Fr. David Hogan

Fifth Sunday in EasterGod does not work with finished projects. Rather, He builds them. Like a construction site, which is messy, loud, unfinished, yet purposeful. So too, is the Church in the world today. St. Peter reminds you and I that we are living stones being built up into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood. The only place we find real life is in Jesus Christ. Where are you in this journey? Are you resisting Jesus either subtly or intentionally? Our foundation is built upon a personal relationship rooted in Jesus Christ, loving concretely, and serving wherever our lives may take us. Scripture Readings for May 3, 2026Acts 6:1-7Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-191 Peter 2:4-9John 14:1-12

Fourth Sunday in EasterAs the Church celebrates Good Shepherd Sunday, it is important to take the time to reflect upon your calling or vocation. Vocation (Vocare) means a call or summons. In John 10, Jesus says, " My sheep hear my voice...and they follow me."Life in Christ is not an escape from suffering. It is a transformation of suffering. The easy road avoids suffering whereas the Shepherd leads us through it to freedom. The wide road is easy to walk-but it never leads you home. Only the voice you follow will decide the man or woman you become. Scripture Reading for April 26, 2026Acts 2:14, 36-41Psalm 23: 1-61 Peter 2:20-25John 10:1-10

Third Sunday in EasterHave you ever walked away from something thinking, "I didn't get anything out of that." Unfortunately, that is how many people experience Mass. "I go...but I do not feel anything." In our Gospel for today, the two disciples leaving Jerusalem felt the same way. They just witnessed the greatest event in history...and walked away empty. The problem is not the Mass. The problem is expecting feelings instead of recognizing reality. Therefore, come to Mass with one prayer: "Lord open my eyes..." Jesus is present at the Mass substantially, body, blood, soul, and divinity whether you feel it or not.Scripture Readings for April 19, 2026Acts 2:14, 22-33Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-111 Peter 1:17-21Luke 24:13-35

The Resurrection of the LordThe Mass of Easter DayOn Easter Sunday, we proclaim with joy that Jesus Christ is risen, and death no longer has the final word. The empty tomb is not just an event of the past, but a living invitation to new life here and now. In every place of darkness, sin, or despair, the Resurrection declares that hope is real and victory is possible. As disciples, we are called to live as people of the Resurrection—marked by faith, courage, and love. Let us go forth today not as people of the tomb, but as witnesses to the risen Lord.Scripture Readings for April 5, 2026Acts 10:34, 37-43Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6-8John 20:1-9 

Palm SundayWhen Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was shaken and asked, “Who is this?” The crowd answered correctly that Jesus is a prophet from Nazareth in Galilee. The crowd, like much of humanity, also got the answer woefully wrong. The question, who is He, resides in every human heart. In fact, we are still learning how to answer this question today. Ask yourself: not in theory, not in your childhood memory, or religion class, but right now. Who is He? The answer comes when we say, My Lord and My God have mercy on me a sinner.Scripture Readings for March 29, 2026Matthew 21:1-11Isaiah 50:4-7Psalm 22:8-9, 17-20, 23-24Philippians 2:6-11Matthew 26:14—27:66

Fifth Sunday in LentToday's Gospel seems to touch on a delicate part of humanity which is that when things get bad God seems to abandons us. Instead, Jesus intentionally waits to visit Martha and Mary at the news of Lazarus' sickness and death so that something greater can take place. Some of us are not waiting for a miracle...we're hiding in our tombs. Today, Jesus stands before that place in your life and says: "come out." If you bring Jesus your death, He will bring you freedom and the resurrection. Scripture Readings for March 22, 2026Ezekiel 37:12-14Psalm 130:1-8Romans 8:8-11John 11:1-45

