This weekend opening lines of both the first reading and the Gospel are heartwarming and inspiring, but both readings soon turn difficult and serious. Living faithfully to the gospel can be like this. We may leave here enthused and inspired, only to encounter conflict or adversity at home, in our neighborhood, or in the world.…
Brothers and sisters, let us notice how this Sunday continues to echo the Epiphany with its images of the revelation of Jesus’ identity, the ingathering of the nations, the summoning of disciples. We need cheer during these dark days. A traditional way to gladden the heart is with flowers. Tuesday marks the beginning of the…
When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove and a voice from the heavens rang out, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” No such dove was seen or voice heard when we were baptized, yet the Holy Spirit did descend upon us in baptism and…
Aware of the significance of the blessed star and drawn by its distinctive light, the magi traveled from distant lands to reach Bethlehem. They are the first people outside the immediate area to come and greet the newborn king. This weekend we gather thousands of miles from Bethlehem, and over two thousand years from the…
Fr. Gerard Lecomte, CJM We draw close to the end of this season of expectation, this season of preparation, this season of waiting. For three weeks we have been anticipating that glorious day that is now just over the horizon. Let us break from all the hustle and bustle that threaten to overwhelm the true…
Fr. Gerard Lecomte, CJM How was your liturgical week? It was so great to see so many people united in our church for the Immaculate Conception! Our students took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of reconciliation. We celebrate our Lady of Guadalupe at St Leo this coming Saturday at 8pm. What a great opportunity…
Fr. Gerard Lecomte, CJM In the context of our stewardship these past few weekends, I wish to extend an invitation to our Thanksgiving celebration this coming Thursday, an example of table blessing prayer. We are a thankful people because we are a eucharistic people: the Greek word eukharistia, after all, means “thanksgiving.” And so gathered…
This weekend we are reminded that one day Jesus will return in glory as the world comes to an earth-shattering conclusion. As frightening as the warnings are in today’s readings, they are accompanied by assurances that God remains with us—always. Indeed, soon we will be reminded that Emmanuel means “God is with us.” Jesus—Emmanuel—will return…
During November, we remember and honor all those who have preceded us in death. We recall especially those who have passed away this past year. It is normal to struggle with one’s faith when in the throes of grief. Death comes with trauma and questions that we can never answer satisfactorily. Why was she taken…
Fr. Gerard Lecomte, CJM I am glad to be back with you! On Monday we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints (not a holy day of obligation this year), where we recognize those many men and women who we believe have gained eternal reward and are forever in the presence of God. Today we hear…