be first, who will be at the top of the hierarchy. They are arguing about power and status and privilege and greatness. In other words, they are thinking as ordinary human beings do—fighting over power.

But then the Lord illustrates another way—an extraordinary way—he says that true greatness involves becoming like a little child before God—true power involves becoming a servant to every one, being first means becoming last.  Becoming humble and servant-hearted will bring you wholeness, it will make you extraordinary—the sort of extraordinariness that is valued by God and truly longed for by the human heart. And everything else is a waste of time and contributes to the fallenness of the world.

As we transition back to Ordinary Time, we are reminded that the seemingly routine aspects of Jesus' teachings and ministry are profoundly transformative. Although the liturgical year features peaks of spiritual intensity and celebration, it is in the day-to-day application of Christ's teachings where the true extraordinariness of our faith is revealed. Ordinary Time offers us the space to reflect on and integrate the profound lessons of servanthood, humility, and the reversal of worldly values that Jesus espoused. 

These teachings guide us to live lives that starkly contrast with the ordinary ways of the world, providing a path to true greatness and wholeness God desires for us. As we embrace this period of Ordinary Time, let us cherish and apply these extraordinary lessons in our everyday lives, transforming our ordinary existence into an extraordinary journey towards spiritual fulfillment and unity with God for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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That Christians may respond generously to the perpetual call to prayer, fasting, and works of charity. 

For our young people beginning summer vacation, that they may be kept safe from the errors of our culture and kept in close friendship with Jesus through prayer and acts of mercy.

That during this month of May, all people may turn their hearts to the Blessed Virgin Mary, seeking her aid and imploring her intercession with increased and fervent devotion, imitating her example of Faith, Hope, and Love.

For all the needs of the sick and the suffering, the homebound, those in nursing homes and hospitals, the underemployed and unemployed, immigrants and refugees, victims of natural disaster, war, and terrorism, for all those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and those who will die today, for their comfort, and the consolation of their families.

For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.

Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. Through Christ our Lord

7th Week of Easter 2024 - Wednesday - Unity through loving and joyful obedience

We have been reading for two weeks from Jesus’ Farewell Speech at the Last Supper, chapters 14-17 of the Gospel of John. 

Throughout the discourse, the Lord emphasizes the relationship between love and obedience. He repeatedly calls on his disciples to demonstrate their love for him by obediently keeping his commandments. 

We seek to faithfully observe the commandments of God out of love, for faithfulness is pleasing to God. And so we zealously seek to rid ourselves of infidelity, to muzzle our unfaithful tongues, discipline our willful spirits, and restrain our disordered appetites. And the Christian does so zealously, happily, and enthusiastically. Again because loving fidelity is pleasing to our Father. We show our love and practice love by keeping God’s commandments. 

A devotion to keeping God’s commandments—to following the rules of our Father’s household—is not pharisaical religion. Rather, it is a participation in the salvific sacrifice of Christ—who obediently accepted death, death on a cross—out of love for His Father.

In his rule, St. Benedict writes, “The first degree of humility is prompt obedience” To be poor in spirit like Christ, to hunger and thirst for righteousness, means to desire a practice obedience.

The great doctor St. Francis de Sales writes, “Obedience is a virtue of so excellent a nature, that Our Lord was pleased to mark its observance upon the whole course of His life; thus He often says, He did not come to do His own will, but that of His Heavenly Father.” 

Obedience is the means of aligning one's will with God's will, which is central to Christian discipleship. For we are to follow in the footsteps of the obedient Son of God. We are to surrender personal preferences and desires to fulfill a higher purpose—God’s Holy Will. “Not my will, but Thy will be done”. 

Obedience to God is the glue that unites Christians. At the conclusion of his Farewell speech, the Lord prays that his disciples be one, just as he is one with the Father—a oneness that is manifest in the Son’s obedience to the Father. 

Thomas Aquinas writes, “Obedience unites us so closely to God that in a way transforms us into Him, so that we have no other will but His. If obedience is lacking, even prayer cannot be pleasing to God.”

Faithfulness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. If faithfulness is not evident in our decisions, our connection to the Holy Spirit is damaged and compromised. Joylessness in the Christian life is almost always a sign that disobedience has taken root. For sinful disobedience causes the other spiritual fruits, like joy, peace, patience, and self-control to wither.

May the Holy Spirit, whose descent upon the Church we prepare to celebrate at Pentecost, draw us into ever deeper unity with the Father and with one another, through a sharing in the loving obedience of the Son, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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That the ordained and all members of the Church throughout the world may be a more visible sign of the love of God for humanity, calling all people to new life and communion with Him; and that our parish may bear witness with great confidence to the Resurrection of Christ and his tender love for sinners and for the poor

For those who do not believe in God and for those who have fallen away from the Church.

