My Dear Parishioners,
Let us ask whether the fasting and penitential disciplines we have planned for ourselves this Lent are not TOO easy. Are they rooted in custom and tradition that have become almost automatic, second nature to us? Food, drink, entertainment have so often been the focus of our penitential attention.
I would like to suggest … Continue Reading ››
What reassuring words these are as we prepare for the holy season of Lent. Have past penitential seasons really changed us or was it all for “show”?
The cross of ashes on our foreheads, the purple décor in church, the more solemn music at Mass should reflect what is transpiring inside our hearts. If it does not; … Continue Reading ››
My Dear Parishioners,
Jesus teaches us to have mercy and compassion, even towards people whom we consider to be unworthy. It was possible years ago to politely disagree about politics, religion and what is the best flavor of ice cream.
Today it too often turns into a resentful battle to see who is right. Often it is … Continue Reading ››
The idea, dream, and reality of family is so strong and durable that we use it to describe all that is best about human gatherings. We speak of the family of nations, of our church and parish families. The greatest compliment we can pay … Continue Reading ››
Are you really rejoicing at the coming of Jesus, or are you filled with anxiety and apprehension? The answer depends on our attitude toward Christmas; and more deeply, on our view of Jesus and our relationship to Him. If the celebration of the birth of Christ is only a set of tasks to be … Continue Reading ››
“The days are coming!” God’s Word is insistent in today’s liturgy for the opening of the Advent Season. XXX number of shopping days left till the “holidays”, says our secular society. Often they do not use the term Christmas. That’s probably for the best in order not to confuse … Continue Reading ››
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Jesus challenged the young man in Mark 10:17-30 to make a choice about values. What is important in life? Am I willing to leave everything to obtain it?
As our eyes rest on the family members with whom He has blessed us, are we truly grateful? As we think about … Continue Reading ››
“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them.” Jesus’ words in today’s Holy Gospel are a challenge to all of us. We must ask how effective are we as a church in introducing new generations of Catholics to a friendship with Jesus.
Do we pass on only rules and dogmas or do … Continue Reading ››
From time to time, newspapers and magazines will offer, as an item of "filler", various laws that are still on the books but seem silly to us in our day and age.
In one California city, it is illegal to have two indoor bathtubs in one house. Clean water, a precious commodity when the law was … Continue Reading ››
