33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time - The End of the Story
In the Judeo-Christian tradition, we believe that history is a story and that our lives unfold in a particular direction. This story begins with creation and continues to unfold until the very last day when God will destroy every evil and bring all things into the embrace of God’s will. With the resurrection of Jesus, we have come to see that this end of history will happen through Christ and that on the last day He will come to bring all things together into the love and will of his Heavenly Father. This is our faith. It is what we believe. Jesus will bring history to an end and establish the kingdom of God. If we believe that the direction of history is aiming towards an ending of God’s victory, it can change the way we think and live.
In the Judeo-Christian tradition, we believe that history is a story and that our lives unfold in a particular direction. This story begins with creation and continues to unfold until the very last day when God will destroy every evil and bring all things into the embrace of God’s will. With the resurrection of Jesus, we have come to see that this end of history will happen through Christ and that on the last day He will come to bring all things together into the love and will of his Heavenly Father. This is our faith. It is what we believe. Jesus will bring history to an end and establish the kingdom of God. If we believe that the direction of history is aiming towards an ending of God’s victory, it can change the way we think and live.
32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time - Do Not Be Afraid
Sacred Scripture has always revealed a people wrestling with a precarious uncertainty. Narratives all throughout show that one size does not fit all. We can be united in the same covenant or cleansed by the same waters of baptism and yet we can be radically different from our closest neighbor. Case in point is the story of the prophet Elijah’s request for water and bread from the widow of Zarephath. He sounds privileged and indifferent to her desperate situation. There had been a drought in the land and as a result she has only a bit of flour and some oil to prepare a final meal for herself and her son. But Elijah's response to the widow echoes God's response to those in need throughout the Bible, "Do not be afraid." Elijah is God's prophet and when he speaks he speaks for God, revealing, once again, that God notices and acts in favor of the needy and outcast.
Sacred Scripture has always revealed a people wrestling with a precarious uncertainty. Narratives all throughout show that one size does not fit all. We can be united in the same covenant or cleansed by the same waters of baptism and yet we can be radically different from our closest neighbor. Case in point is the story of the prophet Elijah’s request for water and bread from the widow of Zarephath. He sounds privileged and indifferent to her desperate situation. There had been a drought in the land and as a result she has only a bit of flour and some oil to prepare a final meal for herself and her son. But Elijah's response to the widow echoes God's response to those in need throughout the Bible, "Do not be afraid." Elijah is God's prophet and when he speaks he speaks for God, revealing, once again, that God notices and acts in favor of the needy and outcast.
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time - Accountability & Stewardship
So much of the human story is filled with broken dreams. We have been created in the image of God. We can fashion marvelous possibilities for success, fame and pleasure, and we spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But along the way, we will always encounter people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams. Along the way we will always question what it is that we need to do to find our ultimate happiness.
So much of the human story is filled with broken dreams. We have been created in the image of God. We can fashion marvelous possibilities for success, fame and pleasure, and we spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But along the way, we will always encounter people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams. Along the way we will always question what it is that we need to do to find our ultimate happiness.
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time - What's in it for us?
Whenever we are faced with having to make adult choices, it is very difficult for us to be totally selfless. We are innately self centered. Subconsciously, at least, we are always asking: "What's in it for us?" Religious decisions are no exception. If we deliberately choose to become disciples of Jesus we too like James and John, might ask: "What reward do you promise us? Will we become powerful and famous?"
Whenever we are faced with having to make adult choices, it is very difficult for us to be totally selfless. We are innately self centered. Subconsciously, at least, we are always asking: "What's in it for us?" Religious decisions are no exception. If we deliberately choose to become disciples of Jesus we too like James and John, might ask: "What reward do you promise us? Will we become powerful and famous?"
28th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Body Language
Body language reveals a lot about a person and what they are really saying. The gospel writers often help us understand a person’s disposition by describing their physical demeanor. Mark begins today’s story of the exchange between Jesus and a wealthy man by describing the man’s bodily dispositions. Jesus is beginning his journey to Jerusalem. He is deliberately going to the place where he will die and he has been inviting people to become his disciples by following him, “on the way.” This is where the man encounters Jesus. Blocking Jesus’ path and throwing himself on his knees, he seems to give every indication of his willingness to follow the teacher's instructions implicitly and without question. His body language and his humble demeanor speak favorably for him.
Body language reveals a lot about a person and what they are really saying. The gospel writers often help us understand a person’s disposition by describing their physical demeanor. Mark begins today’s story of the exchange between Jesus and a wealthy man by describing the man’s bodily dispositions. Jesus is beginning his journey to Jerusalem. He is deliberately going to the place where he will die and he has been inviting people to become his disciples by following him, “on the way.” This is where the man encounters Jesus. Blocking Jesus’ path and throwing himself on his knees, he seems to give every indication of his willingness to follow the teacher's instructions implicitly and without question. His body language and his humble demeanor speak favorably for him.
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Awakening the Heart
We tend to think of spirituality as a practice or a pursuit reserved for a very few elitist of souls. We think of the lucky ones who have the extra time (and money) to pray more, meditate daily, go to special retreats, or read books on the subject. Most of us would claim our lives are far too busy at this time for spiritual pursuits. We try to get to church and say a few extra prayers while we shave or do our hair. But as far as developing our spiritual lives, that will have to wait until we get more time - maybe after the kids leave the house, or when we retire.
We tend to think of spirituality as a practice or a pursuit reserved for a very few elitist of souls. We think of the lucky ones who have the extra time (and money) to pray more, meditate daily, go to special retreats, or read books on the subject. Most of us would claim our lives are far too busy at this time for spiritual pursuits. We try to get to church and say a few extra prayers while we shave or do our hair. But as far as developing our spiritual lives, that will have to wait until we get more time - maybe after the kids leave the house, or when we retire.
20th Sunday in Ordinary Time - True Food and True Drink
Hunger is a world wide problem. More than 800 million people in the world go hungry. In developing countries, more than six million children die each year, mostly from hunger-related causes and in the United States alone, 12 million children live in households where people have to skip meals or eat less to make ends meet. That means one in ten households in the U.S. are living with hunger or are at risk of hunger. But there are deeper hungers that don’t go away when our stomachs are full.
Hunger is a world wide problem. More than 800 million people in the world go hungry. In developing countries, more than six million children die each year, mostly from hunger-related causes and in the United States alone, 12 million children live in households where people have to skip meals or eat less to make ends meet. That means one in ten households in the U.S. are living with hunger or are at risk of hunger. But there are deeper hungers that don’t go away when our stomachs are full.
18th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Misreading the Signs
In the scriptures, the struggles of the desert wilderness reveal who we are as we make our way on the journey of faith. We are often weak, wavering, grumbling and in need of a faithful God who takes the initiative towards us. The episode today from Exodus is a perfect example of the desert/wilderness journey. Its symbolism is rich. We see a faith community’s arduous journey over a long period of time through harsh terrain. We can feel a sense of hope because God sees the hunger of the Hebrew community and sends them food. But it is not the food to which they have been accustomed, nor is it the kind of food they might have chosen for themselves.
In the scriptures, the struggles of the desert wilderness reveal who we are as we make our way on the journey of faith. We are often weak, wavering, grumbling and in need of a faithful God who takes the initiative towards us. The episode today from Exodus is a perfect example of the desert/wilderness journey. Its symbolism is rich. We see a faith community’s arduous journey over a long period of time through harsh terrain. We can feel a sense of hope because God sees the hunger of the Hebrew community and sends them food. But it is not the food to which they have been accustomed, nor is it the kind of food they might have chosen for themselves.
10th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Who Are You? Where Are You Going?
Summer is about to begin. Some vacation may lie ahead, and it might be a time of easing up a bit. This is a time that usually provides some space and leisure for people and it’s a good time to ask ourselves the question that God asks of Adam: “Where am I?” and then add, “And where am I going?”
Summer is about to begin. Some vacation may lie ahead, and it might be a time of easing up a bit. This is a time that usually provides some space and leisure for people and it’s a good time to ask ourselves the question that God asks of Adam: “Where am I?” and then add, “And where am I going?”
Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ - The Gift of Covenant
The central focus throughout all of scripture is that of covenant - of man's relationship to God and of God's enduring faithfulness to man. Covenants are critical to understanding the fierce and unrelenting love that God has for mankind. They act as the structure upon which the entire story of salvation is built. From Genesis on, God enters into one covenant after another, constantly forgiving man's broken promises and consistently renewing the divine desire to embrace his people in order to rescue his world and declare his divine love. These covenant relationships push that narrative forward until it reaches its climax in Jesus.
The central focus throughout all of scripture is that of covenant - of man's relationship to God and of God's enduring faithfulness to man. Covenants are critical to understanding the fierce and unrelenting love that God has for mankind. They act as the structure upon which the entire story of salvation is built. From Genesis on, God enters into one covenant after another, constantly forgiving man's broken promises and consistently renewing the divine desire to embrace his people in order to rescue his world and declare his divine love. These covenant relationships push that narrative forward until it reaches its climax in Jesus.
Trinity Sunday - Chosen To Be His Own
There is a sense of closure about this feast of the Holy Trinity, at least in terms of major liturgical celebrations. We have journeyed through salvation history, from Ash Wednesday to Pentecost, commemorating the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, his ascension to the Father, and the sending of the Holy Spirit. Today we summarize all of these events in terms of understanding the mysterious nature of our God and his presence in our world and in our lives.
There is a sense of closure about this feast of the Holy Trinity, at least in terms of major liturgical celebrations. We have journeyed through salvation history, from Ash Wednesday to Pentecost, commemorating the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, his ascension to the Father, and the sending of the Holy Spirit. Today we summarize all of these events in terms of understanding the mysterious nature of our God and his presence in our world and in our lives.
Pentecost Sunday - Different Perspectives
Without the Spirit there is no church. Without the Spirit there is no memory of Christ. Without the Spirit there is no grace in our lives and no hope for our future. We see signs of our need for the Spirit everywhere from the fractures in our own beings and communities to and including the brokenness of the world that surrounds us. All creation seems to be deeply groaning from within, in desparate need of the Spirit's renewing life.
Without the Spirit there is no church. Without the Spirit there is no memory of Christ. Without the Spirit there is no grace in our lives and no hope for our future. We see signs of our need for the Spirit everywhere from the fractures in our own beings and communities to and including the brokenness of the world that surrounds us. All creation seems to be deeply groaning from within, in desparate need of the Spirit's renewing life.
6th Sunday of Easter - That Your Joy May be Complete
We cannot share what we have not first received. After the Resurrection the great news that the apostles proclaimed was very simple. Peter puts it all into context in today's First Reading, "God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him." Love is not something we create. It is instead a gift from God. It is a gift given. But once given it remains a gift only if it is shared.
