Letting God Shine Through Your Life - Fr. Tom Hurley 8.17.25

The world doesn’t revolve around us — a truth that cuts straight through our selfie-obsessed culture.The saints knew this well. St. Bernadette, reflecting on her encounters with the Blessed Virgin at Lourdes, once said: “The Blessed Virgin used me like a broom. What do you do with a broom when you have finished sweeping? You put it back in its place, behind the door.” She understood herself simply as an instrument of God’s work — nothing more, nothing less.Her example reminds us that humility and service are central to the life of faith, offering a model for how we too, can let God work through us.And though it may feel counterintuitive, God sometimes calls us into the spotlight. We may naturally shy away, reluctant to draw attention, but these moments aren’t about us either. They are opportunities for God to shine through us, so that others may encounter His love. In these moments, the focus shifts from the individual to the greater glory of God at work through that life.So today, Father Hurley invites us to pray for the grace to desire what God desires, to become His instruments, and to live so that all we do points — not to ourselves — but to Him.Announcements & EventsAttention Young adults — you’re invited to the final Theology on Tap event of the summer!  Join us on Tuesday, August 26th at 6:30 p.m. at Pompei Restaurant for an evening of community, conversation, and inspiration.  We’re excited to welcome Fr. Patrick McGrath, SJ, pastor of Old St. Pat’s. In this Theology on Tap talk, Fr. Pat will explore the pragmatic mysticism of St. Ignatius Loyola and Ignatian spirituality.  Meet other young adults ages 18 to 39, enjoy good food and drinks, and discover how to pray like a Jesuit.  The night kicks off with check-in and mingling at 6:00, Fr. Pat’s talk and Q&A at 6:30, and more community time until 7:30 p.m. See you there! Join us after the 9:00 a.m. mass on Sunday, August 24th Work Tour Gratitude Mass, then stay to hear inspiring stories from our Foundations Youth Ministry. They’ll be sharing reflections from their service trips to Tennessee, West Virginia, Louisiana, and Kentucky. You’ll hear how our young people made a real difference — and how their faith grew — through serving others. Come be inspired, celebrate their impact, and see how service changes lives. All are welcome!Will you host a Kinship Exposure Experience? Old St. Pat’s invites you to share the beauty of Chicago with our neighbors from North Lawndale—many of whom haven’t had access to the city’s vibrant experiences. You can host an outing—like a meal, museum visit, sporting event, or spa day—for youth or adults, free of charge.  It’s a powerful way to live our faith and build bridges through friendship.  To sponsor, contact Vincent Guider or Johnny Jones at Old St. Pat’s. Learn more at oldstpats.org/kinship.Mark your calendars for. Eastern / 5:00 P.M. Pacific! Join Discerning Deacons for the Feast of St. Phoebe on Wednesday, September 3rd at 7:00 P.M for a virtual evening of prayer, testimony, and witness as we honor St. Phoebe the Deacon.Together, we will:Pray for St. Phoebe’s intercession,Lift up communities worldwide preparing their own St. Phoebe Day celebrations,Celebrate the new Church teaching elevating women’s leadership Don’t miss this special virtual gathering.Learn more and register at bit.ly/phoebe-2025.Tickets and sponsorships are now available for The Emerald 2025, Old St. Pat’s signature gala!  Join us Friday, October 3rd at The Geraghty for an unforgettable night of fine food, dancing, and powerful community spirit—all supporting the mission of Old St. Pat’s. Gather your friends, grab a table, and let’s celebrate in style.  Visit oldstpats.org/theemerald to reserve your spot today.  The Emerald 2025—we can’t wait to see you there!