For an increase in the gifts of the Holy Spirit among all Christians, and for all who are persecuted for the faith.

That during this month of May, all people may turn their hearts to the Blessed Virgin Mary, seeking her aid and imploring her intercession with increased and fervent devotion, imitating her example of Faith, Hope, and Love. 

For the sick, the suffering, those in nursing homes, hospitals, and hospice care, for the underemployed and unemployed, for the imprisoned, those with addictions, for those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and those who will die today, that the Spirit of Consolation may comfort them.

For the deceased members of our families, friends and parish, for all of the poor souls in purgatory, for all those who fought and died for our freedom.

O God, who know that our life in this present age is subject to suffering and need, hear the prayers of those who cry to you and receive the prayers of those who believe in you. Through Christ our Lord.

2nd Week of Lent 2024 - Tuesday - Repentance and Inner Transformation

 

Throughout the season of Lent, the Church's liturgy resounds with God’s call for sinners to repent. And this morning we read from the powerful first chapter of the prophet Isaiah. 

Isaiah chapter 1 is set during a time of great turmoil and moral decay in the Kingdom of Judah. This period was marked by political instability, social injustice, and religious idolatry—some cultural similarities perhaps, to our own day.

The chapter begins with God's accusation against the people of Judah. They are described as rebellious children who have forsaken the Lord and turned away from Him, which has resulted in the moral decay and corruption of society.

Despite the harsh accusations, the chapter also contains the call to repentance. God invites the people to "wash and make themselves clean" and to turn away from their evil deeds. God is willing to forgive and restore his people, if they genuinely repent.

Another theme of that first chapter is to turn away from empty religious ritual to a true worship of God that is demonstrated through truly just and righteous works, such as defending the oppressed and caring for the widow and the orphan. 

This theme is continued in the Gospel today, where the Lord Jesus condemns the pharisees for their empty, hypocritical religious leadership. Their idea of religion was a bunch of empty show—lip service, fine garments, seats of power. But they neglected that God desires not empty show, but the transformation of hearts which is demonstrated in genuine care for people in need. 

In a sense, the Pharisees rejected our deepest need, our need for a savior, the need for inner transformation that can only come through humility. 

In order to not be condemned like the Pharisees, we must learn and practice humility before God. We must acknowledge our sins and our need for a savior, we must identify those parts of our lives where we have refused conformity to the heart of Christ, where we have resisted his truth and goodness.

God’s desire to save us must be met by our cooperation with his saving will—through humble repentance, right worship, detachment from sin and selfishness, and charity toward those we are able to help, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls. 

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For the whole Christian people, that in this sacred Lenten season, they may be more abundantly nourished by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

For the whole world, that in lasting tranquility and peace our days may truly become the acceptable time of grace and salvation.

For sinners and those who neglect right religion, that in this time of reconciliation they may return wholeheartedly to Christ. And that tomorrow's Evening of Confession may be a time of profound mercy and renewal for our parish and Diocese.

For ourselves, that God may at last stir up in our hearts aversion for our sins and conviction for the Gospel.

For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.

Grant, we pray, O Lord, that your people may turn to you with all their heart, so that whatever they dare to ask in fitting prayer they may receive by your mercy. Through Christ Our Lord.

2nd Week of Ordinary Time 2024 - Friday - David's humility, mercy, and peace

 Continuing our reading from the first book of Samuel, we hear of a very strange story today. To review, the anointed King Saul had hardened his heart toward God and was deemed unworthy of the kingship of Israel. So God sent Samuel to Bethlehem, where Samuel anointed the shepherd boy, David.

In his guilt, Saul sought out a skilled harpist to ease his troubled heart, and his servants located one—the very same shepherd boy that had just been anointed, David of Bethlehem. David enters into Saul’s service, and Saul comes to trust David so much that Saul makes David his personal armor-bearer. It is during this time of service of Saul, that David, guided by his faith in God, defeats the philistine giant Goliath.

David grows in fame and admiration among the people of Israel, and Saul begins to grow jealous. Desiring to keep his enemy close, Saul offers David the hand of his daughter as a bride. The two marry, and David becomes royalty. Saul sends David to the front lines of battle, and David is so successful that Saul’s jealousy escalates into hatred and he attempts to kill David with a spear. 

So, David flees into hiding, and as we heard today, as Saul is in pursuit of David, Saul, has a call of nature, and goes to relieve himself in the very cave where David was hiding. David had a chance to kill Saul. Davids cohort even urges him to take Saul’s life. But David spares Saul out of reverence for his holy anointing. Even though Saul was a bad king, and killing Saul would enable him to assume kingship of Israel, David’s faith and reverence for God guides his decision to spare Saul.