We cannot share what we have not first received. After the Resurrection the great news that the apostles proclaimed was very simple. Peter puts it all into context in today's First Reading, "God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him." Love is not something we create. It is instead a gift from God. It is a gift given. But once given it remains a gift only if it is shared.
2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Come and You Will See
The Gospel of John reminds us today that we are called to be disciples. We are all called to minister and proclaim God's word to the nonbeliever (to evangelize) and to share that word with our fellow believers (to catechize). How we respond to His call is the measure by which we reflect his constant presence to the world and how the Good News of Salvation is spread throughout it.
The Gospel of John reminds us today that we are called to be disciples. We are all called to minister and proclaim God's word to the nonbeliever (to evangelize) and to share that word with our fellow believers (to catechize). How we respond to His call is the measure by which we reflect his constant presence to the world and how the Good News of Salvation is spread throughout it.
3rd Sunday of Advent - Who Are We? What Are We Doing?
How would we answer someone who asked us, "Who are you?" Would we identify ourselves as being anointed by the Lord to bring glad tidings to the poor and to heal the brokenhearted? Are we a joyful people, rejoicing always? Would we describe ourselves as the voices in the desert crying out, "Make straight the way of the Lord?" The crowds who followed John the Baptist asked an important question: "What should we do?" These two questions ("Who are you?" and "What shall we do?") are intimately connected. Who we are is what we do.
How would we answer someone who asked us, "Who are you?" Would we identify ourselves as being anointed by the Lord to bring glad tidings to the poor and to heal the brokenhearted? Are we a joyful people, rejoicing always? Would we describe ourselves as the voices in the desert crying out, "Make straight the way of the Lord?" The crowds who followed John the Baptist asked an important question: "What should we do?" These two questions ("Who are you?" and "What shall we do?") are intimately connected. Who we are is what we do.
1st Sunday of Advent - And Yet...
Today's selection from the Gospel of Mark is one for hard times. This was certainly true for the community for whom Mark wrote. This early Christian community faced many problems, notably the destruction of Jerusalem in the year 70 and persecutions by both religious and political authorities. The new faith had torn families apart and false prophets were predicting Christ's imminent return. Who could blame these early Christians for asking, "Where is Jesus now that we need him? Has he forgotten us? When is he going to return?"
Today's selection from the Gospel of Mark is one for hard times. This was certainly true for the community for whom Mark wrote. This early Christian community faced many problems, notably the destruction of Jerusalem in the year 70 and persecutions by both religious and political authorities. The new faith had torn families apart and false prophets were predicting Christ's imminent return. Who could blame these early Christians for asking, "Where is Jesus now that we need him? Has he forgotten us? When is he going to return?"
Solemnity of Christ the King - Belonging to the Truth
The current landscape of the world reveals, quite clearly, the struggle for power and domination. It has been deep-seated in the history of our country and it seems to be part of the DNA of the history of the world: a constant need for power and control over people and things - in politics, in society, in business, in religion, in media and in personal relationships.
The current landscape of the world reveals, quite clearly, the struggle for power and domination. It has been deep-seated in the history of our country and it seems to be part of the DNA of the history of the world: a constant need for power and control over people and things - in politics, in society, in business, in religion, in media and in personal relationships.
24th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Two Questions, Two Rebukes
On the road to Jerusalem Jesus asks his disciples two questions. The first is a general question. “Who do people say that I am?” The disciples respond with what people were saying about him. The popular notion was that Jesus was someone like John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the great prophets. Then He asks, "but who do you say that I am?" Only Peter has the courage to answer.
On the road to Jerusalem Jesus asks his disciples two questions. The first is a general question. “Who do people say that I am?” The disciples respond with what people were saying about him. The popular notion was that Jesus was someone like John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the great prophets. Then He asks, "but who do you say that I am?" Only Peter has the courage to answer.
Great Things Done for Us
The image of Mary greeting Elizabeth is filled with meaning for us as the church celebrates the Assumption of Mary. So it is quite interesting that our reflections today turn to Mary’s “Magnificat.” Mary rejoices in the saving work of God, “scattering the proud...casting down the mighty from their thrones....” On the surface, it is the meeting of two cousins - just a friendly visit. But these two women have been favored by the Lord and filled with unexpected new life. It is the child in Elizabeth's womb who leaps at the approach of Mary carrying her hidden treasure.
The image of Mary greeting Elizabeth is filled with meaning for us as the church celebrates the Assumption of Mary. So it is quite interesting that our reflections today turn to Mary’s “Magnificat.” Mary rejoices in the saving work of God, “scattering the proud...casting down the mighty from their thrones....” On the surface, it is the meeting of two cousins - just a friendly visit. But these two women have been favored by the Lord and filled with unexpected new life. It is the child in Elizabeth's womb who leaps at the approach of Mary carrying her hidden treasure.
13th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Encounters in Faith
The Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Matthew and Luke) told powerful stories about the life of Jesus and his message of hope. The early Christian communities who heard these stories passed them on because it was clear to them that important elements in the story would be relevant to anyone who had the eyes to see and the ears to hear. Jesus is simply and clearly available to people. And for us this is critically important. These stories emphasize the way people come to faith, how that faith moves them to action and how it leads them to discipleship.
The Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Matthew and Luke) told powerful stories about the life of Jesus and his message of hope. The early Christian communities who heard these stories passed them on because it was clear to them that important elements in the story would be relevant to anyone who had the eyes to see and the ears to hear. Jesus is simply and clearly available to people. And for us this is critically important. These stories emphasize the way people come to faith, how that faith moves them to action and how it leads them to discipleship.
Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ - Covenant and Gift
The Scriptures speak to us of covenant - of man's relationship to God and of God's enduring faithfulness to man. Today we are reminded once again that when Jesus invites his disciples to eat his flesh and drink his blood, he invites each of us to take his life into the very center of our being. The life which he offers is the very life of God himself - the beginning of a "new" covenant, a new relationship between Creator and mankind.
The Scriptures speak to us of covenant - of man's relationship to God and of God's enduring faithfulness to man. Today we are reminded once again that when Jesus invites his disciples to eat his flesh and drink his blood, he invites each of us to take his life into the very center of our being. The life which he offers is the very life of God himself - the beginning of a "new" covenant, a new relationship between Creator and mankind.
Trinity Sunday - Until the End of the Age
Today we acknowledge our belief in One God as Three Persons. Jesus of Nazareth is the lens through which we interpret this mystery. On the Ascension we celebrated Jesus’ return to his Father’s side. Pentecost fulfilled Jesus’ promise that he would not leave us on our own to struggle in a contrary world of rejection, indifference and outright hostility. Now, we continue to celebrate the gift of the Spirit’s faithful presence in our midst. As he promised, Jesus has not left us orphans.
Today we acknowledge our belief in One God as Three Persons. Jesus of Nazareth is the lens through which we interpret this mystery. On the Ascension we celebrated Jesus’ return to his Father’s side. Pentecost fulfilled Jesus’ promise that he would not leave us on our own to struggle in a contrary world of rejection, indifference and outright hostility. Now, we continue to celebrate the gift of the Spirit’s faithful presence in our midst. As he promised, Jesus has not left us orphans.
Pentecost Sunday - The Language of the Spirit
"The Holy Spirit is alive and well and making mischief..."
- Sr. Simone Campbell Change is always threatening. The human spirit is really torn in two directions: we have a deep hunger for stability and security, but we are also aware of a profound thirst for knowledge, for growth and improvement, for expanding horizons and fulfilling innate potentials. We have to break out of ourselves if we really want to live.
"The Holy Spirit is alive and well and making mischief..."
- Sr. Simone Campbell Change is always threatening. The human spirit is really torn in two directions: we have a deep hunger for stability and security, but we are also aware of a profound thirst for knowledge, for growth and improvement, for expanding horizons and fulfilling innate potentials. We have to break out of ourselves if we really want to live.
7th Sunday of Easter - Fulfilling the Vision
As He prepared His disciples for the coming of the Spirit, Jesus prayed in a very loving and intimate way for those to whom he was entrusting his mission. But his prayer looked far beyond these first disciples. When all is said and done, a religious community, and its doctrines and beliefs, are finally judged by the kind of people it produces. As we celebrate the feast of the Ascension, and anticipating the gift of the Spirit on Pentecost, Jesus’ words take on an additional meaning today for us, the descendants in faith of those first followers of his.
As He prepared His disciples for the coming of the Spirit, Jesus prayed in a very loving and intimate way for those to whom he was entrusting his mission. But his prayer looked far beyond these first disciples. When all is said and done, a religious community, and its doctrines and beliefs, are finally judged by the kind of people it produces. As we celebrate the feast of the Ascension, and anticipating the gift of the Spirit on Pentecost, Jesus’ words take on an additional meaning today for us, the descendants in faith of those first followers of his.
Easter - No One Saw Him Rise...
No one saw Him rise . . . Not soldiers at the tomb —
They'd heard his death-cry, cut him down
And slept secure — the stone could not be moved.
No one saw Him rise . . . Not soldiers at the tomb —
They'd heard his death-cry, cut him down
And slept secure — the stone could not be moved.
Holy Week: Identifying with the Suffering Christ
Almost one year ago, Pope Francis presided at a special prayer service and gave his Urbi et Orbi blessing - with the faithful participating online from the safety of their homes. St. Peter's Basilica was empty, yet millions of people - Catholic and non-Catholic alike - viewed the hour-long service of prayer and worship, livestreamed via their computers, phones or tablets. A few days later, we watched as he presided over the Holy Week and Triduum services and listened as he proclaimed that the Coronavirus outbreak would be an opportunity for humanity to re-prioritize and to collectively choose that which really matters.
Almost one year ago, Pope Francis presided at a special prayer service and gave his Urbi et Orbi blessing - with the faithful participating online from the safety of their homes. St. Peter's Basilica was empty, yet millions of people - Catholic and non-Catholic alike - viewed the hour-long service of prayer and worship, livestreamed via their computers, phones or tablets. A few days later, we watched as he presided over the Holy Week and Triduum services and listened as he proclaimed that the Coronavirus outbreak would be an opportunity for humanity to re-prioritize and to collectively choose that which really matters.
1st Sunday of Lent - The Time is Now
Life-changing transformations don’t happen easily. They require interior fortitude and determination, courage, persistence and more - an interior change of heart and mind. In the Scriptures this is called “Metanoia.” So we again enter into the invitation and the challenge of Lent well aware that we have been asked to commit our lives fully to the coming reign of God. “Metanoia” and “Repentance” are not to be simple cosmetic or superficial changes. Repentance isn’t just for a part of the year. It is a full-time, on-going commitment to change. Metanoia pushes us to turn away from whatever distracts us from God and to turn to the embrace of the One who is infinite love.