4th Sunday in LentAs a person matures in their faith, one realizes how blind they were prior to seeing more clearly. This is exactly what today's Gospel is about. Many people think they can see clearly. But Jesus shows us that the deepest blindness is spiritual blindness. "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8).Scripture Readings for March 15, 20261 Samuel 16:1, 6-7, 10-13Psalm 23: 1-6Ephesians 5:8-14John 9:1-41

Second Sunday in LentLeading up to the Transfiguration, Jesus predicts his own passion and death. Given the traumatic events that will eventually take place, Jesus knew his most faithful followers' faith will be shaken. St. Leo the Great states, "Christ revealed His glory to strengthen the disciples against the scandal of the Cross."One of the great lessons we learn from our fathers in faith like Abram is that there is no map, no guarantee, but simply a promise that God will not abandon His people. Faith is moving forward without total clarity. The disciples fall in fear, yet Jesus instructs them to rise and be not afraid. This is lent. Glory is ahead. But we must walk there through faith. Scripture Readings for March 1, 2026Genesis 12:1-4Psalm 33:4-5, 18- 20, 22.2 Timothy 1:8-10Matthew 17:1-9

1st Sunday of LentThe three temptations Christ experienced in the desert by Satan are of similar origin we as human beings face on a daily basis: comfort, spiritual pride, and power. Temptations do not imply sin as the struggle is part of growing in faith. Remember we are all saints in training. Jesus having passed the test in the desert teaches all people that there is hope in the midst of our trials and temptations. Jesus I trust in You.Scripture Readings for February 22, 2026Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7Psalm 51:3-6, 12-13, 17Romans 5:12-19 Matthew 4:1-11

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary TimeInformation, knowledge, and wisdom are three ways of knowing. Given what our senses tell us, everything we experience in this life has an expiration date. Yet, "we speak of God's wisdom, mysterious, hidden, which God predetermined before the ages for our glory, and which none of the rulers of this age knew, for, if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory." -1 Corinthians 2:7Scripture Readings for February 15, 2026Sirach 15:15-20Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-341 Corinthians 2:6-10Matthew 5:17-37

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary TimeOften times the word blessed means successful, comfortable, and secure. In Jesus' sermon on the eight Beatitudes it seems Jesus speaks of “blessed,” as those who seem… unlucky. It may come as a surprise but Jesus equates blessed to be poor, meek, mourning, and persecuted. To desire suffering or glory for its own sake is not the point rather faithfulness in following God's will. Padre Pio reminds us, "blessed is the crisis that made you grow, the fall that made you gaze up to heaven, the problem that made you look for God."Scripture Reading for February 1, 2025Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13Psalm 146:6-101 Corinthians 1:26-31Matthew 5:1-12

Second Sunday in Ordinary TimeWhen John the Baptist called out, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world." It is a revelation of who Jesus is. Reflecting more on this title of Christ, we are invited to consider who we are and what is our own mission. As we receive Christ in the Holy Eucharist, we encounter the living God further strengthening us for the work that lies ahead as His witnesses. Scripture Readings for January 18, 2025Isaiah 49:3, 5-6Psalm 40:2, 4, 7-101 Corinthians 1:1-3John 1:29-34

The Epiphany of the LordThe magi, having been filled with joy, dangerous wonder, and obedience, followed the star which ultimately led to the site of our Lord's birth. Throughout this exciting and dangerous adventure, when challenged by God, the magi chose surrender and trust. The magi's journey from beginning to end ought to help shape our spiritual lives in being attuned toward God and His plans for our lives.   Scripture Reading for January 4, 2025Isaiah 60:1-6Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13.Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6 Matthew 2:1-12

Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and JosephThe simple truth is every family is imperfect. Jesus did not come into an ideal and wealthy household from a human standard standpoint, but into a real family with challenges. Jesus grew up learning, obeying, and depending upon Mary and Joseph. Mary trusted God even when she did not fully understand. Joseph quietly protected, provided, and obeyed God without speaking in Scripture. May our homes become places where love is practiced daily, faith is lived simply, and God is always welcome. Scripture Readings for December 28, 2025Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14Psalm 128:1-5Colossians 3:12-21 Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

