PASTOR'S BLOG

SOLEMNITY OF THE NATIVITY OF JESUS CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 18:17:17 GMT

God became man so that man would become like God

Special thanks to the church decorators as this is one of the best I have ever seen. It gets better every year. It adds a distinctive flavor to the flora and fiona. Christmas icon, including the aura and smells of the season, are important features of the season. In the art, we see a glimpse of God, a preview of divinity, and the mystery behind it.

Two weeks ago, while I was in the sacristy waiting and preparing for the few words I was going to say in Spanish, Fr Marco dropped by and wondered how I came up with the idea of advent lighting along with the presence of religious education program families, relatives and friends and sing Christmas carols in the early part of advent. A two-minute Spanish presentation before a crowd of over a hundred enthusiastic parishioners mostly kids and youth consumed my humanity. Yes, there is a translator but still I have to look at the translation and own it.

This was something he never saw in any parish in the States, let alone in the world. This is not a regular custom, tradition or practice. That’s true. No parish does this. Where did you get this? It’s biblical and worth quoting the prophet Isaiah’s words, “On that day, the people of God will stream to God’s holy mountain led by a child”. Kids lead us to the Lord.

At each stage in history, people came up with various ways of depicting Christmas in and out of the scriptures. Amidst the modern-day glamour of the Nativity Scene, including extra biblical characters there was nothing spectacular in the original nativity scene taking place in a cave, in a stable with the Blessed Mother fresh from giving birth (those who gave birth know what it meant) and the helpless infant born in a manger lying in the crib wrapped with nothing but swaddling clothes. No one was there except the three of them. They were denied accommodation.

St. Luke has something in the manger, excusive only for St Luke, there were chocolates in the manger. How did these goodies end up in the scene is subject for serious study and research in the next 365 days.

And yet, this is how God conquered humanity, not through violence or armed struggle but the helplessness of an infant to remove the veil of inhibition and embarrassment. No human being should feel aloof and indifferent to an infant, let alone to the God who became one of us. If we adults cannot even say hi and hello and smile to infants, I believe something is wrong.

The goal and purpose of Christmas, of the incarnation of the Son of God, of God becoming man is the divinization of humanity that is, man becoming God, which is undeniably, complex. As complicated as it is, there is only one way. And the path to becoming like God is only attained by mankind’s self-emptying, self-abasement, self denial in imitation of Christ, who though he was rich he became poor.

This is the wondrous exchange between God and man. As we sit down at tables, share meals, and later, unwrap gifts, desirable or not, we are One in the central mystery of the Christmas icon, the radiant and brilliant lights in and of the church, the unfading evergreen trees, poinsettias, the wreaths, etc.

Christmas is a feast of all feasts that is well celebrated and appreciated by religious and nonreligious alike. Even those who are not really into Catholicism that is, organized and institutionalized religion, faith, belief, worship and rituals go and/or make their way to church on Christmas. Here comes the crowd! It used to be, but times have changed. They could have gone straight to the party, enjoy the pleasures of the day and the company of like-minded people. But no, this feast of all feasts fascinates mankind despite the commercialism and the merry making associated with it perhaps because it fulfills the longings and desires of the people in ways we can’t possibly know and express in words.

Jesus Christ is the true light who came down /descended from heaven, conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary and became man. The Christmas radiant lights perched on trees and hung on porches are only a reflection of that light, the true light.

God caught us off-guard in Jesus Christ by becoming man. To celebrate Christmas is equal to becoming Christian like children, the distinguishing feature of Catholic faith. We don’t come to God as adults even as adults. We don’t come to the Lord as elite, refined and clever. We come as children like the kids who performed at the Nativity play for us: pure, innocent, carefree, docile, rowdy, joyful, open and receptive. We learn Christmas, the birthday of life, as it were, from them.

In Jesus Christ, God is within reach or easy to reach. God is not out of coverage area. He is within calling distance or striking distance. He is constantly available and has time for us. Christmas is a feast of indescribable joy, of unsurpassed joy, full and complete. The basis of this joy is the word became flesh and dwelt among us.

SOLEMNITY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:00:41 GMT

O Mary conceived without sin...

The early Christians honored the Blessed Mother and put her on a pedestal because of her significant role in the redemption of mankind. The Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary was a belief held by the Fathers of the Church that the Blessed Virgin Mary was immaculately conceived from the first instance/moment of her conception. Pope Pius IX didn’t invent the belief from nowhere. He echoed an age-old belief that the Virgin Mary was sinless, pure, and spotless from the moment of her conception. Pope Pius IX in the bull, Ineffabilis Deus (The Ineffable God), published on December 8, 1854, says,

“We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin, is a doctrine revealed by God and therefore to be believed firmly and constantly by all the faithful.”

This takes us back to the first reading in the book of Genesis 3: 9-19, 20 which illustrated the despair of mankind by blaming and pointing fingers at each other for all the troubles of the world except him and her. After the fall, things fell apart. The troubles and tragedies, fears and anxieties, as well as the endless (vicious) cycle of violence and the perpetration of evil experienced at this juncture of history are consequences of the first fall. We may claim that things even got worse even after Christ redeemed the world. The disconnect and dissociation between sin and death is the new normal. The biggest temptation is the make-believe which is the work tempter represented by the cunning serpent, that there is no consequence. The crisis of evil is a spiritual crisis.

Genesis 3: 15 depicts the first clue, the first gospel or protovangelium, or the first hint of Christian Redemption. This is the text that lays down the promise of redemption that in spite of their banishment from paradise, despite the troubled circumstances in life, God would still redeem humankind. In Christian parlance, the new Adam is Jesus Christ, and the new Eve is the Virgin Mary. In order to save the world, for God to enter the world of human history so deeply and profoundly, the woman in later prophecy, who would give birth to the Son of God must be pure, sinless, and spotless. Hence, the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT A25

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 21:18:18 GMT

Repent! for the kingdom of God has come near (Mt. 3: 2).

There is no time in the year when almost all houses in town are dazzlingly bright except in the days leading up to Christmas. Even the façade of St. Luke which used to be dark, and obscure is now lit along with the Immaculate Conception Church. It’s a work in progress. This is who we are as a people of God. None of us is complete. It reminds me of this phrase, already and not yet. There is something in place but won’t be complete until the next life.

Advent is marked by stillness, silence, and introspection. It is both spiritual (the general) and the religious (the particular). Advent is other-worldly and countercultural. Douglas is very Catholic and its catholicity is evidently enfleshed in the decorations put up in and out of houses. Decorations are highly symbolic. We don’t hang lights in fences, gates, porches and roofs, set up nativity scene and inflatables for nothing. It’s an anticipation of what is to come. We come to God by mediation, that is, by visible signs. Advent depicts the season in simple and elaborate decors and ornaments (ancient, traditional and modern), lively pictures, concrete images, and the vivid imagery of sights, lights, scents, delights and smells of the season is undeniably clear and radiant as never before.

Advent takes us deep into humanity. It’s an expensive season but only in the name of generosity. We initiate food and clothing drive to make sure those who cannot take care of themselves have decent food on the table and heavier clothing on their back come freezing temperature. Here in Douglas, we take care of each other. Christmas parties aren’t for our own pleasure and enjoyment of food, drinks and exchange gifts. There is something more and deeper than I cannot fathom at the moment. Thanksgiving and Christmas practices are sacred rituals that bind us together. Tamales, a staple of the season, is a shared culture, practice and belief. I believe every household from the simplest and humblest to the fanciest will have Tamales on the table. It’s wonderful to hear from families when you drop by for dinner and family celebration. Father, you have no idea how much your presence and visit mean to us. Thanks, my dear but I actually came for the Tamales, Carna Asada and so much more that I’d rather not mention or better left unsaid.

As we slowly transition into the beginning of Christian redemption. John the Baptist the irresistible religious figure, the last prophet of the Old Testament, the hinge that connects the old and the new, dominates Advent. Love him or hate him, you cannot ignore him. He is direct, charismatic, urgent, challenging and active. He doesn’t fool around or beat around the bush. He offers no apology. He’s not fond of symbolic language, metaphors or parables. His message is direct and straight to the point. He makes his presence felt. Here comes the precursor living in locusts and wild honey clothed in leather around his waist, whose life was spent pointing us at the Messiah.

John the Baptist represents the masculine side of faith. He is stern and summons the people of God, that is, us to Repentance, “Metanoia”, change of heart or conversion. My life is a daily routine of conversion and I bet, yours too. I hope my conversion is real, genuine and authentic. A devout Catholic, a firm believer, a lifelong disciple, a loyal follower of Christ, is open for change which is a constant movement in the direction of the divine. A disciple of Christ constantly turns his/her life around for deeper knowledge of God and concern for our fellows.

Hence, John’s message is summarized in one urgent word, Repent! For the kingdom (rule) of heaven has come near” (v. 2). Conversion leads us to view the visible reality which consumes us and overwhelms us in the eyes of God. Repentance, Conversion, changing our thinking, orientation, perspective and outlook is a necessary component of discipleship as the more we come and draw ourselves to the Lord, the better life is worth living. The coming rule is divine intervention to reclaim the world from the regime of the demon (Satan) that currently prevails and appears to be in full control. In the end, Goodness will triumph and prevail. The oppressive physical and spiritual powers of the universe joined by human rule would be cast down and collapse.

The only thing that counts is the bearing of fruit worthy of repentance emerging from the genuine conversion of heart. As the prophet Isaiah offers, peace and justice!

John claimed, the one who is coming after me is mightier and more powerful than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He is a judge with a winnowing fan in his hand to separate the chaff from the grain (the faithful) and throw the chaff (the faithless and godless) once and for all into the eternal unquenchable fire.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT A25

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 23:29:54 GMT

WALK IN THE LIGHT OF THE LORD...

Advent, the start of a new season which this year falls on Thanksgiving Weekend on the church’s calendar, is a time of waiting and not rushing and hastening, of silence and stillness. It is a preparation for the final judgment at the end-times (the second coming) clothed in divine glory and for the celebration of the birth of Christ wrapped in swaddling clothes (the first coming). The first two weeks is devoted to the second coming which sadly in Catholic circles haven’t gotten much attention and emphasis as the apocalyptic conversation in the church has been overshadowed by the immediate preparation for the nativity. The Church is always in Advent mode. We are always waiting for the final moment when the Lord of history comes in majesty and glory and all of history comes to an end. "So, too, you must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come" (Matt. 24: 44).

For the time being, as part of our physical preparation, streets and porches are lit. The town is dazzling with lights in almost every corner and crevice imagined. Presents wrapped, decorations hung (Christmas Trees, Lights, Advent Wreaths, Nativity Scene) in and out of the house, kneading of the dough and baking of pastries/goodies an instant sensation, shopping for discounts too is part of the holiday rush. It

is the most wonderful time of the year but also a very expensive season. While the world sings Hark! The herald angels sing…Have yourself a merry little Christmas…In the Mass, we are stuck with the eternal and forever, whether you like it or not, O Come, O come, Emmanuel! It sounds odd. it doesn't fit with the mainstream culture but once we get the point of Advent we won’t go back to the former. Advent knows better. It doesn't go with the current and flow of the world. Advent has its own tempo, phase and rhythm.

Advent helps us get ready to meet Christ halfway through the liturgies and meditations on the sacred writings, Advent practices that developed through the years in many of the world, sightings, lightings, scents, penance services, posadas (the migration story of the Holy Family), Marian feasts (prophecy fulfilled that a virgin would give birth to the savior of the world), Novenas (preparations for the great feast) and the deep sense of community and fellowship experienced at Christmas parties gathered in love in the name of the Lord. Christmas is meeting Christ halfway. Peace, joy, hope, love and warmth will be felt in the air and here to stay.

If you plan to dig deeper into the faith, you can start meditating with greater focus, depth and attention on the Mass readings especially the Old Testament writings which feature mostly from the Prophet Isaiah in the first couple of weeks, a book that St. Jerome described as the fifth gospel because of how the prophet articulated as never before in the pages of the book the Lord’s life and passion including the hopes, the deepest longings, the expectation of the coming Messiah in the person of Jesus Christ.

The prophet envisions that sometime in the distant future, amid desolation, brokenness and despair among the people the mountain of the Lord’s house almost brought to the ground shall be the highest of all the mountains and hills and that all nations shall stream toward it. The church will be the center of gravity and parishioners will stream toward it more often than usual. The God of Israel will be the God of all nations. The church will be the dwelling place of God and the center from where instructions go forth. We are going to hear a lot from sacred writings and equally important is the tradition developed in the process of transmission of faith.

Isaiah’s vision is peace and will be attained by negotiation and diplomacy and not by aggression. Divine intervention/God’s arbitration will lead people into beating their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. This is a profoundly inspiring and lovely text as the prophet predicts that one day all weapons will be dropped. People will say, No more War. No more weapons for violence and bloodshed. God is on his way to disarm us on Christmas. In the face of God, we are all disarmed and our defenses are laid aside.

O house of Jacob, come! Let us walk in the light of the Lord.

Advent is a season of contrast between darkness and light, sadness and joy, hot and cold, death and life, sin and grace. Advent is a season of contrast between the world and church. We begin the Advent liturgy in the dark with dimmed lights to signify the physical darkness of the world felt in the freezing temperature of winter and the spiritual void existing in humanity marked by sin.

Walk in the light of the Lord. Now and not tomorrow is the hour to wake from sleep. Take off/throw off the work and deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Darkness is incompatible with light. If you plan to walk in the light of the Lord and follow God’s ways, avoid everything that is contrary to Christian life. Put on the Lord Jesus.

SOLEMNITY OF JESUS CHRIST THE KING OF THE UNIVERSE

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 17:52:07 GMT

Jesus Christ is a king who saved others, not himself...

The Solemnity of Christ the King of the Universe is the culmination of the liturgical year, the destiny of our earthly existence. This feast to honor Christ the King is relatively new established through the encyclical Quas Primas by Pius XI on December 11, 1925. So, this year marks a century of the institution of the solemnity of Christ the King in the liturgical calendar. Pius XI pointedly mentioned that "the most effective weapon against the destructive forces (wars, bloodshed, violence) of the world is the acknowledgment of the kingship of Christ. In so doing, there will be true liberty, calm order, harmony and peace". The acknowledgement, recognition and the adoration of our exalted king is not only the goal of the liturgical year he said, but of our earthly life and existence . At the end of the liturgical year "stands the Lord of glory, the goal of human history, the focal point of the desires of history and civilization, the center of mankind, the joy of all hearts, and the fulfillment of all aspirations".

Christ is not Jesus’ last name. Jesus was a king that the title Christ which meant the Anointed One, the Messiah or King became his name. In the liturgy, whenever we mention Jesus Christ, we bow before him facing each other. So, every time we utter the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ, we claim to be his people, the people of God and honor him as our King in the best sense of the word or in its fullest expression. He was a king born in the line of David who came in human flesh as prophesied. His kingdom is not of this world. It is a spiritual kingdom, not made of precious stone, and our lives are spent and lived solely to build God’s kingdom on earth. The preface says clearly what this kingdom is, a kingdom of truth and life, a kingdom of holiness and grace, a kingdom of justice, love and peace.

He was a king, not in a conventional sense of the word. He stands for God and not for earthly kings who love to be adored and praised whose power depends on physical force and intervention. Jesus lives on goodness, truth, justice and righteousness. He was a king who suffered, abandoned, embarrassed, betrayed and alone by himself at the moment of death on the cross except for two who stood by him at the foot of the cross. Other than that, they either looked from a distance or disintegrated. He was powerless, weak and humiliated by the powers that be. He was a king who saved others, and not himself as he addressed the repentant thief who wholeheartedly admitted his sinfulness and professed faith: “ Amen, I say to you, today, you will be with me in Paradise” (Luke 23: 42). His kingdom of mercy and forgiveness has come in his response of today to the good thief on the cross. In the Mass, this Paradise because it is worded today and not tomorrow or sometime in the future, is partially realized in the communal experience of the faithful in the liturgy.

One of the criminals crucified with him mocked him and said, save yourself if you are the true king. If you are the Messiah, come down from the cross. Do something no one has ever done before. Or just go through the motions. Do everything in your power to save yourself. Manipulate the system in your favor. Lobby to the authorities. This is the moment. This is the time for you to show your power and influence and not let yourself be run over by people who know very little about you. Don’t let them step on you. Use your connections. It is not what you know. It is who you know. Humiliated, insulted and mocked, he remained silent in the face of it all. He didn’t say anything although it was so tempting to go down the cross or even avoid and evade suffering. He didn’t cave in to the temptation to escape the embarrassment. His silence, soft power, God’s power saved the world.

As we conclude the liturgical year, and our entire spiritual and religious journey, Jesus exemplified the path to divine life. It is the same pattern and formula. Christianity doesn't start with the word self. Rather, God and the other. We ask God to continue to direct and lead us on the way to Christ's kingship. One of the things I love about the reformed liturgy is that facing each other in worship is meeting and encountering Christ in each other.

As I look back in the past year, I hope I preached the gospel in its purest and undiluted form, a gospel without any hint and trace of politics. I believe the gospel has a message beyond politics or devoid of any partisanship. The gospel is non-partisan. The gospel is unapologetic. If the gospel diffuses a timeless truth that existed before time, then, its basis is not human ingenuity. Christ is the message, and he brings us together every Sunday. Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 092423

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:49:50 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

This Sunday, September 24, in observance of World Day for Refugees and Migrants, please help us procure the needed items posted in the bulletin. Here in Douglas and Pirtleville where migration is a daily occurrence, hospitality/kindness to strangers is deeply valued as a mark of religiosity and tenet of faith. Pope Francis chose this year’s theme, “Free to Choose whether to Migrate or to Stay.” I would say, in tough economic circumstances, leaving your home and loved ones is no longer a choice.

I am extremely pleased that one of our parishes in the Catholic Community has graciously hosted the asylum seekers. It is an honor to open our doors to the refugees among us. I don’t think we spent a great deal of time thinking about it as this is who we are. This is not a favor done to them. We don’t expect Thank You or any appreciation at all. This is our very identity. Kindness and Hospitality given to strangers for nothing is the genuine mark of a religious person. Thank you for all your donations of food, supplies and other necessities. We rely heavily on the abundance and scarcity of the people of God for as long it comes from the heart. It’s happening and heartfelt. Just when you thought you ran out of food to feed them, lo and behold, the next thing you know, an unidentified person just dropped what you needed for that moment. God looks down on us and touches the hearts of individuals. That’s God’s providence and when you leave everything to him, wondrous things happen and keeps on flowing. I am thankful to the City of Douglas and Cochise County Emergency Management for providing support in whatever way they can. We can’t do this ourselves. We need the support of the local sectors and beyond of course to address this urgent issue.

As a gracious act and humble expression of solidarity and hospitality, this year, we are moving the venue/location of Fiesta del Sol to St. Luke Parish. I am ever grateful to the fiesta committee for their overwhelming support in the sudden change only because of the presence of our very special guests. Their safety and protection are our top priority. We should do everything in our capacity to take care of them and make feel welcome regardless. The asylum seekers are so dear to us. It is a pleasure to serve them. They don’t give us any inconvenience at all. What we do is nothing compared to what they went through. Our fiesta income might diminish because of this unexpected transfer but no worries, it is completely understandable. We are doing something worthwhile, which is at the heart of who we are as a people of God. By the mandate of the gospel, we are morally obliged to welcome the refugees in our parishes. We have no option. We got no choice but to embrace them with wide open arms, just as Jesus did in every encounter with those regarded as outcasts and despised. The church will always be there in the most difficult and extreme circumstances as Jesus did.

Queridos Feligreses,

Este domingo 24 de septiembre, en conmemoración del Día Mundial del Refugiado y del Migrante, por favor ayúdenos a adquirir los artículos necesarios publicados en el boletín. Aquí en Douglas y Pirtleville, donde la migración es un hecho cotidiano, la hospitalidad / amabilidad hacia los extraños es profundamente valorada como una marca de religiosidad y principio de fe. El Papa Francisco eligió el tema de este año, "Libre para elegir si migrar o quedarse". Yo diría que, en circunstancias económicas difíciles, dejar su hogar y sus seres queridos ya no es una opción.

Estoy muy contento de que una de nuestras parroquias en la Comunidad Católica haya acogido amablemente a los solicitantes de asilo. Es un honor de abrir nuestras puertas a los refugiados entre nosotros. No creo que pasamos mucho tiempo pensando en ello, ya que esto es lo que somos. Esto no es un favor hecho a ellos. No esperamos agradecimiento ni ningún aprecio en absoluto. Esta es nuestra propia identidad. La bondad y la hospitalidad dadas a extraños por nada es la marca genuina de una persona religiosa. Gracias por todas sus donaciones de alimentos, suministros y otras necesidades. Dependemos en gran medida de la abundancia y escasez del pueblo de Dios mientras venga del corazón. Está sucediendo y es sincero. Justo cuando pensabas que te quedaste sin comida para alimentarlos, he aquí, lo siguiente que sabes es que una persona no identificada simplemente dejó caer lo que necesitabas para ese momento. Dios nos mira y toca los corazones de las personas. Esa es la providencia de Dios y cuando le dejas todo a él, suceden cosas maravillosas y siguen fluyendo. Estoy agradecido con la Ciudad de Douglas y el Manejo de Emergencias del Condado de Cochise por brindar apoyo de cualquier manera que puedan. No podemos hacer esto nosotros mismos. Necesitamos el apoyo de los sectores locales y más allá, por supuesto, para abordar este preocupación urgente.

Como un acto de gracia y una humilde expresión de solidaridad y hospitalidad, este año, estamos trasladando el lugar / ubicación de Fiesta del Sol a la Parroquia de San Lucas. Siempre estoy agradecido al comité de fiesta de IC por su abrumador apoyo en el cambio debodp a ;ps presencia de nuestros invitados muy especiales. Su seguridad y protección son nuestra principal prioridad. Debemos hacer todo lo que esté a nuestro alcance para cuidarlos y hacernos sentir bienvenidos independientemente. Los solicitantes de asilo son muy queridos para nosotros. Es un placer servirles. No nos dan ningún inconveniente en absoluto. Lo que hacemos no es nada comparado con lo que ellos pasaron. Nuestros ingresos de fiesta pueden disminuir debido a esta transferencia inesperada, pero no se preocupe, es completamente comprensible. Estamos haciendo algo que vale la pena, que está en el corazón de lo que somos como pueblo de Dios. Por mandato del evangelio, estamos moralmente obligados a acoger a los refugiados en nuestras parroquias. No tenemos otra opción. No tuvimos más remedio que abrazarlos con los brazos abiertos, tal como lo hizo Jesús en cada encuentro con aquellos considerados marginados y despreciados. La iglesia siempre estará allí en las circunstancias más difíciles y extremas como lo hizo Jesús.