Life-changing transformations don’t happen easily. They require interior fortitude and determination, courage, persistence and more - an interior change of heart and mind. In the Scriptures this is called “Metanoia.” So we again enter into the invitation and the challenge of Lent well aware that we have been asked to commit our lives fully to the coming reign of God. “Metanoia” and “Repentance” are not to be simple cosmetic or superficial changes. Repentance isn’t just for a part of the year. It is a full-time, on-going commitment to change. Metanoia pushes us to turn away from whatever distracts us from God and to turn to the embrace of the One who is infinite love.
Beginnings, Endings and Revelations
Again today, we have a unique opportunity to focus our attention on beginnings, endings and on what might have been revealed to us during this holiday season. Within the period of the next seven days, we will celebrate three special feasts of the Church: The Holy Family, Mary Mother of God, and the Epiphany of the Lord. We will have the opportunity to evaluate the end of another year in our pilgrimage of faith, to set our sights on the beginning of a new dimension of our call to discipleship and to reflect on what we have learned throughout this last year, living through war, fear, and uncertainty.
Again today, we have a unique opportunity to focus our attention on beginnings, endings and on what might have been revealed to us during this holiday season. Within the period of the next seven days, we will celebrate three special feasts of the Church: The Holy Family, Mary Mother of God, and the Epiphany of the Lord. We will have the opportunity to evaluate the end of another year in our pilgrimage of faith, to set our sights on the beginning of a new dimension of our call to discipleship and to reflect on what we have learned throughout this last year, living through war, fear, and uncertainty.
1st Sunday of Advent - Learning to Hope
We turn to God with anxious eyes this Advent. Advent asks some very basic questions: do we still trust that God is in charge, is faithful to us and will finally draw us into a loving and lasting embrace? The answer to these questions is a reminder to us that we are indeed the people in whom God has invested much. For God has taken flesh among us; Jesus is our sign that God will not give up on us. He is the moment in the cycle of our downward spiral that allows God’s mercy to step in.
We turn to God with anxious eyes this Advent. Advent asks some very basic questions: do we still trust that God is in charge, is faithful to us and will finally draw us into a loving and lasting embrace? The answer to these questions is a reminder to us that we are indeed the people in whom God has invested much. For God has taken flesh among us; Jesus is our sign that God will not give up on us. He is the moment in the cycle of our downward spiral that allows God’s mercy to step in.
16th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Without a Shepherd
The warning of Jeremiah, speaking on behalf of God, bemoans those "shepherds who mislead and scatter the flock of my pasture." The "shepherds" that Jeremiah is referring to are Israel's rulers. The nation's rulers, along with the priests and prophets, were supposed to play a role in helping the nation fulfill its vocation as God's people. Yahweh had carefully and lovingly shepherded Israel and Judah. But those whose duty it was to be His instruments were, for the most part, a huge disappointment. Without good and righteous leadership, the very covenant between God and the people had suffered.
The warning of Jeremiah, speaking on behalf of God, bemoans those "shepherds who mislead and scatter the flock of my pasture." The "shepherds" that Jeremiah is referring to are Israel's rulers. The nation's rulers, along with the priests and prophets, were supposed to play a role in helping the nation fulfill its vocation as God's people. Yahweh had carefully and lovingly shepherded Israel and Judah. But those whose duty it was to be His instruments were, for the most part, a huge disappointment. Without good and righteous leadership, the very covenant between God and the people had suffered.
15th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Being Chosen and Being Sent
Jesus' preaching reflected his basic religious convictions. He believed that his understanding of God would be "good news" for people. He shared his convictions that this would be good news for the poor, that it would bring sight to those who were blind, bring freedom to those who were held captive and would set free those who were on the fringe and downtrodden. This is why he gathered his disciples and sent them, two by two, to "spread the word."
Jesus' preaching reflected his basic religious convictions. He believed that his understanding of God would be "good news" for people. He shared his convictions that this would be good news for the poor, that it would bring sight to those who were blind, bring freedom to those who were held captive and would set free those who were on the fringe and downtrodden. This is why he gathered his disciples and sent them, two by two, to "spread the word."
11th Sunday in Ordinary Time - This Is How It Is
Parables are stories, not theological arguments. They are simple, sometimes thought-provoking, everyday stories that everyone can understand. But they describe for us a way of seeing our lives through another lens, looking with a sharper focus at the way Jesus would have us see and experience life around us. And we need to listen carefully. There are thirteen parables in the Gospel of Mark, two of which appear in today's Gospel. And Jesus introduces them by saying, "This is how it is with the kingdom of God…." In other words, "Let me tell you about the kingdom of God..."
Parables are stories, not theological arguments. They are simple, sometimes thought-provoking, everyday stories that everyone can understand. But they describe for us a way of seeing our lives through another lens, looking with a sharper focus at the way Jesus would have us see and experience life around us. And we need to listen carefully. There are thirteen parables in the Gospel of Mark, two of which appear in today's Gospel. And Jesus introduces them by saying, "This is how it is with the kingdom of God…." In other words, "Let me tell you about the kingdom of God..."
10th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Where are We?
The Genesis story in our First Reading today sums up the human situation then and now; our human existence is broken, relationships are destroyed by blame and mistrust. We all yearn for the Garden of Eden - how it was before sin was introduced into the world. And we all have a sense of how life should be, how we desire it to be. But we are always confronted with the harsh realities of how it really is.
The Genesis story in our First Reading today sums up the human situation then and now; our human existence is broken, relationships are destroyed by blame and mistrust. We all yearn for the Garden of Eden - how it was before sin was introduced into the world. And we all have a sense of how life should be, how we desire it to be. But we are always confronted with the harsh realities of how it really is.
2nd Sunday of Easter - The Word that Changed Lives
Faith in the resurrection of Jesus was slow in coming even for His closest friends and followers. There were the special, fleeting moments when they saw Him again, heard Him speak, even ate fish with Him on the shore, which allowed them to become aware of His presence and power in ways that transcend the senses. But there were those who always needed, in some way, to touch the wounds of the Risen Christ or demand some physical proof in order to believe.
Faith in the resurrection of Jesus was slow in coming even for His closest friends and followers. There were the special, fleeting moments when they saw Him again, heard Him speak, even ate fish with Him on the shore, which allowed them to become aware of His presence and power in ways that transcend the senses. But there were those who always needed, in some way, to touch the wounds of the Risen Christ or demand some physical proof in order to believe.
Holy Week: Living Holy Week Every Day...
The story of the Passion is one which continues today and every day in our lives and the lives of the people all over the planet. It is told in the lives of the poor, in the lives of refugees and immigrants, in the lives of people in prison, in the lives of people on death row, in the lives of single parents, in the lives of the elderly, in the lives of soldiers and combatants and noncombatants, in those who are victims of racism, in those who are powerless and even in the life of the planet earth which has been so abused.
The story of the Passion is one which continues today and every day in our lives and the lives of the people all over the planet. It is told in the lives of the poor, in the lives of refugees and immigrants, in the lives of people in prison, in the lives of people on death row, in the lives of single parents, in the lives of the elderly, in the lives of soldiers and combatants and noncombatants, in those who are victims of racism, in those who are powerless and even in the life of the planet earth which has been so abused.
2nd Sunday in Lent - Go Forth...
The story of Abraham and Issac is a focal one in Genesis and in the faith history of the Jewish people. It begins with God’s command, "Go forth." But the foundation of this story is the very common story we all participate in. All these stories share the same characteristic, they contain some kind of change and conflict along the way to new life. This is the hope that this story of Abraham stirs up. The promise isn't that things will be easy; what makes the end hopeful is that God promises to “Go Forth” with Abraham and his descendants forever.
The story of Abraham and Issac is a focal one in Genesis and in the faith history of the Jewish people. It begins with God’s command, "Go forth." But the foundation of this story is the very common story we all participate in. All these stories share the same characteristic, they contain some kind of change and conflict along the way to new life. This is the hope that this story of Abraham stirs up. The promise isn't that things will be easy; what makes the end hopeful is that God promises to “Go Forth” with Abraham and his descendants forever.
2nd Sunday of Easter - Shock and Awe
Aftershocks are very disconcerting. They keep us living on the edge. They give us a radically new outlook on the permanency and security of physical things. They unclutter our lives very swiftly, effectively, and sometimes very painfully. They open our eyes and let us see how fragile we really are. We now begin to celebrate the Fifty days of Easter. We need fifty days because this one event cannot be captured in a single day. Fifty days to let the aftershock of this incredible event vibrate in our minds and hearts and spirits.
Aftershocks are very disconcerting. They keep us living on the edge. They give us a radically new outlook on the permanency and security of physical things. They unclutter our lives very swiftly, effectively, and sometimes very painfully. They open our eyes and let us see how fragile we really are. We now begin to celebrate the Fifty days of Easter. We need fifty days because this one event cannot be captured in a single day. Fifty days to let the aftershock of this incredible event vibrate in our minds and hearts and spirits.
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Testimony and Witness
There is a grace present in all of Scripture, a grace that we too often narrowly associate only with scriptural figures. The God of today’s Jonah story is the same God we see Jesus reveal to us in the Gospel. Both readings today are tales of mercy, freely given, unlimited and unearned. God, it seems, is free to bestow mercy on whomever God chooses. And that same grace is eternally present and given, just as freely, to each of us.
There is a grace present in all of Scripture, a grace that we too often narrowly associate only with scriptural figures. The God of today’s Jonah story is the same God we see Jesus reveal to us in the Gospel. Both readings today are tales of mercy, freely given, unlimited and unearned. God, it seems, is free to bestow mercy on whomever God chooses. And that same grace is eternally present and given, just as freely, to each of us.
2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Called by Name to Serve
The Gospels over the last few weeks have asked us to think about some very important things: the revelation of God's presence in the world with the Feast of the Epiphany; our remembering the beginning of His public mission with the feast of His Baptism; the very personal invitation that we all have received from the Lord at our baptism - and the commitment that we make to that invitation.
The Gospels over the last few weeks have asked us to think about some very important things: the revelation of God's presence in the world with the Feast of the Epiphany; our remembering the beginning of His public mission with the feast of His Baptism; the very personal invitation that we all have received from the Lord at our baptism - and the commitment that we make to that invitation.
The Baptism of the Lord - Beloved of God
Christmas and Epiphany have come and gone, but we are not finished with the revelations, epiphanies and manifestations of Jesus. We can point to three mysteries that celebrate the Lord's Epiphany: the arrival of the Magi at the birth of Jesus; the story of the changing of water into wine at Cana in John's Gospel and the stories of Jesus' baptism by John in the Jordan. These early Gospel stories begin the revelation to us of who Jesus is and what his mission will be.
