St. Paul

An Aggressive Attempt to Deny Sin

Today we are witnessing an agressive attempt to deny sin. More than ever this Lent we need a personal meeting with Jesus who is God, the only one who can forgive sin.

A popular myth about Jesus runs along these lines: The original Jesus was a kindly man who wanted to help people face their problems, feel good about themselves and get along with each other. (Kind of a first century version of Dr. Phil.) But his followers began… Continue reading »

I Do So Willingly

We do not give time and money grudgingly; we are building the Body of Christ. With St. Paul we say, “I do so willingly…I have been entrusted with a stewardship.”

Many years ago, in England, three men were pouring into a trough a mixture of water, sand, lime and other ingredients. A passer-by asked them what they were doing. The first said, “I am making mortar.” The second: “I am laying bricks.” But the third said, “I am building a cathedral.” They were doing the same thing, but each looked at it differently. And what a difference that made! … Continue reading »

Joy is a Decision

Sadness is easy. Joy is a decision. St. Paul tells us we will find joy by praying without ceasing, giving thanks in all circumstance and refraining from every kind of evil. Rejoice always. Continue reading »

It Is Right and Just

As we begin the season of Advent we ask for the grace to stay alert and watchful. We stand in awe of God’s coming to us – and we give him thanks. It is right and just. Continue reading »

The Rapture

When the trumpet sounds, those “left behind,” that is, those still alive will have no advantage over those who have died. We will be raptured: taken up and transformed. At that moment, what matters is that the Lord’s fire burns within us. By prayer and Holy Communion we have our lamps filled and burning when the Lord returns.
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Against All Forms of Idolatry

Homily for Thirty-First Ordinary Sunday – Year A – October 30, 2011 Our value comes from God. He is our goal, the purpose of our existence. Jesus makes that clear in a dramatic way this Sunday. He says, “Call no man ‘Rabbi’ or ‘Teacher’ or ‘Father.’” We have only one Master, one Teacher, one Father … Continue reading »