David announces his presence, giving up his advantage, and approaches Saul in a spirit of humility. And realize, Saul could have commanded his troops into the cave to slaughter David right there. Guided by faith, David makes himself vulnerable to a man who wanted him dead. David's speech moves Saul emotionally and he remembers the affection he once had for David. For the first time in many chapters, Saul calls David by name, a name he once used in friendship. And maybe it’s out of self-pity, or maybe it’s out of remorse that he had become obsessed with killing an innocent man, but Saul breaks down in tears, and the two are reconciled. 

David’s humility and faith transformed this hostile relationship—a hostility that could have had devastating effects on Israel—a civil war between the supporters of David and the supporters of Saul. David’s humility and faith healed a national division, and a broken friendship. Through David’s humility and faith, God delivered Israel and Saul from evil. 

How might God be calling you to imitate David’s example? How might God be calling you to humble yourself—to trust in God—in order to bring about the healing of division or some other good that God desires? Is there anyone in your life toward whom you might be called to imitate David’s humility and mercy? 

May we be guided by humility, mercy, peace in all of our relationships. For Jesus proclaims “blessed are the humble”, “blessed are the merciful”, “blessed are the peacemakers”. Humility, mercy, and peace are blessed. May we seek that blessedness for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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To God the Father Almighty we direct the prayers of our heart for the needs and salvation of humanity and the good of His faithful ones.

For the holy Church of God, that the Lord may graciously watch over her and care for her.

For the peoples of the world, that the Lord may graciously preserve harmony among us.

For all who are oppressed by any kind of need, that the Lord may graciously grant them relief.

For ourselves and our own community, that the Lord may graciously receive us as a sacrifice acceptable to himself.

For our beloved dead, for the poor souls in purgatory, and for X, for whom this Mass is offered.

O God, our refuge and our strength, hear the prayers of your Church, for you yourself are the source of all devotion, and grant, we pray, that what we ask in faith we may truly obtain. Through Christ our Lord.

29th Week in Ordinary Time 2023 - Friday - I do not do the good that I want

 With piercing insight into the human experience, St. Paul wrote about the Christian’s ongoing struggle with sin. It is a struggle we all face: most of the time, we know what we should do, we recognize the desire to do it, yet we frequently fail. There is a glaring discrepancy between our intentions and our actions, a moral disconnect. 

The reason for this disconnect—is that even though we are baptized—we still experience the effects of fallenness. We continue to wrestle with the agitations of sin—with the frailties and inclinations to sin experienced by all the descendants of Adam. 

Baptism brings the forgiveness of sins. The guilt of sin is remitted in baptism, but concupiscence remains. We are reborn as children of God, but the memory of the old man remains, and not just the memory, but some of his frailness, so that by struggling against it, sanctity and virtue might be produced in us.

Christians sin. And we admit that. It’s the first step of Christianity: admitting I’m a sinner in need of a savior. That admission begins every time we gather for Mass.

Yet, admitting our sins doesn’t mean justifying our sins. We are to make no provision for the flesh. We are to root out sin as best we can, with God’s help, through sacraments, and sacramentals, with examinations of conscience, penances, fasting, and mortification. But when we fall under the influences of the flesh, which is nearly inevitable for most of us, we repent. We go to confession. We beat our breast before God. We do penance. 

We must also not allow ourselves to become too discouraged over sin. We are weak. And that doesn’t cause God to love us any less. Yes, there is a failure to rely on God’s grace when we sin. But, the sooner we recognize that, the sooner we can repent and try again. This time, maybe with our pride put in its place.

Humility about our own sinfulness also produces patience with others. Humility leads us to extend the same patience with others—in their sins—that we would want for ourselves, as the Lord says, “the measure with which we measure, shall be used against us.”

When we humbly and sincerely approach the mercy of God, we begin to experience the freedom, joy, and peace that comes from God for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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That all Christians may know the grace of sincere repentance and seek to grow in virtue and the fruits of the spirit.

That young people be inspired to respond generously to God’s call to sanctity, and for vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

For all the sick and suffering, and for all those in hospitals, nursing homes, and hospice care, for all those who will die today, for their consolation and that of their families.

For the repose of the souls of our beloved dead, for all of the poor souls in purgatory, for the deceased members of our family, friends, and parish, for the deceased clergy and religious of our diocese, and for those who have fought and died for our freedom. 

God of mercy, hear our prayers, ease the sufferings and comfort the weakness of your servants, and bring us to eternal life, through Christ our Lord.

May 09 - St. Louise de Marillac - Patroness of Social Workers

 After the death of her husband in 1625, Louise de Marillac at the age of 34, discerned a calling to devote the rest of her life to caring for the sick and poor alongside the holy priest, St. Vincent de Paul.

St. Louise was intelligent, self-effacing, and possessed a supernatural endurance that belied her continuing feeble health. Her rented home in Paris became a training center for other women who discerned a call to serve the sick and poor. 