Christmas and Epiphany have come and gone, but we are not finished with the revelations, epiphanies and manifestations of Jesus. We can point to three mysteries that celebrate the Lord's Epiphany: the arrival of the Magi at the birth of Jesus; the story of the changing of water into wine at Cana in John's Gospel and the stories of Jesus' baptism by John in the Jordan. These early Gospel stories begin the revelation to us of who Jesus is and what his mission will be.
26th Sunday in Ordinary Time - The Inner Circle
One of the hardest things to overcome in human nature is the tendency to categorize people between those who are "in" and those who are "out." We all want to be accepted by our own inner circle of family and friends, and exclusion by contemporaries can be painful and even damaging. People derive a sense of self worth and a way of exerting power over others by belonging to a group that, in their own eyes, seems to be better than others. To maintain acceptance we may even keep silent when we should object to unkind behavior or conversation by our peers.
One of the hardest things to overcome in human nature is the tendency to categorize people between those who are "in" and those who are "out." We all want to be accepted by our own inner circle of family and friends, and exclusion by contemporaries can be painful and even damaging. People derive a sense of self worth and a way of exerting power over others by belonging to a group that, in their own eyes, seems to be better than others. To maintain acceptance we may even keep silent when we should object to unkind behavior or conversation by our peers.
11th Sunday in Ordinary Time - The Smallest of Seeds
The Church's liturgical year revolves around the focal points of the mystery of our faith, and are divided into "seasons" that mirror the major feasts celebrated by the community: The Seasons of Advent and Christmas, the Seasons Lent and Easter. Today, we return to "ordinary" time.
The Church's liturgical year revolves around the focal points of the mystery of our faith, and are divided into "seasons" that mirror the major feasts celebrated by the community: The Seasons of Advent and Christmas, the Seasons Lent and Easter. Today, we return to "ordinary" time.
3rd Sunday of Easter - Follower... Witness... Disciple
All of the Gospel stories are about real issues; they speak to what’s on our minds and what troubles our hearts. They strengthen us when we doubt. They offer hope amid despair, when we face darkness, when life feels threatening, when the darkness seems overpowering and we are afraid of losing our bearings. God speaks to us through these stories, they are our light in darkness, our compass for when we feel lost.
All of the Gospel stories are about real issues; they speak to what’s on our minds and what troubles our hearts. They strengthen us when we doubt. They offer hope amid despair, when we face darkness, when life feels threatening, when the darkness seems overpowering and we are afraid of losing our bearings. God speaks to us through these stories, they are our light in darkness, our compass for when we feel lost.
3rd Sunday of Lent - Bearing Fruit
We continue to travel through the season of Lent on our way to celebrate the Easter Vigil - the sacred, ancient ritual that enshrines the essential mystery of our faith - passion, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In a very brief time, we will have walked the road of salvation history, listening to the words and stories, watching signs and symbols, seeing unfold before us God's plan and promise for human life.
We continue to travel through the season of Lent on our way to celebrate the Easter Vigil - the sacred, ancient ritual that enshrines the essential mystery of our faith - passion, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In a very brief time, we will have walked the road of salvation history, listening to the words and stories, watching signs and symbols, seeing unfold before us God's plan and promise for human life.
25th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Like Little Children
The story of the disciples arguing over “who is the greatest” is a wonderful lesson in humility. But it is also one of accountability. Page after page of the Gospels speak of Jesus’ unwavering concern for the beggars, the widows and orphans, the homeless, the jobless, the rejected and the oppressed. But the disciples just don’t seem to have a clue. We can almost seem to hear them protest: "What has any of this to do with the kingdom of God?”
The story of the disciples arguing over “who is the greatest” is a wonderful lesson in humility. But it is also one of accountability. Page after page of the Gospels speak of Jesus’ unwavering concern for the beggars, the widows and orphans, the homeless, the jobless, the rejected and the oppressed. But the disciples just don’t seem to have a clue. We can almost seem to hear them protest: "What has any of this to do with the kingdom of God?”
24th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Coming to Sight
If Christianity is to have a worthwhile message to the contemporary world, it must be based on the vision of God that we have received from Jesus himself. It must be based on what He himself saw his mission to be.
If Christianity is to have a worthwhile message to the contemporary world, it must be based on the vision of God that we have received from Jesus himself. It must be based on what He himself saw his mission to be.
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Ephphatha
In some ways, what we do at Eucharist every week is a kind of “practice field” for how we should behave when we leave the altar to return to our daily lives as Christians in the world. If we really listen, if we are truly paying attention to what The Word is saying to us, then we will have recognized the true meaning of what we are experiencing; we will truly know the one we seek. And maybe we may be awakened to the fact that what we are hoping for in a messiah and what we actually have in Jesus, are very different indeed!
In some ways, what we do at Eucharist every week is a kind of “practice field” for how we should behave when we leave the altar to return to our daily lives as Christians in the world. If we really listen, if we are truly paying attention to what The Word is saying to us, then we will have recognized the true meaning of what we are experiencing; we will truly know the one we seek. And maybe we may be awakened to the fact that what we are hoping for in a messiah and what we actually have in Jesus, are very different indeed!
21st Sunday in Ordinary Time - A Moment of Decision
The human story is one filled with broken dreams. Created in the image of God, we can fashion marvelous possibilities of success, fame and pleasure, and spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But we will always encounter along the way people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams. Our dreams will or will not be realized based on the decisions that we make which determine the course of our lives. We are faced with these decisions every day.
The human story is one filled with broken dreams. Created in the image of God, we can fashion marvelous possibilities of success, fame and pleasure, and spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But we will always encounter along the way people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams. Our dreams will or will not be realized based on the decisions that we make which determine the course of our lives. We are faced with these decisions every day.
16th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Gathering the Remnant
I read a news item a while back reporting how the transit authority of a Connecticut town had asked its patrons to help them improve the services they were giving. They asked folks who used their transit system on a daily basis to use their cell phone cameras to document deteriorating facilities, graffiti and other inoperable systems or unacceptable conditions, and to forward them to their main offices so that they could work to provide better service and better conditions for everyone involved. They wanted their patrons to feel that they had valuable input and a stake in making their transit system the best in the area. After all, who would have a better knowledge of “daily life on the rails” than those who rode the trains day after day?
I read a news item a while back reporting how the transit authority of a Connecticut town had asked its patrons to help them improve the services they were giving. They asked folks who used their transit system on a daily basis to use their cell phone cameras to document deteriorating facilities, graffiti and other inoperable systems or unacceptable conditions, and to forward them to their main offices so that they could work to provide better service and better conditions for everyone involved. They wanted their patrons to feel that they had valuable input and a stake in making their transit system the best in the area. After all, who would have a better knowledge of “daily life on the rails” than those who rode the trains day after day?
4th Sunday of Easter - I Know Mine and Mine Know Me...
The Gospels over the next weeks are drawn from the Gospel of John leading up to Jesus' farewell discourse to his disciples. Although we are just about halfway through the Easter season, these readings take us back to the Upper Room where Jesus shares a meal with his disciples and speaks his final words to them. Very often in John, Jesus describes himself using the words "I am..," - "I am the true vine...I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life...." And when we reflect on the metaphors that he uses to identify himself, we learn more and more about who Jesus is in our lives. We also learn much about ourselves and who we are to be.
The Gospels over the next weeks are drawn from the Gospel of John leading up to Jesus' farewell discourse to his disciples. Although we are just about halfway through the Easter season, these readings take us back to the Upper Room where Jesus shares a meal with his disciples and speaks his final words to them. Very often in John, Jesus describes himself using the words "I am..," - "I am the true vine...I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life...." And when we reflect on the metaphors that he uses to identify himself, we learn more and more about who Jesus is in our lives. We also learn much about ourselves and who we are to be.
4th Sunday of Lent - Reason to Rejoice
The fourth Sunday in Lent is traditionally known as “Laetare” (Rejoice) Sunday. In the midst of Lent, the liturgy today reminds us of what we are about during this holy season. We rejoice because through Jesus we have received healing for our broken spirits. And we believe that if we live by the kind of love Jesus shows us from the cross, we too can be life-giving for a broken and suffering world. We are called to mirror what we see in Jesus' life, death and resurrection. And we hope that those who are just as broken can look to us to find help and healing.
The fourth Sunday in Lent is traditionally known as “Laetare” (Rejoice) Sunday. In the midst of Lent, the liturgy today reminds us of what we are about during this holy season. We rejoice because through Jesus we have received healing for our broken spirits. And we believe that if we live by the kind of love Jesus shows us from the cross, we too can be life-giving for a broken and suffering world. We are called to mirror what we see in Jesus' life, death and resurrection. And we hope that those who are just as broken can look to us to find help and healing.
4th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Teaching with Authority
A prophet is a person who claims to have a sense of vision, a special gift of perceiving the truth, and a claim of authority to proclaim that truth publicly and courageously, especially in the face of opposition. The idea of “teaching with authority” is central to our understanding of the role of the prophet in Scripture.
A prophet is a person who claims to have a sense of vision, a special gift of perceiving the truth, and a claim of authority to proclaim that truth publicly and courageously, especially in the face of opposition. The idea of “teaching with authority” is central to our understanding of the role of the prophet in Scripture.
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - The Grace of Discipleship
There is a grace present in all of Scripture, a grace that we too often narrowly associate only with scriptural figures. The God of today’s Jonah story is the same God we see Jesus reveal to us in the Gospel. Both readings today are tales of mercy, freely given, unlimited and unearned. God, it seems, is free to bestow mercy on whomever God chooses. Yet that same grace is eternally present and given, just as freely, to each of us.
There is a grace present in all of Scripture, a grace that we too often narrowly associate only with scriptural figures. The God of today’s Jonah story is the same God we see Jesus reveal to us in the Gospel. Both readings today are tales of mercy, freely given, unlimited and unearned. God, it seems, is free to bestow mercy on whomever God chooses. Yet that same grace is eternally present and given, just as freely, to each of us.
5th Sunday in Lent - A Different Path
Today we come face to face with a stark reminder that if we are to be followers of Christ we must be willing to be like a grain of wheat, dying so as to bear “much fruit.” In response to the request of the Greeks, Jesus moves our attention to his suffering, death and resurrection, which we will soon be celebrating during our Triduum. At first the request and response might seem to be disconnected; but they are not. Jesus will face his death with a determination to see it through and not flee. Contrary to our experience of death as a final destruction, Jesus sees it as a moment to give glory to His Father. Those who see his death through eyes of faith will also see God’s hand in rescuing Jesus from death.