The Nativity of the Lord Merry Christmas! Christmas is not just remembering an event that took place over 2,000 years ago. Nor is attending Christmas Mass, simply a tradition, an obligation or family pressure. Christmas is an opportunity for people to encounter the living God in a new way. For Christians, their baptism is their first Christmas. Through the words and actions of the priest or deacon, a child becomes part of the family of God.God enters into our lives unexpectedly, humbly, and where we are and not where we pretend to be. Like the shepherds who came to see the Christ child in the manger and never returned the same. May we too encounter the Christ child and never look back.  

Fourth Sunday in AdventThe fourth and final Sunday of Advent stands close to Christmas. Today’s Gospel centers on St. Joseph, a man faced with an unexpected pregnancy. His response teaches us how God asks us to choose trust over fear, mercy over judgement, and always life, even when the future feels uncertain.Scripture Readings for Sunday December 21, 2025Isaiah 7:10-14Psalm 24:1-6Romans 1:1-7Matthew 1:23

Second Sunday in AdventAdvent is certainly a season of waiting and trusting on the Lord, but it is also a reminder that God keeps His promises when we cannot see how. Advent trust means: Trusting God’s timing—He comes when the moment is right.  Trusting God’s method—He comes humbly, quietly, often unnoticed. Trusting God’s promise—Christ will come again in glory. The opposite of trust is not doubt but control in which we desire to manage our lives without God. John the Baptist calls on all people's to surrender control and allow the Lord to remake our hearts in Him.Scripture Readings for December 7, 2025Isaiah 11:1-10Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17Romans 15:4-9Matthew 3:1-12

First Sunday in AdventThe season of advent opens with hope. Not fear but hope that God is coming to save His people. Hope is not passive optimism; but invites total conversion, a new way of thinking, seeing, and living the life of grace. Spiritual sleep, on the other hand, is associated with set routines void of one's heart being fully engaged, faith void of intrinsically motivated desire for God, and habits that do not lift us toward God. Thus, a form of shallowness longing begins to develop in the mind, heart, and soul.Advent powerfully reminds all of humanity that change is possible and grace is near because Jesus Christ is close. Jesus desires a relationship with us as we prayerfully sing O Come O Come Emmanuel. Let us put aside works of darkness and put on the armor of light, Our Lord Jesus Christ.Scripture Readings for November 30, 2025Isaiah 2:1-5Psalm 122: 1-9Romans 13:11-14Matthew 24:37-44

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the UniverseJesus was one of the most misunderstood figures in history. From the beginning of his life, through the grace of the virgin birth until His death, many people, including his own followers found it difficult in understanding his mission and purpose. Everyday we choose which king we will serve: the false kings of power, pride, ego, and comfort or Jesus Christ, the King, who reigns from the Cross. We approach the altar of grace wholeheartedly and say. "Jesus remember me when you come into your kingdom."Scripture Readings for November 23, 20252 Samuel 5:1-3Psalm 122:1-5Colossians 1:12-20Luke 23:35-43

Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary TimeLuke's Gospel account outlines Jesus description of how the end of the world will come about. Jesus' sobering words offers readers the opportunity to see two differing world views, the world created by man and the world created by God via the story of creation. Jesus makes it clear we will be martyr's before we become saints. A martyr by definition is a witness. People will be asked to make a public witness to the truth of our individuality as beloved sons and daughters. It's by our perseverance we will secure our lives.Scripture Readings for November 16, 2025Malachi 3:19-20Psalm 98:5-92 Thessalonians 3:7-12Luke 21:5-19 

The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls)Eschatology is the study of the last four things: death, judgement, heaven, and hell. All Souls Day reminds us of our communion with the dead, those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. As we pray, "Eternal rest grant unto them, Oh Lord," we also entrust ourselves to His Mercy. Now and at the hour of our own death.Scripture Readings for Nov. 2, 2025Wisdom 3:1-9Psalm 23:1-6Romans 5:5-11John 6:37-40

