From the Pastor’s Desk
Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
July 28, 2024
Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining, and also as much of the fish as they wanted.
-John 6:11
Brothers and Sisters,
How do you attempt to dodge the mosquitoes, moths, and various bugs hanging out at your front door? While not everyone sympathizes with bugs, it’s clear they are affected by our artificial lights. Scientists have strong theories, but experts have yet to solve the mystery of why bugs commit kamikaze assaults on our light bulbs. Prevailing theories suggest bugs are oriented to the sun’s light or, for nocturnal bugs, the moon’s reflected light. Artificial lights distort this natural guidance, causing erratic behavior.
As disciples, we are blessed to sit at the foot of the Teacher every Sunday, listening to the proclamation of the Gospel at Mass. Over the next month, we will delve into one of Jesus’ greatest sermons in John 6. I encourage you, individually, as families, and as friends journeying together, to meditate on and pray with this essential teaching. Jesus is preparing us, just as he was preparing the original disciples, to accept the wonderful gift of the Eucharist. Beginning with the feeding of the 5,000, a miracle recorded in all four Gospels, we are reminded that Jesus satisfies all our hunger. Let us come with fervor to worship the Lord each Sunday as we gather for Mass and spend time in adoration.
The Church in the United States has just concluded the 10th Eucharistic Congress. Fortunately, the powerful worship and profound witnesses are still accessible. Please visit https://olphparish.org/
As we celebrate the World Day of Prayer for Grandparents and the Elderly this weekend, let us remember their great witness and profound impact on our lives. Let us take the time to engage with them, listen to their experiences, and trust in their guidance. While the vitality of youth is essential – and I encourage your prayers for all our children and youth, including those participating in Camp at Damascus this week – our matriarchs and patriarchs deserve our respect and admiration. Our elders are critical to the revival of our Church.
While I’ll be on vacation this week, rather than say goodbye, I’ll cite a message that has stayed with me from the Eucharistic Congress: “I’ll see you in the Eucharist.” In the unifying celebration of the Mass, we encounter Christ and are joined with all who are fed by the Lord and assumed into His Body. Know of my ongoing prayers, especially that you may be fully satisfied by the gift of the Lord in the Eucharist!