The number of women who joined her grew rapidly and soon there was the need for a so-called “rule of life.” Louise herself, under the guidance of St. Vincent, composed the rule for the Daughters of Charity. Their dress was to be that of the peasant women. Of this community, St. Vincent wrote: “Your convent will be the house of the sick; your cell, a hired room; your chapel, the parish church; your cloister, the streets of the city or the wards of the hospital.”

At the time of her death on March 15, 1660, the congregation had more than 40 houses in France.

Originally her feast day was March 15, the anniversary of her death, but in 2016 Rome decreed that her feast day be changed to today, May 9, the anniversary of her beatification by Pope Benedict XV in 1920. Louise de Marillac was canonized in 1934 and declared patroness of social workers in 1960.

Her holy life certainly serves as an inspiration to the members of our St. Vincent de Paul societies, and to all of us. We all do well to discern in what ways we can bring the goodness and compassion and charity of God to the sick, poor, and downtrodden of our own native places. How we are called to organize with other people of good will, to carry out the holy work of God.

Service to the poor is often a daunting work—their needs are so great, their obstacles so seemingly insurmountable. But writing to one of her sister Daughters of Charity about their often difficult work, she said, “I know, my dear Sister, that it is very difficult for us to carry out our responsibilities well, but God who has given them to us will not deny us His grace. Let us humble ourselves profoundly so as to obtain it. This we can do by manifesting holy distrust of ourselves and great confidence in His goodness, which will lead us to ask Him quite simply what He wants us to do.”

Through the intercession of St. Louise de Marillac, may we all humble ourselves profoundly in order to receive the grace needed for all of our great responsibilities, in our daily lives, in our service of the poor, in the mission of the Gospel, for the glory of God and salvation of souls. 

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That all Christians may grow in charitable attentiveness to the needs of the poor in our midst.

That all those searching and longing for Christ may find him through the witness of His Holy Church.

That the work and ministry of all Vincentian organizations and charitable institutions may bear fruit for the spread of the Gospel.

For all the needs of the sick and the suffering, the homebound, those in nursing homes and hospitals, the underemployed and unemployed, immigrants and refugees, victims of natural disaster, war, and terrorism, for all those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and those who will die today, for their comfort, and the consolation of their families.

For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.

Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. Through Christ our Lord

2nd Week of Lent 2023 - Tuesday - Righteous deeds for God's glory

 On Ash Wednesday, we heard the Lord’s instruction: "Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them…” Well, in the Gospel today, the Lord condemns the Pharisees for using their positions as religious leaders to draw attention not to God, but to themselves. As Jesus said, “All their works are performed to be seen.”

The pharisees were the original virtue-signalers. Their works were for performed for the purpose of gaining fame and honor for themselves instead of furthering the kingdom of God. They wanted to draw people to themselves instead of to God. 

Christians, to be certain, are to perform righteous deeds, good works, works of charity. St. James says, faith without works is dead. But the manner of our deeds is the opposite of the Pharisees. The Lord teaches his disciples to let their lights shine before men so others would see their good deeds and glorify the Father in heaven (Matt. 5:14–16). 

How do we ensure that our deeds are being done for God’s glory and not simply our own? Prayer and discernment certainly help that end. We pray are to pray before our actions, during our actions, and at the completion of our actions. We pray, Lord let this work be done for your glory. Draw souls towards your love and goodness through this work done in your honor.

In essence, we are to cultivate humility. C.S. Lewis wrote, “By this virtue [of humility], as by all others, [God] wants to turn [our] attention away from self, to Him and [to our] neighbors.” Humility is not a matter of thinking less of ourselves—but less ABOUT ourselves, forgetting ourselves and turning outward in love. The motivation for righteous deeds are not to be seen by others, but out of true concern for the needs of others and spreading God's kingdom.

And so humble prayer is needed--humble prayer which keeps us oriented toward God--prayer which asks God for the grace to further His kingdom rather than our self-interested ends.

In Matthew 15, the Lord laments how the Pharisees draw near to God with the lips, but allow their hearts to remain far from God. We must draw near to God, we must bring our hearts nearer to God this Lent through humble prayer and fasting, that our almsgiving and our righteous deeds, which the Lord commands, may be done for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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That the season of Lent may bring the most hardened hearts to repentance and bring to all people purification of sin and selfishness.

For those preparing for baptism and the Easter sacraments, that they may continue to conform themselves to Christ through fervent prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

That we may generously respond to all those in need: the sick, the suffering, the homeless, the imprisoned, and victims of violence. 

For all who have died, and for all the poor souls in purgatory, and for X. for whom this Mass is offered.

Grant, we pray, O Lord, that your people may turn to you with all their heart, so that whatever they dare to ask in fitting prayer they may receive by your mercy. Through Christ our Lord.