Click here for the Holy Father Pope Francis message on the 109th World Day of Refugees and Migrants, September 24, 2023.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 22423

Sat, 25 Feb 2023 00:33:30 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

Please mark your calendars for the upcoming LENTEN MISSION/RETREAT with the theme: Take, Bless, Break, Share, which is in line with and in preparation for the Eucharistic Revival. These four words are the backbone/skeleton of the Eucharistic Liturgy/Mass. The beauty and majesty of our worship all started with the Last Supper and so, we are going back to the original story. The presenters are the deacons, Fr. Marco, and myself. This will be a night of recollection for the community. There will be a reflection on each theme followed by moments of silence, music, and adoration. Lent is a journey to the depths of our inner lives. We will begin with the basic parts and fundamental concepts of the Mass and go from there. The Roman Mass has evolved in history, tradition, and theology. The content and substance of the Eucharist thus, are complex and vast. Even if we spend a weekly formation and lectures on the Eucharist for a year, we will not be able to cover the entire meaning and mystery of the Mass. In the end, the Mass is the best Catechesis. The experience of the Mass that is, the encounter with our Lord in the worship service, will teach us everything about the Mass; much more than hundreds of written commentaries about it.

THE SACRAMENTS OF PENANCE AND RECONCILIATION/CONFESSIONS will be offered generously. Apart from the weekend confessions, we have added Wednesdays and Thursdays of Lent for confessions for your convenience. Please plan on going to confessions during Lent in preparation for the Easter celebration. The Sacrament, as we have learned, is not so much about guilt, sin, and punishment, but more importantly, God’s grace, mercy, and love. Above all, it’s about one’s ongoing relationship with God.

PRAYING THE LITURGY OF THE HOURS in the morning and evening is a highly recommended spiritual exercise during Lent, especially the recitation of Psalms.

Thank you for your support to the LENTEN FOOD SALES ON FRIDAYS OF LENT. Because the food is so delicious, it appears to be a treat more than a sacrifice. Your only sacrifice which is much needed is your support to the parish. The fish and / or shrimp and the sides prepared with an extra labor of love from the volunteers, is a priceless blessing, regardless of the recipe. I don’t remember refusing to eat fish or shrimp at any given point in my life. For me who grew up on an Island, it’s not right to say no to any seafood.

Thank you so much to those who have donated to the 2023 ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL. You can give by filling out the envelope (traditional way), online (cathfnd.org), or text. To those who are still undecided, please seriously consider giving within your means.

Blessings,

Fr Jojo

Estimados feligreses,

Por favor, marque su calendario para la próxima MISIÓN / RETIRO DE CUARESMA con el tema: Tomen, bendigan, rompan, compartan, que está en línea en preparación para el avivamiento eucarístico. Estas cuatro palabras son la columna vertebral / esqueleto de la Liturgia Eucarística / Misa. La belleza y majestuosidad de nuestra adoración comenzó con la Última Cena, por lo tanto, volvemos a la historia original. Los presentadores somos los diáconos, el P. Marco y yo. Esta será una noche de recogimiento para la comunidad. Habrá una reflexión sobre cada tema seguida de momentos de silencio, música y adoración. La Cuaresma es un viaje a las profundidades de nuestra vida interior. Comenzaremos con las partes muy básicas y los conceptos fundamentales de la Misa y partiremos de allí. La Misa Romana ha evolucionado en historia, tradición y teología. El contenido y la sustancia de la Eucaristía son, pues, complejos y vastos. Incluso si pasamos una formación semanal y conferencias sobre la Eucaristía durante un año, no podremos cubrir todo el significado y el misterio de la Misa. Al final, la Misa es la mejor catequesis. La experiencia de la Misa, es decir, el encuentro con nuestro Señor en el servicio de adoración nos enseñará todo sobre la Misa; mucho más que cientos de comentarios escritos al respecto.

LOS SACRAMENTOS DE LA PENITENCIA Y LA RECONCILIACIÓN/CONFESIONES se ofrecerán generosamente. Además de las confesiones de fin de semana, hemos agregado para su conveniencia, miércoles y jueves de Cuaresma para confesiones. Por favor, planee ir a confesión durante la Cuaresma en preparación para la celebración de Pascua. El Sacramento, como hemos aprendido, no se trata tanto de culpa, pecado y castigo, sino más importante aún, de la gracia, la misericordia y el amor de Dios. Sobre todo, se trata de la relación continua de uno con Dios.

REZAR LA LITURGIA DE LAS HORAS por la mañana y por la tarde es un ejercicio espiritual muy recomendable durante la Cuaresma, especialmente la recitación de Salmos.

Gracias por su apoyo a las VENTAS DE ALIMENTOS CURESMALES, TODOS LOS VIERNES DE CUARESMA. Debido a que la comida es tan deliciosa, parece ser un regalo más que un sacrificio. Su único sacrificio muy necesario es su apoyo para nuestras Parroquias. Los paltillos de pescado y camarón con sus acompañamientos El pescado y/o camarones y los lados. preparados con un trabajo extra de amor de los voluntarios, es una bendición invaluable, independientemente de la receta. No recuerdo haberme negado a comer pescado o camarones en ningún momento de mi vida. Para mí, que crecí en una isla, no es correcto decir que no a ningún marisco.

Muchas gracias a aquellos que han donado a la CAMPAÑA CATÓLICA ANUAL 2023 . Puede donar llenando el sobre (forma tradicional), en línea (cathfnd.org) o enviando un mensaje de texto. Para aquellos que aún están indecisos, por favor consideren seriamente dar dentro de sus posibilidades.

Bendiciones,

Fr. Jojo

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 21723

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 00:08:42 GMT

This Wednesday, February 22, is ASH WEDNESDAY, the beginning of the 40-day Lenten season. The imposition of ashes will be available as scheduled. Ash Wednesday is not a Holy Day of Obligation but please plan on attending the Mass because the worship of God in the Eucharist is central to faith, the be-all and end-all, the source and summit of Christian life. Humanity, the crown and steward of creation, was created to worship God. Ash Wednesday is a universal day of fasting and abstinence. Those 18 – 59 years of age are obligated to fast. However, those who are ill/sick/frail, pregnant and engaged in hard labor, are excused because of the strength and nourishment needed to sustain life. Fasting can be done either by eating one full meal and two smaller meals, or only liquids. Fasting is more spiritual than physical, as we join to experience what it means to hunger and thirst, our humble (least) expression of solidarity to those who have literally none and nothing to eat and drink at all. Additionally, 14 years and beyond are bound to abstain (avoid the main nourishment of a certain culture). Here in the US, it will be meat which may be similar in Mexico. The idea is sacrifice. This is not so much about legality. Laws are only the beginning. Rules are meant to guide and draw us deeper and closer to God. If they lead us away from God, there is a disconnect. Righteousness must not be understood and reduced merely for the sake of observance of the law. If that’s the case, we are missing the point. Jesus says, “unless your righteousness surpasses those of the Scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Mt. 5:20). Aim for virtue and wisdom, and not simply the fulfillment of a requirement. Our liturgy in the next 40 days will be subdued. There will be no Gloria, Alleluia, and we will refrain from singing high pitched and tempo songs, which everyone will miss but it’s temporary.

The observance of the LENTEN SEASON begins from Ash Wednesday until sundown on Holy Thursday, before the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper, and excluding Sundays of Lent. The 40 days of lent is a time of prayer (personal and communal), fasting and almsgiving (charitable acts). On Fridays of Lent, please support the parish food sales to help our parish incomes.

During Lent, there will be a weekday CONFESSION TIMES: Wednesday, 5pm-6pm and Thursday, 5pm-6pm in addition to the regular confessions on Friday’s and Saturday’s. Penance Service will also be offered on the 4 ^th and 5 ^th week of Lent before entrance into Holy Week.

Thank you so much for your support to the 2023 ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL. The theme, We are the Mission of the Church is so appealing including the video. To those who haven’t given yet, please seriously consider giving within your means. You still have time to think and pray for it.

Congratulations to those who participated in the Anniversary Mass especially to the Jubilarians (25, 40, 50, 60, 70). We will schedule a dinner for you sometime in the spring or fall of 2023. Promise.

Blessings,

Fr Jojo

Este miércoles, 22 de febrero, es el Miércoles de Ceniza, el comienzo de la temporada de Cuaresma de 40 días. La imposición de cenizas estará disponible según lo programado. El Miércoles de Ceniza no es un Día Santo de Obligación, pero por favor planee asistir a la Misa porque la adoración de Dios en la Eucaristía es fundamental para la fe, el ser y el fin de todo, la fuente y la cumbre de la vida cristiana. La humanidad, la corona y mayordomo de la creación, fue creada para adorar a Dios. El Miércoles de Ceniza es un día universal de ayuno y abstinencia. Los de 18 a 59 años de edad están obligados a ayunar. Sin embargo, aquellos que están enfermos / enfermos / frágiles, embarazadas y involucrados en trabajos forzados, son excusados debido a la fuerza y la nutrición necesarias para mantener la vida. El ayuno se puede hacer comiendo una comida completa y dos comidas más pequeñas, o solo líquidos. El ayuno es más espiritual que físico, ya que nos unimos para experimentar lo que significa tener hambre y sed, nuestra humilde (menos) expresión de solidaridad con aquellos que literalmente no tienen nada ni nada que comer y beber en absoluto. Además, los 14 años y más están obligados a abstenerse (evitar el alimento principal de una determinada cultura). Aquí en los Estados Unidos, será carne que puede ser similar en México. La idea es sacrificio. No se trata tanto de legalidad. Las leyes son sólo el comienzo. Las reglas están destinadas a guiarnos y acercarnos más y más a Dios. Si nos alejan de Dios, hay una desconexión. La justicia no debe ser entendida y reducida simplemente por el bien de la observancia de la ley. Si ese es el caso, estamos perdiendo el punto. Jesús dice: "Si no supera vuestra justicia a la de los escribas y fariseos, no entraréis en el reino de los cielos" (Mt 5,20). Apunte a la virtud y la sabiduría, y no simplemente al cumplimiento de un requisito. Nuestra liturgia en los próximos 40 días será sometida. No habrá Gloria, Aleluya, y nos abstendremos de cantar canciones agudas y tempo, que todos extrañarán, pero es temporal.

La observancia de la TEMPORADA DE CUARESMA comienza desde el Miércoles de Ceniza hasta la puesta del sol del Jueves Santo, antes de la Misa vespertina de la Cena del Señor, y excluyendo los domingos de Cuaresma. Los 40 días de cuaresma son un tiempo de oración (personal y comunitaria), ayuno y limosna (actos de caridad). Los viernes de Cuaresma, por favor apoye las ventas de alimentos de la parroquia para ayudar a nuestros ingresos parroquiales.

Durante la Cuaresma, habrá HORARIOS DE CONFESIÓN entre semana: miércoles, 5pm-6pm y jueves, 5pm-6pm, además de las confesiones regulares los viernes y sábados. El Servicio de Penitencia también se ofrecerá en la 4ª y ^5ª semana de Cuaresma antes de la entrada en Semana Santa.

Muchas gracias por su apoyo a la CAMPAÑA CATÓLICA ANUAL 2023. El tema, Somos la Misión de la Iglesia es muy atractivo incluyendo el video. A aquellos que aún no han dado, por favor consideren seriamente dar dentro de sus posibilidades. Todavía tienes tiempo para pensar y orar por ello.

Felicitaciones a los que participaron en la Misa de Aniversario, especialmente a los Jubilarios (25, 40, 50, 60, 70). Programaremos una cena para usted en algún momento de la primavera u otoño de 2023. Prometer.

Bendiciones,

Fr. Jojo

HELLO SNOW!

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 23:55:50 GMT

Hello Snow! Thanks for dropping by! I've waited and prayed for you just you know, and you came unexpectedly. Keep it coming! The more the merrier! Let it roll down my eyes! I understand how fleeting you are here in this part of the globe but we'd love you to stay for as long as you want. Less than one hour, you were gone. Glad I took some photos. Hope to see you el año proximo!

I didn't expect snow at this time of the year here in Douglas as I thought that winter was slowly heading out and warmer weather is upon us but when the temperature dropped the past few days, I started following closely the forecast. In fact, if it snowed today (2/15/23) at 5:00 am, I would have gone out of the rectory even for a moment. For us here in Douglas who get to see snow only once a year or two if we're lucky, we marvel at the sight of the snowfall. As Psalm 148: 8 says, "Fire and hail, snow and mist, praise the Lord". Snow prepares us for lent as in the words of Isaiah 1:18, "Though your sins are like scarlet, they may become white as snow". The beauty and splendor of God is reflected in the refreshing and relaxing nature of the snow. As my hands were outstretched in an orans position, my head held up high in the sky, a kid came to me, Father, it's the best time of my life (and asked me to stick my tongue out to taste the snow which I did). I could have made raspados out of it. It was an incredible feeling of joy that words fail to express if that makes any sense.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 21023

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 00:04:37 GMT

This year’s National Marriage Week is observed February 7-14 with the theme: Marriage: one flesh, given and received . One flesh reminds me of Genesis 2: 18-25, a popular text for wedding celebration, which presents the unity of marriage – that “the two shall become one flesh”. The mystery of marriage is divinely willed. The sharing of life and love between the couple is a precious gift of God that must be cherished, treasured, and respected. One flesh is the total, unconditional gift of self to the spouse and is one of the best things God has freely given us. In marriage, we graciously and wholeheartedly receive this blessing (which I describe as just the tip of the iceberg) God has bestowed on us. Communion of life is a heavenly experience. There is nothing like communal life. No one will exchange it for anything. The text also points out the complementarity of the sexes (v. 21). Marriage is a permanent, stable, faithful, fruitful, and loving relationship. We are by nature social and relational. Relationships and community are human beings' fundamental needs. It was not the plan of God for us to live in loneliness and isolation. Divine and human friendship is a necessity. Ironically, monks those who professed to live a life of prayer completely devoted to God are the ones who developed deep friendships with others. People get in trouble and resort to doing dreadful things because of the lack of love, empathy, and intimacy, that is, friendship. If someone is incapable of friendship and communal life in general and claims total independence from anyone, something is not right.

The second Sunday of February is World Marriage Day. World Marriage Day is a celebration of life, love, joy, sorrows, struggles, sacrifices which honors husband and wife as the foundation of married life, family, and (the basic cell of) society. There will be a blessing (and renewal of vows) of married couples in all masses. Married couples (at least those marriages that are working well) told me, it’s the best thing in the world. Others which I would rather not say but let me say it anyway, a life of drudgery (understandably sad and disappointing). Wherever you are in the category, we join the global church in a celebration of married life which ideally and practically must be celebrated annually to enrich married couples. Hopefully, it’s more joys than sorrows, positive than negative, happiness and enjoyment over the lack of it. Overall, I certainly believe that married life is one of God’s greatest blessings we have ever seen. It is a mysterious gift that no words can completely express. There are bumps on the road but the blessing of one flesh, given and received is incomparable. We are merely scratching the beauty of married life.

As we rejoice in the marital state, we also sympathize with families and couples who went through tragic experiences of death or separation, those who are hurting, and the breakdown of marriage relationships.

In all Masses this weekend, February 11/12, 2023, the ACA video will be shown during Mass as part of Education Weekend. This is also commitment weekend. If you have filled out the envelope offering, you may place it at the offertory basket.

Blessings,

Fr Jojo

La Semana Nacional del Matrimonio de este año se celebra del 7 al 14 de febrero con el tema: Matrimonio: una sola carne, dada y recibida . Una carne me recuerda Génesis 2: 18-25, un texto popular para la celebración de bodas, que presenta la unión del matrimonio: que "los dos serán una sola carne". El misterio del matrimonio es divinamente amado. El compartir la vida y el amor entre la pareja es un don precioso de Dios que necesita ser apreciado. Una carne es el don total e incondicional de sí mismo al cónyuge y es una de las mejores cosas que Dios nos ha dado gratuitamente. En el matrimonio, recibimos con gracia y de todo corazón esta bendición (que describo como la punta del iceberg) que Dios nos ha otorgado. La comunión de vida es una experiencia celestial. No hay nada como la vida comunitaria. Nadie lo cambiará por nada. El texto también señala la complementariedad de los sexos (v. 21). El matrimonio es una relación permanente, estable, fiel, fructífera y amorosa. Somos por naturaleza sociales y relacionales. Las relaciones y la comunidad son la necesidad fundamental del ser humano. No era el plan de Dios que viviéramos en soledad y aislamiento. La amistad divina y humana es una necesidad. Irónicamente, los monjes que profesaban vivir una vida de oración completamente dedicada a Dios son los que desarrollaron amistades profundas con los demás. Las personas se meten en problemas y recurren a acciones inapropiadas debido a la falta de amor, empatía e intimidad, es decir, amistad. Si alguien es incapaz de dar amistad y vida comunitaria en general y reclama total independencia, es posible que algo no está bien.

El segundo domingo de febrero es el Día Mundial del Matrimonio. El Día Mundial del Matrimonio es una celebración de la vida, el amor, la alegría, las tristezas, las luchas, los sacrificios que honra al esposo y la esposa como la base de la vida matrimonial, la familia y (la célula básica de) la sociedad. Habrá una bendición (y renovación de votos) de las parejas casadas en todas las misas. Las parejas casadas (al menos aquellos matrimonios que funcionan bien) me comentaron que es lo mejor del mundo. Otros que preferiría no decir, pero déjenme decirlo de todos modos, una vida de trabajo pesado (comprensiblemente triste y decepcionante). En la categoría que se encuentre, nos unimos a la iglesia mundial en una celebración de la vida matrimonial que lo ideal el celebrarlo anualmente para enriquecer a las parejas casadas. Con suerte, son más las alegrías que las tristezas, la felicidad y el gozo que la falta de ellas. En general, ciertamente creo que la vida matrimonial es una de las bendiciones más grandes de Dios que hemos recibido. Es un regalo misterioso que ninguna palabra puede expresar completamente. Hay baches en el camino, pero la bendición de una sola carne, dada y recibida es incomparable. Simplemente estamos saboreando la belleza de la vida matrimonial.

Al regocijarnos en el estado matrimonial, también simpatizamos con las familias y parejas que pasaron por experiencias trágicas de muerte o separación, aquellos que están sufriendo alguna la ruptura de la relación matrimonial.

En todas las Misas de este fin de semana, 11 y 12 de febrero del 2023, el video de ACA se mostrará durante la Misa como parte del Fin de Semana de la Educación. Este es también el fin de semana de compromiso. Si ha llenado la ofrenda del sobre, puede colocarla en la canasta de la ofrenda.

Bendiciones,

Fr. Jojo

NATIONAL MARRIAGE WEEK FEBRUARY 7-14, 2023

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 00:42:48 GMT

Here's an At Home Private Marriage Retreat that any couple will benefit in preparation for the Anniversary Mass on Saturday, February 11 and for marriage enrichment which every couple needs. Please click here for English and here for Spanish.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 020523

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 22:25:34 GMT

Welcome to the 2023 ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL. We are the Mission of the Church. This yearly diocesan campaign raises funds to help operate the different ministries in the Diocese of Tucson namely, the seminarian and clergy education and support, outreach to poor parishes, missions and communities, schools, education and evangelization, diocesan ministries and new parish development, and parish support services. ACA needs no elaborate introduction and requires no further explanation. ACA is no stranger to us. It’s our very own. It’s part of parish life. We welcome ACA with wide open arms. We know exactly what it means. It’s an exercise in charity. This charitable arm (that is, the Catholic Foundation which coordinates the program) of the diocese has been in existence for decades. Many of us grew up with it. We are all familiar with this fund-raising project intended both for human and divine purposes that is, for God’s glorification and the build-up of his kingdom. ACA comes to us in style at this time of the year making its presence felt in banners, flyers, videos, testimonies, and envelopes in the pews to ask for our support. In a way, we expect its arrival with joy and warmth. We belong to a parish and also to a larger institution called the Diocese, headed by Bishop Weisenburger. As a parish, we don’t exist independently, or in isolation. We are part of a local, Diocesan, and global Church. Our sense of belonging extends far beyond Douglas-Pirtleville. Our financial support is one of the most sublime expressions of faith. ACA is biblical. St. Paul labored hard, begged for charitable donations, and placed them at the feet of the apostles. Giving is deeply spiritual. Charity is an indication of commitment. Faith stirs us to action. We have struggled in the past few years which is completely understandable, because of the emergency health crisis, but as we slowly get back to normal and recover, it is about time to seriously consider supporting the ACA to help the many Diocesan ministries which are essential in the mission and life of the Church. Thank you in advance for your support. Some of you may have received the letter from Bishop Weisenburger and might have sent your donation already. Just give within your means. Just give whatever is comfortable for you.

This weekend February 4/5, 2023, we will observe the WORLD DAY OF CONSECRATED LIFE. I am ever grateful to the Carmelite Sisters (OCD) who served our community for over 30 years and the Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) for over 10 years. The Sisters embraced the consecrated life, chosen, set apart, for God’s special mission.

Next Weekend, February 11/12, 2023, we will celebrate World Marriage Day. There will be a blessing of married couples during all masses.

Please join us in the Anniversary Mass on Saturday, February 11, 2023, 2:00 pm, St. Luke Church. All married couples, regardless of the years of marriage, are invited to attend and join the Celebration of Marriage. Dress code: Sunday’s best.

On Friday, February 10, 2023, World Day of the Sick, there will be anointing of the sick at the 7:00 am, St. Luke and 9:00 am, Immaculate Conception, Masses.

Blessings,

Fr Jojo

Bienvenidos a la CAMPAÑA CATÓLICA ANUAL 2023. Somos la Misión de la Iglesia. Esta campaña diocesana anual recauda fondos para ayudar a operar los diferentes ministerios en la Diócesis de Tucson, a saber, la educación y el apoyo del seminarista y el clero, el alcance a las parroquias, misiones y comunidades pobres, las escuelas, la educación y la evangelización, los ministerios diocesanos, el desarrollo de nuevas parroquias, y los servicios de apoyo parroquial. ACA no necesita una introducción elaborada y no requiere más explicaciones. ACA no es ajeno a nosotros. Es nuestro. Es parte de la vida parroquial. Damos la bienvenida a ACA con los brazos abiertos. Sabemos exactamente lo que significa. Es un ejercicio de caridad. Este brazo caritativo (es decir, la Fundación Católica que coordina el programa) de la diócesis ha existido durante décadas. Muchos de nosotros probablemente crecimos con eso. Todos estamos familiarizados con este proyecto de recaudación de fondos destinado tanto a fines humanos como divinos, es decir, a la glorificación de Dios y la edificación de su reino. ACA viene a nosotros con estilo en esta época del año haciendo sentir su presencia en pancartas, volantes, videos, testimonios y sobres en los bancos para pedir nuestro apoyo. En cierto modo, esperamos su llegada con alegría y calidez. Pertenecemos a una parroquia, y también a una institución más grande llamada la Diócesis, encabezada por el obispo Weisenburger. Como parroquia, no existimos independientemente o aisladamente. Somos parte de una Iglesia local, diocesana y global. Nuestro sentido de pertenencia se extiende mucho más allá de Douglas-Pirtleville. Nuestro apoyo financiero es una de las expresiones de fe más sublimes. ACA es bíblica. San Pablo trabajó arduamente, rogó por donaciones caritativas y las puso a los pies de los apóstoles. Dar es profundamente espiritual. La caridad es una indicación de compromiso. La fe nos mueve a la acción. Hemos luchado en los últimos años, lo cual es completamente comprensible, debido a la crisis de salud de emergencia, pero a medida que volvemos lentamente a la normalidad y nos recuperamos, es hora de considerar seriamente apoyar a la ACA para ayudar a los muchos ministerios diocesanos que son esenciales en la misión y la vida de la Iglesia. Gracias de antemano por su apoyo. Algunos de ustedes pueden haber recibido la carta del obispo Weisenburger y es posible que ya hayan enviado su donación. Solo da dentro de tus posibilidades. Da lo que sea justo para ti.

