Greetings! As we read through the Gospel according to St. Matthew in this liturgical year, you’ll notice that Jesus begins proclaiming that the light has come to those in darkness, rendering his Father’s kingdom within grasp. Making our Lord’s intention abundantly clear, since the dawn of creation, God wants to be in complete union with us. Think about that; your Creator desires to unite with you for time and eternity.
In Fr. Mike Schmitz’s Catechism in the Year (now available on the HALLOW AP), the host emphasizes this quote from St. Augustine, “But I would not believe in the Gospel, had not the authority of the Catholic Church already moved me.” (CCC §119). His focus is entirely worthy, considering our Church is the treasury responsible for continuing the proclamation of God’s Word. Guided by the Holy Spirit, the magisterium, and the faithful, we have the assurance that the faith is taught and practiced from generation to generation. We maintain access to the Scriptures in which God reveals himself and his longing to have a covenant or relationship with us because Jesus left us the Church —a teaching Church. Making each of us a catechist, or simply put, a sharer of the faith. So take some time today and in the week ahead to ask yourself, how are you following through on that challenge? Do you or how can you better teach the faith? To your family? To the broader community? Then take your answers to prayer and when you do, ask our Lord that we might all joyfully embrace our mission to continue Jesus’ proclamation of God’s kingdom!
This week, I will be following the wisdom of the birds (and seeking warmer weather down south). Be assured, though, that I am not waiting until the birds return to come back to OLPH. With Fr. Anthony and I being away, I ask for your patience as our schedule adapts to our absence. Please note that reconciliation will be available on Fridays from 4 to 6 pm. However, our regular Wednesday times of 11 am to 12 Noon and 6 pm to 7 pm are canceled until I return. Daily Mass will remain at 8:15 am (Monday to Saturday), as various priests will visit to celebrate for us. Thanks in advance for making them welcome – I’ll be back for the weekend of February 4-5.
Upcoming Schedule changes
From January 24 through February 5
Reconciliation will be available on Fridays from 4 to 6 pm.
Our Wednesday times of 11 am to 12 Noon and 6 pm to 7 pm are canceled until my return from vacation.
Next Sunday, Fr. Frank Iacona, with Cross Catholic Outreach, will celebrate and preach to all our masses. Cross Catholic missionaries work in the Americas, Africa, and Asia, embracing their mission to mobilize the global Catholic Church to transform the poor and their communities materially and spiritually for the glory of Jesus Christ; learn more at CrossCatholic.org.