Father Dave Preaches

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. As we celebrate 250 years since the founding of the United States, Father Dave connects today's readings to the poem inscribed inside the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty. We are also called to give rest and welcome to the weary, and invite all to come to the Lord. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 07-05-26

Monday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on the women in today's readings, as well as Saint Maria Goretti's feast day. These women remind us that God can and wants to do all things to heal his children. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 07-06-26

Vigil of Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave challenges us to reframe our attitudes and perspectives, as outlined in today's readings. We are to look at our difficulties through the eyes of Christ and know that he bears our crosses with us. Preached at St. Patrick's Catholic American Parish, Rome, Italy on 06-27-26

Monday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on the difficulty of not judging others. As discussed in today's readings, we are to make an intentional effort to remove our own sin rather than condemning others. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-22-26

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses how Jesus repeats to not be afraid to both the apostles and to us. We are called to be courageous in our faith, and share with others how well God knows and loves us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-21-26

Monday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave notes how Jesus calls us to go beyond what's required in our faith. While this challenge will look different for each person, we are to reflect on ways we can live our faith more deeply. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-15-26

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. Father Dave connects today's Solemnity to the Greek word for 'thanksgiving.' He reflects on Pope Leo XIV's Corpus Christi homily in Spain, and underscores our participation in the Eucharist as an outpouring of love into the world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 06-07-26

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. Father Dave reflects on the mystery of the Trinity and how it is something to be felt rather than logically understood. We are to imitate and live into the communion of love that is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 05-31-26

Wednesday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time. On the 26th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, Father Dave muses on how today's readings highlight humility. We are to serve one another and not point to ourselves while living out our faith. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 05-27-26

Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter. Father Dave reflects on how those in today's first reading did not know about the Holy Spirit. He challenges us to look at the Holy Spirit through fresh eyes and recognize that God's presence is with us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 05-18-26

Monday of the Sixth Week of Easter. Father Dave shares how today's readings offer different ways to live as Christians. Whether going out to evangelize or welcoming others through hospitality, God uniquely calls us to spread the Gospel. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 05-11-26

Sixth Sunday of Easter. Father Dave notes how we read from the Acts of the Apostles during the Easter season. We are called to put our faith into action, and find concrete ways to do so together. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 05-10-26

Monday of the Fifth Week of Easter. Father Dave highlights the blessings and responsibilities of the Christian life. We can share in God's divine life by aligning ourselves with God's will rather than our own desires. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 05-04-26

Third Sunday of Easter. Father Dave focuses on the Gospel passage of the Road to Emmaus and the power of accompanying others. As Busted Halo Ministries celebrates 25 years, we are all called to help others recognize Jesus in the breaking of the bread. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-19-26

Wednesday of the Second Week of Easter. Father Dave reflects on how the stories in the Acts of the Apostles can be both inspiring and intimidating. He focuses on the words of the psalm to highlight the simple power of praising God together. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-15-26

Monday of the Second Week of Easter. Father Dave begins by noting how God calls us to speak up for what is right both in biblical times and today. Jesus calls us to be reborn of the spirit so that we can have a "heavenly passport" to enter the kingdom of God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-13-26

Second Sunday of Easter. On Divine Mercy Sunday, Father Dave reflects on what we can learn from the story of "Doubting Thomas." Just like Thomas, Jesus offers us peace and asks us to believe, and we are to live out our faith as a result. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 04-12-26

Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion. Father Dave notes the parallels between our Palm Sunday readings and "No Kings" protests in the United States. Jesus is not the king the ancient world was expecting, rather, he empties himself as a sacrifice for us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-29-26

Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. As we celebrate today's solemnity, Father Dave reminds us that we, like Mary, are also called to collaborate with God. It is our choice to participate in God's will, and we're invited to boldly say yes. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-25-26

Monday of the Third Week of Lent. Father Dave focuses on the story of Naaman and considers how Jesus sometimes offers basic solutions. While we look for God in big signs and wonders, we are reminded not to overlook simple examples of the Lord's presence. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-09-26

Third Sunday of Lent. Father Dave reflects on today's Gospel story of the woman at the well. As catechumens and candidates prepare to enter the Church this Easter, we are also invited and challenged to go deeper in our relationship with God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-08-26

Monday of the Second Week of Lent. Father Dave notes how when someone complains about being in traffic, they are ironically part of the problem as one of the cars. He calls us to remember that we all need God's mercy this Lent, instead of judging others. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-02-26

Second Sunday of Lent. Father Dave reflects on today's Gospel story about the Transfiguration, and how we can identify with Peter's desire to stay on the mountaintop. God offers glimpses of the kingdom of heaven to help strengthen us for our difficult work as Christians. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-01-26

Ash Wednesday. Father Dave compares Lent to a time in his childhood when his mom would tidy up before a house cleaner would occasionally visit. We are to do our part this penitential season, but then let God create a clean heart in us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 02-18-26