Este fin de semana 4/5 de febrero del 2023 celebraremos la JORNADA MUNDIAL DE LA VIDA CONSAGRADA. Siempre estoy agradecido a las Hermanas Carmelitas (OCD) que sirvieron a nuestra comunidad durante más de 30 años y a las Hermanas de Notre Dame (SSND) durante más de 10 años. Las hermanas abrazaron la vida consagrada, elegida, apartada, para la misión especial de Dios.

El próximo fin de semana, 11 y 12 de febrero del 2023, celebraremos el Día Mundial del Matrimonio. Habrá una bendición de parejas casadas durante todas las misas.

Únase a nosotros en la Misa de aniversario el sábado 11 de febrero del 2023, a las 2:00 pm, en la Iglesia de San Lucas. Todas las parejas casadas, independientemente de los años de matrimonio, están invitadas a asistir y unirse a la Celebración del Matrimonio. Código de vestimenta: El apropiado para el Domingo.

El viernes 10 de febrero de 2023, Jornada Mundial del Enfermo , habrá unción de los enfermos a las 7:00 am, San Lucas y a las 9:00 am, Misa en Inmaculada Concepción.

Bendiciones,

Fr. Jojo

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 012723

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 22:50:40 GMT

Welcome to CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK, observed from January 29, Sunday – February 4, Saturday 2023. The opening Mass will be held on Sunday, January 29, 4:30pm, St. Luke Parish. Everyone is invited. After the Mass, there will be a tour of Loretto School. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. Please feel free to come. Catholic Schools Week is a celebration of our parishes, community, students, teachers, faculty, staff, volunteers, families, Church, and everyone involved in the formation of the children. It takes a village to raise a child. This year’s theme is “Faith, Excellence, and Service.” Loretto exists to serve our parishes. It is not reserved only for a privileged few or small number of people and families. It is for everyone. Please take advantage of a Catholic School Education. We are very blessed to have an exceptional Catholic School here in Douglas and Pirtleville that has served both sides of the border for almost a century. Preparations are underway for the 100 ^th Anniversary of Loretto School, September 21, 2024. The original founding date though is September 19, 1924. Loretto School is the primary vehicle of evangelization in our parishes that shapes the formative years of a child in a solid religious education, academic excellence, and service to others, especially the poor and needy. It is a gem! Loretto School serves families from all walks of life. Scholarships are available. If I had to go back to elementary school (I hope not), I would enroll in Loretto School. Sending your child to a Catholic school is a huge investment - a lifetime investment that takes a lot of sacrifice on the part of the parents, but the religious and spiritual blessings abound and are countless. Time and again, parents will stretch their budget to send their children to a Catholic School. Catholic Education is foundational. It is about laying the groundwork. I have seen firsthand how students are taught and formed in both mind and heart. It’s been a blessing, an honor and privilege to be part of Loretto. I’m humbled by the dedication and commitment of the school’s staff. The brick building and the hallowed halls and corridors with religious images hung in almost every corner remind me of the seminary. You are surrounded by religion everywhere you go. At Loretto, we breathe our faith inside and out. We don’t stop learning the art and craft of life. It is hard to gauge the success of a Catholic Education. What are the determining factors? Judge a tree by its fruit. I’m continually inspired by numerous Loretto alumni who have graciously shared to me the profound impact Loretto Catholic Education had in their lives. Loretto meant the world to them even after decades. Wherever they end up, whatever life they chose, they are ever grateful and heavily invested for their time at Loretto - one of the best times of my life. The experience at Loretto stays with you for life.

On February 2, Thursday, we will celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. During Mass, candles will be blessed.

On February 3, Friday, there will be the much-needed Blessing of Throats – the Memorial of St. Blaise, Bishop, and Martyr. We will move the administration of the Sacrament of Anointing on Friday, February 10 (World Day of the Sick).

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr Jojo

Bienvenidos a la SEMANA DE LAS ESCUELAS CATÓLICAS , que celebramos a partir del Domingo 29 de enero, al sábado 4 de febrero,2023. La Misa de apertura se llevará a cabo el domingo 29 de enero, 4:30 pm, en la Parroquia de San Lucas. Todos están invitados. Después de la misa, habrá un recorrido por la Escuela Loreto. Se proporcionarán bocadillos y refrescos. Por favor, siéntase complacido en acompañarnos. La Semana dedicada a las Escuelas Católicas es una celebración de nuestras parroquias, comunidad, estudiantes, maestros, profesores, personal, voluntarios, familias, Iglesia y todos los involucrados en la formación de los niños. Se necesita un pueblo para criar a un niño. El tema de este año es "Fe, excelencia y servicio". Loreto existe para servir a nuestras parroquias. No está reservado sólo para unos pocos privilegiados o un pequeño número de personas y familias. Es para todos. Por favor, aproveche una educación escolar católica. Estamos muy bendecidos de tener una escuela católica excepcional aquí en Douglas y Pirtleville que ha servido a ambos lados de la frontera durante casi un siglo. Los preparativos están en marcha para el 100 aniversario de la Escuela Loreto, el 21 de septiembre de 2024. Sin embargo, la fecha original de fundación es el 19 de septiembre de 1924. La Escuela Loreto, es el principal vehículo de evangelización en nuestras parroquias y es la fuente de formación de los niños en una sólida educación religiosa, excelencia académica y servicio a los demás, especialmente a los pobres y necesitados. ¡Es una joya! a familias de todos los ámbitos de la vida. Las becas están disponibles. Si tuviera que volver a la escuela primaria (espero que no), me inscribiría en la Escuela Loretto. Enviar a su hijo a una escuela católica es una gran inversión, una inversión de por vida que requiere mucho sacrificio por parte de los padres, pero las bendiciones religiosas y espirituales abundan y son innumerables. Una y otra vez, los padres estirarán su presupuesto para enviar a sus hijos a una escuela católica. La educación católica es fundamental. Se trata de sentar las bases. He visto de primera mano cómo se enseña y forma a los estudiantes tanto en la mente como en el corazón. Ha sido una bendición, un honor y un privilegio ser parte de Loreto. Me siento honrado por la dedicación y el compromiso del personal de la escuela. El edificio de ladrillo y los sagrados salones y pasillos con imágenes religiosas colgadas en casi todos los rincones me recuerdan al seminario. Estás rodeado de religión dondequiera que vayas. En Loretto, respiramos nuestra fe por dentro y por fuera. No dejamos de aprender el arte y el oficio de la vida. Es difícil medir el éxito de una educación católica. ¿Cuáles son los factores determinantes? Juzga un árbol por su fruto. Estoy continuamente inspirado por numerosos ex alumnos de Loretto que amablemente me han compartido el profundo impacto que la Educación Católica de Loretto tuvo en sus vidas. Loretto significó el mundo para ellos incluso después de décadas. Dondequiera que terminen, sea cual sea la vida que elijan, siempre están agradecidos y muy comprometidos por su tiempo en Loretto, uno de los mejores momentos de mi vida. La experiencia en Loretto se queda contigo de por vida.

El 2 de febrero, jueves, celebraremos la Fiesta de la Presentación del Señor. Durante la Misa, las velas serán bendecidas.

El 3 de febrero, viernes, habrá la muy necesaria Bendición de las Gargantas: el Memorial de San Blas, Obispo y Mártir. Trasladaremos la administración del Sacramento de la Unción el viernes 10 de febrero (Jornada Mundial del Enfermo).

En el servicio de Cristo, el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

SUNDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:06:47 GMT

As a continuation of the SUNDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD, here are videos that will help for further study...

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 012023

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 22:18:19 GMT

SUNDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD...

Dear Parishioners,

In his apostolic letter Aperut Illis (“Opened to them”), Pope Francis established the third Sunday of Ordinary Time as the SUNDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD for the celebration, study, and dissemination of the Word of God. The Sacred Book that is, the Bible should occupy a prominent place in our homes and hearts. There must be a place of honor or enthronement for the sacred writings. In our parishes, the Sunday Gospel is proclaimed from the Book of the Gospels and after proclamation, the minister places the Sacred Book in the stand right next to the ambo and/or beside the altar “wide open” so that the infinite power of the message to transform lives will not only come from the mouth of the preacher but also, from the open text itself. We breathe in and out the Book of the Gospels, which contains the most important source of our faith. The Bible is the soul of Theology. The Word of God always wants us to do something. The Word (Dabar) prompts us to action. If you have not done so, please seriously consider BIBLE ENTHRONEMENT in your respective homes. Let the word of God bless you, keep you safe, protect you from the evil one and surround you with much love, peace, and joy.

While the overturning of Roe V Wade was a major milestone in the battle for saving innocent lives, there are still so much we need to do to advance the Social Catholic Teachings which promote life from womb to tomb (from conception to natural death). On Monday, January 23, we will once again observe a DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE LEGAL PROTECTION OF THE UNBORN CHILDREN – for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life and a day of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion. Let us join in the 9 days of novena for life.

Pope Francis recently issued an apostolic letter Totum Amoris Est (Everything pertains to love) on the fourth centenary of the death of St. Francis de Sales (December 28, 1622), often called, the Doctor of Divine Love. Both contemplation and action are essential. Which of the two is more important? Neither of them. Wherever you find love either in solitude or active service, you should remain and pursue it for as long as there is divine love in your heart. In other words, if you love what you do, and it draws you deeper and closer to God, you are on the right spot.

We will observe CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK from January 29, Sunday – February 5, Saturday 2023. The opening Mass will be held on Sunday, January 29, 4:30pm, St. Luke Parish. We are very blessed to have an outstanding Catholic School here in Douglas that has served both sides of the border for almost a century.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr Jojo

Estimados feligreses,

En su carta apostólica Aperut Illis ("Abierto a ellos"), el Papa Francisco estableció el tercer domingo del Tiempo Ordinario como el DOMINGO DE LA PALABRA DE DIOS para la celebración, estudio y difusión de la Palabra de Dios. El libro Sagrado, es decir: la Biblia debe ocupar un lugar prominente en nuestro corazón y en nuestro hogar. Debe haber un lugar de honor o entronización para los escritos sagrados. En nuestras parroquias, el evangelio dominical se proclama desde el Libro de los Evangelios y después de la proclamación, el ministro coloca el Libro Sagrado en el stand justo al lado del ambón y / o al lado del altar abierto de par en par para que el poder infinito del mensaje para transformar vidas no solo provenga de la boca del predicador sino también, del propio texto abierto. Inhalamos y exhalamos el Libro de los Evangelios que contiene la fuente más importante de nuestra fe. La Biblia es el alma de la teología. La Palabra de Dios siempre quiere que hagamos algo. La Palabra (Dabar) nos impulsa a la acción. Si no lo han hecho, por favor consideren seriamente la ENTRONIZACIÓN BÍBLICA en sus respectivos hogares. Deja que la palabra de Dios te bendiga, te mantenga a salvo, te proteja del maligno y te rodee de mucho amor, paz y alegría.

Si bien el vuelco de Roe V Wade fue un hito importante en la batalla por salvar vidas inocentes, todavía hay mucho que debemos hacer para avanzar en las enseñanzas social católicas que promueven la vida desde el útero hasta la tumba (desde la concepción hasta la muerte natural). El lunes 23 de enero, celebraremos una vez más un DÍA DE ORACIÓN POR LA PROTECCIÓN LEGAL DE LOS NIÑOS NO NACIDOS – por la plena restauración de la garantía legal del derecho a la vida y un día de penitencia por violaciones a la dignidad de la persona humana cometidas a través de actos de aborto. Unámonos a los 9 días de novena por la vida.

El Papa Francisco emitió recientemente una carta apostólica Totum Amoris Est ( Todo pertenece al amor) en el cuarto centenario de la muerte de San Francisco de Sales (28 de diciembre de 1622), a menudo llamado el Doctor del Amor Divino. Tanto la contemplación como la acción son esenciales. ¿Cuáles de los dos son más importantes? Ninguno. Dondequiera que encuentres amor, ya sea en soledad o en servicio activo, debes permanecer y perseguirlo mientras haya amor divino en tu corazón. En otras palabras, si amas lo que haces, y te acerca más y más a Dios, estás en el lugar correcto.

Celebraremos la SEMANA DE LAS ESCUELAS CATÓLICAS el domingo 29 de enero, al sábado 5 de febrero, 2023. La Misa de apertura se llevará a cabo el domingo 29 de enero, 4:30 pm, en la Parroquia de San Lucas. Somos muy bendecidos de tener una excelente escuela católica aquí en Douglas que ha servido a ambos lados de la frontera durante casi un siglo.

En el servicio de Cristo, el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 010623

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 21:39:48 GMT

In Memory of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

My dear Parishioners,

THANK YOU, POPE BENEDICT XVI who chose the name “Benedict” to refer to Benedict of Nursia, patron saint of Europe, whose monastic rule significantly values listening and in fact, starts with listening. His pontificate was marked with continuity from his predecessor, as expected. I was about to finish seminary formation when he ascended to the throne of Peter that is, elected to the Papacy. It was almost a unanimous choice since the 2005 conclave ended within 24 hours. I was ordained to the priesthood during his pontificate. He was the Pope for the first 7 years of my priesthood. As the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith for 22 years (Vatican watchdog) and later, the successor of Peter, it was my duty as a newly ordained to study well his views on all issues related to faith and morals. and anything in between. In an unusual turn of events, his shocking resignation in February 2013, was a profound gesture of humility and courage. Back then, I didn’t understand what made him step down from the most exalted throne on earth. History tells us, supported by his contemporaries, that as a young theologian he was open and progressive, leaning and ready for dialogue, but at some point, shifted his position and turned conversative and became the voice of the traditionalists to the dismay of many of his supporters and followers. What prompted this change remains to be seen. It mattered less to me. There is something in the office that changes the person. Any comment about him must be seen and viewed in light of his personal experience and office held. Regardless, I admired him so much because of the depths of his thoughts, and that reading his works immensely influenced my preaching and priesthood. He was an apologist, a defender of tradition. His writings were the textbooks in the seminary. I admit it was not easy to read his works. It was a battle. It took me a great deal of time to assimilate and absorb his vast and sophisticated knowledge on a given subject. That’s why there was a time when I gave up on it. Later, I realized I had no choice, Joseph Ratzinger was one of the most influential and extraordinarily gifted religious figures of this generation. Reading him will make you appreciate Catholicism even more. His legacy will remain and will be felt in generations to come. THANK YOU for your exemplary service to the Church. REST IN PEACE…
There is a custom that the next nine days after a Pope’s funeral, a novena is recited for the repose of his soul. In memory of him, we will continue to study his enormous contributions/writings about the Church. In your personal prayer, you may recite one Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory be for his soul.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Mis queridos feligreses,

GRACIAS, PAPA BENEDICTO XVI que elegiste el nombre "Benedicto" para referirte a Benito de Nursia, santo patrón de Europa, cuya regla monástica valora significativamente la escucha y, de hecho, comienza con la escucha. Su pontificado estuvo marcado por la continuidad de su predecesor, como se esperaba. Estaba yo a punto de terminar la formación en el seminario, cuando ascendió al trono de Pedro, es decir, elegido para el papado. Fue casi una elección unánime ya que el cónclave de 2005 terminó en 24 horas. Fui ordenado sacerdote durante su pontificado. Fue el Papa durante los primeros 7 años de mi sacerdocio. Fue prefecto de la Congregación para la Doctrina de la Fe durante 22 años (perro guardián del Vaticano) y más tarde, sucesor de Pedro. Era mi deber como recién ordenado estudiar bien sus puntos de vista sobre todos los temas relacionados con la fe y la moral, y cualquier cosa intermedia. En un giro inusual de los acontecimientos, su impactante renuncia en febrero del 2013, fue un profundo gesto de humildad y coraje. En aquel entonces, no entendía qué lo hizo renunciar al trono más exaltado de la tierra. La historia nos dice, apoyado por sus contemporáneos, que como joven teólogo era abierto y progresista, inclinado y listo para el diálogo, pero en algún momento, cambió su posición y se volvió conversador y se convirtió en la voz de los tradicionalistas para consternación de muchos de sus partidarios y seguidores. Lo que provocó este cambio aún está por verse. Esto me preocupaba poco. Hay algo en los puestos que cambia a las personas. Cualquier comentario sobre él debe ser visto y contemplado a la luz de su experiencia personal y su cargo desempeñado. De todos modos, lo admiraba mucho por la profundidad de sus pensamientos, y esa lectura de sus obras influyó inmensamente en mi predicación y sacerdocio. Era un apologista, un defensor de la tradición. Sus escritos eran los libros de texto en el seminario. Admito que no fue fácil leer sus obras. Fue una batalla. Me tomó mucho tiempo asimilar y absorber su vasto y sofisticado conocimiento sobre un tema determinado. Es por eso que hubo un momento en que me di por vencido. Más tarde, me di cuenta de que no tenía otra opción, Joseph Ratzinger era una de las figuras religiosas más influyentes y extraordinariamente dotadas de esta generación. Leerlo te hará apreciar aún más el catolicismo. Su legado permanecerá y se sentirá en las generaciones venideras. GRACIAS por su servicio ejemplar a la Iglesia. DESCANSE EN PAZ...

Existe la costumbre de que los próximos nueve días después del funeral de un Papa, se recite una novena para el descanso de su alma. En su memoria, continuaremos estudiando sus enormes contribuciones/escritos sobre la Iglesia. En tu oración personal, puedes recitar un Padre Nuestro, Ave María y Gloria por su alma.

En el servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

HOMILY ON THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 19:15:39 GMT

"And Mary kept all these things, reflecting them in her heart" (Lk. 2: 19)

While the world including our little town Douglas-Pirtleville are busy preparing for the new year with great excitement and revelry, we devote the octave of Christmas which this year falls on a Sunday on the solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Holy Mother of God (Theotokos – God bearer). This title of Mary as the Mother of God (Mary’s divine maternity) was declared and proclaimed a dogma of faith at the Council of Ephesus in 431 which was a result of the intense faith and devotion to the Blessed Mother and her singular honor to be part of salvation history. Mary was a privileged woman not on her own accord but God. St. Paul reminds us in the letter to the Galatians in the second reading, "When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman" (Gal. 4:4). The octave of Christmas is also a day when Jesus was circumcised and given the name ‘yeshua’. We can imagine the manger must have been crowded with all sorts of visitors flocking to pay homage and respect to the newborn because “of the shepherds who made known the message of what had been told them about this child and all who heard it were amazed”. While everyone expressed incredible amazement and overwhelming joy brought by the message of the shepherds for the birth of the savior, Mary pondered on all the things that happened. Mary reacted differently. It appears odd if you are the host. I supposed, the guests must have wondered why “Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart” (LK. 2: 19). Mary was silent. Silence indicates wisdom. It is the Virgin Mother’s inward gaze, at once present and far away. It is not that Mary wasn’t into festivity or celebration at all, she exemplifies the best approach for 2023. The keeping of the mysteries of the good news along with guarding and treasuring them are signs of good things to come. It is only through serious reflection of the events in history and our personal experiences that we can come into a deeper understanding, connection and relationship with God. Like Mary, the model and exemplar of our faith, let us marvel and ponder these things in our hearts. Like Mary, let us keep the word in our hearts. What do we do with the blessings of life?

There is a profound reason the Book of Numbers 6: 22-27 is proclaimed in the first reading on the first day of the year: The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord let his face shine upon you and be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace! As we begin the New Year, this blessing perfectly fits our hopes and dreams and exactly what we need to hear. There is nothing more sublime and heartfelt than a blessing from the Lord on the first day of the year. The Lord himself and not any other figure or individual will invoke and give the blessing that is, shower us with divine favor such as love (agape), peace, goodwill, prosperity, and plentiful harvest including our little patio/garden of Eden which can become our prayer space whatever we have. God will not only bestow his blessing which for me is unbelievable, he will also keep you from harm, sickness, and death. He will guard you, protect you and watch over you as someone who cares and thinks about you night and day. He will hold you in his arms and won’t let you go. I am certain that if God is on our side, whatever adversities faced last year and, in the days, ahead, we will surely feel much better with great confidence and faith because of the promise of blessing and keeping. Along with God’s favor, the Lord will let his face shine upon you. He will not hide or turn himself away from you. Instead, he will turn his face toward you that you may see him face to face without veil and that is, the fullness of joy which will only be attained in the beatific vision. It is an indescribable feeling to see God’s face shine upon you. God showing his face to us means everything. Christianity through Jesus Christ has the human face of God. While still living, the Mass, the communal celebration of the Eucharist is the closest thing to seeing God face to face. Amen.

New Year’s Day is World Day of Prayer for Peace.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 123022

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 00:20:32 GMT

THANK YOU 2022! HELLO 2023!

My dear Parishioners,

THANK YOU 2022! As we say bye to 2022 which by now, is history, we look back to the joys and sorrows, the good times and the bad, the better days and the worse, the bitter and sweet memories of the year. Time is passing. Nothing is permanent. We are mere mortals. Only God is eternal. We cherish the surprises and the marvels of the past year. In the end, it’s all good. The blessings of life itself and the company of family, friends and faith community far surpassed any misfortunes. We are grateful to our God, the source and wellspring of life and love. God has the last word, and we join him in the last laugh. Christmas has taught us that God dwells among us and that is the greatest blessing of all time. Before we move on to the New Year, a short recollection, a review of life, an examination of our conscience and consciousness will help and in fact, is a necessary spiritual exercise to better equip us for what lies ahead. What for you, is the best and worst of 2022?

WELCOME 2023! May the blessings of joy, peace, prosperity and love the New Year brings, through the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, whose Solemnity we celebrate on the first day of the year, be with you! The New Year is the time when we make resolutions, but my personal practice usually falls at the beginning of Advent. We have everything we need to ground our lives to God and by far, the most important component is the time spent with God. It is another year in the cycle of life.

IT IS STILL CHRISTMAS ! The whole Christmas season extends from December 25 until the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. There are 12 whole days of Christmas which must be celebrated, not only in the Liturgy, but in the parish and at home. It looks, however, like we are back to ordinary days and time. Are you still celebrating with an excess of eating or has it slowed down? It is a bit sad that after Christmas there is not much going on. Our Advent and Christmas celebration such as the parish Christmas lighting, Christmas carols, Posadas, Confessions, Marian celebrations, Christmas Eve play, the packed Church during Mass (the coming to Church – spiritual home in droves even once a year) etc. was so enjoyable. Thank you to the organizers and the participants.

Please seriously consider enrolling your child to Loretto Catholic School as it (the school) exists to serve the Catholic Community. Scholarships are available (almost free or literary free). If you are interested, please do not hesitate to call the school office (520) 364-5754. Also, please support the Loretto Catholic School through CTSO (Catholic Tuition Support Organization) Scholarship program which sends many kids to our own Catholic School because of your generous contribution. Enrolling your child to Loretto Catholic School is a worthwhile (lifetime) investment for the future of the child, the family, the community, and society. I am proud to be part of Loretto School.