Today we come face to face with a stark reminder that if we are to be followers of Christ we must be willing to be like a grain of wheat, dying so as to bear “much fruit.” In response to the request of the Greeks, Jesus moves our attention to his suffering, death and resurrection, which we will soon be celebrating during our Triduum. At first the request and response might seem to be disconnected; but they are not. Jesus will face his death with a determination to see it through and not flee. Contrary to our experience of death as a final destruction, Jesus sees it as a moment to give glory to His Father. Those who see his death through eyes of faith will also see God’s hand in rescuing Jesus from death.
3rd Sunday of Lent - Cleansing the Spirit
Depending upon our situation at different times in our lives, we can find comfort and be encouraged by one or more of the many artistic interpretations that we have of Jesus. We always look for the image that speaks to our needs. But I wonder if there ever would be a time in our lives when we would search out an image of Jesus running through the temple with a whip of cords in his hand driving out the merchants and money changers? Not the most approachable image of Jesus, is it? Well, at least not at first glance.
Depending upon our situation at different times in our lives, we can find comfort and be encouraged by one or more of the many artistic interpretations that we have of Jesus. We always look for the image that speaks to our needs. But I wonder if there ever would be a time in our lives when we would search out an image of Jesus running through the temple with a whip of cords in his hand driving out the merchants and money changers? Not the most approachable image of Jesus, is it? Well, at least not at first glance.
33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time - Look to the Signs
You can tell we are drawing to an end of this liturgical year. It happens each year at this time, just before the feast of Christ the King and the start of a new cycle of gospels at the beginning of Advent. "... No one knows the day nor the hour." Although it is not pleasant to reflect on all of these images, it's important for us to do so.
You can tell we are drawing to an end of this liturgical year. It happens each year at this time, just before the feast of Christ the King and the start of a new cycle of gospels at the beginning of Advent. "... No one knows the day nor the hour." Although it is not pleasant to reflect on all of these images, it's important for us to do so.
32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time - Being Noticed
As he neared the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus began to speak in apocalyptic terms about "the end of things". Our securities and where we place our trust will be challenged and tested under trial. Perhaps this is why he spent so much time teaching his disciples about the gracious love of the Father. His words always resonated with trust and hope. Today, we are once again reminded that our religious practice must flow from a sincere love of God and generous service to others..
As he neared the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus began to speak in apocalyptic terms about "the end of things". Our securities and where we place our trust will be challenged and tested under trial. Perhaps this is why he spent so much time teaching his disciples about the gracious love of the Father. His words always resonated with trust and hope. Today, we are once again reminded that our religious practice must flow from a sincere love of God and generous service to others..
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time - We Are a Broken People
We are a broken people. We always have been. From the first moments of history, mankind has been frail against the elements, weak against his enemies, selfish and self-centered in regard to his fellow man. Deep within our beings we have always longed to become whole, to be complete, to find peace, to experience love and to give of ourselves totally to another. But we also know that we cannot achieve this on our own.
We are a broken people. We always have been. From the first moments of history, mankind has been frail against the elements, weak against his enemies, selfish and self-centered in regard to his fellow man. Deep within our beings we have always longed to become whole, to be complete, to find peace, to experience love and to give of ourselves totally to another. But we also know that we cannot achieve this on our own.
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time - The Wrong Questions
What disappointment Jesus must have felt when James and John put their questions to him. These two were called at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. They were in the inner circle of the disciples and, it’s clear from today’s gospel, they presumed they would have certain privileges and share in power when Jesus triumphed and established his worldly kingdom.
What disappointment Jesus must have felt when James and John put their questions to him. These two were called at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. They were in the inner circle of the disciples and, it’s clear from today’s gospel, they presumed they would have certain privileges and share in power when Jesus triumphed and established his worldly kingdom.
28th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Agenda v. Commitment
There is a basic difference between taking an initiative and responding to a call. In the first instance, the movement starts from within - an individual is the initiator. In the second case, it starts outside the individual - another person is the initiator. Throughout the Gospels, we see many instances when Jesus initiates the call to discipleship; but we also see that sometimes those who take initiatives do not always become disciples.
There is a basic difference between taking an initiative and responding to a call. In the first instance, the movement starts from within - an individual is the initiator. In the second case, it starts outside the individual - another person is the initiator. Throughout the Gospels, we see many instances when Jesus initiates the call to discipleship; but we also see that sometimes those who take initiatives do not always become disciples.
27th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Fidelity in a Broken World
Today we see two examples of both the blessings and responsibilities of marital fidelity: one from the book of Genesis and the other from the Gospel of Mark. Both readings are particularly signifcant in light of discussions concerning marriage, divorce, remarriage, and strict fidelity to law versus compassion for God's people.
Today we see two examples of both the blessings and responsibilities of marital fidelity: one from the book of Genesis and the other from the Gospel of Mark. Both readings are particularly signifcant in light of discussions concerning marriage, divorce, remarriage, and strict fidelity to law versus compassion for God's people.
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Speaking Plainly
Our journey of faith is a never-ending one - one of constantly coming to know The Father through Jesus. It kind of parallels the journey of the first disciples and followers of Jesus' coming to faith - their coming to understand who the Father was - and how they came to know him. This is the story that Jesus told over and over again - but it is not just His story; it's our story as well.
Our journey of faith is a never-ending one - one of constantly coming to know The Father through Jesus. It kind of parallels the journey of the first disciples and followers of Jesus' coming to faith - their coming to understand who the Father was - and how they came to know him. This is the story that Jesus told over and over again - but it is not just His story; it's our story as well.
16th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Woe to the Shepherds...
There was a news item a while back reporting how the transit authority of a Connecticut town had asked its patrons to help them improve the services they were giving. They asked folks who used their transit system on a daily basis to use their cell phone cameras to document deteriorating facilities, graffiti and other inoperable systems or unacceptable conditions, and to forward them to their main offices so that they could work to provide better service and better conditions for everyone involved. They wanted their patrons to feel that they had valuable input and a stake in making their transit system the best in the area. After all, who would have a better knowledge of “daily life on the rails” than those who rode the trains day after day?
There was a news item a while back reporting how the transit authority of a Connecticut town had asked its patrons to help them improve the services they were giving. They asked folks who used their transit system on a daily basis to use their cell phone cameras to document deteriorating facilities, graffiti and other inoperable systems or unacceptable conditions, and to forward them to their main offices so that they could work to provide better service and better conditions for everyone involved. They wanted their patrons to feel that they had valuable input and a stake in making their transit system the best in the area. After all, who would have a better knowledge of “daily life on the rails” than those who rode the trains day after day?
21st Sunday in Ordinary - Understanding and Belief
The human story is one filled with broken dreams. Created in the image of God, we can fashion marvelous possibilities of success, fame and pleasure, and spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But we will always encounter along the way people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams. Our dreams will or will not be realized based on the decisions that we make which determine the course of our lives. We are faced with these decisions every day.
The human story is one filled with broken dreams. Created in the image of God, we can fashion marvelous possibilities of success, fame and pleasure, and spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But we will always encounter along the way people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams. Our dreams will or will not be realized based on the decisions that we make which determine the course of our lives. We are faced with these decisions every day.
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Modern Day Prophets
The role of the prophet is about being chosen by God to be His instruments and witnesses, and about putting trust in His presence and power to accomplish that mission. We see three such prophets (Ezekiel, Paul and Jesus) who were rejected and scorned by their very own people for the message they brought. Ezekiel is among his own Jewish exiles, taken off by the Babylonians into captivity. Paul is defending himself and his ministry against those who doubt his authenticity and he is suffering "hardships, persecutions and constraints for the sake of Christ." Jesus is with his own people, in "his native place, accompanied by his disciples."
The role of the prophet is about being chosen by God to be His instruments and witnesses, and about putting trust in His presence and power to accomplish that mission. We see three such prophets (Ezekiel, Paul and Jesus) who were rejected and scorned by their very own people for the message they brought. Ezekiel is among his own Jewish exiles, taken off by the Babylonians into captivity. Paul is defending himself and his ministry against those who doubt his authenticity and he is suffering "hardships, persecutions and constraints for the sake of Christ." Jesus is with his own people, in "his native place, accompanied by his disciples."
13th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Tales of Two Women
Our Gospel today presents us with a "story-within-a-story." First, there is an encounter between Jesus and a man named Jairus. But before that story concludes, another encounter takes place. The second encounter between Jesus and a nameless woman runs its course. Then finally we return for the conclusion of the story of Jairus. All three of the Synoptic writers give us their version of these encounters, so we should know that something significant is about to be told.
Our Gospel today presents us with a "story-within-a-story." First, there is an encounter between Jesus and a man named Jairus. But before that story concludes, another encounter takes place. The second encounter between Jesus and a nameless woman runs its course. Then finally we return for the conclusion of the story of Jairus. All three of the Synoptic writers give us their version of these encounters, so we should know that something significant is about to be told.
12th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Moving from Fear to Faith
The journey of faith is a never-ending one, where we constantly come to know the Father through Jesus. It parallels the journey of the first disciples. Their journey was also a coming to faith, a gradual understanding that God is always the one who speaks first, who acts first, who loves first. And sometimes they learned that discipleship always involves a call that requires a reply, an invitation requiring a response.
The journey of faith is a never-ending one, where we constantly come to know the Father through Jesus. It parallels the journey of the first disciples. Their journey was also a coming to faith, a gradual understanding that God is always the one who speaks first, who acts first, who loves first. And sometimes they learned that discipleship always involves a call that requires a reply, an invitation requiring a response.
7th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Breaking Through the Roof
At the very beginning of his ministry, Jesus declared his purpose and mission in this life: "The time is at hand, and the Kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." After curing Peter's mother-in-law, Jesus' first recorded "work of power" is the healing of a solitary leper. The details, as we saw in last week's Gospel, are few but this encounter sets the stage for what would become a problem for Jesus all throughout his ministry. At the end of that account Jesus' fame is already beginning to spread and he is unable to travel anywhere without being recognized. And so, as today's Gospel tells us, after some days spent attending to the people in the countryside, he returns to Capernaum for a bit of rest. But the news of his presence there soon spreads like wildfire.
At the very beginning of his ministry, Jesus declared his purpose and mission in this life: "The time is at hand, and the Kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." After curing Peter's mother-in-law, Jesus' first recorded "work of power" is the healing of a solitary leper. The details, as we saw in last week's Gospel, are few but this encounter sets the stage for what would become a problem for Jesus all throughout his ministry. At the end of that account Jesus' fame is already beginning to spread and he is unable to travel anywhere without being recognized. And so, as today's Gospel tells us, after some days spent attending to the people in the countryside, he returns to Capernaum for a bit of rest. But the news of his presence there soon spreads like wildfire.