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary TimePrayer is the oxygen we need to spiritually live. It is our primary connection with God. In today's Gospel we read about two individuals who enter the temple to pray with different postures of this fundamental reality: the pharisee and the tax collector. The pharisee left the temple self-justified leading to further self-guilt and self-hatred. Whereas, the tax collector left justified by God. God listens not to perfection, but to humility. True prayer is is the posture of dependence, not pride. Pray like the tax collector and live like St. Paul-humble, grateful, and confident in God's mercy.Scripture Readings for October 26, 2025Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18Psalm 34:2-3, 17-19, 232 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18Luke 18:9-14 

Twenty Ninth Sunday in Ordinary TimeAll three of the Sunday Mass readings have the theme of perseverance. Moses persisting in the fight against the Amalek's, St. Paul in encouraging St. Timothy to remain faithful in teaching and witness both when it's convenient and inconvenient, and the persistent widow in asking for a judgement from an unjust judge. We need to hear them over and over again. Why? For the simple reason because our hearts become wearisome. Don't quit. You are doing great. God is with you. Your future is shaped by the habits you repeat, not the goals you set. May God help us to run so as to win.Scripture Readings for October 19, 2025Exodus 17:8-13Psalm 121:1-82 Timothy 3:14-4:2Luke 18:1-8

Twenty Seventh Sunday in Ordinary TimeSt. Paul in his letter to St. Timothy encourages him to "fan into flame" the gift given him, not to be ashamed of witnessing Christ, and to hold fast to sound teaching. As Catholics we ought not to agree more. Scripture Readings for October 5, 2025Habakkuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4Psalm 95:1-2, 6-92 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14Luke 17:5-10

Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary TimeThe prophet Amos challenges us to see the suffering around us and respond. He goes on to imply further that indifference to others' suffering is a moral failure. Our Gospel presents the reality of Amos' preaching via the telling of the story of the rich man and Lazarus. Notice both the rich man and Lazarus' eternal destinies are reversed: the rich man had a name in society but now nameless in the afterlife. Lazarus who had no voice on earth now known by name in heaven.Scripture Readings for September 28, 2025Amos 6:1, 4-7Psalm 146:7-101 Timothy 6:11-16Luke 16:19-31

Twenty Fifth Sunday in Ordinary TimeHaving taken to prayer many of the recent incidents of violence in our country, it is painful to see how we as a country do not see one another. Rather, we see political sides, division, and contempt. Though there is much strife, we are never too far gone. Proof of this is found in our Gospel today regarding the unjust steward. May all the Souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.Scripture Readings for September 21, 2025Amos 8:4-7Psalm 113:1-2, 4-81 Timothy 2:1-8Luke 16:1-13

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time“If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:25). These words of Jesus seem shocking and harsh. Instead, Jesus is using a literary device called hyperbole, that uses extreme exaggeration to create a strong impression or emphasize a point; it’s not meant to be taken literally but rather to evoke emotion and action in the listener’s mind. We know these words are hyperbole because we know the overwhelming content of the Gospel message: Love. You and I are called to love God and neighbor, but when forced to make a choice, a disciple knows the answer. It is a total way of life that demands commitment, suffering, and sacrifice.Scripture Readings for September 7, 2025Wisdom 9:13-18Psalm 90:3-6, 12-14, and 17Philemon 9-10, 12-17Luke 14:25-33 

Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary TimeJerusalem is understood as a spiritual reference to pain, suffering, sorrow, and death. These are all realities people attempt to avoid at all costs. Jesus, having freely taken up His own cross, teaches us that power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, strive to enter through the narrow gate.Scripture Readings August 24, 2025Isaiah 66:18-21Psalm 117:1, 2Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13Luke 13:22-30

