Posted 03/08/2025
On this Second Sunday of Lent, we reflect on Jesus's transfiguration in the Gospel of Luke. This event invites us to look beyond our daily distractions and seek deeper communion with God. As Jesus ascends the mountain with His disciples, we are reminded of our own call to rise above the ordinary and engage in prayer and reflection this Lenten season.
The Transfiguration reveals Christ’s divine nature, offering a glimpse of His glory and the promise of Resurrection. The awe and fear that enveloped the disciples challenge us to consider how we respond to God’s presence in our lives. Are we attentive to the sacred moments, or do we let them pass unnoticed? When Peter suggests building shelters to hold onto the experience, it reflects our human tendency to cling to moments of joy rather than embrace the entire journey of faith that includes suffering and sacrifice.
As Jesus leads them back down the mountain, we are reminded that our spiritual experiences must translate into our everyday lives. This Lenten season, let us seek transformative encounters with Christ, allowing His light to illuminate our hearts.
Posted 03/08/2025
As we embark on our Lenten journey, we are invited to enter some moments of reflection, repentance, and renewal. The first Sunday of Lent sets the tone for this sacred time, calling us to examine our lives in the light of Christ's sacrifice and temptation.
Today’s readings remind us of Jesus’ 40 days in the desert, where He faced temptation and emerged strengthened for His ministry. This powerful narrative parallels our own Lenten experiences. We, too, are called to confront the distractions and challenges that pull us away from God. Just as Jesus relied on Scripture to counter the devil’s temptations, we are encouraged to immerse ourselves in God’s Word, allowing it to guide our decisions and shape our character.
Lent is not merely about giving up something; it’s an opportunity for spiritual growth and transformation. This season is a call to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—practices that connect us more deeply with God and our brothers and sisters. As we dedicate time to prayer, we cultivate our relationship with God, seeking His strength daily. Our acts of fasting help us to discern what truly nourishes our souls. And through almsgiving, we extend our love and support to those in need, living out our call to serve.
Let this Lent be a time of honest self-examination. What are the "temptations" in your own life that lead you away from God? What steps can you take to draw closer to Him? Remember, this journey is not one of perfection but of progress. God continually invites us back, no matter how many times we stumble.
As we journey through these 40 days together, let us support one another in prayer and love, encouraging each other to be more like Christ. Let us approach this season with open hearts, ready to be transformed by His grace.
May this Lenten journey help us understand God’s love and renew our commitment to living as His faithful disciples.
Blessings to you all this Lenten season.
Posted 01/17/2025
In this Sunday’s Gospel, we witness the profound moment when Jesus performs his first public miracle at the Wedding at Cana, transforming water into wine. This act is more than a simple display of power; it reveals layers of meaning that invite us to reflect on our lives and faith.
At a surface level, the miracle highlights God's generosity and abundance. The hosts at the wedding had run out of wine, which in that cultural context would have been a significant embarrassment. By stepping in to provide an extraordinary amount of wine—far more than what was needed—Jesus illustrates that He cares about the small details of our lives and desires for us to experience joy.
Moreover, this miracle serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's transformative nature. Just as He changed the water, He can transform our ordinary moments into extraordinary encounters with Him. This invites us to consider areas in our lives that feel mundane or lacking. How can we invite Jesus into those spaces to bring transformation, healing, or joy?
Mary's role in this story is also significant. She notices the need and intercedes on behalf of the hosts, showing us the power of prayer and the importance of bringing our concerns to Jesus. This moment encourages us to bring our own needs to Him, trusting that He listens and responds.
As we reflect on this miracle, let us appreciate the joy it brings and ponder our own wedding feast—the blessings, challenges, and faith we hold. May we be inspired to carry the joy of Christ into our communities, sharing the abundance of His love with those around us.
In this way, just as the water was transformed at Cana, may our hearts be transformed as we open ourselves to the grace and presence of Jesus in our lives. Amen.
Posted 01/12/2025
Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which invites us to reflect on our baptisms. Baptism marks the beginning of our relationship with God and our mission as Christians. We are called to live in a way that shows Christ's love.
During Jesus' baptism, the Holy Trinity is revealed. God the Father calls Jesus His beloved Son, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove. This moment reminds us of the deep love within the Trinity and connects us to that love. Jesus was baptized to identify with our struggles, even though He was sinless.