6th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Reach out and Touch
Why is it that despite our faith and trust in God, we continue to link goodness and holiness with health and associate fault and sin with sickness? People certainly did that in Jesus' time. If you were sick, you must have sinned and you were receiving just punishment. The worse off you were the more sinful you must be. In fact, not only would you experience expulsion from human society, but you would feel as an outcast before God. So there was an extra burden placed on someone with leprosy - or what was believed to be leprosy. Not only did lepers have to suffer the torments of this terrible disease but they were also set aside as outcasts and forced to live outside the family and community. In ancient times such expulsion was the equivalent to a death sentence.
Why is it that despite our faith and trust in God, we continue to link goodness and holiness with health and associate fault and sin with sickness? People certainly did that in Jesus' time. If you were sick, you must have sinned and you were receiving just punishment. The worse off you were the more sinful you must be. In fact, not only would you experience expulsion from human society, but you would feel as an outcast before God. So there was an extra burden placed on someone with leprosy - or what was believed to be leprosy. Not only did lepers have to suffer the torments of this terrible disease but they were also set aside as outcasts and forced to live outside the family and community. In ancient times such expulsion was the equivalent to a death sentence.
5th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Longing for the Shade
Job is a character who raises for us the question of innocent suffering. His name has become synonymous with suffering. When his "comforters" come to give him all the stock answers - that he or perhaps his predecessors must have sinned - Job rejects their opinions. The passage we have today reminds us that we do suffer and that there is no satisfactory answer for this suffering. It seems, Job says, that life is a meaningless cycle of misery. But he is also expressing what we feel and what seems to be the human condition. He longs for a rest in the shade. He is voicing a complaint, or in biblical terms, a lament.
Job is a character who raises for us the question of innocent suffering. His name has become synonymous with suffering. When his "comforters" come to give him all the stock answers - that he or perhaps his predecessors must have sinned - Job rejects their opinions. The passage we have today reminds us that we do suffer and that there is no satisfactory answer for this suffering. It seems, Job says, that life is a meaningless cycle of misery. But he is also expressing what we feel and what seems to be the human condition. He longs for a rest in the shade. He is voicing a complaint, or in biblical terms, a lament.
4th Sunday of Advent - The Promise of Advent
We are close to Christmas and the Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent clearly tells us how close we are. This part of Advent shifts our attention from last week's announcement by John the Baptist that "one among you.. is coming...." to today's message about shedding fear and rejoicing at the birth of the "Son of the Most High." Our preparation for Christmas focuses on being ready for Christ to come again. But we must remember that his coming in Bethlehem and his coming at the end of time are not isolated events, because he comes into our lives again and again every day.
We are close to Christmas and the Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent clearly tells us how close we are. This part of Advent shifts our attention from last week's announcement by John the Baptist that "one among you.. is coming...." to today's message about shedding fear and rejoicing at the birth of the "Son of the Most High." Our preparation for Christmas focuses on being ready for Christ to come again. But we must remember that his coming in Bethlehem and his coming at the end of time are not isolated events, because he comes into our lives again and again every day.
Solemnity of Christ the King - Servant King
The feast of Christ the King signals the end of the liturgical year, and our preparation for the season of Advent. We acknowledge Jesus the Christ as our King, the shepherd-king, who remains always the perfect example of how power is to be used for service.
The feast of Christ the King signals the end of the liturgical year, and our preparation for the season of Advent. We acknowledge Jesus the Christ as our King, the shepherd-king, who remains always the perfect example of how power is to be used for service.
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Days of Tribulation
As we come to the end of another liturgical year, you'd think we might get happier and more joyful readings. Instead, in response to a question put to him by Peter, James, John and Andrew, we are presented with a picture of the "final days" - before the coming of the Son of Man. In the Gospel for this weekend, Christ asks us to think about some pretty difficult things - the day when the sun will be darkened, the moon will not shed its light, stars will fall from the skies, and the Son of Man will come in power and glory. The readings seem to be all about terrible loss, nightmare, and calamity.
As we come to the end of another liturgical year, you'd think we might get happier and more joyful readings. Instead, in response to a question put to him by Peter, James, John and Andrew, we are presented with a picture of the "final days" - before the coming of the Son of Man. In the Gospel for this weekend, Christ asks us to think about some pretty difficult things - the day when the sun will be darkened, the moon will not shed its light, stars will fall from the skies, and the Son of Man will come in power and glory. The readings seem to be all about terrible loss, nightmare, and calamity.
30th Sunday in Ordinary Time - I Want to See
A profound and abiding sense of joy is the hallmark of a person whose faith in Jesus is authentic. This does not mean some sort of superficial and momentary happiness. Nor does it imply an attitude of escapism from the presence of pain and suffering in human experience. But it does mean that our trust in God is not shaken in the face of evil. We are always aware of the presence of the Spirit that permeates our minds and hearts with joy. That joy generates strength and hope, courage and peace.
A profound and abiding sense of joy is the hallmark of a person whose faith in Jesus is authentic. This does not mean some sort of superficial and momentary happiness. Nor does it imply an attitude of escapism from the presence of pain and suffering in human experience. But it does mean that our trust in God is not shaken in the face of evil. We are always aware of the presence of the Spirit that permeates our minds and hearts with joy. That joy generates strength and hope, courage and peace.
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time - What's in it for me?
Whenever we are faced with having to make adult choices, it is very difficult for us to be totally selfless. We are innately self centered. Subconsciously, at least, we are always asking: "What's in it for me?"
Whenever we are faced with having to make adult choices, it is very difficult for us to be totally selfless. We are innately self centered. Subconsciously, at least, we are always asking: "What's in it for me?"
27th Sunday in Ordinary Time - A Culture of Life
The limitations of life are everywhere around us. They enter into the lives of the young and the healthy, creating an atmosphere of resentment and frustration. They enter into the lives of the sick and suffering, the poor and the hungering, spawning a sense of hopelessness and despair. They come into our own lives and unsettle us and our plans for the future. We all protest against these limitations and the restrictions they place upon us. Our protest is real and becomes significant because we experience it first-hand.
The limitations of life are everywhere around us. They enter into the lives of the young and the healthy, creating an atmosphere of resentment and frustration. They enter into the lives of the sick and suffering, the poor and the hungering, spawning a sense of hopelessness and despair. They come into our own lives and unsettle us and our plans for the future. We all protest against these limitations and the restrictions they place upon us. Our protest is real and becomes significant because we experience it first-hand.
26th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Belonging to Christ
One of the hardest things to overcome in human nature is the tendency to categorize people between those who are "in" and those who are "out." We all want to be accepted by our own inner circle of family and friends, and exclusion by contemporaries can be painful and even damaging. People derive a sense of self worth and a way of exerting power over others by belonging to a group that, in their own eyes, seems to be better than others. To maintain acceptance we may even keep silent when we should object to unkind behavior or conversation by our peers.
One of the hardest things to overcome in human nature is the tendency to categorize people between those who are "in" and those who are "out." We all want to be accepted by our own inner circle of family and friends, and exclusion by contemporaries can be painful and even damaging. People derive a sense of self worth and a way of exerting power over others by belonging to a group that, in their own eyes, seems to be better than others. To maintain acceptance we may even keep silent when we should object to unkind behavior or conversation by our peers.
25th Sunday in Ordinary Time - The Greatest and the Least
Page after page of the Gospels speak of Jesus’ unwavering concern for the beggars, the widows and orphans, the homeless, the jobless, the rejected and the oppressed. But the disciples just don't seem to have a clue. We almost seem to hear them protest: "What has this to do with the kingdom of God? Tell us instead about holiness and prayer. Talk to us about salvation. Enough already about the poor!"
Page after page of the Gospels speak of Jesus’ unwavering concern for the beggars, the widows and orphans, the homeless, the jobless, the rejected and the oppressed. But the disciples just don't seem to have a clue. We almost seem to hear them protest: "What has this to do with the kingdom of God? Tell us instead about holiness and prayer. Talk to us about salvation. Enough already about the poor!"
Exultation of the Holy Cross - Promises Fulfilled
The human story is filled with broken dreams. Created in the image of God, we can fashion marvelous possibilities of success, fame and pleasure, and spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But we will always encounter along the way people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams.
The human story is filled with broken dreams. Created in the image of God, we can fashion marvelous possibilities of success, fame and pleasure, and spend much of our time and effort trying to make at least some of these dreams come true. But we will always encounter along the way people or circumstances that will shatter those dreams.
The Ascension of the Lord - Waiting for the Spirit
During these weeks between Easter and Pentecost we have a chance to reflect more deeply on the difference Jesus' death, resurrection and ascension make on our lives. We read from the Book of Acts to see how the early church struggled and survived during its first critical days. This early Christian community was mission-minded, wanting to go out immediately to tell others the good news. But Acts begins with a strange message by the risen Christ to his disciples. He tells them to wait.
During these weeks between Easter and Pentecost we have a chance to reflect more deeply on the difference Jesus' death, resurrection and ascension make on our lives. We read from the Book of Acts to see how the early church struggled and survived during its first critical days. This early Christian community was mission-minded, wanting to go out immediately to tell others the good news. But Acts begins with a strange message by the risen Christ to his disciples. He tells them to wait.
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Crossing Boundaries
Jesus is the Presence among us who interprets for us what may seem to be incomprehensible. He goes "beyond the boundaries" of what's acceptable or the "status quo." He makes our hearts burn again, as once they burned before. And he comes to us as He always said he would - as the hungry man, the thirsty woman, the naked child, the sick, the homeless, the condemned prisoner, or the ancient enemy.
Jesus is the Presence among us who interprets for us what may seem to be incomprehensible. He goes "beyond the boundaries" of what's acceptable or the "status quo." He makes our hearts burn again, as once they burned before. And he comes to us as He always said he would - as the hungry man, the thirsty woman, the naked child, the sick, the homeless, the condemned prisoner, or the ancient enemy.
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Be doers of the word, and not hearers only...
Last week, a letter calling for an end to obligatory celibacy in the Catholic priesthood, and signed by 163 priests of the Milwaukee Archdiocese, was mailed to Bishop Wilton Gregory, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The letter expressed their "pastoral concern that the Catholic Church needs more candidates for the priesthood, so that the Church's sacramental life might continue to flourish."
Last week, a letter calling for an end to obligatory celibacy in the Catholic priesthood, and signed by 163 priests of the Milwaukee Archdiocese, was mailed to Bishop Wilton Gregory, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The letter expressed their "pastoral concern that the Catholic Church needs more candidates for the priesthood, so that the Church's sacramental life might continue to flourish."
20th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Beyond the Miraculous
One of the wonderful things about our liturgy is the fact that as we come together to worship each Sunday, we have continuity in the cycle of readings proclaimed and upon which we reflect. We have spent the majority of this year reading and reflecting on the "Cycle B" readings, the Gospel of Mark.
