September 26, 2025
Imagine being one of Jesus’ disciples, hearing him say he would be killed. Peter had just proclaimed him as the Christ of God, and Jesus confirmed it. They had seen his power—he could raise the dead—but only through prayer to the Father. It hadn’t yet entered their minds that Jesus himself was divine, capable of […]
September 25, 2025
Many people wanted to know about Jesus. Some because of his message, others because of his healings, others because of his miracles. Others were just puzzled; others disbelieving and tried to explain him away. That was Herod’s case. He had heard so much about him that he wanted a personal meeting, or perhaps even a […]
September 24, 2025
It is a good idea once in a while to pause your journey and look behind you. If you look carefully at your life, you will probably see that God’s goodness and mercy have often appeared. “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life.” At times, goodness and mercy may […]
September 23, 2025
Memorial of Saint Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio) Today, we join the Capuchin Friars in celebrating Padre Pio, a very pious man of God whose life was very sacramental. He was rooted in prayer and service to the spiritual needs of the people. His ministry faced a lot of criticism from the leaders of his […]
September 22, 2025
As we reflect on today’s readings, what guidance do they provide us for apostolic action? The first reading, from the Book of Ezra, provides the decree of Cyrus, the new king of Persia, which urges the people in exile in Babylon to return to the Promised Land. Cyrus declares that Yahweh has given him “all […]
September 21, 2025
25th Sunday of Ordinary Time My husband and I are gifting our children and grandchildren with a trip to Italy for Christmas. We were talking the other day when my husband said something profound. I have worried about the cost, whether we will get along together for fourteen days, and so much more! The trip […]
September 20, 2025
Many choose to follow Jesus’ teachings. Then there are those who choose not to follow Jesus at all or struggle with following his ways. Many live a life without trust in God’s Word. They try to control outcomes of situations to conform to their way of thinking. It is a real struggle for them. Jesus […]
September 19, 2025
The Eucharist calls us to conversion, to self-emptying, to selfless service of others. In imitating Jesus, we are called to be broken and poured out in loving service. Eucharist fundamentally is not “about us,” but those who are in the greatest need materially, spiritually, physically, and, in these days, legally. In today’s reading, Timothy cautions […]
September 18, 2025
Judgment and condemnation are too often hasty reactions to other people’s behavior that we find objectionable. Often, without knowing all the facts, we assume the worst about another and are quick to evaluate their merit. Such a reaction is not what Jesus ever did, nor what He taught us to do. In today’s Gospel reading, […]
September 17, 2025
Memorial of Saint Robert Bellarmine Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children. Luke 7:31-35 Jesus concludes his teaching by saying that sometimes, some people just don’t get it. In most cases, he seems to imply, they simply refuse to understand. And nothing can get through to turn their thinking around. The trouble is, we […]