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave explains today's Gospels through the film "The Matrix." It is our choice to follow Christ or not, and we are challenged to deepen our commitment to our faith as we approach Lent. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 02-15-26

Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on Solomon in today's readings, as well as those with money and power in our modern world. He reminds us to focus on the purity of our own hearts rather than seeking external validation. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 02-11-26

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. On this Super Bowl Sunday, Father Dave borrows a sports technique of visualizing a successful game. We are to actively live into our identities as salt of the earth and light of the world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 02-08-26

Memorial of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest and Doctor of the Church. Father Dave talks about medications that suppress appetite and even thoughts of food. We strive to block out worldly distractions to hear and receive the word of God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-28-26

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses the account of the Baptism of the Lord from John's Gospel. Like John the Baptist, we are to share how we witness Christ's presence in our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-18-26

Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave shares his reliance on to-do lists to get things done. We are challenged to start bringing about the kingdom of God in concrete ways as we enter Ordinary Time. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-12-26

The Baptism of the Lord. Father Dave notes how it's hard to understand why Jesus would need to be baptized. Like John the Baptist, we are to trust in the Lord even when we don't know God's reasoning. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-11-26

Tuesday after Epiphany. Father Dave reflects on the life of Saint Andre Bessette on his feast day, and considers how God worked through his humble life. Despite our own shortcomings, God can do wonderful and powerful things through us in the world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-06-26

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas). Father Dave reflects on his new eyeglasses with progressive lenses, and how God similarly sharpens our focus as he brings the light of Christ into the world. We are called to spread that light of Christmas to all, especially those suffering in darkness. Preached while serving as Chaplain of a Cruise Ship on 12-25-25

Third Sunday of Advent. Father Dave discusses how we sometimes question if we are hearing the voice of God. Just as Jesus assures John the Baptist in today's readings, God shows how he is with us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-14-25

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Father Dave compares Luke's Gospel account of the Annunciation to today's feast celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe. Mary proves that nothing is impossible for God, and we should not be afraid to bring him our needs. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-12-25

Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent. Father Dave reflects on today's first reading from Isaiah and reaffirms that God is never too busy for us. We can rest in the peace of God who always hears us, even if we feel far from him. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-10-25

Second Sunday of Advent. Father Dave compares Advent to a recipe's suggested prep time. We can trust that God will help us make our preparation fruitful. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-7-25

Tuesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on this time of limbo between Ordinary Time and Advent. He challenges us to prepare our hearts in one small way this week as we soon journey into Advent. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-23-25

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Father Dave notes how it is hard to relate to the idea of kings in modern America. While it is a challenge, we can help bring about peace in our world if we let God be king of our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-23-25

Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. Father Dave acknowledges that today's feast dedicating a building might seem strange, but it symbolizes the beginning of public Christian worship in Rome. The Scriptures deepen this message and say that we are God's dwelling place on earth. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-09-25

Friday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time. Today's readings share how God has revealed his saving power to all the nations, but Father Dave notes how Saint Paul says there is more work to be done. We are called to reach out and bring Christ to everyone, even in small ways. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-07-25

Wednesday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave talks about election day, and how news channels fill time talking before getting to the important results. Saint Paul describes many laws and commandments in today's readings, and how the crux of God's law is love. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-05-25

Vigil of the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls' Day). Father Dave discusses today's feast, especially following the unexpected death of fellow Paulist and ordination classmate Father Brad Schoeberle. We are to pray for those in purgatory, and trust in God's promise that our souls are in his hands. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Horseshoe Bay, TX on 11-01-25

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's Gospel and our tendency to focus on ourselves instead of God. We are called to find humility and see our neighbor through God's eyes. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-26-25

Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr. Father Dave talks about a friend who jokingly expects appreciation for doing the bare minimum. Today's readings explain how God's grace is a free gift and not something we earn or deserve. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-17-25

Monday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's story of Jonah and times in our lives where we try to avoid God. He challenges us to pay attention to how God prompts us and to say yes to his call instead of making excuses. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-6-25

Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave recalls when a younger coworker discussed her vision board and goals. It is not enough to envision a strong faith. We must take tangible actions to help bring about the kingdom of God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-5-25

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave compares today's readings to tools used to stoke embers in a fireplace. Similarly, he reminds us that humility is a tool for us to grow closer to God. Preached at St. Mary on the Lake, Lake George, NY on 8-31-25

Memorial of Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church. Father Dave cautions those of strong faith to not become complacent. Just like Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, we are to answer God's call and never stop working to bring people to the Lord. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 8-20-25

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave highlights how Jesus talks about division in today's Gospel. While it is difficult, we are called to bring God's peace and reconciliation to our families and our world. Preached at St. Mary of the Lake, Lake George, NY on 8-17-25