One of the wonderful things about our liturgy is the fact that as we come together to worship each Sunday, we have continuity in the cycle of readings proclaimed and upon which we reflect. We have spent the majority of this year reading and reflecting on the "Cycle B" readings, the Gospel of Mark.
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Get Up and Eat
Throughout the last several weeks, the Scripture Readings have created a mosaic depicting the sublime mystery of the Eucharist. The continuing narrative shows us how carefully the seeds of this mystery were planted in the early stages of Salvation History. Discouragement, fear, disappointment and frustration can all lead to a first response of shock and rejection. Elijah felt it - and those who first witnessed Jesus' words and works felt it as well.
Throughout the last several weeks, the Scripture Readings have created a mosaic depicting the sublime mystery of the Eucharist. The continuing narrative shows us how carefully the seeds of this mystery were planted in the early stages of Salvation History. Discouragement, fear, disappointment and frustration can all lead to a first response of shock and rejection. Elijah felt it - and those who first witnessed Jesus' words and works felt it as well.
18th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Sign and Substance
The Gospel reading this weekend is a continuation of the story of the feeding of the multitude - the sign that Jesus gave, nourishing the people not only with his words, but with something very substantial… something they could touch, taste and assimilate. They had come from all walks of life, to follow him and to listen to his words. But by the end of the day they were still hungry. He rewarded them by removing their bodily hunger, but they missed his more important gift - that of satisfying their spiritual hunger.
The Gospel reading this weekend is a continuation of the story of the feeding of the multitude - the sign that Jesus gave, nourishing the people not only with his words, but with something very substantial… something they could touch, taste and assimilate. They had come from all walks of life, to follow him and to listen to his words. But by the end of the day they were still hungry. He rewarded them by removing their bodily hunger, but they missed his more important gift - that of satisfying their spiritual hunger.
17th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Practicing Eternity
All of Jesus' actions are "signs" that point to a deeper reality. Jesus sees our weaknesses, our tendencies towards selfishness, anger and pride and he understands how we long to become very different than we are. He experiences our mortality first hand and our longing for eternity. He sees the hungry crowd and moved with compassion he rouses the disciples to their feet and he feeds thousands.
All of Jesus' actions are "signs" that point to a deeper reality. Jesus sees our weaknesses, our tendencies towards selfishness, anger and pride and he understands how we long to become very different than we are. He experiences our mortality first hand and our longing for eternity. He sees the hungry crowd and moved with compassion he rouses the disciples to their feet and he feeds thousands.
15th Sunday of Ordinary Time - The Walking Stick
We tend to clutter up our lives and carry a lot of extra baggage. You know, just in case. Because we are always tempted to think that we can succeed because of our efforts and our resources alone. It is hard for us to let go. It's really hard for us to trust God totally, to simply rely on a walking stick. Often we think that our faithfulness and our effectiveness as disciples is the result of our own prayers and good works. That's when we get into trouble. It is then that the dark moments of failure and weakness, of doubt and fear come. The walking stick can be a powerful image of the gift of faith and trust. We make our journey supported by this gift.
We tend to clutter up our lives and carry a lot of extra baggage. You know, just in case. Because we are always tempted to think that we can succeed because of our efforts and our resources alone. It is hard for us to let go. It's really hard for us to trust God totally, to simply rely on a walking stick. Often we think that our faithfulness and our effectiveness as disciples is the result of our own prayers and good works. That's when we get into trouble. It is then that the dark moments of failure and weakness, of doubt and fear come. The walking stick can be a powerful image of the gift of faith and trust. We make our journey supported by this gift.
14th Sunday of Ordinary Time - And They Shall Know...
The Scriptures speak to us today about the role of the prophet, about being chosen by God to be His instruments and witnesses, and about putting trust in His presence and power to accomplish that mission. The prophet is a person who claims to have a sense of vision, a special gift of perceiving the truth, and a claim to the authority to proclaim that truth publicly and courageously, especially in the face of opposition.
The Scriptures speak to us today about the role of the prophet, about being chosen by God to be His instruments and witnesses, and about putting trust in His presence and power to accomplish that mission. The prophet is a person who claims to have a sense of vision, a special gift of perceiving the truth, and a claim to the authority to proclaim that truth publicly and courageously, especially in the face of opposition.
Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul - Looking Beyond the Question
Today we celebrate Peter and Paul, two great apostles and heroes of our faith. But that's not how they started out. Peter continually tried to hide from responsibility and yet it was he whom the Lord chose to lead the disciples and the infant Church community. Paul was a devout Jew who persecuted the early Christians. Yet it was he who championed the rights of all people to embrace the Gospel. Through these two very limited human beings, the work of Spirit was enabled and the community of the people of God within the world began to form and take shape.
Today we celebrate Peter and Paul, two great apostles and heroes of our faith. But that's not how they started out. Peter continually tried to hide from responsibility and yet it was he whom the Lord chose to lead the disciples and the infant Church community. Paul was a devout Jew who persecuted the early Christians. Yet it was he who championed the rights of all people to embrace the Gospel. Through these two very limited human beings, the work of Spirit was enabled and the community of the people of God within the world began to form and take shape.
Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ - Being Remembered, and Remembering
We gather this weekend to remember and celebrate the Body and Blood of Christ. The Scriptures speak to us of covenant - of man's relationship to God, of God's enduring faithfulness to man - and we are reminded once again that when Jesus invites his disciples to eat his flesh and drink his blood, he invites each of us to take his life into the very center of our being. That life which he offers is the very life of God himself - the beginning of a "new" covenant, a new relationship between Creator and mankind.
We gather this weekend to remember and celebrate the Body and Blood of Christ. The Scriptures speak to us of covenant - of man's relationship to God, of God's enduring faithfulness to man - and we are reminded once again that when Jesus invites his disciples to eat his flesh and drink his blood, he invites each of us to take his life into the very center of our being. That life which he offers is the very life of God himself - the beginning of a "new" covenant, a new relationship between Creator and mankind.
Trinity Sunday - Creator, Savior, Sanctifier
The followers of Jesus were first devastated by his death and then bewildered by his resurrection and ascension. They had come to treasure his presence and friendship; they were captivated by his words and his actions. Most of all, they realized that his message was destined for all people in every time and place. But now he had been taken from them. How could his work be continued?
The followers of Jesus were first devastated by his death and then bewildered by his resurrection and ascension. They had come to treasure his presence and friendship; they were captivated by his words and his actions. Most of all, they realized that his message was destined for all people in every time and place. But now he had been taken from them. How could his work be continued?
7th Sunday of Easter - Sent Into the World
We are approaching the great Feast of Pentecost - the celebration that reminds us that the Spirit of God is preeminently present and at work in the lives of God's people. The first Pentecost brought excitement, passion, and courage to the Christian community. It completed their sense of identity and clarified their mission. Most importantly, it filled them with power, assured them of the strength they would need to witness to the Gospel, to overcome the spirit of the world, to drive away the darkness of sin and evil.
We are approaching the great Feast of Pentecost - the celebration that reminds us that the Spirit of God is preeminently present and at work in the lives of God's people. The first Pentecost brought excitement, passion, and courage to the Christian community. It completed their sense of identity and clarified their mission. Most importantly, it filled them with power, assured them of the strength they would need to witness to the Gospel, to overcome the spirit of the world, to drive away the darkness of sin and evil.
6th Sunday of Easter - Remain in My Love
We cannot share what we have not first received, and after the Resurrection the great news that the apostles proclaimed was very simple. Peter puts it all into context in today's First Reading, "God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him." Love is not something we create; it is, instead,a gift from God to which we respond. It is a gift given; but once given it remains a gift only if it is shared.
We cannot share what we have not first received, and after the Resurrection the great news that the apostles proclaimed was very simple. Peter puts it all into context in today's First Reading, "God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him." Love is not something we create; it is, instead,a gift from God to which we respond. It is a gift given; but once given it remains a gift only if it is shared.
5th Sunday of Easter - True Vine and True Branches
In the Gospel of last week Jesus called Himself the Good Shepherd and spoke about his role as guide and protector of his flock. Those words are very comforting and reassuring. We know that he will care for us, that he will never leave us as orphans and that we can feel safe within his embrace. His words also speak about the great sacrifice that he must make. As the Good Shepherd, he gives his life for his sheep.
In the Gospel of last week Jesus called Himself the Good Shepherd and spoke about his role as guide and protector of his flock. Those words are very comforting and reassuring. We know that he will care for us, that he will never leave us as orphans and that we can feel safe within his embrace. His words also speak about the great sacrifice that he must make. As the Good Shepherd, he gives his life for his sheep.
4th Sunday of Easter - Good Shepherds
The imagery of sheep and shepherd is very touching and significant in a biblical setting. But in our own time it has become less appealing, less applicable. We certainly recognize that we need the love and guidance of Jesus. We realize that He died for us, that He knows us personally and that He is always with us and concerned for our safety and well being. But God's people no longer see themselves as sheep.
The imagery of sheep and shepherd is very touching and significant in a biblical setting. But in our own time it has become less appealing, less applicable. We certainly recognize that we need the love and guidance of Jesus. We realize that He died for us, that He knows us personally and that He is always with us and concerned for our safety and well being. But God's people no longer see themselves as sheep.
3rd Sunday of Easter - You Are Witnesses
The resurrection appearances of Jesus are filled with surprises and mystifying details. His friends do not recognize Him. He appears through locked doors. He has broken out of a tomb, but carries the wounds of His dying. He speaks of peace and forgiveness. He promises the gift of His Spirit. He sends His disciples to change the world.
The resurrection appearances of Jesus are filled with surprises and mystifying details. His friends do not recognize Him. He appears through locked doors. He has broken out of a tomb, but carries the wounds of His dying. He speaks of peace and forgiveness. He promises the gift of His Spirit. He sends His disciples to change the world.
2nd Sunday of Easter - What We Believe is What we Become
There are some who will always need in some way to touch the wounds of the Risen Christ in order to come to faith. They will demand some physical proof. Others will become aware of His presence and power in ways that transcend the senses.
There are some who will always need in some way to touch the wounds of the Risen Christ in order to come to faith. They will demand some physical proof. Others will become aware of His presence and power in ways that transcend the senses.
Easter Sunday - The Empty Tomb: Easter Dawn
The Easter victory of Jesus Christ continues to send shockwaves down through the centuries, calling people of every age to be survivors with Him in the ongoing battle between good and evil. "Rejoice, heavenly powers! sing, choirs of angels; exult all creation around God's throne! Jesus Christ our King is risen! Sound the trumpet of salvation!"
The Easter victory of Jesus Christ continues to send shockwaves down through the centuries, calling people of every age to be survivors with Him in the ongoing battle between good and evil. "Rejoice, heavenly powers! sing, choirs of angels; exult all creation around God's throne! Jesus Christ our King is risen! Sound the trumpet of salvation!"