Thank you to those who made an end of the year donation.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Mis queridos feligreses,

¡GRACIAS 2022! Mientras decimos adiós al 2022, que a estas alturas ya es historia, miramos hacia atrás las alegrías y tristezas, los buenos y los malos tiempos, los mejores días y los peores, los recuerdos amargos y dulces del año. El tiempo pasa. Nada es permanente. Somos simples mortales. Sólo Dios es eterno. Apreciamos las sorpresas y las maravillas del año pasado. Al final, todo está bien. Las bendiciones de la vida misma y la compañía de la familia, los amigos y la comunidad de fe superaron con creces cualquier desgracia. Estamos agradecidos a nuestro Dios, que es fuente de la vida y el amor. Dios tiene la última palabra, y nos unimos a él en la última sonrisa. La Navidad nos ha enseñado que Dios habita entre nosotros y esa es la bendición más grande de todos los tiempos. Antes de pasar al Año Nuevo, un breve recuerdo, una revisión de la vida, un examen de nuestra conciencia que nos ayudará y, de hecho, es un ejercicio espiritual necesario para equiparnos mejor para lo que nos espera. ¿Para ti, que fue lo mejor y lo peor de 2022?

¡BIENVENIDO 2023! ¡Que las bendiciones de alegría, paz, prosperidad y amor que trae el Año Nuevo, a través de la intercesión materna de la Santísima Virgen María, Madre de Dios, cuya solemnidad celebramos el primer día del año, ¡estén con ustedes! El Año Nuevo es el momento en que hacemos resoluciones, pero mi práctica personal generalmente cae al comienzo del Adviento. Tenemos todo lo que necesitamos para cimentar nuestras vidas en Dios y, con mucho, el componente más importante es el tiempo que pasamos con Dios. Es otro año en el ciclo de la vida.

¡TODAVÍA ES NAVIDAD! Toda la temporada navideña se extiende desde el 25 de diciembre hasta la fiesta de la Epifanía del Señor. Hay 12 días enteros de Navidad que deben celebrarse, no solo en la liturgia, sino en la parroquia y en casa. Sin embargo, parece que hemos vuelto a los días y tiempos normales. ¿Sigues celebrando con un exceso de comer o se ha limitado? Es un poco triste que después de Navidad no haya mucho que hacer. Nuestra celebración de Adviento y Navidad, como la iluminación navideña de la parroquia, villancicos, posadas, confesiones, celebraciones marianas, obra de Nochebuena, la iglesia llena durante la misa (la venida a la iglesia – hogar espiritual en multitud incluso una vez al año), etc. fue muy agradable. Agradecer a los organizadores y a los participantes.

Por favor, considere seriamente inscribir a su hijo en la Escuela Católica Loreto, ya que (la escuela) existe para servir a la Comunidad Católica. Las becas están disponibles (casi gratuitas o literarias gratuitas). Si está interesado, no dude en llamar a la oficina de la escuela (520) 364-5754. Además, por favor apoye a la Escuela Católica de Loreto a través del programa de becas CTSO (Organización Católica de Apoyo a la Matrícula) que envía a muchos niños a nuestra propia Escuela Católica debido a su generosa contribución. Inscribir a su hijo en la Escuela Católica Loreto es una inversión que vale la pena (de por vida) para el futuro del niño, la familia, la comunidad y la sociedad. Estoy orgulloso de ser parte de la Escuela Loreto.

Gracias a quienes hicieron una donación de fin de año.

En el servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

HOMILY ON THE SOLEMNITY OF CHRISTMAS 2022

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 17:32:15 GMT

"And the word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1: 14).

Following the homily, everyone stands for the profession of faith (Nicene Creed). At the words, “And by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man”, the congregation adore God (all kneel). The mystery of the incarnation of God is the heart and soul of the creed. It holds the creed together. On Christmas, we don’t simply celebrate the birthday of our savior for birthday’s sake. The word became flesh (Et Incarnatus est) means that God forced his way among us. The distant and remote God becomes Emmanuel – “God with us”. On Christmas, we don’t simply celebrate an event in history. The living God (Absolute) in whom we profess faith and total dependence has been making his way among us. At the profession of faith, we recite with great fervor and belief the mystery of the living Triune God, the God who entered time. In the days leading up to Christmas, we paid so much attention to the lowly and humble woman who said yes to God’s invitation. Without her, we won’t be here. We cannot imagine the incarnation of God in the flesh without Mary. She is an indispensable part of the divine plan. God needed her to carry out his plan/promise of uniting word and action. By saying yes, Mary made herself available (her whole life) as God’s dwelling place in the world. Because of the incarnation of God in the flesh of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Christianity is a unique religion. No religion the world has ever known has the same claim as Christianity. It's not a product of cultural development and societal advancement. It is divine revelation. If cultures (ancient and modern) can't come into terms with the incarnation, so be it. I don't think it is meant to be fully understood. In a way, singing Christmas carols/songs is the best way to approach the mystery of God made man. There is something in music that plain speech/mere words cannot express. Music takes us deep in the realm of the inexpressible.

Because of the heightened level of liturgical celebration, there are assigned readings for the Vigil, Midnight, Dawn, and Day Masses. What they offer us are the various characters and figures in the crib which we are all familiar. For example, the angels and shepherds are taken from Matthew’s Gospel while the wise men and the star from Luke’s account and the ox and the ass from the beginning of the book of Isaiah. The nativity scene is crowded which depicts us, the gathered assembly coming from all over the place.

At the Vigil Mass, we listen to the gospel of Matthew who presents the ancestry, the family tree, the origins, that is, the genealogy of Jesus – David’s promised heir. It helps us to meditate on the background of Jesus which include men and women, saints, and sinners and anything in-between. For some, family is a source of joy and life. For others, nothing but pain, embarrassment, and suffering. Wherever you find yourself in the equilibrium, know and remember that even the human ancestors of the Son of God had shady background which tell us that God will force his way to us regardless of the circumstances. God will come even in the worst case, troubling story and problematic scenario and touch us at the depths of our lives. Matthew provides us with three sets of fourteen or six sets of seven starting with Abraham - David – Joseph, the husband of Mary, the father of Jesus, the Messiah, the promise, and the fulfillment of the prophecy. After this, he stressed the unexpected role of Joseph to take care of Mary and the child to be born whose name is Jesus (God saves), destined to save his people. At the Midnight Mass, we turn to the Lukan version who provides us the census/enrollment whereby Joseph and Mary travelled to Bethlehem (house of bread), David’s town to register. Joseph visited his hometown. Welcome Home to all of you! It was homecoming for Joseph and the family. On Christmas, we visit our spiritual home even just for one day. It was at that time when the baby was born in a cave in the manger. At the Dawn Mass, we hear about the shepherds (Luke 2: 1-14) who were probably up all night, the first to welcome the Word made flesh. Ironically, the simple people those belonging to a despised and deprived social class were the first to visit and know about the inbreaking of God in the world. The Mass during the day presents us with John’s prologue, the word made flesh and dwelt among us, the timeless/eternity entered time. In the beginning is God’s word which has the primacy over anything in religion, faith, and life. There is nothing like this. God pitched his tent among us. It looked like temporary, but it was permanent. The incarnation is not a result of cultural interpretation. It didn’t come from cultural belies. It could only come from God alone. That’s why, this is very difficult to understand. The ineffable humbled himself to be born in our flesh. Expecting the unexpected. God is in the flesh. Wherever we go, he is with us. That’s why we place the nativity scene (our little Bethlehem) to trace the footprints of Jesus.

Once I visited a brother priest’s rectory. When I was parking in the driveway, I started hearing barking of a dog. I said to myself, my overnight stay was going to be a long day for me. There was nothing I can do. Douglas was on the other side of the world. You just have to live with it. As soon as I got in, the creature smelled and jumped all over me. I didn't like it. When my brother priest showed me the room, the dog followed me and in fact, entered the room first, made an ocular inspection making sure his boss' guest is safe. In the morning, while I was laying on the couch watching movie, the obnoxious creature jumped all over me. Sensing that I was scared, he settled down, stayed beside me and rested on my flipflops. I filmed our monologue. The priest caught our conversation. And commented, my chihuahua wants to befriend you, but you don’t want to. He wants to play with you but you ignore him. On Christmas, God wants to live in every fiber of our lives. God is in the flesh. On Christmas, God wants to seriously befriend us but quite often, we are scared even of the small child. God came in our flesh to live among us. God did everything possible even to be born of our flesh to enter our world.

Everything we do is an imitation of the words of Mary, “let it be done to me according to your word” that is, invite God to come in and have his way. Although the birth of the Son of God, the savior of the world, is not without any controversy, Christmas is a celebration with an outburst and explosion of joy. Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 122322

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 22:55:17 GMT

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

My dear Parishioners,

Thank you to all who came and graced the occasion with your presence at my Priesthood Ordination Anniversary dinner last Sunday, December 18. Thank you to the organizers and everyone who helped prepare the venue, St. Luke Parish Hall, adorned and decorated as at a wedding party. Although there was no program, agenda, music, or dancing, it was heartfelt. It wasn’t the loudest party by any means, but everyone enjoyed the evening, especially the overflowing food. As of this writing (Tuesday), I’m still consuming the leftovers. It will probably last until Christmas. I didn’t have plans to celebrate at all. If I had, I was only to say my Thanksgiving Mass at 6:00 pm on December 22, with hot chocolate and cookies afterwards. I planned to prepare Salabat (Filipino ginger tea) with super extra health benefits, usually popular at this time of the year, during the cool month of December. Seventeen years in ordained ministry is like any other year. Since I am no longer a rookie, I stopped counting a long time ago. There is always something to celebrate, but because of its proximity to Christmas, on the last phase of our preparations for festivities (decorations, play, liturgy, etc), which of course is more important than celebrating an anniversary, you just put it aside and think about it later. What matters in priesthood is whether the life of love and service to God and the community vowed to serve still comes from the source and fountain of life. As you know, my priesthood is not my priesthood. The promises of celibacy, obedience and poverty, is a life best expressed in the context of inclusivity. If there is a requirement, it should only emerge from the inner desire to be with the Lord. All the rest are footnotes.
Please seriously consider enrolling your child in Loretto Catholic School, as it (the school) exists to serve the Catholic Community. Scholarships are available (almost free or literary free). If you are interested, please do not hesitate to call the school office (520) 364-5754. Also, please support the Loretto Catholic School through CTSO (Catholic Tuition Support Organization) Scholarship program, which sends many kids to our own Catholic School because of your Generous contributions. Enrolling your child in Loretto Catholic School is a worthwhile (lifetime) investment for the future of the child, the family, the community, and society. I am proud to be a part of Loretto School.
It’s not too late to make an end of the year charitable donation to your parish. Look no further. Don’t ask around. Don’t search the internet. Don’t channel it somewhere else. Right here, right now, your parish needs your kindness and generosity (either for building and maintenance, specific projects, daily operation or more Christmas lights for next year).
I am very pleased by parishioners who made an end of the year donation. What struck me wasn’t so much the amount but the thought and the reason for giving, that is, gratitude for the profound impact the parish community had in their lives. Priceless.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Mis Queridos Feligereses,

Gracias a todos los que vinieron y honraron la ocasión con su presencia en la cena de mi aniversario de ordenación sacerdotal el domingo pasado, 18 de diciembre. Gracias a los organizadores y a todos los que ayudaron a preparar el lugar, el Salón Parroquial de San Lucas, adornado y decorado como en una fiesta de bodas. Aunque no había programa, agenda, música o baile, fue sincero. No fue una fiesta ruidosa, pero todos disfrutamos de la noche, especialmente la comida desbordante. Al momento de escribir este artículo (martes), todavía estoy consumiendo las sobras. Probablemente durará hasta Navidad. No tenía planes de celebrar en absoluto. Si lo hubiera hecho, solo tendría que decir mi misa de Acción de Gracias a las 6:00 pm del 22 de diciembre, después nos deleitaríamos con unas galletas y chocolate caliente. Planeé preparar Salabat (té de jengibre filipino) con beneficios súper adicionales para la salud, generalmente populares en esta época del año, durante el frio mes de diciembre. Diecisiete años en el ministerio de ordenación, es como cualquier otro año. Como ya no soy un novato, dejé de contar hace mucho tiempo. Siempre hay algo que celebrar, pero debido a su proximidad a la Navidad, en la última fase de nuestros preparativos para las festividades (decoraciones, juegos, liturgia, etc.), que, por supuesto es más importante que celebrar un aniversario, simplemente lo dejas de lado y lo piensas más tarde. Lo que importa en el sacerdocio es si la vida de amor y servicio a Dios y a la comunidad que se ha prometido servir todavía proviene de la fuente de la vida. Como saben, mi sacerdocio no es mi sacerdocio. Las promesas de celibato, obediencia y, pobreza, es una vida que se expresa mejor en el contexto de la inclusión. Si hay un requisito, sólo debe surgir del deseo interno de estar con el Señor. Todo lo demás son notas a pie de página.
Por favor, considere seriamente inscribir a su hijo en la Escuela Católica de Loreto, ya que (la escuela) está al servicio de la Comunidad Católica. Las becas están disponibles (casi gratuitas o literarias gratuitas). Si está interesado, no dude en llamar a la oficina de la escuela (520) 364-5754. Además, apoye a la Escuela Católica de Loreto a través del programa de becas CTSO (Organización Católica de Apoyo a la Matrícula), que envía a muchos niños a nuestra propia Escuela Católica debido a sus generosas contribuciones. Inscribir a su hijo en la Escuela Católica de Loreto es una inversión que vale la pena (de por vida) para el futuro del niño, la familia, la comunidad y la sociedad. Estoy orgulloso de ser parte de la Escuela Loreto.
No es demasiado tarde para hacer una donación caritativa de fin de año a su parroquia. No busques más. No preguntes por ahí. No busques en Internet. No lo canalices en otro lugar. Aquí mismo, ahora mismo, su parroquia necesita su amabilidad y generosidad (ya sea para la construcción y el mantenimiento, proyectos específicos, operación diaria o más luces navideñas para el próximo año).
Estoy muy contento por los feligreses que hicieron una donación de fin de año. Lo que me llamó la atención no fue tanto la cantidad sino el pensamiento y la razón para dar, es decir, la gratitud por el profundo impacto que la comunidad parroquial tuvo en sus vidas. Impagable.

En el servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 121622

Sat, 17 Dec 2022 01:13:31 GMT

Christmas is upon us!

My dear Parishioners,

A big thank you to all who helped coordinate the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations, which are significant events during Advent, drawing us closer to God through the Virgin Mary and the coming birth of her Son, Our Lord Jesus. The Blessed Mother occupies a prominent place during Advent, as proclaimed in the Mass readings recounting the story of our redemption. We give her due honor for her holiness and her humble response to God’s invitation to carry our Savior in her womb. In the days leading up to Christmas, may our experiences be nothing short of new life and new birth from these two great Marian feasts.
Beginning December 17 -24 , the solemn “ O” (with an exclamation) Antiphons which are traditional titles of Christ will be recited during the evening prayer in the Liturgy of the Hours (official prayer of the Church - highly recommended): O Wisdom, O Sacred Lord, O Flower of Jesse’s stem, O Key of David, O Radiant Dawn, O King of all the Nations, and O Emmanuel (God-with-us).
Please support our Christmas baskets (with a little bit of everything for Christmas) raffle. Proceeds go to your own parish fund.
Please be informed of our Las Posadas on Monday, December 19, 2022, 6:00pm, IC. This Advent tradition is based on the scriptures – Joseph and Mary travelling, looking for shelter to stay, and being denied, until which time, the child was born in a cave.
With praise and thanksgiving to God, please join me in celebrating the 17 ^th Anniversary of my Priesthood Ordination in a Mass to be offered on December 22, 2022, Thursday, 6:00pm, St. Luke Parish.
While having dinner with the deacons and their wives last Friday, December 9, I realized those who were at the table are all retired (Deacons Luciano Gonzales, Gabriel Saspe, Armando Moulinet, Edward Gomez) except Deacon Victor Alvidrez. WHO IS GOING TO FILL THEIR SHOES? I understand it is a calling but if there is an inner voice of God that speaks to you about the vocation to Diaconal Ministry, please take it to prayer, especially before the Blessed Sacrament, and be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
Please seriously consider enrolling your child to Loretto Catholic School as it (the school) exists to serve the Catholic Community. Scholarships are available. So, please do not hesitate to call the school office (520) 364-5754. Also, please support the Loretto Catholic School through CTSO (Catholic Tuition Support Organization) Scholarship program which sends many kids to our own Catholic School because of your generous contribution. Enrolling your child to Loretto Catholic School is a worthwhile (lifetime) investment for the future of the child and the family.
If you are planning to make an end of the year charitable donation, look no further. Don’t ask around. Don’t search the internet. Right here, right now, your parish needs your kindness and generosity (either for building and maintenance, specific projects, daily operation or more Christmas lights for next year).

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Mis queridos feligreses,

Agradeciendo infinitamente a todos los que ayudaron a coordinar las celebraciones de la Inmaculada Concepción y Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, que son eventos significativos durante el Adviento, acercándonos a Dios a través de la Virgen María y el próximo nacimiento de su Hijo, Nuestro Señor Jesús. La Santísima Virgen ocupa un lugar destacado durante el Adviento, como se proclama en las lecturas de la Misa que relatan la historia de nuestra redención. Le damos el debido honor por su santidad y su humilde respuesta a la invitación de Dios de llevar a nuestro Salvador en su vientre. En los días previos a la Navidad, que nuestras experiencias sean nada menos que una nueva vida y un nuevo nacimiento de estas dos grandes fiestas marianas.
A partir del 17 al 24 de diciembre , las antífonas solemnes " Oh” ( con una exclamación) que son títulos tradicionales de Cristo se recitarán durante la oración de la tarde en la Liturgia de las Horas (oración oficial de la Iglesia - muy recomendable): Oh Sabiduría, Oh Señor Sagrado, Oh Flor del tallo de Isaí, Oh Llave de David, Oh Amanecer Radiante, Oh Rey de todas las Naciones, y Oh Emmanuel (Dios-con-nosotros).
Por favor, apoye nuestra rifa de canastas de Navidad (con un poco de todo para Navidad). Las ganancias van a su propio fondo parroquial.
Por favor, infórmese de nuestras Posadas este próximo lunes 19 de diciembre de 2022, a las 6:00pm, en IC. Esta tradición de adviento se basa en las escrituras: José y María viajando, buscando refugio para quedarse y siendo negados, hasta ese momento, el niño nació en una cueva.
Con alabanza y acción de gracias a Dios, únanse a mí para celebrar el 17º aniversario de mi ordenación sacerdotal en una misa que se ofrecerá el 22 de diciembre de 2022, jueves, 6:00 pm, parroquia de San Lucas.
Mientras cenaba con los diáconos y sus esposas el pasado viernes 9 de diciembre, me di cuenta de que los que estaban en la mesa están todos jubilados (diáconos Luciano Gonzales, Gabriel Saspe, Armando Moulinet, Edward Gómez) excepto el diácono Víctor Alvidrez. ¿QUIÉN VA A LLENAR SUS ZAPATOS? Entiendo que es un llamado, pero si hay una voz interior de Dios que te habla sobre la vocación al Ministerio Diaconal, por favor llévala a la oración, especialmente ante el Santísimo Sacramento, y ábrete a los impulsos del Espíritu Santo.
Por favor, considere seriamente inscribir a su hijo en la Escuela Católica Loreto, ya que (la escuela) está al servicio de la Comunidad Católica. Las becas están disponibles. Por lo tanto, no dude en llamar a la oficina de la escuela (520) 364-5754. Además, por favor apoye a la Escuela Católica de Loreto a través del programa de becas CTSO (Organización Católica de Apoyo a la Matrícula) que envía a muchos niños a nuestra propia Escuela Católica debido a su generosa contribución. Inscribir a su hijo en la Escuela Católica Loreto es una inversión que vale la pena (de por vida) para el futuro del niño y la familia.
Si está planeando hacer una donación caritativa de fin de año, no busque más. No preguntes por ahí. No busques en Internet. Aquí mismo, ahora mismo, su parroquia necesita su amabilidad y generosidad (ya sea para la construcción y el mantenimiento, proyectos específicos, operación diaria o más luces navideñas para el próximo año).

En el servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

HOMILY ON THE THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT A22

Sat, 10 Dec 2022 18:27:06 GMT

The Joy of being with God...

Although Advent is seasonal which for some is a routine, a cycle of the liturgical year that we must go through before Christmas, I believe every year, our experience is deepened and heightened by the sacred rituals of lighting the wreath and the joyful tones. There is something different each year. The third Sunday of Advent called Guadete (Rejoice) Sunday breaks the dryness and emptiness in the liturgy and looks forward to the Joy that brings us together. It is a huge challenge for me to preach about joy because I normally don't smile.

Even the mighty and tough- talking no non-sense figure of John the Baptist, the precursor of the Messiah and “among those born of women there has been none greater John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he” (Mt. 11: 11) takes to heart Jesus’ words and learns mercy. John sent his disciples to Jesus, and he told them, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind?” (Mt. 11: 7). Did you come to see the reeds (hallow grass that grows in the Jordan River) that can easily be swayed by anything or the unbending John the Baptist? John or the grass? Both toughness (masculine) and softness (feminine) elements of faith are required to growth in spirituality as two sides of the coin. They came to see and encounter a prophet and more than a prophet. He ends with deeply loaded words, “blessed is the one who takes no offense at me” (Mt. 11: 6) indirectly addressed to John who probably is surprised and troubled with his ministerial style. He expected something different. Amid hunger and thirst, it is always a joy to learn something from God. As we prepare for confession this week, I hope that little by little we break the brick wall of guilt and shame, two words which are not easy to deal and process. More often, it requires intense focus. Let me share to you the prayer of absolution recited by the priest-confessor who accompanies the penitent in this journey towards joy: God the father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his son, has reconciled the world to himself and poured out the Holy Spirit for the forgiveness of sins. Through the ministry of the church, may God grant/give you pardon and peace, And I absolve you from your sins, in the name of the father, and of the son, and of the Holy Spirit.

The Prophet Isaiah speaks with exuberant joy of “being crowned with everlasting joy” (Isaiah 35: 10). We cannot overemphasize unending joy or joy unending this Sunday which marks halfway in the season. Although Advent patient waiting in general, is no fun, the second reading from the letter of St. James stresses the importance of waiting like a farmer for a good produce/fruit which is always worth the wait and best described as joyful expectation that the fulfillment of God’s plan is on the horizon. You can see it from afar. Delayed gratification is one of the joys of waiting. If we heed the voice of St. James, accompanied by the Lord, we will celebrate with joy and gladness. God will come flesh and blood, in-person, like a little child, to save us. The glory and splendor of God, renewal on earth shown by the blossoming dryland and flowering wilderness and outburst of joy, will be seen and felt all over the place evidenced by the healing of physical disabilities: blind see, the deaf hear, the lame leap and the dumb (mute) sing. Even those who normally don’t come to the church will make their way on the highway reserved for the dispersed with opened eyes and strengthened limbs as signs of God’s coming and glimpses of joy that will take place sooner and not later. The joy of being with God and the company of faith-filled, graceful, joyful people is the greatest thing in thw world. There’s nothing like coming together to praise, honor and worship God. Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 120922

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 16:50:01 GMT

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pray for us!