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary TimeJesus assures his disciples the peace given to them will be diametrically opposed to the peace the world offers. How can Jesus be both the Prince of Peace who teaches his disciples to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. While also in today's Gospel say that He has come to bring not peace but division? Is Jesus contradicting himself? Quite the contrary, Jesus came to pick a fight with the world, the flesh, and the devil.  Because He enters the arena first, He calls us to fight as well.Scripture Readings for August 17, 2025Jeremiah 38:4-6, 8-10Psalm 40:2, 3, 4, 18Hebrews 12:1-4Luke 12:49-53

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary TimeAn order of Trappist monks whose members live among the Muslim population in northern Africa. As the country is plunged into civil war in the mid-1990s, the men of God must decide whether to stay among the impoverished residents who have been their neighbors, or flee the encroaching fundamentalist terrorists. The situation that unfolds, based on actual events, has tragic consequences (Source: Rotten Tomatoes). The disciples in today's Gospel ask Jesus to teach them how to pray. In so doing, Jesus gives them the perfect prayer: The Our Father. Romans 8:28 reminds us, "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Scripture Readings for July 27, 2025Genesis 18:20-32Psalm 138:1-3, 6-8Colossians 2:12-14Luke 11:1-13

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary TimeWith Jesus in her home, Martha is "anxious and worried" because she fails to see the "one thing" that all her busyness is ordered to: attending to the Lord Jesus Christ. At some point all the success and progress we have made in our lives will be passed on to future generations. Up until we arrive at this important moment, have we filled our life with many things or have we kept our eyes on the one thing that truly matters?Scripture Readings for July 20, 2025Genesis 18:1-10Psalm 15:2-5Colossians 1:24-28Luke 10:38-42 

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary TimeThe movie Nefarious (2023) tells the story on the day of a man’s scheduled execution, a convicted serial killer gets a psychiatric evaluation during which he claims he is a demon, and further claims that before their time is over, the psychiatrist will commit three murders of his own. In our Gospel for today, the seventy-two disciples whom Jesus sends out to prepare the way were more than simply missionaries, they were commissioned exorcists. Meaning, Jesus gave them power over demons, devils, evil spirits, and fallen angels. Yet, there is something greater than casting out demons…“REJOICE YOUR NAMES ARE WRITTEN IN HEAVEN.” This is our supreme triumph and defeat over the evil one. The enemy has been defeated. Death can’t hold you down. Gona lift our voice in victory and make our praises loud.Scripture Readings for July 6, 2025Isaiah 66:10-14Psalm 66:1-7, 16, 20Galatians 6:14-18Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 

Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, ApostlesThe Miracle of Dunkirk refers to the large-scale evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk, France, during World War II. Trapped by German forces, over 338,000 British and Allied troops were rescued by a combined effort of the Royal Navy and civilian boats between May 26 and June 4, 1940. Sts. Peter and St. Paul went on a spiritual rescue mission across the Roman world by evangelizing with boldness. They suffered and died as witnesses to Christ’s truth, strengthening the Church through their letters, doctrine, and leadership. Sts. Peter and Paul continue to intercede for the Church as saints in heaven. May the Church continue to accept the invitation from Christ by going behind enemy lines to save those in need.Scripture Readings for June 29, 2025Acts 12:1-11Psalm 34:2-92 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18Matthew 16:13-19

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of ChristThe phrase Body of Christ was a deliberate chose of words for both the Eucharist and the Church. The Second Vatican Council calls the Church the people of God. The people of God are connected spiritually and invisibly to Christ through the gift of the Eucharist. May there be greater bonds of unity and peace as we recognize the gift of God in ourselves and another another.Scripture Readings for June 22, 2025Genesis 14:18-20Psalm 110:1- 41 Corinthians 11:23-26Luke 9:11-17

