Lent challenges us to examine our relationship with God. Today’s readings describe evil, murderous actions, jealousy, and greed for personal gain. We hear the story of Joseph, sold into slavery by his jealous brothers (Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a). The gospel finds Jesus relating a parable to the chief priests and elders about the landlord who […]

In today’s gospel passage, Jesus is teaching the crowds in the Gentile territory where a man who is deaf and mute is brought to him for healing. Jesus takes the man off by himself and touches him, puts a finger in his ear, and healing spittle on his tongue looks up to heaven to his […]

The gospel relates the mustard seed parable used by Jesus to teach his followers about the growth of the kingdom of God. (Mark 4:26-34). The message conveyed by Jesus to his disciples is that despite small and humble beginnings (tiny seeds), their efforts to spread the gospel and live life with him will ultimately result […]

During this time after Epiphany we read from the first letter of John, and today the theme of the previous week continues—the Father’s revelation of his Son to us… the Christ who is fully human and fully divine. This is the one who came through water and blood. The Spirit is the one who testifies, […]

Memorial of Saint Lucy, Virgin and Martyr Our Advent journey is a time of anticipation and waiting for the birth of our Savior. Isaiah reminds us in the first reading of the Father’s promise to the Hebrew people: I, the Lord, your God, teach you what is for your good, and lead you the way […]

As we approach the threshold of Advent our readings alert us to the admonitions of scripture: to be prepared for the return of Jesus, the second coming at the end of time. The reading from Daniel describes signs that tell of a final judgment, and promises us …One like the Son of man is coming… […]

Today’s reading from the epilogue of Paul’s letter to the Romans presents the attitude to be adopted when ministering as a disciple of Christ. Paul professes…the priestly service of the gospel of God…because of the grace given to him by God. He explains…“In Christ Jesus then, I have reason to boast in what pertains to […]

Memorial – Pope Saint John XXIII Today we honor Saint Pope John XXIII on his feast day. Fifty-seven years ago this month saw the opening session of the second Vatican Council which he had convened in 1959. Known as “the good Pope”, his motto, Obedience and Peace, his inner strength, congenial personality, and his personal […]

Memorial of Saint John Chrysostom Today we honor Saint John Chrysostom (347-407), Doctor of the Church. John, a Hebrew name for Yahweh is gracious and Chrysostom, meaning golden mouthed might well describe the reputation he earned as one of Christianity’s most outstanding pastors, preachers, and teachers of the faith. A consistent theme of his preaching […]

Mathew’s account of the parable of the wise and foolish virgins is used by Jesus to teach his disciples what is needed to gain access to the kingdom of heaven, to the banquet of the bridegroom. (Mt 25:1-13) The gospel alleluia verse for today’s liturgy sums up the message: “Be vigilant at all times and […]