Posts by Fr. Rich (Page 19)

In today’s Gospel, we read that after a long day of peaching and curing those who were sick, Jesus rose early the next day and went off to pray. His disciples found him and told him that everyone was looking for him. Why? Why were they looking for Jesus? For something they wanted? Why do we look for Jesus? And maybe just as important, where do we look for Jesus? Do we look for Jesus only when we want something…

In today’s Gospel, it says that Jesus taught with authority and not like the scribes. Jesus’ teaching was always about others. We see His miracles for the sake of others, His uplifting and sometimes challenging teachings to bolster others’ faith and we witness to His sacrifice on the cross out of His love of others. With what authority do you speak? Is it a true and honest concern for others? Or is it about what’s best for ‘me’ or what…

In the Church’s liturgical calendar, we are in Ordinary Time, a six week period between Christmas and Lent. It can seem like a let down after celebrating the joyous birth of Our Savior. It could also feel like a rather blah time as we anticipate the sacrificial and repentant time of Lent. But ordinary time is important for it covers most of our life experiences. In those everyday moments of our life, it is easy to let go of our…

In today’s Gospel, two of John’s disciples were following Jesus. Jesus stopped and asked them, “What are you looking for?” If Jesus was to ask you that question, what answer would you give? When we look for Jesus, what is it that we want to see or hear? Are we looking for Jesus to take away all our problems; or the wisdom and courage to face them and overcome them? Do we want Jesus to answer our prayers exactly as…

We all like to be told, “Well done. Good job.” It’s even better to be told that you’re a really great person. Deep in our hearts, we all long to hear the words that Jesus heard as he broke through the waters of the Jordan at his Baptism: “You are my beloved child of whom I am well pleased”. Our true identity is that we are all sons and daughters of God. Knowing this is our identity not only tells…

Even in the midst of a pandemic, so many came through to help prepare our Church for Christmas which made for a beautiful Christmas celebration. We couldn’t do all that we did in the past, but still everything was great. Thank You to all who prepared the Church, our volunteer cleaners and maintenance staff. Thank You to those who decorated and put a festive look to the Church. Thank to our musicians, Contemporary Group and organists who, even without congregational…

Today is the Feast of the Epiphany or the Manifestation of the Lord or Three Kings or the Feast of Lights. Whichever title to this Feast you use, it is the Feast that tells us that Jesus came into our world for all people to see, to be recognized, and to be changed. The Magi followed the star and found Jesus. They offered their gifts and then returned home by another way. Was that other way a change of heart…

I’m sure we’re all looking forward to a new year: one without covid, masking and social distancing. We would all like to see a country without racism and prejudices, without rioting, infighting and injustice. Maybe these will be our New Years resolutions. But let us start in the right place: FAITH. It is faith in God that will help us see with eyes of compassion, patience, understanding and love. It is faith in God that will exhort us to be…

I just wish to extend to you and your loved ones greetings for a holy, blessed and joyous Christmas. We celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace. In this unusual year where we have experienced a pandemic, mask wearing, social distancing, closing of businesses and a lot of isolation, we need some joy and happiness. Maybe we can’t celebrate with all the family gathering. Maybe we haven’t been able to shop, visit or even prepare our favorite recipes. But…

Today we light the rose colored candle of JOY on our Advent wreath. It is Gaudete Sunday or Rejoice Sunday. We await the coming of Jesus but already know He is here. So we rejoice. In the midst of a pandemic, do you feel the joy of Jesus in your life? The joy of Jesus’ presence is more that a family gathering at dinner, or a special Christmas card or present. It is the joy that Jesus, the Son of…

Today’s Gospel starts by quoting Isaiah: “Behold I am sending my messenger ahead of you; … Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” John the Baptist was that messenger, but maybe, so are we in today’s world. We all have opinions of how best to do things: how much should we give; how much time can we share; or how much inconvenience will we put up with to spread the message of Jesus. We must use John’s…

Today, we begin the Advent season which means Christmas is just around the corner. Advent is a journey of faith. We await the coming of the Lord. So what do I plan to do while I wait for the Lord’s coming? Stay awake! Listen! Watch! Do I see yourself as the work of God’s hands? What changes do I need to make in my own life? When have I been unconscious to the feelings of others or ignore the importance…