The Solemnity of the Most Holy TrinityThere is a essential link between God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and humanity. St Paul outlines in our second reading today this necessary connection through the language of golden chains. Though there is much to say and can be said about the Most Holy Trinity, one of its greatest attributes is unity.Scripture Reading for June 15, 2025Proverbs 8:22-31Psalm 8:4-9Romans 5:1-5John 16:12-15

Ascension of the LordThere can be a temptation to think Jesus' ascension into heaven was his way of distancing himself physically and spiritually from humanity. Instead, Jesus reminds his disciples that he must go otherwise the Paraclete (Holy Spirit) will not come. Our Catholic Christian faith is rooted in the hope of both the Resurrection and the Ascension of the Lord. May the ascended Lord renew us in our quest to soar like eagles.Scripture Readings for June 1, 2025Acts 1:1-11Psalm 47:2-3, 6-9Hebrews 9:24-28; 10:19-23Luke 24:46-53

Sixth Sunday in EasterGod is revealed in three stages throughout human history. First, God the Father is revealed in the Old Testament as above His creation. Next, God the Son is revealed in the New Testament by becoming human. Finally, the Holy Spirit is revealed through the Church within the heart of man. Knowing how important this relationship is with the creator of the heavens and the earth, allow God's dwelling to impact your mind, heart, and soul today.Scripture Reading for May 24, 2025Acts 15:1-2, 22-29Psalm 67:2-3, 5-6, 8Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23John 14:23-29 

Fifth Sunday of EasterToday's Gospel is one of Jesus' last earthly life discourses. He installs a new commandment: "Love one another as I have loved you. Love is an act of the will, demonstrating both one's care for another's wellbeing, while also reinforcing one's connection to Jesus as his disciples. Just because life is difficult does not mean we are not living life correctly. As our first reading from Acts reminds us, "it is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God" (14:22). Jesus death on the cross is a vivid reminder, that he loves us to the very end.Scripture Readings for May 18, 2025  Acts 14:21-27Psalm 145:8-13Revelation 21:1-5John 13:31-33, 34-35  

Fourth Sunday in EasterPope LIV's episcopal motto is "In Illo Uno Unum," which translates to "In the One, we are one". This motto, a Latin phrase taken from St. Augustine's teachings, emphasizes the unity of Christians in Christ. The fact that we are not one brings scandal. Nonetheless, the pope serves as shepherd over the entire flock. May God bless our new holy father in uniting the world.Scripture Readings for Sunday May 11th, 2025Acts 13:14, 43-52Psalm 100:1-3, 5Revelation 7:9, 14-17John 10:27-30

Third Sunday of EasterWe are reminded from Acts of the Apostles that we must obey God rather than men. The more a person does so, conforming oneself to Him, friendship will grow from sentimental to self-sacrificing love. It's profound how much God loves His creation. Have you taken the time recently to reflect on this great gift?  Scripture Reading for May 4, 2025Acts 5:27-32, 40-41Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13Revelation 5:11-14John 21:1-19 

Divine Mercy SundayWhen did life begin to click for you? Learning and growth is a life long endeavor. God provides avenues of transformation if we are willing to be taught. In today's Gospel we reflect upon St. Thomas' pursuit of faith by encountering the resurrected Christ. Learn how to ask good questions and humbly receive the answers. Scripture Readings for April 27, 2025Acts 5:12-16Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24Revelation 1:9-11-13, 17-19John 20:19-31

Seventh Sunday in Ordinary TimeThe life of St. John Vianney served as a priest in Ars, France for forty-one years. His life modeled after Christ was not just for parish priests, but for all Christians aspiring to lead a holy and virtuous life. One of the many ways he demonstrated Christ's love was by forgiving and loving his enemies. Let us ask for the intercession of St. John Vianney to do the same. Scripture Readings for February 23, 20251 Samuel 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-231 Corinthians 15:45-49Luke 6:27-38

