Posts by Fr. Rich (Page 5)

Speak to me, O God: Come and See.I asked a poor man: “Please, speak to me ofGod,” and the poor man shared his tea with me.I entreated the house: “Speak to me of God,”and the door opened welcoming me.I asked a child: “Speak to me of God,” and thechild smiled at me.I begged nature: “Speak to me of God,” andnature decked herself with luscious beauty.I asked my friend: “Speak to me of God,” andmy friend caressed me warmly.I asked a…

I announced a few weeks ago that our electronic bell system has broken and is not able to be repaired due to its age. In response to that announcement, we have received an anonymous and generous donation to replace our bell system. The new system is ordered and will be installed in about six weeks. Thank You and God Bless You for your donation.

A few weeks ago we asked for donations for bedding, pillows, etc. to provide P.A.T.H. (Pocono Area Transitional Housing). They were overwhelmed at the donations and wanted to send their personal thanks on behalf of the clients they serve for your generosity. Also, I would like to say Thank You on behalf of some O.L.V. Families, Children & Youth, ESU Students and local Seniors for your generosity to the Giving Tree. It is so heartwarming to see so many people…

Using today’s Scriptures, let us ask ourselves: Who are we looking for in Jesus? The disciples were looking for a teacher. What are our hearts seeking: a problem solver? a miracle worker? a companion on life’s journey? Whatever it is we are seeking, Christ, the Lord, is always present here in the Eucharist. And He invites us to come and stay with Him a while. If we dare to do so, we, like Andrew in the Gospel, might come to…

I wish to express my thanks to you for your generosity in this year’s Christmas collection. The total came to $18,865.00. The Christmas collection as well as the Easter one, makes up for what isn’t able to be covered by our regular Sunday collection. It’s a huge help financially. Thank You and God Bless You for your generous support to your Parish and Church.

Many of you sent me cards, gave me gifts, and baked some delicious goodies and foods. I just wish to say Thank You for your kindness and for making me part of your Christmas thoughts. The Spirit of Christmas is truly present. Thank You and God Bless!

January is here again, and for many people, it’s time to make our annual New Year’s resolutions. So often these resolutions are made on the spare of the moment: need to lose weight; stop smoking; cut back on this or that. In today’s Gospel from St. Luke, maybe there is some inspirational words to help us. In the Gospel, it says: “And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19) In the spirit of Mary’s…

Christmas has become for us a time to exchange gifts with family and loved ones. It’s a beautiful tradition that keeps us close as family and friends. It warms our hearts that someone is thinking about us. And it truly brings joy to many. This Christmas let us remember the gifts we have received and share them always. Merry Christmas! Jesus gave us the gift of Himself. Let us give the gift of our presence to those who seek our…

One of the saddest comments I hear during this time of year is someone saying, I can’t wait for Christmas to be over! It’s sad because their missing out on the joyful presence of Jesus in our preparations. Consider the story of one young man. He was often sick as a baby. He was always small, puny some would say. As a youth he was always frail and delicate. He was not able to play sports with the other boys…

Family members were on edge. A beloved aunt had died, and all her grown nieces and nephews were gathered in her home to figure out how to dispose of her lifetime of belongings. You could feel the tension. Old hurts were close to the surface. Fear reigned in everyone’s heart as they worried that they would not get their due. Though they didn’t realize it at the time, fueling all the fear and tension was the pain of having lost…

Advent is a time of waiting and preparing for the coming of the Lord. We spend a lot of time preparing in our lives. Getting dressed: what to wear? is it appropriate? is it in style? Going to dinner: where to go? what am I going to eat? do I get dessert? Going shopping: what do I need? what store is best? how much can I spend? And I could go on. But what about preparing for the coming of…

When you listen to the parable of the Final Judgement in today’s Gospel, what stands out for you? Is it what you didn’t do for the least of God’s people, or is it the good things you have done and continue to do for His creation? There are so many opportunities to follow the works of mercy as outlined in the Gospel. Can’t list them all is this short paragraph. But I’m sure you know them just by being a…