My dear Parishioners,

We celebrate with immense joy the feast of OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE on the Third Week of Advent, at a time when the Candle of Joy is lit. Although the Feast of OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE is not a Holy Day of Obligation, it is more than a holy day of obligation for us, devotees to Our Lady. This feast is deeply personal and part of our identity. Her image is adorned almost everywhere in our houses (porches, gardens, living rooms, bedrooms, etc). As we move closer to Christmas, the Liturgy draws us to the most significant role of the Blessed Mother in the promised redemption. In the Catholic faith, Christ and Mary are inseparable. We come to God by going to the Virgin Mary, and her Son, Jesus. What prompts us to observe this sacred day is the profound belief that God has visited his people through the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and our gratitude in our own personal story of redemption in terms of what God has done for us. As we deepen our understanding of the role of the Virgin Mary, by following closely the sacred writings and the miraculous apparition, blessings abound, numerous lives converted and transformed, souls saved, physical bodies healed, and families restored and reunited. For me, one of the profoundly moving parts of the apparition was when the Aztecs recognized Our Lady, Mother of the true God, as the fulfillment of the prophecies. San Juan Diego described himself as a man of no importance sent to be a messenger. We do not only recite the Novena, attend Mass, offer roses, sing Mañanitas, watch the Obra and share food, but also and more than anything, we pray that the holiness of Our Lady of Guadalupe shine and remain alive in our hearts. Viva la Virgen!
Please join us for the ADVENT PENANCE SERVICES on December 13 & 14, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 6pm-7pm. There will be no penitential rite. We will go straight to confession. You may leave after confession but feel free to stay for an extended prayer. Confession is a quiet moment. During confession, we examine our conscience by humbly accepting the reality of sin and sinfulness, showing contrition, receiving absolution, performing penance, and finding peace.
Please join us for the combined celebration of LAS POSADAS and MISA DE GALLO (SIMBANG GABI) FILIPINO TRADITION of prayerful preparation for Christmas, Thursday, December 15, St. Luke.
Please support our Christmas baskets raffle for your own parish. Proceeds go to your own parish.
If you are planning to make an end of the year charitable donation, look no further. Please seriously consider your parish (either for building and maintenance, specific projects, daily operation or more Christmas lights for next year) and Loretto Catholic School through CTSO (Catholic Tuition Support Organization) Scholarship program. Loretto School exists to serve you.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Mis queridos feligreses,

Celebramos con inmensa alegría la fiesta de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en la Tercera Semana de Adviento, en un momento en que la Vela de la Alegría está encendida. Aunque la Fiesta de nuestra Señora de Guadalupe no es un Día Santo de Obligación, para nosotros que somos devotos de nuestra Señora, es más que un día santo de obligación. Esta fiesta es profundamente personal y parte de nuestra identidad. Su imagen está adornada en casi todas partes de nuestras casas (porches, jardines, salones, dormitorios, etc). A medida que nos acercamos a la Navidad, la liturgia nos lleva al papel más significativo de la Santísima Virgen en la redención prometida. En la fe católica, Cristo y María son inseparables. Venimos a Dios yendo a la Virgen María y a su Hijo, Jesús. Lo que nos impulsa a observar este día sagrado es la profunda creencia de que Dios ha visitado a su pueblo a través de la aparición de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, y nuestra gratitud en nuestra propia historia personal de redención en términos de lo que Dios ha hecho por nosotros. A medida que profundizamos nuestra comprensión del papel de la Virgen María, siguiendo de cerca los escritos sagrados y la aparición milagrosa, abundan las bendiciones, numerosas vidas convertidas y transformadas, almas salvadas, cuerpos físicos sanados y familias restauradas y reunidas. Para mí, una de las partes profundamente conmovedoras de la aparición fue cuando los aztecas reconocieron a Nuestra Señora, Madre del Dios verdadero, como el cumplimiento de las profecías. San Juan Diego se describió a sí mismo como un hombre sin importancia enviado para ser mensajero. No solo recitamos la Novena, asistimos a misa, ofrecemos rosas, cantamos Mañanitas, vemos la Obra y compartimos comida, sino que también y más que nada, oramos para que la santidad de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe brille y permanezca viva en nuestros corazones. Viva la Virgen!
Por favor, únase a nosotros para los SERVICIOS DE PENITENCIA DE ADVIENTO el 13 y 14 de diciembre, martes y miércoles, 6pm-7pm. No habrá rito penitencial. Iremos directamente a la confesión. Puede irse después de la confesión, pero siéntase libre de quedarse para una oración prolongada. La confesión es un momento tranquilo. Durante la confesión, examinamos nuestra conciencia aceptando humildemente la realidad del pecado y la pecaminosidad, mostrando contrición, recibiendo la absolución, realizando penitencia y encontrando paz.
Por favor, únase a nosotros para la celebración combinada de LAS POSADAS y MISA DE GALLO (SIMBANG GABI) TRADICIÓN FILIPINA de preparación orante para la Navidad, jueves 15 de diciembre, San Lucas.
Por favor, apoye nuestra rifa de canastas de Navidad para su propia parroquia. Las ganancias van a su propia parroquia.
Si está planeando hacer una donación caritativa de fin de año, no busque más. Por favor, considere seriamente su parroquia (ya sea para construcción y mantenimiento, proyectos específicos, operación diaria o más luces navideñas para el próximo año) y para la Escuela Católica Loreto a través del programa de becas CTSO (Organización Católica de Apoyo a la Matrícula). La Escuela católica de Loreto, esta para servirle.

En el servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

HOMILY ON THE SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT A22

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 05:40:13 GMT

Peace and justice, joy and harmony will surround us through the guidance of a little child.

Advent Season is entering into a quiet space. Music is low key. Gloria has been omitted. It is in this quiet zone that God speaks to us loudly and clearly without whom we won’t be able to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. As we listen carefully and attentively to the prophecies, slowly but surely, whatever good and holy people strive to do for the world is a return to paradise meaning, a life of peace and justice, joy and harmony which will only be achieved through the guidance of a little child or led by a small child, an expectation beyond our imaginings.

The figure of John the Baptist dominates the second Sunday of Advent who comes into the scene as the precursor. He is an extraordinary prophet who announces the imminent coming of the Messiah. His simple and austere lifestyle is closely associated with the fiery personality of Elijah who would come to prepare the way of Christ. John the Baptist is the link that connects both the old and new testaments - Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of the prophecy of the Hebrew Scriptures. His words are fierce calling the religious elites, brood of vipers and his message of repentance strikes deep as we prepare for a joyful celebration. Christ will come as a judge to separate the chaff from the wheat. Repent for the kingdom of God has drawn near. Repentance is part of a disciple’s life. The sacrament of confession is not only about the confession of sins which many of us presume it’s nothing like a waste management. It is a precious gift that any serious disciple must devote and make a habit to deepen one’s relationship and friendship with Christ. There are many elements involved (examination of conscience, confession, contrition, absolution, etc) in this marvelous sacrament but primarily, I want to stress the importance of pardon and peace which is part of the prayer of absolution recited by the priest confessor. The sacrament of reconciliation is a gift from God and not only a place where we dump our sins and head out the confessional as quickly as we can. More than anything it is the encounter between the penitent and the very depths of God’s being which is not about you and your sins but God. As we look forward to the Advent Penance Service, please come to the wellspring of God’s mercy and forgiveness.

The FIRST READING from the prophet Isaiah 11: 1-11 which illustrates the character of the expected king is one of the most, if not the most, important Messianic texts of Isaiah. Once again, we hear the plant-based description (figurative and highly symbolic botanical image) of the messiah that “a shoot (branch) shall sprout from the stump (root) of Jesse”. This anointed king gz’a is translated as shoot or stem of a living tree, or the stump of a tree that has been cut down. This is a vision all of us can relate as we sweep the fallen and dried leaves and branches all over the place and decorate Christmas trees (with or without roots). Amidst nature’s organized chaos, a stump is left of a great fallen tree lying lifeless in which a shoot will spring forth from the remaining stump. God will use this humble and unassuming descendant of Jesse to bring redemption to the world. The one who is to come will rule with the spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and strength, knowledge, and fear of the Lord. The spirit of the Lord will rest upon him. Justice will be his belt and faithfulness will be worn around his waist. His primary role is to show concern to the weak and meek of heart with righteousness and the poor with justice. The stump is a holy seed which made its way to the nativity scene in the Christmas crib. Isaiah also mentioned the nearly impossible incredibly surprising reconciliation and peaceful co-existence of the natural predators and the prey: wolf-lamb; leopard -kid; calf-lion; cow-bear; lion-ox with a special participation of a little child (strange as it may seem) who will lead and guide them. Take note of the mention of the small child whose arrival brings peace and harmony in one’s relationships. The land will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as to know the Lord and understand his ways is the disappearance and the annihilation of the evil one. There will be no harm or ruin, pain or hurt in all my holy mountain, God’s sacred place. The presence of God will surround everyone with good tidings and all will be safe. The root of Jesse is a signal to the people of God that the Messiah has come because people from all corners of the world (including pagans and foreigners) will relentlessly seek him for guidance and right instruction as his presence reveals the glory of the Lord to the nations. Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 120222

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 22:54:38 GMT

O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us!

My dear Parishioners,

What we celebrate on the SOLEMNITY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY is the gracious gift of God to humankind as part (blueprint) of the divine plan of salvation and not the doctrine itself. We celebrate with great joy what God has done to us through the Virgin Mary. This is a Holy Day of Obligation, meant to sanctify and draw us closer to God, and celebrated nine months (December 8) before the birth of Mary on September 8. Although the dogma of the Immaculate Conception was only proclaimed in 1854, strong devotion to the Blessed Mother has been observed since the early centuries. In fact, the significance of the devotion can be traced back to the very beginning of our redemption in the book of Genesis 3: 15 (immediately following the fall… “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers, they will strike at your head while you strike at her heels” that is, the ProtoEvangelion which is the first announcement of the Gospel (the first promise of redemption) in terms of the eventual conquest and defeat of evil by Christ, offspring of Mary. The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a profound belief held by the Church Fathers and Doctors, Councils, and their predecessors. Pius IX solemnly proclaimed the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception on December 8, 1854 with the words, “We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the Most Blessed Virgin Mary in the first instance of her conception by a singular grace and privilege granted by Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin” (Ineffabilis Deus – The Ineffable God, 1854). O Mary conceived without sin, Pray for us
Thank you to all who participated in the Advent Christmas Lighting . It was a delight to see the excitement of the kids singing, and parents/guardians take photos and videos. I enjoyed it so much, especially when they were out of tune and kept on singing. It brought back childhood memories of singing carols from one house to another. The kids have a lot to teach us. Thank you to the CCD Teachers who coordinated the event, the support of the parents and families and students who sang Christmas Carols.
Please be informed of the joined celebration of the Las Posadas and Simbang Gabi (Filipino Tradition – Misa de Gallo) at St. Luke on December 15, Thursday, 6:00pm. We will start with a Mass followed by Las Posadas. There will also be a Posada in Immaculate Conception on December 19, Monday, 6:00 pm.
Please save the date for the Advent Penance Service on December 13, Tuesday, 6:00pm, St. Luke and December 14, Wednesday, 6:00pm, Immaculate Conception.
If you are planning to make an end of the year charitable donation, look no further. Please seriously consider your parish (either for building and maintenance, specific projects, daily operation or more Christmas lights for next year) and Loretto Catholic School through CTSO. Loretto School exists to serve you.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Mis queridos feligreses,

Lo que celebramos en la SOLEMNIDAD DE LA INMACULADA CONCEPCIÓN DE LA SANTÍSIMA VIRGEN MARÍA es el don misericordioso de Dios a la humanidad como parte (proyecto) del plan divino de salvación y no la doctrina misma. Celebramos con gran alegría lo que Dios nos ha hecho a través de la Virgen María. Este es un Día Santo de Obligación, destinado a santificarnos y acercarnos a Dios, celebrando los nueve meses (8 de diciembre) antes del nacimiento de María el 8 de septiembre. Aunque el dogma de la Inmaculada Concepción fue proclamado en 1854, se ha observado una fuerte devoción a la Santísima Virgen desde los primeros siglos. De hecho, el significado de la devoción se remonta al comienzo mismo de nuestra redención en el libro de Génesis 3: 15 (inmediatamente después de la caída ... "Pondré enemistad entre tú y la mujer, y entre tu descendencia y la de ella, te pisará la cabeza mientras tú herirás sus talones", es decir, el ProtoEvangelion que es el primer anuncio del Evangelio (la primera promesa de redención) en términos de la eventual conquista y derrota del mal por Cristo, descendiente de María. La Inmaculada Concepción de la Santísima Virgen María es una creencia profunda sostenida por los Padres y Doctores de la Iglesia, los Concilios y sus predecesores. Pío IX proclamó solemnemente el dogma de la Inmaculada Concepción el 8 de diciembre de 1854 con las palabras: "Declaramos, pronunciamos y definimos que la doctrina que sostiene que la Santísima Virgen María en primera instancia de su concepción por una gracia singular y privilegio concedido por Dios Todopoderoso, en vista de los méritos de Jesucristo, el Salvador de la raza humana, fue preservado libre de toda mancha del pecado original" (Ineffabilis Deus – El Dios Inefable, 1854). Oh María concebida sin pecado, ruega por nosotros
Gracias a todos los que participaron en la iluminación navideña de Adviento . Fue una delicia ver la emoción de los niños cantando, y los padres / tutores tomando fotos y videos. Lo disfruté mucho, especialmente cuando estaban desafinados y seguían cantando. Me trajo recuerdos de la infancia de cantar villancicos de una casa a otra. Los niños tienen mucho que enseñarnos. Gracias a los maestros de CCD que coordinaron el evento, el apoyo de los padres y familias y estudiantes que cantaron villancicos.
Por favor, sea informado de la celebración conjunta de Las Posadas y Simbang Gabi (Tradición Filipina – Misa de Gallo) en San Lucas el 15 de diciembre, jueves, 6:00pm. Comenzaremos con una misa seguida de Las Posadas. También habrá una Posada en la Inmaculada Concepción el 19 de diciembre, lunes, 6:00 pm.
Por favor, reserve la fecha para el Servicio de Penitencia de Adviento, el martes 13 de Diciembre a las 6:00pm en San Lucas- y el miércoles 14 de diciembre a las 6:00 pm, en Inmaculada Concepción.
Si está planeando hacer una donación caritativa de fin de año, no busque más. Por favor, considere seriamente su parroquia (ya sea para construcción y mantenimiento, proyectos específicos, operación diaria o más luces navideñas para el próximo año) y la Escuela Católica Loreto a través de CTSO. La escuela de Loretto existe para servir la comunidad.

En el servicio de Cristo el Señor,

El Padre Jojo

HOMILY ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT A22

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 18:16:07 GMT

Stay Awake, that you may be prepared!

At a time when lights are out and about in the streets, shopping season officially here, decorations underway and parties around the corner, in the spirit of waiting, advent which begins a new season, enters in silence in a darkened worship space with only a flicker of the first candle of Advent and purple banners in the sanctuary. There is a striking contrast. While the world sings Christmas carols, the church chants, O Come, O Come Emmanuel! Or Maranatha (recent discovery). Are we religious people killjoy? Not really. God is screaming at us in silence. World Cup consumes my time. I am not a soccer fan by any means, but the hype brings me to the TV screen. I just don't get the fact that you train for months even years, and the score can end up 0-0. For soccer fanatics, it's a different story. In this game, there’s a lot of waiting. The unexpected can happen anytime. You must be alert. You can’t bring your defenses down. These observations may have something to do with Advent.

Advent is closely connected if not, inseparable with nature. As the temperature drops, darkness covers and surrounds us, advent invites us to practice moderation and let go of the unnecessary brought to us by the fallen leaves waiting to be swept. Advent is about waiting for our encounter with Christ. There is no getting around it. There is nothing we can do about it. It is what it is. Waiting takes time. Nowadays, instead of going into the store for fresh produce, I order it online only because I don’t want to wait in check- out lines. There is a price to pay though as you don’t always get the best quality. Waiting can be boring and annoying depending on the circumstances. There are many ways you can do while waiting but on Advent, the holy scriptures serve as the lighthouse. Once I came across a write-up that advent didn’t mean anything except that it derives its meaning from Christmas. As I dig deeper into the season, that may be true. Everything we do leads us to Christ. In the bitter cold season, we wait in silence. There is no agenda. We don’t try to learn anything new. We don’t attempt to discover the deeper meaning of life. We just wait in silence and rest with God through adoration, Eucharistic waiting, listening to OT prophecies, and parties, too.

Advent has a two- fold character. The first part (two weeks) is devoted to the second coming of Christ at the end of time. Yes, apocalyptic in nature, that is, Parousia again. It never ends. The second (last two weeks) is the immediate preparation for the first coming of the Son of God in Jesus Christ in human flesh (the Doctrine of the Incarnation – Solemnity of the Nativity of Christ also called, Christmas). This year is the longest advent ever because it took a full week before Christmas. Everything that transpires within advent is preparation. Once again, the figure of John the Baptist and Blessed Mother Mary takes the prominent and significant place.

This Sunday the readings draw us to seeing. The FIRST READING from the book of the Prophet Isaiah 2: 1-5 tells us that the best way to do while waiting is learning to see from within. Isaiah is called the prophet of the Messiah as he was the one who articulated the coming of the Messiah. The first verse of the year presents the vision of the prophet, “This is what Isaiah, son of Amoz, saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come, the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest mountain”. The vision is about coming together of these two important sacred places of worship. It is a vision of peace that sometime in the future (beyond our days) all nations will drop weapons and settle divisions. The Advent parish events is a pilgrimage that draws us to the mountain of the Lord’s house. We (the parishioners) must make our way to the church to meet us halfway. The parish communities will stream toward it. We will come to the church frequently compared to other days. Coming to the church indicates willingness to learn the ways of God. There is an inexpressible desire to be taught of the ways and paths of God and hunger and thirst for holiness. People are nicer in December than at other times of the year. A kid once told me I can’t wait for Christmas so that I can receive as many ggggiiiiffffffttttttsssss (exaggerated and prolonged) as I want. Come let us climb the Lord’s Mountain, to the house of the God of Jacob that he may instruct us in his ways, and we may walk in his paths. O house of Jacob, Come! Let us walk in the light of the Lord! The streaming to the church is a sure sign of the advent of the Lord. Will you be going more to the church or to other places?

The SECOND READING from the letter of Paul to the Roman 13: 11-14 exhorts us to put on a new clothing: "take off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ" . Christmas shopping list involves the purchase of new clothes to wear on parties. Advent is about putting on a new garment and when you do, you remove the old and either keep, discard or throw it away. The GOSPEL READING from the gospel of Matthew 24: 37-44 asks us to Stay awake! Watch! Be alert! Don't sleep on it. You might miss it. Readiness is part of being a good and faithful disciple. By giving us the example of the “Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken and will be left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left". Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know which day your Lord will come”. As one adage says, "Failure to prepare is preparing for failure". Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 112522

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 17:25:54 GMT

Advent is marked by patient waiting...the candle of hope...

My dear Parishioners,

WELCOME TO THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT! which marks the beginning of a new season in the liturgical year. It’s a quick and busy season. Lights and decorations are already up in the streets followed by music. Ideally, it is a season of preparation characterized by patient waiting. It cannot be rushed and if you do, you won’t enjoy it as much as you should. Advent is like cooking (corn) tamales from scratch, which takes hours (if not, forever) to mix the corn and masa, wrap, and steam. If you remove it from the pot/steamer before it’s fully cooked and ready to serve, don’t expect the intended perfect taste. I talk like an expert who knows exactly what to do and have done it many times but no, I don’t even know where to get the masa. Advent is a sacred time to listen attentively to the Old Testament prophecies and infancy narratives that foretold the coming of the Savior. Advent is then marked by prophecies and its fulfillment. Our Advent parish events are rituals that help us prepare and draw us to the birth of Christ. Advent is much more spiritual than merely physical. The symbols of Advent point us to deeper realities. The church is decorated in purple to signify the darkness of the season when Christ was born. The Advent wreath and the four candles of Advent signal light in the darkness. In the silence and stillness of the season, we will devote much time to reflect on the Candle of Hope, the Candle of Peace, the Candle of Love, and the Candle of Joy.
Starting this Sunday until next year, the GOSPEL OF MATTHEW will be proclaimed every Sunday (except for a few weeks) symbolized by the (Son of) Man as in the opening verse of the Gospel, The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of Man (Matthew 1:1). This is about the Son of Man, the humanity of the Son of God. December is the month of divine infancy.
Please check the bulletin for the other Advent activities and events such as Christmas Lighting, combined Las Posadas and the Filipino Tradition Simbang Gabi (lit. Evening/Night/Dawn Mass or Misa de Gallo – Mass of the Rooster), Penance Services, Advent Evening of Meditation/Vespers every Thursday, Christmas Parties, and charitable works.
We look forward to two important celebrations namely, the Novena and celebration of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary and Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Please seriously consider enrolling your children into Loretto Catholic School. Scholarships are available. Please take advantage of the opportunity to give your children a Catholic Education. For more information, please check the flyer in this bulletin or call the office (520) 364-5754 and ask for Mrs. Melgoza, principal.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. And May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Mis queridos feligreses,

¡BIENVENIDOS AL PRIMER DOMINGO DE ADVIENTO! que marca el comienzo de una nueva temporada en el año litúrgico. Es una temporada rápida y ocupada. Las luces y las decoraciones ya están en las calles seguidas de música. Lo ideal es que sea una temporada de preparación caracterizada por la espera paciente. No se puede apresurar y si lo haces, no lo disfrutarás tanto como deberías. El Adviento es como cocinar tamales (de maíz) desde cero, lo que lleva horas (si no, para siempre) mezclar el maíz y la masa, envolverlos y cocerlos al vapor. Si lo retira de la olla / vaporizador antes de que esté completamente cocido y listo para servir, no espere el sabor perfecto deseado. Hablo como un experto que sabe exactamente qué hacer y lo he hecho muchas veces, pero no, ni siquiera sé dónde conseguir la masa. El Adviento es un tiempo sagrado para escuchar atentamente las profecías del Antiguo Testamento y las narraciones de la infancia que predijeron la venida del Salvador. El Adviento está marcado por las profecías y su cumplimiento. Nuestros eventos parroquiales de Adviento son rituales que nos ayudan a prepararnos y nos atraen al nacimiento de Cristo. El Adviento es mucho más espiritual que meramente físico. Los símbolos del Adviento nos señalan realidades más profundas. La iglesia está decorada en púrpura para significar la oscuridad de la temporada en que nació Cristo. La corona de Adviento y las cuatro velas de Adviento señalan la luz en la oscuridad. En el silencio y la quietud de la temporada, dedicaremos mucho tiempo a reflexionar sobre la Vela de la Esperanza, la Vela de la Paz, la Vela del Amor y la Vela de la Alegría.
A partir de este domingo hasta el próximo año, el EVANGELIO DE MATEO será proclamado todos los domingos (excepto por unas pocas semanas) simbolizado por el (Hijo de) Hombre como en el versículo inicial del Evangelio, El comienzo del evangelio de Jesucristo, el Hijo del Hombre (Mateo 1:1). Se trata del Hijo del Hombre, la humanidad del Hijo de Dios. Diciembre es el mes de la infancia divina.
Consulte el boletín para conocer las otras actividades y eventos de Adviento, como la iluminación navideña, las posadas combinadas y la tradición filipina Simbang Gabi (lit. Misa de tarde / noche / amanecer o Misa de Gallo), Servicios de Penitencia, Noche de Adviento de Meditación / Vísperas todos los jueves, Fiestas de Navidad y obras de caridad.
Esperamos dos celebraciones importantes, a saber, la Novena y la celebración de la Inmaculada Concepción de la Virgen María y Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.
Por favor, considere seriamente inscribir a sus hijos en la Escuela Católica de Loreto. Becas están disponibles. Por favor, aproveche la oportunidad de dar a sus hijos una educación católica. Para obtener más información, consulte el volante en este boletín o llame a la oficina (520) 364-5754 y pregunte por la Sra. Melgoza, directora.
Concédeles, oh, Señor, el descanso eterno y deja que la luz perpetua brille sobre ellos. Que descansen en paz. Y que las almas de los fieles difuntos por la misericordia de Dios descansen en paz. Amén.