The Presentation of the LordToday's celebration highlights Jesus' presentation in the Temple. Both Simeon and Anna have been preparing for this moment their entire lives. Simeon and Anna model a similar process, preparation, and purification we as people of faith go through our entire lives.Scripture Readings for February 2, 2025Malachi 3:1-4Hebrews 2:14-18Psalm 24:7-10Luke 2:22-40  

Third Sunday in Ordinary  TimeJesus is back home in the synagogue where he grew up. Many of the people there were those who knew Him, his father Joseph, and his mother Mary well. Why do the people of Nazareth and all of humanity have a hard time accepting Jesus? Because the God of the universe is closer than we want Him to be. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. He began by saying to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:18-19, 21).Scripture Reading for January 26, 2025Nehemiah 8:2-6, 8-10Psalm 19:8-10, 15 1 Corinthians 12:12-30 Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time“Our culture has filled our heads but emptied our hearts, stuffed our wallets but starved our wonder. It has fed our thirst for facts but not for meaning or mystery. It produces "nice" people, not heroes.” (Peter Kreeft)Because people have been so intent on other things that they have given up on reflecting on the works of God and thereby praising the creator for His many graces and blessings. God intends to rouse a slumbering humanity with wonder and awe as His beloved sons and daughters. Scripture Readings for January 19, 2024Isaiah 62:1-5Psalm 96:1-3, 7-10 1 Corinthians 12:4-11John 2:1-11 

The Baptism of the LordOne of the most important moments in the life of a Christian is their baptism. Yet, for most people their baptism took place when they were weeks or months old with little to no personal recollection of the event. Gratefully, our parents knew better and acted on our behalf. Baptism can be seen strictly as a membership card to Church or rite of passage. Yet, baptism is more so the beginning of our new life in Christ.Baptism marks the beginning of the journey for the rest of our lives, our on-going responsiveness to the Gospel, which aligns with our sole identity as God's beloved sons and daughters. If baptism is only the start, don’t we risk becoming deaf to the Gospel?Scripture Readings for January 12, 2024Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11Psalm 104:1-4, 24-25, 27-30Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7Lk 3:15-16, 21-22

Feast of the Holy FamilyBeing part of a family is wonderful but also complicated and messy at times. On the last Sunday of the calendar year, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family. Today we offer our own families and all their members on the altar of God to ask for His blessing on them and obtain for them the guidance of the Holy Family. Scripture Readings for December 29, 2024Sirach 3:2-7, 12-14Psalm 128Colossians 3:12-21Luke 2:41-52

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)The people who walked in darkness        have seen a great light;    upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom        a light has shone. (Is 9:1)May the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ bring glad tidings to you and your family this Christmas season!   

Fourth Sunday of AdventIn today’s readings as in our daily lives, the presence of God is recognized in the little things. Does not each of us know how a small gesture of greeting can transform someone? Not a word from Mary is recorded in today’s Gospel but her gesture of familial love speaks volumes. We have probably been busy with the hustle and bustle of the Christmas shopping season, placing Advent on our to-do list for the holidays. It is not too late. We know that Christmas is only hours away but there is still time to prepare. It takes just a word to do what we should have been doing since the start of Advent if not the start of our lives of faith... say Yes to God in small ways. As Mother Teresa once said, God does not call us to be successful, He calls us to be faithful. This approach is at the heart of Christianity. Scripture Readings for December 22, 2024Micah 5:1-4Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19Hebrews 10:5-10Luke 1:39-45 

Third Sunday in AdventSt. Luke's account for this Sunday's Gospel is written at the beginning stages of Jesus' public ministry. St. Luke was an eyewitness to the life of Jesus, therefore he sets the stage for the one coming who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. Today we light the third advent candle symbolizing joy. Are we joyfully preparing for the one who is to come?  Scripture Readings for December 15, 2024Zephaniah 3:14-18Isaiah 12:2-6 Philippians 4:4-7Luke 3:10-18