His example encourages us to seek forgiveness and strive for a better life. We should reflect on our actions and be open to renewal. As we celebrate this feast, let’s consider how we live out our baptismal promises. Are we reflecting Christ's values in our lives? The rituals we perform help us to celebrate our shared faith and support one another on our journey.
May this Feast inspire us to live as beloved children of God and renew our commitment to reflect His love every day
Posted 01/03/2025
Friends in Christ, the Feast of Epiphany, which we celebrate this Sunday, holds profound significance as it marks the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles, represented by the visit of the Magi. This celebration invites us to reflect on our own journeys of seeking God in our lives.
In the story of the Magi, we see a powerful example of faith and determination. They traveled great distances, guided by a star, symbolizing their desire to find truth and divine presence. Their willingness to embark on this journey reminds us that seeking God often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and venture into the unknown.
Epiphany also emphasizes the importance of recognizing God in unexpected places. The Magi found Jesus not in a grand palace but in a humble manger. This teaches us that God can be encountered in the simplest and most ordinary moments of our lives, if we are open to seeing with eyes of faith.
As we reflect on this feast, it serves as a reminder to continually seek God in our own lives. It encourages us to be attuned to the signs and experiences that guide us toward a deeper relationship with the divine. Just as the Magi worshipped and offered their gifts to Jesus, we too are called to bring our authentic selves – our talents, our struggles, and our hopes – to God.
Ultimately, the Feast of Epiphany invites us to embrace the journey of seeking, recognizing that it is not just about the destination but the transformation that occurs along the way. In our pursuit of God, may we find joy, purpose, and a deeper understanding of our place within the divine narrative.
Posted 01/01/2025
Dear friends, I want to take a moment to greet each of you and share a message that speaks to the heart of our collective journey as we step into this new year together.
This time of year is often a season of reflection, where we look back at the past months—the highs and the lows—and consider what lies ahead. It’s a moment to remember that, just like the prophet Ezekiel’s vision of the dry bones, we have a powerful reminder of hope and renewal. Remember, in Ezekiel 37, God reveals His promise: “Dry bones shall rise again.” There’s something remarkable about these words, a testament to the transformative power of God’s grace.
As we embark on this new year, I encourage you to reflect on your “dry bones.” What areas of your life feel desolate or in need of restoration? Maybe it’s a relationship that requires healing, a dream that feels out of reach, or perhaps struggles in your faith journey. Whatever it may be, bring those concerns to God. He specializes in renewal and restoration, and we can trust His power to breathe new life into our circumstances.
Let us support one another as a community, encouraging and uplifting each other. Together, we can be vessels of hope, reminding one another that with God, nothing is impossible. In this new year, I urge you to step forward with renewed faith and courage, knowing that God is not finished with us yet.
Let’s open our hearts to the movement of the Holy Spirit and embrace the opportunities for growth and revival. As we journey together, let us keep the promise of resurrection in our minds: “Dry bones shall rise again.” May this promise guide and inspire us in the year to come.
May Mary, Mother of God, intercede for us.
Wishing you all a blessed and hopeful New Year!
posted 12/28/2024
As we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, we are presented with a beautiful opportunity to reflect upon the meaning and significance of family within our faith and daily lives. The Holy Family—Jesus, Mary, and Joseph—serves as an enduring model for all families, inviting us to consider how we can emulate their virtues in our homes.
The Holy Family exemplifies unconditional love and support. In a world where external pressures and distractions can easily divide us, we are reminded that love must be the foundation of our family relationships. Jesus’ upbringing in the home of Mary and Joseph reflects a nurturing environment where faith, love, and trust were paramount. Let us strive to create such an atmosphere within our families, fostering deeper connections by prioritizing time for one another, openly sharing our thoughts and feelings, and affirming our love through actions.
The Holy Family also teaches us the value of obedience to God’s will. Mary and Joseph faced numerous challenges but remained steadfast in their faith and commitment to God’s guidance. Their example encourages us to trust in God’s plan for our families, especially when confronted with trials. We are called to support one another in prayer, offering encouragement as we seek divine direction and strength in our everyday lives.