5th Sunday in Lent - Resurrection and Reconciliation
We are winding down our observance of the Holy Season of Lent - our time of preparation for the great feast of Easter. Lent can, and should be a solemn and moving experience for us. It should be a time to recall our Baptism, to renew our commitment to our faith and beliefs, to recognize once again our faults and weaknesses, to seek the Lord's forgiveness - and the forgiveness of others - and to become instruments of reconciliation and forgiveness for others.
We are winding down our observance of the Holy Season of Lent - our time of preparation for the great feast of Easter. Lent can, and should be a solemn and moving experience for us. It should be a time to recall our Baptism, to renew our commitment to our faith and beliefs, to recognize once again our faults and weaknesses, to seek the Lord's forgiveness - and the forgiveness of others - and to become instruments of reconciliation and forgiveness for others.
2nd Sunday in Lent - A Time to Listen
Something in our human nature leads us to think of "signs" in terms of the miraculous and the extraordinary. On the mountain of Horeb, God appeared to Moses in the form of burning bush that would not be consumed. His gentle voice spoke words of compassion and salvation: "I have witnessed the affliction of my people in Egypt and have heard their cry… I know well what they are suffering. I have come down to rescue them and lead them out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey." (Ex 3:1-8a, 13-15)
Something in our human nature leads us to think of "signs" in terms of the miraculous and the extraordinary. On the mountain of Horeb, God appeared to Moses in the form of burning bush that would not be consumed. His gentle voice spoke words of compassion and salvation: "I have witnessed the affliction of my people in Egypt and have heard their cry… I know well what they are suffering. I have come down to rescue them and lead them out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey." (Ex 3:1-8a, 13-15)
6th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Our Testing Season
As Jesus approached the final chapter of his life on earth, the shadow of the cross hung over him. He must have found it hard to look ahead, sensing imminent failure, betrayal, suffering and death. And he certainly must have struggled fiercely to hold on his trust in the Father, and his faith in ultimate victory. This was His time of trial and testing. And yet, from the very beginning of His ministry until His final days, everything He did and said pointed towards hope, healing, reconciliation and wholeness.
As Jesus approached the final chapter of his life on earth, the shadow of the cross hung over him. He must have found it hard to look ahead, sensing imminent failure, betrayal, suffering and death. And he certainly must have struggled fiercely to hold on his trust in the Father, and his faith in ultimate victory. This was His time of trial and testing. And yet, from the very beginning of His ministry until His final days, everything He did and said pointed towards hope, healing, reconciliation and wholeness.
Feast of the Presentation - A Light of Revelation
The Christmas/New Year/Epiphany cycle has ended… and we have entered into what the Liturgical Cycle calls "Ordinary Time" - the time which celebrates the beginning of Christ's mission, His call of His disciples, the unfolding of His message of Peace… throughout this liturgical season, we will recall Christ's many miracles, and how He touched the lives and hearts of all those He met… all of this leading up to the Season of Lent and the celebration of the Paschal Mystery of our Redemption. There is nothing "ordinary" about this.
The Christmas/New Year/Epiphany cycle has ended… and we have entered into what the Liturgical Cycle calls "Ordinary Time" - the time which celebrates the beginning of Christ's mission, His call of His disciples, the unfolding of His message of Peace… throughout this liturgical season, we will recall Christ's many miracles, and how He touched the lives and hearts of all those He met… all of this leading up to the Season of Lent and the celebration of the Paschal Mystery of our Redemption. There is nothing "ordinary" about this.
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - A Time of Fulfillment
The Gospel of Mark is often referred to as the "Kingdom Gospel" because it builds on the initial proclamation found in today's reading. We, like the listeners in Galilee, are invited to repent and believe. Immediately following this invitation, we have two examples of what the invitation requires. The first followers of Jesus immediately abandon their nets, and the sons of Zebedee not only abandon their nets, they also abandon their father.
The Gospel of Mark is often referred to as the "Kingdom Gospel" because it builds on the initial proclamation found in today's reading. We, like the listeners in Galilee, are invited to repent and believe. Immediately following this invitation, we have two examples of what the invitation requires. The first followers of Jesus immediately abandon their nets, and the sons of Zebedee not only abandon their nets, they also abandon their father.
Second Sunday in Ordinary Time - Come and See for Yourselves
The Gospels over the last few weeks have asked us to think about some very important things: the revelation of God's presence in the world with the Feast of the Epiphany; our remembering the beginning of His public mission with the feast of His Baptism; the very personal invitation that we all have received from the Lord at our baptism - and the commitment we that we make to that invitation.
The Gospels over the last few weeks have asked us to think about some very important things: the revelation of God's presence in the world with the Feast of the Epiphany; our remembering the beginning of His public mission with the feast of His Baptism; the very personal invitation that we all have received from the Lord at our baptism - and the commitment we that we make to that invitation.
Feast of the Epiphany - We Have Seen His Star
We begin a new year... and as we do, the Church invites us to celebrate the feast of the Epiphany, the feast of Manifestation. The Good News that was quietly proclaimed in a cave on the hillside of Bethlehem is now revealed to the world in the persons of three astrologers - the three kings or wise men from the East.
We begin a new year... and as we do, the Church invites us to celebrate the feast of the Epiphany, the feast of Manifestation. The Good News that was quietly proclaimed in a cave on the hillside of Bethlehem is now revealed to the world in the persons of three astrologers - the three kings or wise men from the East.
Feast of the Holy Family - Humble Beginnings...
In a few days, we will celebrate the beginning of a new year - and once again we, as Christians, take this time to proclaim the event and the mystery of the Incarnation - God's explosion into human history in order to give us a share in His own Divinity. That "explosion" had very humble beginnings. A young, virgin mother and a confused, but faith-filled husband brought their hopes, joys, fears and trust to a stable in Bethlehem - and gave to the world the first-born Son of God, wrapped in swaddling clothes and warmed by the breath of sheep and oxen.
In a few days, we will celebrate the beginning of a new year - and once again we, as Christians, take this time to proclaim the event and the mystery of the Incarnation - God's explosion into human history in order to give us a share in His own Divinity. That "explosion" had very humble beginnings. A young, virgin mother and a confused, but faith-filled husband brought their hopes, joys, fears and trust to a stable in Bethlehem - and gave to the world the first-born Son of God, wrapped in swaddling clothes and warmed by the breath of sheep and oxen.
The Nativity of the Lord - Who is this Child?
In these last few days before the feast of Christmas, the Gospel focuses on a young girl who was to become the mother of God. It tells how Mary's dreams for her life were shattered in an instant by the visit of an angel. But the Gospel also reminds us that the shattering of our vision of life - the disappointments, the heartbreaks, rejection, loneliness, confusion - all of these things are part of the preparation for a greater calling. Like Mary, our own personal history becomes sacred history.
In these last few days before the feast of Christmas, the Gospel focuses on a young girl who was to become the mother of God. It tells how Mary's dreams for her life were shattered in an instant by the visit of an angel. But the Gospel also reminds us that the shattering of our vision of life - the disappointments, the heartbreaks, rejection, loneliness, confusion - all of these things are part of the preparation for a greater calling. Like Mary, our own personal history becomes sacred history.
3rd Sunday of Advent - Cry Out in the Desert
The spirit of the Advent season is filled with the images of some of the most powerful figures in all of Scripture. The first, of course, is the Virgin Mary, constantly with us throughout this holy season, patiently awaiting the birth of her son - God-made-man, God-with-us - Emmanuel. This third week of Advent highlights the personalities of two others: John the Baptist, the voice of the one crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for His coming - and the prophet Isaiah - whose words are full of expectation, hope and joy.
The spirit of the Advent season is filled with the images of some of the most powerful figures in all of Scripture. The first, of course, is the Virgin Mary, constantly with us throughout this holy season, patiently awaiting the birth of her son - God-made-man, God-with-us - Emmanuel. This third week of Advent highlights the personalities of two others: John the Baptist, the voice of the one crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for His coming - and the prophet Isaiah - whose words are full of expectation, hope and joy.
2nd Sunday of Advent - Comfort My People
We listen, and wonder and pray while we get caught up in the flurry of activities that accompany our preparation for the Christmas holiday. Scriptures remind us that Advent can be an important time to pause, reflect and rest in the Lord . Throughout the season, we hear words of promise and of exhortation. What Isaiah saw in prophetic vision we have learned from history. He described what the person and mission of the Messiah would be like. And we know from apostolic witness how perfectly Jesus fulfilled that vision and promise.
We listen, and wonder and pray while we get caught up in the flurry of activities that accompany our preparation for the Christmas holiday. Scriptures remind us that Advent can be an important time to pause, reflect and rest in the Lord . Throughout the season, we hear words of promise and of exhortation. What Isaiah saw in prophetic vision we have learned from history. He described what the person and mission of the Messiah would be like. And we know from apostolic witness how perfectly Jesus fulfilled that vision and promise.
1st Sunday of Advent - Being Watchful and Alert
The Season of Advent is a time a time of anticipation, preparation, of new beginnings. Advent has a twofold character: as a season to prepare for Christmas when Christ's first coming to us is remembered; and as a season when that remembrance directs the mind and heart to await Christ's Second coming at the end of time. Advent is therefore a period for attentive and joyful expectation.
The Season of Advent is a time a time of anticipation, preparation, of new beginnings. Advent has a twofold character: as a season to prepare for Christmas when Christ's first coming to us is remembered; and as a season when that remembrance directs the mind and heart to await Christ's Second coming at the end of time. Advent is therefore a period for attentive and joyful expectation.
2nd Sunday in Lent - Listen and Go Forth
Part of the theology that most of us inherited taught that our journey of faith was one of living our lives "according to God's plan", of accepting our state in life (whatever it may be) as part of His will for us, and submitting to the sometimes unreasonable demands that we seem to think He makes upon us. The soul is spirit, noble, most God-like. The flesh is lowly, corruptible, and definitely mortal. We were trained to struggle against the desires of the body, to subdue, to repress. And Lent was a special time for self-denial and sacrifice. At first glance, the readings for the Second Sunday of Lent reinforce these ideas. But if we are really attentive to the Scriptures, we find a very different message.
Part of the theology that most of us inherited taught that our journey of faith was one of living our lives "according to God's plan", of accepting our state in life (whatever it may be) as part of His will for us, and submitting to the sometimes unreasonable demands that we seem to think He makes upon us. The soul is spirit, noble, most God-like. The flesh is lowly, corruptible, and definitely mortal. We were trained to struggle against the desires of the body, to subdue, to repress. And Lent was a special time for self-denial and sacrifice. At first glance, the readings for the Second Sunday of Lent reinforce these ideas. But if we are really attentive to the Scriptures, we find a very different message.
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