En el servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 111822

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 22:14:15 GMT

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 2022

My dear Parishioners,

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! As you come together and share meals, please extend my warmest greetings of joy, peace, mercy, forgiveness, and love to all of you (especially those who are hurting) in one of the most important days in America to give thanks for all the blessings God has bestowed on us (life, health, family, friendship, company, community of faith, add yours…). Even though we argue over a small matter and complain about unnecessary things, in the end, we belong to the same family (our family), inner circle of friends, and community of faith. The following lovely preface reminds us, “Our prayer of thanksgiving adds nothing to your greatness but makes us grow in your grace through Jesus Christ our Lord”. Giving thanks is not only a day in the calendar year but a habit, a routine, and the air we breathe. As we surround the dinner table, hold hands, close our eyes, and raise our voices in prayerful gratitude as a sign of our communion, let us express our heartfelt appreciation (that is, the unspoken sentiments that lie deep in our hearts in which we struggle to put in words) to one another including those not present, especially the deceased members of our families. Let us allow the “reason for the season” to touch us and unite our families. Please allow time for prayer as many of us gather only once a year. Amidst the misfortunes and adversities of life, it is difficult to be thankful to God and everyone around especially when we feel abandoned and isolated by the same people for which we expected support. And yet, tough times are the best times and perfect opportunities to be grateful. Graciousness is contagious. I pray that the next pandemic will be our blessing, gratitude, and thanksgiving for all things. As Pope Francis said, let us always be grateful and the world will become a little bit better. He added, Thanksgiving is the hallmark of authentic Christian life. As we watch the falling and fallen leaves and wrap ourselves in thicker and warm garments, let us focus on the beauty of life and company as it is a day of joy, gratitude, relaxation, and laughter.
Please refer to the Thanksgiving Prayer in this bulletin as your guide.
This Sunday, November 20, the last Sunday of the liturgical year, we observe National Bible Week as the culmination, the fulfillment and completion of our spiritual journey with the sacred scriptures in the gospel of Luke.
For our faithful departed in the intermediate state (purgatory) going through purification we pray, “ Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. And May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace”. Amen.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Estimados Feligreses,

¡FELIZ ACCIÓN DE GRACIAS! Al reunirse y compartir comidas, extienda mis más cálidos saludos de alegría, paz, misericordia, perdón y amor a todos ustedes (especialmente a aquellos que están sufriendo) en uno de los días más importantes en Estados Unidos para dar gracias por todas las bendiciones que Dios nos ha otorgado (vida, salud, familia, amistad, compañía, comunidad de fe, añada la de usted...). Aunque discutimos sobre un asunto pequeño y nos quejamos de cosas innecesarias, al final, pertenecemos a la misma familia (nuestra familia), círculo íntimo de amigos y comunidad de fe. Un hermoso prefacio nos recuerda: "Nuestra oración de acción de gracias no añade nada a tu grandeza, sino que nos hace crecer en gracia por Jesucristo nuestro Señor". Dar gracias no es solo un día en el calendario, sino un hábito, una rutina como el aire que respiramos. Mientras rodeamos la mesa, nos tomamos de las manos, cerramos los ojos y elevamos nuestras voces en gratitud orante como signo de nuestra comunión, expresemos nuestro sincero aprecio (es decir, los sentimientos tácitos que yacen en lo profundo de nuestros corazones en los que luchamos por expresarlos con palabras) unos a otros, incluidos los que no están presentes, especialmente los miembros fallecidos de nuestras familias. Dejemos que la "razón de la temporada" nos toque y una a nuestras familias. Por favor, permita tiempo para orar, ya que muchos de nosotros nos reunimos solo una vez al año. En medio de las desgracias y adversidades de la vida, es difícil agradecer a Dios y a todos los que nos rodean, especialmente cuando nos sentimos abandonados y aislados por las mismas personas de las que esperábamos apoyo. Y, sin embargo, los tiempos difíciles son los mejores momentos y las oportunidades perfectas para estar agradecido. La gracia es contagiosa. Rezo para que la próxima pandemia sea nuestra bendición, gratitud y acción de gracias por todas las cosas. Como dijo el Papa Francisco, seamos siempre agradecidos y el mundo será un poco mejor. Añadió, el Día de Acción de Gracias es el símbolo de la auténtica vida cristiana. Mientras observamos el caer de las hojas del otoño y nos envolvemos en prendas más gruesas y cálidas, centrémonos en la belleza de la vida y la compañía, ya que es un día de alegría, gratitud, relajación y risas.
Por favor, consulte la Oración de Acción de Gracias en este boletín como su guía.
Este domingo 20 de noviembre, último domingo del año litúrgico, observamos la Semana Nacional de la Biblia como cumplimiento y culminación de nuestro camino espiritual con las sagradas escrituras del evangelio de San Lucas.
Por nuestros fieles difuntos en el estado intermedio (purgatorio) pasando por la purificación, oramos: " Concédeles, oh Señor, el descanso eterno, y deja que la luz perpetua brille sobre ellos. Que descansen en paz. Y que las almas de los fieles difuntos por la misericordia de Dios, descansen en paz". Amén.

Al Servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Padre Jojo

HOMILY ON THE 33RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 22:11:16 GMT

"You will be hated by all because of my name but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance, you will secure your lives" (Luke 21: 17-19).

As the liturgical year slowly winds down, we focus our attention on the eschatological meaning of the end-times, end of life, life as we know it. The fierce election campaign was about life either to make life easier and harder. I am glad it’s over and the real work begins.

The prophet Malachi in the first reading (3: 19-20a) exhorts the post-exilic community that the day of the Lord - the final judgement, is coming. It is a time of fulfillment of all God’s promises, the realization of our final destiny. It is a time when he comes in power and majesty to reward the good and punish the evil. The wrath of God will go against the wicked and the arrogant. The ungodly described as the stubble will be consumed by flames, by a blazing fire. They will burn up like straw. Nothing will be left, not even root and branch. The evildoers will be annihilated. They will disappear on the face of the earth. They will be torn apart. They won’t last forever. The final countdown is a time when God grants favors for the upright. But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice (the sun of righteousness) with its healing rays. The Lord’s coming will be like the sun that shines brightly in the eastern sky. It is an assurance to those who have remained faithful in anticipation of God’s promises. One of my earliest realizations in priestly ministry (all 16 years in the parish) is that many parishioners are much holier and devout than me. Their spirituality and religiosity put me to shame. I am nowhere near their level. There is no comparison. I won’t mention names and what they do but their religious lives reflect and serve an inspiration in my ministry. Many, if not most of them are simple minded people. They don’t complain nor argue. They are very obedient. They haven’t gone on a formal background in theology/faith but the trusting faith and confidence in God is beyond measure. They feel bad if they missed Sunday Mass. The arrive in church more than what is prescribed, earlier than expected. They deepen self-knowledge, spiritual depth or the interior life and radiate the beauty of holiness without them knowing it. They have simple aspirations and that is, to be pure of heart, clarity of conscience and to keep themselves away from the danger zone of sin. The Lord guides them and never leaves them behind.

Luke’s eschatology is sudden, universal, delayed, remains unpredictable but may come at any given moment. At the of the gospel, he encouraged them, “by your perseverance you will secure your lives (souls)” (Luke 21: 19). By your endurance you will be secured. Preaching the gospel will lead to persecution. Disciples true to their calling will be hated because of Jesus’ name. And yet, they don’t have to worry because even the hairs on their heads are counted which vividly tells us that no evil can touch them. They are untouchable. They are a permanent possession of God. If our life is anchored to God, nothing can break us. We might bend but unbreakable. Our souls belong to God. This whole drama of faith unfolds like a movie. It is staged. You can see the finish line already. It is in the horizon. Those who persevere will be saved. By your endurance, you will be a possession of God.

As you know there are many who have been disillusioned by religion in general and the sinfulness of the church run by human beings. There are those who serve the church whole purpose is to find success and earthly happiness and not to find Christ. Aim for holiness and not criticism. Strike for holiness and not destruction. Let your heart be inflamed by the love of God. Accept the reality and what is given. Charity comes first. Let your life be a source of renewal. We must not be afraid of our humanity and weakness. Let others be puzzled by your life. How is your religious life? Is it wishy washy? Relaxed with no firm and solid moral grounding? Do you experience/encounter any indifference? Does your religious life attract any attention at all? Does your faith have any impact in society? The saints are our guides, but we find their example nearly impossible to follow because of the distance in time. Their lives are too mythical and idyllic for us. What do we do? Search and dig deeper the wellspring of our own tradition. We just must be ourselves. Be yourself. Make your own journey. What keeps us going is the perseverance of the few whose lives reformed the church because of the incredible display of charity and terrifying conviction. What was the common thread? Their deep sense of charity. Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 101122

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 04:19:32 GMT

Salute to the Veterans! Thank you for your service!

Dear Parishioners,

Thank you, St. Luke Parish Fiesta Volunteers! Thank you Fiesta Committee and those who were involved from the planning stage which took months of prayerful discernment, the (5-day) set up of tents, booths, stage, electrical and others on fiesta grounds, the labor intensive food preparation (corn tamales, barbacoa, menudo, carne asada, quesadilla, hamburgers, red and green chile, hard shell tacos, corn cocktail, homemade delicacies and baked goodies, etc), the entertainment, and the final take down on Sunday evening and the following days. Thank you for the highly entertaining music which freely moved my body without me knowing it. The fiesta was so relaxing and enjoyable. Always, always, we rely on the grace and inspiration of God to put up a parish community event such as a fiesta. We couldn’t do it without the strength, invocation, and blessing of God whose presence among us is beyond anything imaginable.

November runs quickly. Many of us have already made plans for Thanksgiving and Christmas. In the next few days, we will start shopping for groceries and things needed for the feast. If you have extra food (or more than enough), please consider sharing with the needy among us who probably are still figuring out what to place on the table. Thanksgiving Day is a sacred and solemn day in which we recall the numerous blessings freely given and bestowed by God: life, faith, family, friendships, company, prosperity, health, well-being and much more. Have we become more grateful during the year? For us, religious people, the weeks, and days leading up to Thanksgiving Day offer lots of opportunities to examine and review our faith-driven lives as bearers of gratitude and dispensers of Christ’s love. We are made for gratitude. Gratefulness is in our inner lives.

This Sunday is designated by Pope Francis as World Day of the Poor , in reference to the Memorial of St. Elizabeth of Hungary, patron of the poor on November 17, Thursday who despite her noble birth embraced Franciscan poverty and cared for the poor and sick. Her example reminds us of the necessity to help the poor and needy. The problem of evil and suffering is the most perplexing question of humankind. We want to do something to alleviate poverty, but we feel that our hands are tied because of its complexity. Start small in sincerity of heart. St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Pray for us!

We extend our deep appreciation to all the Veterans in our parish communities for all the sacrifices made for the country in the name of freedom. Salute!

As we remember the faithful departed this month, we join in solidarity with many of our families who have recently lost loved ones, the absence and emptiness that will be felt at the dinner table. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. And May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Estimados feligreses,

¡Gracias, voluntarios de la Fiesta Parroquial de San Lucas! Gracias Comité de Fiestas y aquellos que estuvieron involucrados desde la etapa de planificación que tomó meses en oración y de discernimiento, la instalación (de 5 días) de carpas, cabinas, escenario, electricidad y otros en los terrenos de la fiesta, la preparación de alimentos intensivos en la mano de obra (tamales de maíz, barbacoa, menudo, carne asada, quesadilla, hamburguesas, chile colorado y verde, tacos dorados, cóctel de elote, delicias caseras y golosinas horneadas, etc.), el entretenimiento y el desmontaje final el domingo por la noche y los días siguientes. Gracias por la música tan entretenida que movió libremente mi cuerpo sin que yo lo supiera. La fiesta fue muy relajante y agradable. Siempre, siempre, confiamos en la gracia y la inspiración de Dios para organizar un evento comunitario parroquial como una fiesta. No podríamos hacerlo sin la fuerza, la invocación y la bendición de Dios, cuya presencia entre nosotros está más allá de cualquier cosa imaginable.

Noviembre corre rápido. Muchos de nosotros ya hemos hecho planes para el Día de Acción de Gracias y Navidad. En los próximos días, comenzaremos a comprar comestibles y cosas necesarias para estas fiestas. Si tiene comida extra (o más que suficiente), considere compartir con los necesitados entre nosotros que probablemente todavía están averiguando qué colocar en la mesa. El Día de Acción de Gracias es un día sagrado y solemne en el que recordamos las numerosas bendiciones gratuitamente dadas y otorgadas por Dios: vida, fe, familia, amistades, compañía, prosperidad, salud, bienestar y mucho más. ¿Nos hemos vuelto más agradecidos durante el año? Para nosotros, las personas religiosas, las semanas y días previos al Día de Acción de Gracias ofrecen muchas oportunidades para examinar y revisar nuestras vidas impulsadas por la fe como portadores de gratitud y dispensadores del amor de Cristo. Estamos hechos para la gratitud. La gratitud está en nuestras vidas interiores.

Este domingo es designado por el Papa Francisco como Jornada Mundial de los Pobres, en referencia a la memoria de Santa Isabel de Hungría, patrona de los pobres el jueves 17 de noviembre, que a pesar de su noble nacimiento abrazó la pobreza franciscana y cuidó de los pobres y enfermos. Su ejemplo nos recuerda la necesidad de ayudar a los pobres y necesitados. El problema del mal y el sufrimiento es la cuestión más desconcertante de la humanidad. Queremos hacer algo para aliviar la pobreza, pero sentimos que nuestras manos están atadas debido a su complejidad. Comience poco a poco con sinceridad de corazón. Santa Isabel de Hungría, ¡Ruega por nosotros!

Extendemos nuestro profundo agradecimiento a todos los veteranos en nuestras comunidades parroquiales por todos los sacrificios hechos por el país en nombre de la libertad. ¡Saludo!

Al recordar a los fieles fallecidos este mes, nos unimos en solidaridad con muchas de nuestras familias que recientemente han perdido a sus seres queridos, la ausencia y el vacío que se sentirán en la mesa. Concédeles, oh Señor, el descanso eterno, y deja que la luz perpetua brille sobre ellos. Que descansen en paz. Y que las almas de los fieles difuntos por la misericordia de Dios, descansen en paz. Amén.

Al Servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

HOMILY ON THE 32ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 18:23:07 GMT

They are like angels for they are the children of God...

As we embrace the frigid temperature and welcome November as a month of communion between heaven and earth, mortals, and the immortals, the physical and the spiritual, the end of the liturgical year is around the corner (three weeks), we begin to ponder on the Last Things (Eschatology). I don’t blame you if you have never heard about this fancy term. We don’t pay much attention to it as we are heavily preoccupied with the present time though believe it or not, we are heading in that direction. When Jesus mentioned the phrase, Kingdom (Reign) of God and his intent on bringing us all there, he meant, the Eschaton. What happens after the soul separates the body? What happens to us after we die? Is death the end of it all? Or is there any glimpse of life beyond the painful and terrifying reality of death? Death of a loved one and close friend is a devastation. Death, afterlife, eternity and what happens thereafter is the most troublesome and fascinating thing in the world.

Where does the soul exactly go and travel? When the soul separates from the body, the (immortal) state of the soul continues its journey to the next life with God. Immediately after passing on to eternal life, all of us will have to face Particular Judgment based on our journey of life (from beginning to end). This kind of judgement is not the same as in the case of juridical (legal) process where the rule of law is the sole basis of judgement. Particular (individual) Judgement rather, is about the quality of our religious and spiritual journey of life and not so much on sin, punishment, and condemnation. Immediately upon death, in our encounter with the Triune God, we will be judged according to our interior renewal. As St. John of the Cross said, we will be judged on how much we loved or on our level of charity. After the individual judgement, the soul journeys to purgatory. Between death and resurrection, there is an extended period of time called intermediate state, the in-between. Also, this is not the same as final judgment which is reserved at the end of times on the second coming known as Parousia.

The first reading takes us to the second book of Maccabees 7 which presents the Maccabean martyrs giving us a preview of the afterlife. When he was near death, he said, "It is my choice to die at the hands of men with the hope God gives of being raised up by him; but for you, there will be no resurrection to life" (2 Macc. 7: 14). This is the Old Testament passage that provides a profound belief in the Resurrection of the dead which has been widespread. The Sadducees, a sect that didn’t believe in the resurrection brought up the story in the first reading as a test case and carried on to the gospel pericope. "Teacher, Moses wrote for us, If someone's brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother” (Luke 20: 28). Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be? Jesus responded, "The children of this age marry and remarry; but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage”. In the coming age, there is no marriage anymore as in the wedding vows, until death do us part. It’s a totally different scenario. In the next life, “They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise”. Jesus tells us that we will be like angels, spiritual, disembodied, and immortal beings. This passage rebuts the notion of reincarnation taught by other religions that after death, the deceased would assume a different identity as creature. This is irreconcilable with the foundational belief of Christianity, resurrection of the dead. Those in eternal life will be in full and complete communion with God. They are like children of God – children of the resurrection. He also added and clarified that Moses actually taught the resurrection of the dead, “That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called out 'Lord, 'the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive." Moses revealed that the dead are raised in the story of the Patriarchs – Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He is not God of the dead but of the living. God is infinitely rich in life. God brings and gives life. This means a higher level or form of existence where it is a complete and perfect communion with God such in the expression, basking in the beatific vision. There is no more pain and/or suffering, only joy and rejoicing in the company of our God surrounded by angels and saints in heaven. Amen.

HOMILY ON THE 31ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 02:47:09 GMT

"Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor and if I have exhorter anything from anyone, I shall repay it four times over" (Luke 19: 10).

The encounter of Jesus and Zacchaeus in Jericho (the oldest city in the world), an account found only in Luke, is one of the most popular and spectacular conversion stories. By way of introduction, as a chief tax collector/publican, he wasn’t very much liked because of the nature of his job and his assumed connivance and conspiracy with the powers that be to the detriment of his own people. Jesus was criticized for his association with a known public sinner. Because he was short in stature (as the name Zacchaeus denotes) and found it difficult to see as Jesus passed by, he climbed a sycamore tree to get even just a glimpse of him. He probably heard a lot about Jesus and so, he became curious which over time grew into an intense desire to meet him and enter a new chapter in life which is where conversion starts. And after the fact, his wish became a reality. Gone with the old life. In with the new and fresh beginnings with so many promises ahead, the joy and love brought by God. When Jesus caught sight of him, he said, Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house. And he came down quickly and received him with joy. This story spells out the power of divine encounter, meeting God halfway, showing tremendous efforts to see him face to face. We may ask, how did he arrive at this? Remember no one dared invite him in a weekend retreat. There was probably disappointment in his life. Something was still lacking that no one could fill. He looked forward to that encounter and when the opportunity came, there was no hesitation nor excuses only, be my guest. This applies to all of us that only in climbing that tree can we see and meet him face to face. This dramatic story highlights the never-ending divine search and patience for the sinner’s transformation.

The first reading from the book of Wisdom gives us direction for reflection as it is a great reminder about God’s lengthy and unwearying patience who urges people to conversion (Wis 11: 22-12:2). It may seem that he abandoned us already for not intervening in our critical affairs but that’s because he respects us even if we are faithless and unfaithful. He gently corrects and brings us back. The church in the modern world is marked by the revolution of gentleness and the demonstration of compassion. God always invites to conversion. He may warn us of our sinful state but if we ignore him, it’s he’ll wait until the perfect time arrives. Is God limited? Not at all. This is just who he is. At the deepest level of his being and nature is mercy. Conversion starts in a certain level of faith that makes and helps us realize that God has created us and will do everything to bring us back to him. Sin must be seen from the perspective of Gods mercy and forgiveness and desire for conversion and not justice and vengeance. Just like God, we are to wait patiently for sinners, admonish and reproach them gently as needed, speak to them of God’s mercy and teach them faith in the power of God. The Responsorial Psalm 145 presents a huge reminder that the Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in mercy, The Lord supports all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down” (vv. 8, 14).

The profound impact on his conversion immediately followed, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have exhorted anything from anyone, I shall repay it four times over”. Forget about the past. For him, his past didn’t matter at all after his encounter with Jesus. What is important is the present that leads to the future. What have you given up for God? And Jesus said, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and save what was lost. Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 102822

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 02:52:05 GMT

November as the month of all souls...

My dear Parishioners,

On Tuesday, November 1, the SOLEMNITY OF ALL SAINTS (a Holy Day of Obligation), we celebrate with great joy and gladness the communion of saints that is: the spiritual relationship between those of us living (Church militant) and the deceased, those who have passed on to eternal life either to Purgatory (Church suffering) or Heaven (Church triumphant). On this day, we honor both the canonized (those who have been officially declared in the sacred annals of the Church) and also, the countless unnamed religious people/individuals who gave their lives to God, including those we know personally whose lives of faith have been instrumental in our religious formation. The parade of saints, in which the Religious Education students dress in their favorite saints on Sunday, and Loretto School on Tuesday, is a joy to behold. It’s one of the loveliest and most delightful events in our parish communities.

On November 2, as we commemorate the Faithful departed on the FEAST OF ALL SOULS, we remember and honor our dearly beloved family members and friends by visiting their graves, praying for them, and talking to them as if they were still with us physically. We share stories, tell jokes, laugh, and shed tears amidst grief. Our souls are the channels and avenues to the spiritual (invisible) world. Those of us who have experienced death of a family member and close friend can very well attest to this. They are not deceased unless forgotten. This remembering (In Memoriam) is deeply expressive of our ongoing connection and communication with the departed ones. Burying the dead is a corporal work of mercy. We, the living have the obligation to pray for the souls of those in Purgatory, particularly those who have no one to pray for them this November. In fact, you may obtain a plenary indulgence on behalf of a deceased person, from November 1-8, by visiting a cemetery and reciting prayers for them. We can help reduce their time in Purgatory. You can also attend Mass, recite the Lord’s Prayer and Creed.

A Cemetery is a sacred place reserved for the burial of the faithful to welcome and receive the holy ones. Burial in the Cemetery is so important because it is the final stop/the final resting place here on earth where we can pay respects every now and then to our beloved ones. A cemetery stands in the between (temporary/waiting area and eternity). Perhaps, it is an eternal neighborhood, the place of rest where the dead will rise on the last day (final judgement). It is not recommended, (I should say, unbecoming of a Catholic) to throw and scatter the ashes like nothing against the will of the deceased. Those of us who know better should provide even an unsolicited catechesis as exceptionally charitable as we can. At the solemn internment, our bodies aren’t simply lowered to the ground in solidarity with our humble beginnings (in the case of cremation to dust), it’s about honoring the dead and hope for the future. None of us lives in the cemetery but we seek and hope that someday when our time comes, we will join our dearly beloved in the hallowed ground. Vigil, funeral and memorial including gravesite services are time-honored tradition of honoring the deceased. Calvary and Sacred Heart Cemeteries though not bearing the name Catholic, the way the tombstones and graves are decorated and adorned (statues and images of the Blessed Mother, angels, saints, etc) exudes Catholic beliefs and practices. Know that when we express condolences and sympathy, offer prayers and flowers, it’s about paying homage both for the soul and the body with respect, dignity and charity, in faith and hope of the resurrection.