Moreover, this feast highlights the importance of resilience and togetherness. Throughout history, families have faced adversity, yet it is in these moments that we have the opportunity to grow closer to one another. The Holy Family experienced their share of hardships—from the journey to Bethlehem to their flight into Egypt. In our times of struggle, may we learn to rally together, drawing upon our faith as a source of comfort and guidance.
As we reflect on the beauty of the family unit, let us also remember that family comes in many forms. Whether nuclear, extended, or chosen, every family structure is a gift from God. We are called to celebrate the diversity of family life within our community, reaffirming that every person, regardless of their background, is valuable and loved.
In our prayers today, let us ask for the intercession of the Holy Family. May they inspire us to grow in love and compassion, to support one another in faith, and to reach out to those in need within our communities. May this feast be a reminder that we are not merely individuals, but a part of a greater family of God.
As We celebrate, let us commit to nurturing our relationships and extending the love of the Holy Family into our broader community, embodying the hope, kindness, and acceptance they represent.
Wishing you all a joyous Feast of the Holy Family filled with blessings, love, and peace.
Posted 12/25/2024
Brethren, on this joyous Christmas Day, we celebrate the fulfillment of hope as we light our hearts with the message of Jesus’ birth. This day reminds us that love and light entered our world in the humblest of circumstances, emphasizing that even the smallest beginnings can lead to profound change.
In our moments of sharing and fellowship, let us remember to carry the spirit of this day into our lives throughout the year. May we embody the love, peace, and kindness that Jesus exemplified, spreading joy and goodwill in our communities. As we reflect on the miracle of Christmas, let our lives be a testament to the hope and love that Christ brings. Merry Christmas to all!
Posted 12/14/2024
As we gather on this third Sunday of Advent, let us fully embrace the profound hope and joy that fill this season as we prepare for Christ's arrival.
Today’s readings call us to hold on to joy, even in the face of life’s challenges. They remind us that the Lord walks this path with us. John the Baptist urges us to open our hearts and lives to welcome Christ’s coming.
This preparation is more than waiting; it’s a dynamic call to action—to love and serve one another. Let’s take a moment to consider how we can actively practice kindness and compassion in our daily routines, making a real difference in the lives of those around us.
Moreover, during this Advent season, let’s not forget that the message of Christmas is meant for everyone. We are invited to share God’s love and extend an open hand to others, helping them experience the joy and peace that His presence brings. As we journey together through this sacred time, may our hearts overflow with anticipation and joy as we await the miracle of our Savior’s birth.
Blessings to each of you in this incredible journey of faith.
Posted 12/07/2024
Dear friends in Christ, the 2nd Sunday of Advent invites us to reflect on the theme of preparation. As we light the second candle, often representing PEACE, we are reminded of the importance of making space in our hearts and lives for the coming of Christ. This Sunday encourages us to examine what it means to prepare—not only for the celebration of Christmas but for a deeper relationship with God. The readings for the Sunday highlight the prophetic voices calling for repentance and renewal, urging us to turn our hearts toward kindness, justice, and love.
It's a time to pause and consider how we can embody peace in our interactions with others, fostering a spirit of community and goodwill as we journey through this season of anticipation.
In this season of waiting, may we find the courage to clear the path in our hearts and minds to welcome Jesus with open arms. Let us take actionable steps in our daily lives that align with this message, fostering hope and peace in our communities.
Blessings to you all!
Posted 11/28/2024
Dear Friends, on this beautiful Thanksgiving Day, I invite you to pause and reflect on the significance of this occasion. Thanksgiving is not just a time for feasting and enjoying the company of friends and family; it is an opportunity to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in our hearts.
Throughout the scriptures, we are reminded of the importance of thankfulness. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we are encouraged to "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." This passage invites us to recognize that gratitude should not depend on our circumstances. Even in challenging times, there are always reasons to be thankful.
As we look around, we see the beauty of creation and the good things it offers. These elements remind us of God’s provision and how He cares for our needs. Moreover, we have the gift of community, shared moments, and connections that enrich our lives. Each relationship and interaction reflects God’s love woven into the fabric of our existence.
