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!