In the Service of Christ the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Estimados feligreses,

El martes 1 de noviembre, SOLEMNIDAD DE TODOS LOS SANTOS (Día Santo de Obligación), celebramos con gran alegría y regocijo la comunión de los santos que es: la relación espiritual entre los que vivimos (Iglesia militante) y los difuntos, los que han pasado a la vida eterna ya sea al Purgatorio (Iglesia que sufre) o al Cielo (Iglesia triunfante). En este día, honramos tanto a los canonizados (aquellos que han sido declarados oficialmente en los anales sagrados de la Iglesia) como también, a las innumerables personas / individuos religiosos sin nombre que dieron sus vidas a Dios, incluidos aquellos que conocemos personalmente cuyas vidas de fe han sido fundamentales en nuestra formación religiosa. El desfile de santos es aquel donde los estudiantes de Educación Religiosa se vestirán con los atuendos de sus santos favoritos el domingo, y la Escuela Loreto el martes, es una alegría para la vista. Es uno de los eventos más hermosos y encantadores de nuestras comunidades parroquiales.

El 2 de noviembre, al conmemorar a los fieles difuntos en la FIESTA DE TODOS LOS DIFUNTOS, recordamos y honramos a nuestros queridos familiares y amigos visitando sus tumbas, orando por ellos y hablándoles como si todavía estuvieran con nosotros físicamente. Compartimos historias, contamos chistes, reímos y derramamos lágrimas en medio del dolor. Nuestras almas son los canales y avenidas hacia el mundo espiritual (invisible). Aquellos de nosotros que hemos experimentado la muerte de un miembro de la familia y un amigo cercano podemos muy bien dar fe de esto. No han fallecido a menos que se olviden. Este recuerdo (En Memoria) es una profunda expresión de nuestra continua conexión y comunicación con los difuntos. Enterrar a los muertos es una obra corporal de misericordia. Nosotros, los vivos, tenemos la obligación de orar por las almas de aquellos en el Purgatorio, particularmente aquellos que no tienen a nadie que ore por ellos este noviembre. De hecho, puede obtener una indulgencia plenaria en nombre de una persona fallecida, del 1 al 8 de noviembre, visitando un cementerio y recitando oraciones por ellos. Podemos ayudar a reducir su tiempo en el Purgatorio. También puede asistir a Misa, recitar el Padre Nuestro y el Credo.

Un cementerio es un lugar sagrado reservado para el entierro de los fieles para acoger y recibir a los santos. El entierro en el cementerio es tan importante porque es la parada final / el lugar de descanso final aquí en la tierra donde podemos presentar nuestros respetos de vez en cuando a nuestros seres queridos. Un cementerio se encuentra en medio (área temporal / de espera y eternidad). Tal vez, es una comunidad eterna, el lugar de descanso donde los muertos resucitarán en el último día (juicio final). No se recomienda, (debería decir, impropio de un católico) arrojar y esparcir las cenizas como nada contra la voluntad del difunto. Aquellos de nosotros que sabemos mejor debemos proporcionar incluso una catequesis no solicitada tan excepcionalmente caritativa como podamos. En el solemne entierro, nuestros cuerpos no son simplemente bajados al suelo en solidaridad con nuestros humildes comienzos (en el caso de la cremación al polvo), se trata de honrar a los muertos y la esperanza para el futuro. Ninguno de nosotros vive en el cementerio, pero buscamos y esperamos que algún día, cuando llegue nuestro momento, nos unamos a nuestro amado en tierra sagrada. La vigilia, el funeral y el memorial, incluidos los servicios funerarios, son una tradición consagrada de honrar al difunto. Los cementerios del Calvario y del Sagrado Corazón, aunque no llevan el nombre católico, la forma en que las lápidas y las tumbas están decoradas y adornadas (estatuas e imágenes de la Santísima Virgen, ángeles, santos, etc.) exudan creencias y prácticas católicas. Sepan que cuando expresamos condolencias y simpatía, ofrecemos oraciones y flores, se trata de rendir homenaje tanto al alma como al cuerpo con respeto, dignidad y caridad, en la fe y la esperanza de la resurrección.

Al Servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 102122

Sat, 22 Oct 2022 00:18:51 GMT

Reciting a rosary is a contemplation of the Christian mystery, a meditative prayer, a training in holiness, a compendium of the gospel (Rosarium Virginis Mariae).

Dear Parishioners,

After the Immaculate Conception Parish fiesta, we, now, look forward to St. Luke Parish fiesta on November 4-6, 2022. More than a fund-raising to help increase income and financial stability, parish festival is about being a community of faith. The planning, physical preparation, food served, sold and meals shared, entertainment provided by the performers, games, the coming together and spending time with each other should lead us to God and be a community in mutual love and respect. We initially scheduled this event in September but since there was another event in town on that weekend, we had to move it to a different date. And so, we ended up with the first weekend of November. Let us support each other.

No, I am not running for MID-TERMS ELECTIONS nor campaigning for and/or endorsing a candidate. We know very well the issues that affect our lives, families, and communities. Our inboxes and screens have been flooded with election materials. Many of you will probably disagree but as a religious (non-profit) organization, we (church) don’t side nor identify with any political party. The church is non-partisan. However, we promote the common good, the well-being and welfare of the people God has made his own. I mention this because if you are still undecided about the pressing socio-political issues on the ballot on election day, and need guidance from a religious perspective particularly, Catholic view, the Arizona Bishop’s conference shared an informative and inspiring reflection for us, religious voters (it's on YouTube scroll up, on top). Yes on 308 and Yes on 209.

As November draws near, the month devoted for the souls in purgatory, we will once again hold a Mass for the third year now in Calvary Cemetery on November 2, 2022, 11:00 am for our dearly beloved who have gone before us in faith. We still miss them even after decades of passing on to eternal life. They are forever in our hearts. While the cemetery is meant as a temporary place, it is an eternal neighborhood. Grieving is part of life. Death regardless of stage in life, is always tragic. Mourning is a long process that takes years even a lifetime. The church, through religious rituals, offers consolation and support both for the living and deceased.

2022 ANNUAL RETREAT. Next week, October 24-28, 2022, I will be out for a five-day annual retreat.

OCTOBER AS MONTH OF THE HOLY ROSARY. Reciting a rosary is a contemplation of the Christian mystery, a meditative prayer, a training in holiness, a compendium of the gospel (Rosarium Virginis Mariae).

In the service of Christ, the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Estimados feligreses,

Después de la fiesta de la Parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción, ahora, esperamos con ansias la fiesta de la Parroquia de San Lucas del 4 al 6 de Noviembre, 2022. Más que recaudar fondos para ayudar a aumentar los ingresos y la estabilidad financiera, el festival parroquial se trata de ser una comunidad de fe. La planificación, la preparación física, la variedad de comida que se cocina para deleitarnos, el entretenimiento proporcionado por los artistas, los juegos, la reunión y el pasar tiempo unos con otros, deben llevarnos a Dios y ser una comunidad en amor y respeto mutuo. Inicialmente programamos este evento en septiembre, pero como había otro evento en la ciudad ese fin de semana, tuvimos que moverlo a una fecha diferente. Y así, terminamos con el primer fin de semana de noviembre. Apoyémonos mutuamente.

No, no me postulo para las ELECCIONES INTERMEDIAS ni estoy haciendo campaña y/o respaldando a un candidato. Conocemos muy bien los problemas que afectan nuestras vidas, familias y comunidades. Nuestros buzones de entrada y pantallas han sido inundados con materiales electorales. Muchos de ustedes probablemente no estarán de acuerdo, pero como organización religiosa (sin fines de lucro), nosotros (Iglesia) no nos ponemos del lado ni nos identificamos con ningún partido político. La Iglesia no es partidista. Sin embargo, promovemos el bien común, y el bienestar de las personas que Dios ha hecho suyas. Menciono esto porque si todavía está indeciso sobre los problemas sociopolíticos apremiantes en la boleta electoral el día de las elecciones, y necesita orientación desde una perspectiva religiosa en particular, desde el punto de vista católico, la conferencia del obispo de Arizona compartió una reflexión inspiradora para nosotros, los votantes religiosos. Sí en 308 y Sí en 209.

A medida que se acerca noviembre, el mes dedicado a las Almas del Purgatorio, celebraremos una vez más una Misa en el Cementerio del Calvario el día 2 de noviembre 2022, a las 11:00 am, este seria ya nuestro tercer año, para nuestros seres queridos que nos han precedido en la fe. Todavía los extrañamos incluso después de décadas de haber pasado a la vida eterna. Están para siempre en nuestros corazones. Si bien el cementerio esta hecho como un lugar temporal, es una vecindad eterna. El duelo es un proceso largo que lleva años, incluso toda la vida. La Iglesia, a través de rituales religiosos, ofrece consuelo y apoyo a los que han perdido un ser querido y oramos por nuestros difuntos.

RETIRO ANUAL 2022. La próxima semana, del 24 al 28 de octubre de 2022, estaré fuera para un retiro anual de cinco días.

OCTUBRE COMO MES DEL SANTO ROSARIO. Rezar un rosario es una contemplación del misterio cristiano, una oración para meditar, un entrenamiento en la santidad, un compendio del evangelio (Rosarium Virginis Mariae).

Al Servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

HOMILY ON THE 30TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C2022

Sat, 22 Oct 2022 00:02:40 GMT

I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 18: 14).

The parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector tells us about our attitude before God in prayer. This is again a comparison and certainly, a contrast between these two people representing a group and rightfully so. The first is that of righteous people for strictly observing the law which is highly commendable but convinced of their own righteousness and despise everyone else (Luke 18: 9) while the other, of public sinners disliked, if not, hated by all. Both went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee’s prayer of thanksgiving was enjoyable, reverent, entertaining, lengthy and detailed. It was lovely until such point. He said, “O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity – greedy, dishonest, adulterous – or even like this tax collector” (Luke 18: 11-12). Let’s do the Catholic version. Lord, you know how much I love you. I never miss Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation. I try, occasionally, to go to weekday Masses but my busy schedule doesn't permit. The pastor knows about it. He checks attendance every Sunday. He knows where I'm permanently seated. I follow the church’s teaching not only on faith and morals but all by the letter of the law. I don't fool or mess around with the law. I fast and abstain on Fridays even if it’s not required and observe other religious rituals beyond what is expected of me. I generously volunteer my time and talent as needed. I give a significant portion of my income to the church more than 10% in case you want to know. This is a dramatic and exceptional achievement. I call this individual a perfect parishioner. I don’t know anyone better than him. This is the same exact individual you want to have in the pew and volunteer list.

Now, let's turn to the Tax Collector. When he entered the temple courts, he stood off and remained at a distance in a humble manner. With his head bowed in shame, he was too embarrassed to even raise his eyes to heaven. He beat his breast and recite the Confiteor even outside Mass, mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa, and added “O God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18: 13). He acknowledged and recognized very well his sinfulness and asked forgiveness. He is willing to do everything to make reparations in atonement and expiation for his sins. He deserved this and he doesn't mind. The responsorial psalm says, “The Lord hears the cry of the poor” (Psalm 34). The first reading tells us, “The Lord is a God of justice…though not unduly partial toward the weak, yet he hears the cry of the oppressed” (Sirach 35: 12-13). The author continues, “The one who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens. The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds, judges justly and affirms the right, and the Lord will not delay” (Sirach 35: 16-18).

The obvious observation in the supposedly prayer of Thanksgiving of the Pharisee is that there is a preponderance of the word “I” and too much focus on the self (acclamation and aggrandizement). Many, if not all of us struggle with this and can relate to the Pharisee. He became very prideful. He doesn’t need to broadcast his accomplishments and blow his horn before God. God knows what he did. Earlier, we thought this was a perfect prayer but after looking closely, it missed the most critical part of a prayer. Humility before God is a mark of a genuine prayer. He didn't realize his own misery and unrepentant of his mistakes/sins. The problem lies in the following words, I thank you, O God that I am not like other people, godless who have no sense of the holy and reprobates who have no standard of morality. This fellow beside me is a traitor, extortionist, and exploiter.

Jesus responds, “I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 18: 14). This is an extremely shocking scenario as Jesus declared the Tax Collector/Publican (despised by all) justified which meant, he was more righteous than the religiously observant and practicing fellow. Oh no! ugh. Jesus wants to strike a crucial dimension in faith and prayer. Believe it or not, all of us practicing Catholics have a small percentage (or a dose) of a Pharisaic tendency called Pharisaism, a self-righteous attitude, that Jesus had trouble with the separated ones all the time. Make no mistake about it, they are the most amazing people the world has ever known but the danger which we must be careful is that a strict adherence to the law in general can lead to self-righteousness. This is where Christianity strikes deep and differs from others. The penitential rite is part of the introductory part of the Mass to stress the need for forgiveness among the gathered assembly. Thus, Jesus is not talking to them but to us. I am so proud of myself that I am not like that other person whose life is a question mark. Our religious practices, rituals, and sacrifices must lead us to love of neighbor and not contempt over them. Let us thank God that we are not like those self- righteous people. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 101922

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 04:22:57 GMT

"Only Luke was with me" (2 Timothy 4: 14).

Since we celebrated the feast day of St. Luke on Tuesday, October 18, patron saint of those in medical profession and artists, it's fitting to highlight his significance. Although the historical mark outside the church doesn't indicate the exact day of the church's dedication only October 1971, while it's a work in progress, for the time being, let's presume it was on the 18th. One of the most moving and incredible testimonies about Luke is the first reading today from the second letter of Paul to Timothy. After being abandoned by all, Paul writes to Timothy, Only Luke was with me (2 Tim. 4: 11). Luke is the only one with me . When Paul was imprisoned in Rome, Luke remained at his side . This is so touching because he mentioned nothing about Paul's words in his voluminous writings. It's one thing to write about yourself in the case of, while everyone else left Paul behind, I was the only one who stayed and gave him company. It's music to the ears when someone like Paul appreciated him for accompanying him during his last difficult days. Luke's companionship should continue to inspire us parishioners of our leaning/inclination/passion/outreach for the abandoned, troubled, and deserted.

One of the many things I learned in America is to check the forecast. I haven't missed a day since my arrival. I am certain we share the same common human experience and habit of checking the weather before going to bed, after getting up and before leaving the house. I won’t go out of the rectory without knowing the forecast even on summer. Today, you will see lots of sunshine with clear skies with a high of 80 and a low of 51. In the fall, I'm only worried about the low. As the weather cools down and will only get colder with occasional shifting temperature and weather conditions, many of us have always parted ways with t-shirts, shorts and flip-flops and pulled our sweaters and jackets possibly, head gear and gloves from storage. I did and I'm ready. Our dress may not always be church appropriate but always follows the season and temperature, of course. Although I don’t think much about my clothing/what to wear as I have the same uniform and loving it, there’s a slight decision to be made whether this or that. Is that chronos or kairos as mentioned in the gospel on Friday, October 21?

I looked forward to the memorial of St. Ignatius of Antioch, nicknamed Theophorus or God-bearer on Monday, October 17. He received the faith fresh from the Apostles’ mouth and life. His preserved writings/exhortations to the seven churches exude the freshness of the faith. His testimony is as pure and undiluted as ever. Since he was a friend of Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna, a disciple of St. John, he also became a disciple of the beloved disciple. No wonder his theology is closely associated with the Johannine tradition. He was a bishop of Antioch where the disciples were first called Christians (Acts 11: 26). He admonished his followers on the way to Rome, “Hold fast to the tradition of the apostles”. The gospel proclaimed reflects his faith, “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat but if it dies, it produces much fruit” (Jn 12: 24-26). He was God’s wheat that fell to the ground (ushered by the Roman Soldiers). He was the first to attribute the adjective “catholic” or universal to the church whereby he claimed, Wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church.

HOMILY ON THE 29TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 17:27:04 GMT

"But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?" (Luke 18: 8).

Whether we struggle with prayer or not, this Sunday, Jesus instructs us about “the necessity of prayer without becoming weary” through the unlikely parable of the cruel judge and the importunate widow’s cry for justice. Between the powerful figure of the unjust judge and the powerless woman at the bottom of the social scale represented by the widow is a showdown of the existing power structure and a typical reversal of Luke’s gospel. The disparity is obvious. Widows are one of the most vulnerable persons as they are victims of exhortation and oppression. They have no influence at all not that they are weak, but their strength is a threat to society. On another hand, the judge has no fear of God and without conscience. He’s godless and cares nothing about other people’s negative comments and judgments about him and people’s views about him. He has a very bad reputation, repulsive and probably willing to accept bribe. He had no sense of absolute justice which was odd and moral decency. The widow, stuck in a hopeless scenario, happened to be very annoying and relentlessly asked him “to give her a just decision against (male) her adversary”. The fact that this poor widow had the courage to go directly to him (without offering any bribe) and put pressure on his decision in a facility with heightened security speaks volumes about prayer. This widow is quite different from all the rest. The judge probably turned her request down many times, but the helpless widow kept bothering him and begged him for a long time. She was non- stop. Faced with an existential crisis, she had two choices, give up or fight for her life. Either way, her chances were very slim. She picked the latter and went ballistic. Only in persistence does one prevail.

Now comes the monologue of the judge, a crucial part of this brief and short story devoid of details, which demands our close attention. He said, “While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, because this widow keeps bothering me, I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike me” (Luke 18: 4-5). He began to talk to himself and eventually decided in favor of the unrelenting widow. He's as human as we are after all. He bent. He (partially) changed his mind by giving her a just decision only because of her persistence and not him changing his entire character and behavior. He granted her wish only because he wanted to avoid her out of fear that one day, she would come to strike him in public which would have been rather embarrassing. This is a serious story about the necessity of prayer, but I find the flow humorous. The original hearers would have laughed so hard in the unusual turn of events. It’s ridiculous that a helpless widow changed the terrible judge’s mind and decision. The nagging widow got into the man's nerves because of her constant pressure. I never thought that this judge would budge for whatever reason. For her part, she didn’t stop until she got what she wanted. She kept coming back, gave him so much trouble and finally received justice. He gave way because of her pleading and begging. He had enough. He couldn't take it anymore. He was afraid that the situation and threat could end up in a very ugly scene in public like getting punched in the face.

The Lord said, “Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily” (Luke 18: 6-8). With all the unexpected twists and turns surrounding the highly entertainment parable, this is a lesson on the necessity of sincere, patient, earnest, and persistent prayer if in case we gave up due to delayed response and long wait in stony silence. If this wicked judge finally rendered her justice only because of her unrelenting pressure, how much more will God do to help us (from the lesser to the greater), his own especially those who have been deprived of rights and distressed if they cry for help? If you want something bad provided it is for the well-being and common good, why not ask, trust, knock, pound the door and hurl your petitions like the widow. God will speedily grant the prayers of the saints. On our part, since we are limited in space and time and prefer as always divine response now, asap, quickly and without delay, things will eventually fall into place. If prayer is the avenue of communication between us and God, then persistence in prayer draws us closer to God. As always, our model of prayer is Jesus’ own example. Lastly, the last verse “But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18: 8), invites us to examine our prayer life if it is active and persistent. Amen.

PASTOR'S WEEKLY MESSAGE 101622

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 17:11:47 GMT

Happiness is the absolute sign of success.

Dear Parishioners,

THANK YOU FIESTA DEL SOL! I am extremely pleased with the turn- out of the fiesta. It went very well. All the sacrifices paid off. It was worth it. I don’t know about you, but I enjoyed every moment of it even the drizzle. Although the weather didn’t cooperate, the forecast worried so many of us, the enjoyment of the company far surpassed our anxieties and exceeded our expectations. We needed rain but not during the fiesta. So, I prayed all the while to momentarily spare the fiesta grounds and the entire church premises from heavy downpour. God heard our prayers. He was there with us. Deep in our soul is the presence of God. Sometimes, you just have to accept surprises and live with what nature brings. The benefits outweighed the risks. We needed the festival not so much for money (not that we don’t need money) but for being Church. It was a friendly atmosphere, the climate so relaxing. The crowd was electric especially the kids who stole the show. There was great participation and camaraderie. As the famous adage, Happiness is the absolute sign of success. And that’s exactly how it turned out. I loved every bit of it. The food was awesome and overflowing except towards the end when we ran out of carne asada, chili burrito, hamburger, tacos, frutas, menudo, tamales and did I miss anything? It was lovely watching the graceful entertainers/performers. It was such a joy meeting parishioners I haven’t seen since the start of the pandemic. Over- all, the festival was a much-needed time to go out after two years of cancellation. Looking forward to the next festival. THANK GOD FOR THE FIESTA DEL SOL!

THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT! even after years of doing the same thing, you never get tired of offering services. Thank you for spending your money, and sharing your time and talent to the parish. “Not to us, Lord. Not to us but to your name give glory because of mercy and faithfulness” (Psalm 115: 1). I cannot thank you enough. Without you (volunteers), it’s almost imposible to coordinate this festival. There will be a volunteer appreciation dinner on October 19, Wednesday, 6pm-7pm, CYC Hall. THANK YOU FOR THE LOVE!

On Tuesday, October 18, we will celebrate the Feast of St. Luke, the Evangelist . He was the author of the two- volume book: gospel of Luke (YEAR C) and the Acts of the Apostles (proclaimed on Easter time). St. Luke wrote many of the parables of Jesus painted in museums and galleries such as the good Samaritan, the prodigal son, the rich man, and the poor man, the pharisee and the tax collector, etc.

Since October is the Month of the Rosary and many of you have deep personal devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the rosary is a powerful source of inner healing and strength. The rosary draws us closer to the mysteries of our faith.

As we prepare for November as the month of all Souls along with the feast of all Saints and All Souls, please check the schedule of liturgical activities.

In the service of Christ, the Lord,

Fr. Jojo

Estimados feligreses,

¡GRACIAS FIESTA DEL SOL! Estoy muy contento con la participación de las fiestas. Salió muy bien. Todos los sacrificios dieron sus frutos. ¡Valió la pena! No sé ustedes, pero disfruté cada momento, incluso la llovizna. Aunque el clima no cooperó, el pronóstico nos preocupó a muchos de nosotros, el disfrute de la compañía superó con creces nuestras ansiedades y superó nuestras expectativas. Necesitábamos lluvia, pero no durante la fiesta. Por lo tanto, oré todo el tiempo para salvar momentáneamente los terrenos de la fiesta y todas las instalaciones de la iglesia de un fuerte aguacero. Dios escuchó nuestras oraciones. Él estaba allí con nosotros. En lo profundo de nuestras almas está la presencia de Dios. A veces, solo debes aceptar sorpresas y vivir con lo que trae la naturaleza. Los beneficios superaron los riesgos. Necesitábamos el festival no tanto por el dinero (no es que no lo necesitemos)), sino por ser Iglesia. Era un ambiente agradable, el clima tan relajante. La multitud era electrizante, especialmente los niños que se robaron el espectáculo. Hubo una gran participación y camaradería. Hay un famoso adagio: "La felicidad es el signo absoluto del éxito. "Y así es exactamente como resultó. Me encantó cada pedacito de eso. La comida era impresionante y desbordante, excepto hacia el final cuando salimos corriendo de carne asada, chili burrito, hamburgesa, tacos, frutas, menudo, tamales, etcetera. Fue encantador ver a los elegantes artistas. Fue una alegría conocer a feligreses que no he visto desde el comienzo de la pandemia. En general, el festival fue un momento muy necesario para salir después de dos años de cancelación. Esperando con ansias el próximo festival. ¡GRACIAS A DIOS POR LA FIESTA DEL SOL!