This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to take some time to reflect on the specific blessings in your life. Perhaps it's the love of family, the support of friends, good health, or even small daily comforts. Acknowledging these gifts allows us to cultivate a gratitude posture that transcends our circumstances.
Let us also remember those who are struggling today. Many face difficulties, whether economic hardship, health challenges, or loneliness. In our gratitude, let us reach out and extend our hands to those in need, embodying the love of Christ. Our acts of kindness can be a powerful reminder that we are all part of a larger family, supporting one another in times of joy and need.
As we gather around our tables today, I invite you to share not just the food but also the stories of gratitude that resonate within you. Let these moments foster deeper connections among us and strengthen our community. In this season of thankfulness, let us express our gratitude through words and actions, reflecting Christ's love in our daily lives. May your hearts be filled with peace and joy today, and may our thanksgiving rise as a sweet offering unto the Lord.
With blessings!
Posted 11/15/2024
Brethren, as we reflect on the themes of the 33rd Sunday of the Year, we are invited to contemplate the beautiful messages of vigilance, hope, and the steadfastness of God’s promises concerning the end times. Our Lord Jesus calls us spiritually awake, urging us to prepare ourselves for His return. Amid many distractions, we are reminded to prioritize our relationship with God, nurturing it with intention and love.
This call to vigilance involves more than just staying alert; it requires us to actively engage in prayer, take moments for reflection, and participate in the sacraments. These practices help us focus on what truly matters in our faith journey. Today's readings emphasize the importance of holding tightly to our beliefs, supporting one another, and embodying Christian values in every aspect of our lives.
Let us take comfort in the promise of resurrection and eternal life, recognizing that while our journey may be filled with challenges, it is equally filled with hope. May this week inspire us to renew our commitment to our faith, filling our hearts with purpose and joy. As we embrace these themes, let us share the hope we find in Christ with those around us, preparing our hearts for His glorious return.
With every blessing, may we walk together in faith and love
Posted 11/10/2024
Dear Friends in Christ, this Sunday, we reflect on the profound lessons from the Gospel about the widow’s offering (Mk 12:38-44). In serving our community, I have witnessed firsthand how true generosity knows no bounds and often goes beyond mere financial means. I think of several members of our congregation who, even while facing their challenges, continuously offer their time and support to others. They share meals, lend an ear, and provide companionship to those in need, embodying the spirit of Christ in their every action.
This beautiful example reminds us that genuine generosity is not solely measured by the dollars we offer but is deeply rooted in our willingness to give of ourselves—our time, talents, and compassion. We are called to ask ourselves: How can we live out this spirit of generosity in our daily interactions with one another?
Each small act of kindness, whether volunteering an hour each week, sharing a skill, or simply being present for someone who feels lonely, contributes to a larger tapestry of support and love within our community. Like the widow, we may sometimes feel we have little to give, yet the love behind our actions truly counts. Remember, no one is too poor to offer help; our hearts determine our capacity to care.
As we contemplate our contributions in the days ahead, let us ensure that what we offer comes from a place of love and commitment. It is in trusting God’s provision that we find the strength to believe our efforts, however small they may seem, can create meaningful change. Let’s uplift one another in this journey, embracing an attitude of generosity that mirrors the unconditional love of Christ in all that we do.
May our community be a reflection of His grace and compassion as we serve one another with open hearts.
Blessings to you all!
Posted 11/03/2024
Friend in Christ, in today's Gospel, Jesus is asked, "Which is the greatest commandment?" His response highlights the profound simplicity yet deep complexity of our faith. He first quotes Deuteronomy, calling us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and mind. This command challenges us to dedicate our entire being to God, inviting reflection on how often we prioritize our relationship with Him amidst the distractions of daily life.
Jesus then adds a second commandment: to love our neighbor as ourselves. This reinforces that our love for God must be expressed in our love for others. It's a powerful reminder that our faith is not just a personal journey but a communal one. We are called to actively seek the well-being of those around us, extending grace, compassion, and understanding.
This week, let us consider how we can embody these commandments in practical ways. What actions can we take to deepen our love for God and show love to our neighbors? May we strive to fulfill these greatest commandments, allowing them to guide our thoughts, words, and deeds.
Posted 11/02/2024
All Soul's Day, observed on November 2nd, offers a poignant opportunity to reflect on the lives of those we have lost and their impact on our journey. This day invites us to remember and honor our ancestors, friends, and loved ones who have passed away.
As we light candles and visit graves, we create a sacred space to celebrate their memories and the love that continues to bind us together, transcending time and absence. It’s a moment to pause and consider their legacy—lessons learned, shared stories, and the love that remains alive in our hearts.
Through reflection, we recognize the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. We can also contemplate our own lives, pondering how we want to be remembered. All Soul's Day serves as a reminder to cultivate kindness, love, and connection, ensuring that our lives honor those who came before us.
In this quiet remembrance, we find solace and a deeper understanding of the cycle of life, celebrating not just loss, but also the beauty of the relationships that shape who we are. May we carry forward the memories of our departed loved ones, letting their spirits inspire us in our everyday lives.
Posted 11/01/2024
The Solemnity of All Saints today invites us to pause and reflect on the extraordinary tapestry of holiness woven throughout the history of the Church. It is a day dedicated not only to the canonized saints we venerate but also to all those who have lived lives of faith, hope, and love, often in quiet, unseen ways.
As we celebrate this feast, we are reminded of the call to holiness that is universal. Every baptized person is called to be a saint, to live out their faith authentically in the everyday moments of life. The saints serve as our models and intercessors, illuminating the paths of virtue and fidelity. From the courage of martyrs to the kindness of everyday saints in our families and communities, each of their stories resonates with the grace of God’s presence.
In reflecting on the lives of the saints, we see their humanity—full of struggles, doubts, and triumphs. This allows us to identify with them in our own journeys. They teach us that holiness is not reserved for the pious or the perfect, but is attainable through love and service, humility, and a desire for God.
Furthermore, this solemnity beckons us to consider our own paths to sanctity. How are we called to respond to God’s grace in our lives? What steps can we take to live more fully as examples of Christ’s love and compassion? Each of us has the potential to reflect the light of Christ in our unique way, contributing to the communion of saints.
Let us also remember that this celebration connects us to our loved ones who have gone before us—those who have impacted our lives with their faith. They are part of the great cloud of witnesses, interceding for us and encouraging us to press on in our own journey.
As we honor all saints today, may we be inspired to embrace our call to holiness, living lives of love, mercy, and justice. Let us commit ourselves to being saints in our own right, bringing hope and light to those around us, as we strive toward the ultimate goal of eternal life with God in heaven.
Posted 10/27/2024
The story of blind Bartimaeus serves as a powerful example of how we grow into people of faith. Like Bartimaeus, we often find ourselves feeling helpless, standing on the sidelines as life unfolds around us. In those moments, we instinctively turn to God for assistance. Just as Jesus called upon Bartimaeus, we may feel a similar invitation from God to trust and surrender to His vision for our lives.
When Bartimaeus discarded his cloak, a representation of his former existence and means of survival, he showcased his readiness to embrace a new journey with Jesus. This action symbolizes the essence of faith: recognizing the larger perspective that God offers and choosing to trust in whatever He lays before us.
Key turning points in life often arise from significant challenges—such as losing a loved one, ending a relationship, or facing job loss—when we must believe that brighter days are ahead. We may also encounter moments when we need to adapt to a chronic illness, grieve unfulfilled aspirations, or face the realities of aging. Ultimately, these experiences call us to deepen our faith, trusting that God will lead us to renewal, even when we cannot see the path ahead.
Posted 10/20/2024
World Mission Sunday invites us to reflect on the universality of our faith and our call to share the Gospel with those around us and beyond. Each year, we are reminded of the great commission given by Jesus to His disciples: to go forth and make disciples of all nations. This call is not limited to a select few; it is a mission entrusted to all of us as members of the Church.
As we observe this day, we are called to consider the diverse and often challenging contexts in which our brothers and sisters in faith strive to live out their mission. Missionaries around the globe engage in vital work, bringing hope, education, healthcare, and spiritual nourishment to communities in need. Their dedication inspires us to think about our own roles in this mission.
In our daily lives, we might wonder how we can participate in this Great Commission. Maybe it means reaching out to someone in our neighborhood, volunteering our time to support those who are marginalized, or simply sharing our faith story with openness and love. Every small act of kindness and service contributes to the greater mission of spreading God’s love.
Moreover, World Mission Sunday encourages us to pray for our missionaries and for the places they serve. As we unite in prayer, we are reminded that the mission is not only about our actions but also about the power of faith and community. Let us open our hearts to be instruments of peace and love in our world.
As we celebrate this day, may we embrace our mission with enthusiasm and courage, ready to answer the call to serve, to love, and to spread the Good News to all corners of the earth. Let us remember that we are all part of one global family, called to bear witness to the hope and joy found in Christ. Amen.
Posted 10/12/2024
Friends in Christ, this Sunday's Gospel passage from Mark 10:17-30 urges us to reflect on the factors that may be preventing us from fully embracing Jesus.
It emphasizes that our attachment to material possessions can obstruct our ability to wholly devote ourselves to God. The story of the rich young man illustrates how his attachment to wealth hindered him from fully embracing the path of discipleship.
This narrative encourages us to introspect and identify any obstacles that may be impeding our complete commitment to God. It challenges us to reassess our priorities and acknowledge the potential barriers that could hinder our spiritual journey. Moreover, it reaffirms the truth that all things are achievable with God.
As we meditate on this Gospel passage, let us pray for the grace to detach ourselves from anything that may obstruct our relationship with God. May we be receptive to following Jesus wholeheartedly, placing our trust in His assurance that with God, all things are possible. Amen.
Posted 10/06/2024
Brethren, today’s readings invite us to reflect on the nature of marriage and the commitment it entails. The Gospel passage from Mark emphasizes the indissolubility of marriage, reminding us of the sacred bond between husband and wife. It's a call to honor and respect the sanctity of marriage and to strive for unity and mutual support within the marital relationship.
Additionally, the readings prompt us to consider the selfless and sacrificial love that should characterize our relationships, mirroring the love of Christ for his Church. This Sunday's message encourages us to renew our commitment to love and cherish our spouses and to uphold the sacredness of marriage in our communities.
Posted 02/14/2024
Today is Ash Wednesday- a time for reflection and introspection. It is a day to take a step back from our busy lives and ponder on the meaning of our existence. As we receive ashes on our foreheads, we are reminded of our mortality and the shortness of our time on earth.
It is a call to repentance and a reminder of our need for God's mercy and forgiveness. It's a call to let go of the things that distract us from what is truly important and to focus on our relationship with God and with others.
Ash Wednesday is a meaningful day that invites us to pause, reflect, and renew our commitment to live a life of faith and service.This day marks the beginning of the Lenten season, a time to turn away from sin, practice self-denial, and deepen our relationship with God. It is a time to reflect on our lives, examine our consciences, and strive to live a more meaningful and purposeful existence.
Posted 08/19/2023
This Sunday's readings speak of the universality of God’s salvation as against the notion that salvation was offered and exclusive to the Jews. God set the Israelites as His chosen race; he, however, included all nations in His plan for salvation.
In the first reading, God discloses that, in His eyes, there is no distinction among human beings based on race, caste, or color.
In the second reading, Paul explains that the Jews were the chosen people; however, many did not accept Jesus as the promised Messiah; as a result, God turned to the Gentiles and showed them mercy in Jesus Christ.
In the Gospel Episode, Jesus displays that salvation was meant for the Gentiles and Jews by healing the daughter of a Gentile woman.
Consequently, Jesus shows us that God’s mercy and love are available to all who call out to Him in Faith.
The scripture encourages us to pray with trustful confidence like the Gentile woman.
We need to pull down our walls of separation and share in the universality of God’s love and grace with all we meet.
Posted 07/08/2023
Brethren, amid the challenges and hardships that we face today, the readings for this Sunday bring us hope and the need to rely on God’s providence.
Jesus, in the gospel episode, invites each one of us to come and have solace in Him. He acknowledges the burdens we carry and the struggles we face, and He offers to share our yoke to lighten our load.
Jesus assures us that the demands of God are not beyond our strength. He invites us to turn to Him, to place our trust in Him, and to seek His help when we find ourselves at the crossroads.
Turning to Jesus in our times of need requires humility, faith, and a willingness to let go of our self-reliance. It means acknowledging that we cannot cross life’s challenges alone and that we need the help of Jesus.It is a task that entails surrendering our problems and allowing Jesus to guide us toward righteousness, justice, and peace.
Posted 06/11/ 2023
Brethren, today is the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. In this Feast, we profess our belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. We also proclaim that the same Jesus lives within each of us baptized into His Body, the Church.
In the Holy Eucharist, we receive Jesus, and He takes up residence within each of us. The Eucharist communicates God’s love to us beyond telling. It nourishes us with God’s free love for hungry and thirsty hearts. Jesus satisfies each one who receives him in the Eucharist, and he comes to meet with us, and we encounter his divine grace.
In today’s Gospel, John reports Jesus’ words, “For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him” (Jn 6,55). In the Eucharist, Jesus meets with us; He offers us Himself not for temporary nourishment but a nourishment that gives eternal life.
Jesus invites us today and always to allow ourselves to be nourished by that divine life we celebrate and receive in the Eucharist and that we, in turn, carry Jesus’ presence in the world.
Posted 06/04/2023
Friends in Christ, last Sunday, we celebrated the sending of the Spirit, which sealed God’s new covenant and made a new creation. In this new creation, we live in the family of God, who has revealed himself as a Trinity of love. We share in His divine nature through His body and blood (2 Peter 1:4). This is the meaning of the three feasts that cap the Easter season - Pentecost, Trinity Sunday, and Corpus Christi. These feasts are ultimate reminders of how deeply God loves us and how He chose us to be His children from before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4-5). Thus, they invite us to live aware of the presence of the Triune God in and around us.
The mystery of the Holy Trinity is the fundamental doctrine of Christianity and the greatest mystery of our Faith, namely, that three Persons share the exact Divine nature in One God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We have Father, the Creator, Son, the Redeemer, and Holy Spirit, the Sanctifier. Each Person is God, yet there is still only one God. This doctrine underlies all Christian feasts and prayers.
God’s trinitarian nature is beyond our complete understanding; it invites us to come nearer until we see God face-to-face in eternal life. With the Trinitarian God as the foundation of the Christian community and communion, it is our model for families and faith communities. We are created in love to be a community of loving persons, just like the Trinity. From the day of our Baptism, we belonged to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Posted 05/25/2023
Brethren, this Sunday, we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost. Pentecost commemorates the day on which Jesus’ disciples received the Holy Spirit. It was a moment when God broke into humanity to fulfill Jesus's promise to His disciples.
This Spirit’s coming brings about significant changes in the lives of those early “inspired” Jews. The ability to speak and understand different languages is only the first. They believe the gospel, teach what they believe, and practice what they teach.
Jesus is still breathing his Spirit upon us today. He continually urges us to the same Mission. The Spirit pushes and raises, moves and leads, and calls us in the day, night, and depths of our souls. The Holy Spirit calls us to solidarity with Jesus Christ in the Church to actual witnessing and discipleship.
You and I are inducted through baptism into that Day of Pentecost, which never ends, for Pentecost is the name of this one Christian generation.
Posted 05/21/2023
These weekend readings describe the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven following his promise of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles, commanding them to make disciples of all the nation.
In the event of Jesus’ resurrection, we know what life will be like in Heaven. The hope of partaking in that glory is the driving force of our lives and our mission.
Following Jesus’ command before his ascension, we have a teaching mission: We are to be witnesses of the gospel. He already gave us the message of Faith, Hope, Love, forgiveness, mercy, and salvation. We have the same mission towards those around us and the world. The Holy Spirit provides us with all we need for this mission. Look for opportunities this season to share about Jesus with people in your spheres of influence and ask the Spirit to lead you in those moments.
Posted 05/21/2023
Mother’s Day is here; another excellent opportunity to honor the beautiful vocation of motherhood and the gift of human life.
This day invites us to appreciate the wonderful gift of life from all mothers and, thus, pray for all women to whom God has entrusted life.
Mother’s Day in May. May is also a month traditionally dedicated to Mary, Mother of Jesus.
Thus, it is an added advantage to pray for all mothers and commend them to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
We especially remember all mothers experiencing challenging pregnancies and pray they find encouragement and support in choosing life for their children.
May God bless all mothers in our faith community now and always. Amen!