¡GRACIAS VOLUNTARIOS POR SU APOYO Y COMPROMISO! incluso después de años de hacer lo mismo, nunca te cansas de ofrecer servicios. Gracias por gastar su dinero y compartir tu tiempo y talento para la parroquia. "A nosotros no, Señor. No a nosotros, sino a tu nombre, da gloria por misericordia y fidelidad" (Salmo 115:1). No puedo agradecerles lo suficiente. Sin ustedes (voluntarios), es casi imposible coordinar este festival. Habrá una cena de agradecimiento a los voluntarios el miércoles 19, de octubre de 6 p.m. a 7 p.m., en el salón de CYC. ¡GRACIAS POR SU AMOR!

En martes 18 de octubre celebraremos la Fiesta de San Lucas, el Evangelista. Fue el autor del libro de dos volúmenes: Evangelio de San Lucas (AÑO C) y los Hechos de los Apóstoles (proclamados en el tiempo de Pascua). San Lucas escribió muchas de las parábolas de Jesús pintadas en museos y galerías como el buen samaritano, el Hijo Prodigo, el hombre rico y el hombre pobre, el Fariseo y el recaudador de impuestos, etc.

Dado que octubre es el Mes del Rosario y muchos de ustedes tienen una profunda devoción personal a la Santísima Virgen María, el rosario es una poderosa fuente de sanación interior y fortaleza. El rosario nos acerca a los misterios de nuestra fe.

Mientras nos preparamos para noviembre como el mes DE TODOS LOS SANTOS junto con la fiesta de los FIELES DIFUNTOS, por favor revise el horario de actividades litúrgicas.

Al Servicio de Cristo el Señor,

Fr. Jojo

HOMILY ON THE 28TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C2022

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 22:20:20 GMT

"Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?" (Luke 17: 17-18)

The story of the cleansing of the ten lepers which presents the healing-miracle, is exclusive only to the gospel of Luke. It doesn’t appear in other gospels, it has a parallel in the story of Naaman in the first reading in the second book of kings 5: 14-17 who returned to the man of God and acknowledged the Lord, though. This intriguing story shows us miraculous healing doesn’t necessarily equate and result to or better yet, there’s a disconnect between Christian experience of salvation and conversion. The cleansing of the Ten Lepers is a response to the question and confusion that has troubled the ancient church. The story presupposes a belief in the difference between the world of man and divine world and that humanity is constantly faced and inflicted by evil and demonic forces. They seem to be in full control causing human ills and problems. Mankind is besieged by terror, poverty, hunger, sickness, disease, and catastrophes. Suffering, despair, loneliness, and the likes assault us. Even our past demonized us. When we are faced with terrible situations, we, like the lepers, seek for miracles, healing, and divine intervention whose powers can overcome the other forces and in turn, control us. From time to time and only in rare cases, does God interact and intervene in human affairs in a world constantly threatened by evil forces. These are powers which we are unable to defend and free ourselves. We can predict and detect a forthcoming natural calamity, but we can’t avoid it. Whether it’s a result of climate change belongs to a separate discussion. There is a constant threat to life wherever you live or regardless of your location even underground. A toxic environment perverts and dehumanizes us. Only a recognition of divine intervention can there be a change in environment and control by divine power and reversal take place. Only then can a human existence in the truest sense of the word will appear, a world purified and exorcised.

The gospel story begins with Jesus entering a village. The exact place remains vague. The lepers saw Jesus from a far and remained at a distance, a long way off. The encounter between Jesus and ten lepers was not in proximity. They seem to know Jesus by turning to him and calling him in prayer, “Jesus, master, have mercy on us” (v. 13). To be healed of their physical ailment that is, leprosy - the worst, the most terrible, dreadful disease at that time was their only wish. Jesus saw them and dismissed them with a command, “Go, show yourselves to the priests!” (v. 14). It seems that the healing occurs on the way to the (Jewish) priests. They didn’t have faith but only confidence in Jesus that he would be able to carry out the miracle.

After the miraculous healing comes the surprising and puzzling part, that is, the return of only one leper. The other nine experienced the same healing but probably, for them, being healed was only superficial even after experiencing the healing of a lifetime, the most dramatic and transformative moment of their lives. For them, it was nothing more than a lucky coincidence. There was nothing beyond being cured even if it was biggest thing that happened to them. They could not go anything further than that. They just didn’t see anything deeper whatsoever on what happened to their lives. They failed to see anything beyond the physical that is, to give glory to God. This should have been automatic or the easiest thing. It happens all the time, though. Only one leper saw something extraordinary. He fully understood what really happened. For the Samaritan, it was the biggest thing in his life. For him, to be healed also means being saved. There was something more than merely physical healing. Divine salvation was at hand. The return symbolized his conversion to Christianity, a disciple of Jesus. I probably can shift our attention to the other nine which at some point, demands some thought but the flow of the story per the master narrator, in a positive sense, takes us to the unlikely and unexpected part of the scenario that is, the one who returned and praised God by an act of prostration before Jesus and thanksgiving. He was a grateful Samaritan. He was someone not expected to do such a thing. This is what happens after conversion to Christianity and becoming a disciple of Jesus. Although we don’t have details as to his conversion, undoubtedly, the miraculous healing played a significant part. We can assume that the healing was not enough to say the reason for his conversion because the other nine experienced the same exact thing. The profound difference is that the Samaritan saw something different a life-changing event, if you will, after healing. Our observation tells us that not even the encounter with Jesus was enough for conversion. So, the question remains, why only one came back? And what was so surprising is that it was a Samaritan which made the story even more interesting. Jesus’ power to heal doesn’t need to be very formal. It can happen from a distance. Unlike in other instances, he didn’t say anything to cause healing but only, “Your faith has saved you” (v. 19).

Let us join Jesus in his astonishing response in the form of three questions: were not ten people healed? Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? the nine others where are they? (v. 17) Were none found to return and give glory to God except this foreigner? (v. 18). Could none be found to come back and give praise to God except this foreigner? He obviously loved the return of the one but also of the other nine. Conversion is the change of attitude. It is the seeing that mattered most more than the healing. Seeing meant that he understood what happened to him. Only one experienced a miracle as it really is, that is, miracle is divine salvation. Jesus was the mediator between healing miracle and salvation and conversion. Amen.

HOMILY ON THE 27TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 00:12:22 GMT

"We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do" (Luke 17: 10).

The parable of the unprofitable servants is an extremely one-side approach to discipleship. This story of the useless slaves is by far, one of the most difficult, if not the most troubling, parables of Jesus as it appears it doesn’t have a direct correlation with modern thoughts and practices. Unless we dig deeper into the slave-master relationship, we won’t be able to get into the heart of the matter. There are some parallels but not entirely the same. As the story goes, the slave comes home from the field all day from plowing and tending the livestock. After a day’s work, he must have been tired, sweaty, weary, and hungry. Since he came home direct from work, he probably lived in the master’s house. The gospel could have been designed like a simple narration but no, the dialogue comes to us in three questions which will take some time to dissect its intricacies. First, “will the master say, come here at once and take your place at the table?” The answer is, No . Poor slave, the master didn’t invite him to go immediately to the dinner table and dine with him. Second, would you not rather say to him, “Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink?” The answer is, Yes . The master would ask the servant to make him dinner first and afterwards, he may follow accordingly. Third, “do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded?” The answer is, No . And worse, the master was not even grateful to the slave for everything he has done for him. Working for God is a thankless job.

The slave is entirely dependent on his master and subject to him in all things. He has absolutely no control over his life. The master owns him. He doesn’t have freedom and right. He does what his owner asks him to do. He doesn’t talk back nor argue. He doesn’t get paid because his stay at his master’s house is free board and lodging. Since to live even momentarily at this master’s house is already a privilege, he doesn’t expect any thank you at all. If we apply this to our relationship with God, it will sound this way. As believers, we are totally dependent on God. As creatures, we are subject to God in every way. We submit and surrender our will to him. We don’t even aspire for accolades. We don’t vie for attention. We don’t seek recognition. If we long and yearn for something, it's nothing but deeper communion and faith. That’s, why, in the first part of the narrative, the disciples asked the Lord, increase our faith which we all do especially during challenging and uncertain times. Any doze of faith is appreciated. Jesus replied, “even if you have the faith of the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mulberry tree, be uprooted and planted in the sea, and it would obey you” (Luke 17: 5). Faith even the size of a small seed can do the impossible.

One of the most perplexing questions, if not the most in the moral life of the church is the freedom of conscience. This topic lies at the center of Catholic conversation and debate. Does our faith have a choice? Of course, we do but only after a process of serious discernment led by the Catholic Social Teaching. We have freedom of conscience, but the criterion is the objective moral norm learned in Catechism and elsewhere. Hopefully, it will shift from mere action to the person itself. Our opinion is formed through the position of the church on faith and moral issues. “We are worthless servants; we have done only what we ought to have done” (Luke 17: 10). In other words, to serve God and the church is a humbling experience. We work for God. We cannot boast in the presence of God. We must always remember that regardless of the load of work and level of authority entrusted to us, we are servants of the Lord. One of the titles of the Holy Father - the most glorious and prestigious on the planet, is servant of the servants of God. And so, we join in chorus, “We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we have been commanded to do” (Luke 17: 10) . Whatever we do for God will always be the absolute minimum and/or the least required. We may not have the absolute freedom and may even feel unwanted, impoverished, worthless, and useless, name it even after forgiving seventy times seven times and counting, volunteering in the parish for almost half our lives, donating and giving to church most of our income even renouncing our possessions (and not even a thank you, really?), we are and will always be a blessing to our parish community. Amen.

HOMILY ON THE 26TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C2022

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 23:35:31 GMT

"Even if someone came back from the dead, he would not listen" (Luke 16: 31).

The parable of the Rich Man and Poor Man once again presents the dramatic reversal of fortunes in the next life. It says that the one who enjoyed “good things” in life will be tormented while the one who suffered much will experience consolation. Let me place a caveat as the Rich Man represents a group of people who have become totally indifferent and without any regard to the needs of humanity. I don’t have the exact numbers, but it is often said that the world’s wealth is owned by the 1%. Obviously, there's a huge difference between someone prosperous who knows how to channel his/her resources to the needy. The gospel is a stark reminder of the dangers of wealth and that the callousness over the plight of the poor and needy has eternal consequences.

The story is the contrast between the Rich Man who feasted extravagantly, dressed in (costly) purple garments (by the way, only the rich and famous could afford purple cloth…even the word costly should not be mentioned). I suppose even the Rich Man’s inner garment is made from the finest linen available in the market and nothing but the best. He dined sumptuously daily with at least 12 course meal and not occasionally. His stomach is always full and never goes hungry. His appearance is impeccably bleached dazzling and shining splendor. On meetings, he is fashionably late and loves grand entrances. For him, there is no such thing as simple and cheap stuff. He goes with anything fancy. He never runs out of supply in the pantry. The reason why he didn’t see the poor man lying outside his gate was because he had multiple entrances and his gate, a fortress. His only priority is his own self-care and nothing else. Whether the accumulation of money and the delight of entertainment was a result of hard work or inheritance, it doesn't matter. He was convinced what he did was just and right. This description is no exaggeration at all. By the way, no one in the church attending Mass fits either of the two characters in the story. He may have seen Lazarus outside his gate but didn’t care. His poverty was his own choice. The first reading from the book of Amos 6: 4-7 tells us of an expensive dinner which looked like a never-ending celebration. Woe to the wealthy upper class! Woe to the one percent who owns half of the world's wealth. Woe to the complacent in Zion! Woe to the self-indulgent leading carefree lives! Who to those “lying upon beds of ivory, stretched comfortably on their couches, eating lambs taken from the flock, and calves from the stall” . Meanwhile, the Poor Man whose name is Lazarus (not the Lazarus whom Jesus raised from the dead whose family appeared well-off) in Greek, Eleazar in Hebrew, God has helped/God helps has no garment at all. He is impoverished and trapped in the cycle of poverty. He lays outside the Rich Man’s door starving to death. His body covered with sores licked by dogs. He didn’t mind eating scraps, but the Rich Man didn’t even dare give/offer him anything let the leftovers. Lazarus didn't ask for a room in the mansion nor the least expensive car in his garage not even a place in the dinner table but only the scraps left on the floor. In other words, the waste that would have been thrown in the garbage. That's all. I learned that leaving the scraps on the floor that fell from the table was part of the practice of a number of wealthy folks in the Mediterranean culture as depicted in mosaics. The Rich Man was not only rich and extravagant, but also, hard-hearted, or heartless. His soul left his body even if he was still alive sort of, walking dead. Because of the comfort money gives, he became insensitive to the moral demands of faith that is, charity. He’s indifferent to the misery of the poor. What this scenario portrays is the callousness of the Rich Man. He could have done something or could have changed people’s lives and transformed society for the better but chose not to. He just didn't care at all which was so unfortunate.

And so, both died. This is where the great reversal of fortunes enters in. When Lazarus died, he was carried by angels in the bosom (place) of Abraham and with Abraham. He became an honored guest at the heavenly banquet. The Rich Man sadly was driven to the netherworld, (Hades or Sheol). He didn't expect he would end there. His torments were the consequences of his uncharitable actions. He enjoyed all the good things in life and now, suffers eternal pain. The Rich Man is punished while the Poor Man is rewarded. The most unfortunate thing was that, if only he had fed the poor man who didn’t mind even eating the scraps from the table, he could have avoided and saved his fate. Worse, while he was there, he had the guts to ask Lazarus to give him a drop of water. It was too late. His case was irreversible. He’s stuck in a hopeless scenario. Not even Abraham could do anything. He had a chance. He lost it for failing to listen to the prophets. “Even if someone came back from the dead, he would not listen” (16: 31). Let me end by the prayer of commendation often recited at funerals, “May the angels lead you towards paradise. May the choir of angels receive you and with Lazarus, who once was poor, may you have eternal rest”.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 092122

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 19:01:43 GMT

Jesus said, follow me...

Welcome to Autumn! - the most beautiful season of the year. It’s the time to see and enjoy the spectacular jaw-dropping view of the brilliant leaves changing into red, orange, yellow colors of fall foliage and even jump into the fallen leaves. There is nothing like Autumn. Fall is about letting go. In the new few weeks, many of us will spend much time leaf viewing, commune, and contemplate with sacred nature. Let us put off for a moment our gadgets and devices and appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of nature- the season of creation. Although we don't enjoy the full extent of fall foliage like Sedona, we do whatever we can. I'll post some photos at the height of my fall version in the patio. Promise.

Last Sunday, September 18, we started our religious education program. We'll get the ball rolling. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION is about the formation of conscience which involves community participation. Douglas-Pirtleville is one of the best places in the world to raise a child in the faith. It is a superbly religious town. Catholicism is deeply imbedded in us. We breathe in and breathe out Catholicism. Everywhere you go you see signs and symbols of Christianity. Wherever you turn, you see the face of God. The beauty of nature mirrors God’s love. Although we need curriculum to follow, faith is not something you learn per se in books or in the four corners of a classroom/hall. Classroom discussion/Catechesis is entering into the mystery of Divine life. Religious education starts in the womb, to the tomb and beyond for all eternity. Religious upbringing begins at home, in the family (domestic church). The adult members of the family or all members of the household for that matter must take the lead and do everything in their capacity to provide an atmosphere in which Christian values of kindness and goodness, mercy and forgiveness and the virtues of faith, hope and loved are lived. These are best learned by example. Our parish program is grounded on two aspects: study and liturgy. These are inseparable. They are two sides of a coin. You cannot go without the other. Where your body is, there is your soul.

Amid the political circus on migration, Proverbs 3, the first reading on Monday, September 19 tells us, "Say not to your neighbor, "Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give," Wish no evil to your neighbor, against one who does you no harm and lives at peace. Don't envy the lawless man and choose none of his ways. Don't go with the ways of the crooked. Don't envy those who accumulated wealth through dishonest means. On Tuesday, September 20, we celebrated the memorial of the Korean Martyrs. Proverbs 21: 1-6, 10-13 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. He who shuts his ear to the cry of the poor will himself also call and not be heard. They who don't hear the poor will not be heard when they cry out. Character of the wicked is formed by choices made. It is said, there is no simple Hebrew word for obey. The nearest word is to hear which means if one truly hears, one will comply and act accordingly as in the words, Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God (Deut 6:4). The true family of Jesus are those who listen to the Word and follow through in their lives. Listening and obeying creates a profound and permanent bond with God and others.

On the Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, Wednesday, September 21, we are reminded about his background as a tax collector, aka public sinner because of the nature of his job collecting money from his own people to remit to the outsider. Because he worked for the IRS, he wasn't very much liked people thought he conspired with the Roman Authorities and betrayed his own people. The symbol of the Evangelist is the Son of Man stressing the human origins of Jesus as in the opening verse... "The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham" (Mt. 1:1). This is the gospel for the Jews written for Christians of Jewish Origins. His theme was, Jesus as the Messiah who fulfills the promise of OT. When we were in Rome in April 2022, I requested the tour guide to take us to Caravaggio's painting of the calling of Matthew, the inspiration of Matthew and his martyrdom in the church of St. Louis of France, Rome. In the little corner, I couldn't take my eyes off the absolutely stunning work of art with the contrast of a cloud of darkness and only light, the light of Christ. Caravaggio painted the calling of St. Matthew, the tax collector in the table counting money with his assistants depicting the moment Jesus called him pointing his right hand to him like, I want you! Levi (Matthew’s former name), looked stunned, in shock and in utter disbelief gestured with his left hand as if saying, who me? I don't want to be presumptuous but if it's really me, I'm in. You got it. It turned out he wrote one of the gospels, the first book of the NT.

This Sunday, September 25, is PRIESTHOOD SUNDAY . The English word ‘priest’ is an Anglo-Saxon contraction of the Latin presbyter, derived from the Greek, presbyteros - elder. Notice that the word hiereus or priest (whose job is solely for temple sacrifices) was not used. Overtime, Presbyteros was designated to refer to both elder (minister of the New Covenant) and the offering of sacrifices. Priesthood Sunday is a special time to honor the role of priests in the life of the church. I am putting this together not because I seek attention. This piece is for educational purposes only. OT priesthood was assigned to the tribe of Levi. That means, it’s hereditary and its role is to offer sacrifice for the people in atonement of their sins. In contrast, the priesthood of Christ was the once and for all self-sacrifice on the cross. God didn’t spare his son. Christ’s priesthood is the renewal and fulfillment of priesthood. Catholic Priesthood gets its identity from the priesthood of Jesus Christ which transcended Levitical priesthood. Jesus ordained the apostles as priests on the last supper with the words, “Do this in remembrance of me”. In John 17: 17, Jesus asked the father to consecrate them in truth. Jesus is the merciful and sympathetic (to suffer with) priest. Hebrew 5: 5-8 tells us two aspects of priesthood: called (appointed) by God from the community of faith which starts at home and obedience to long years of seminary formation. A seminary rector once told me that for him there are two criteria of a future priest: common sense and sense of humor. This makes perfect sense because you cannot be too serious preparing for a lifetime commitment. This verse strikes me of the eternal nature of priesthood, “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek” (Heb. 5:6).

As we watch the migrants, the refugees and the asylum seekers in TV and mobile screens flown and bused to different parts of the country mostly by GOP's red states to blue states, this Sunday, September 25 is dedicated to them, WORLD DAY FOR REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS. As a church modeled in the life and example of Christ and the gospel, we have a moral obligation and duty to help them grounded in the words, “When I was a stranger, you welcomed me” ( Mt. 25: 35) and “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Mt. 25: 40). As lady liberty says, “Give me your tired, poor, and huddled masses” . Because of our proximity to the border, we deal with this issue on daily basis. We continue to pray for the overhaul of the immigration system that the asylum seekers who really have legitimate claims will be welcomed and granted legal status. Amen!

HOMILY ON THE 25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 18:33:51 GMT

"No servant can serve two masters. He will either hate one or love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and mammon" (Luke 16: 13).

On the opening day of the religious education program – the most waited day for children after a long hiatus, also Catechetical Sunday, it is a little awkward but intriguing to ponder on the parable of the dishonest steward who was commended in the end for acting prudently and responding appropriately. How I wish we can omit the word dishonest as it sounds scandalous and yet, this is Jesus’ way of telling us about eternal dwellings. God can break in and transform us amidst a hopeless scenario.

The gospel is a story of an absentee landowner which was a normal practice in the first century agricultural setting whereby a wealthy individual entrusts his property to a trusted person, who put him in charge of all his possessions and departs for no man’s land. The master heard about a critical situation and thereby demanded an account or explanation. The steward in turn wasted no time discerning and carefully planned the best possible response. This is by far the reason why he salvaged himself which resulted to his approval rating going up much to his surprise. Remember this is a culture that didn’t have an insurance nor social safety net. Your only recourse is your network of friends/cronies if they support you. Otherwise, you are in deep trouble. The steward knew he was in a difficult spot between a rock and a hard place, but he dealt with the crisis cleverly by summoning his master’s debtors one at a time without witness in their business dealings and asked each of them to present their outstanding accounts. Instead of demanding them to settle in full, that is, the principal amount owed to the master, he told them to lower it. The first debtor originally owes hundred jugs of olive oil. He said, “take your bill, sit down quickly, and write one for fifty”. The second debtor owes a hundred containers of wheat. He said, “take your bill, sit down quickly, and write one for eighty” . I bet both was speechless at what they heard. Considering its highly valuable, that’s an incredible bargain. What was the reason for the huge reduction? Perhaps, by reducing the principal amount owed, the difference being his customary cut/commission, he could gain back the trust of his master. If this were his original intent to get himself out of the mess, it worked. Don’t give up. Figure something out. Even though the promissory note certainly was less favorable to the employer, it gained a positive response. By not making anything out of the business deal, that is, sacrificing his profit, his master praised him first by accepting his messy situation and second, by acting shrewdly. If you know you messed up, accept it, make peace, move on, figure something out and don’t be in denial. This is exactly what the steward did.

Because of this, the landowner commended him for having the qualities, skill, and character of a manager. There is no one size fits all. He approved his determination to survive the worst day of his life. He praised the steward for a smart move even to the point of risking it all if only to rectify the situation. There are questions that remain unanswered which we will skip for now, but the point is that we should not miss the forest for the trees. The best explanation of the parable lies towards the end, “No servant can serve two masters. He will either hate one or love the other or be devoted to one or despise the other. You cannot serve both God or mammon” (Luke 16:13). By sacrificing his share of the profit, the steward did everything he can to get his job back. mammon is a Hebrew word meaning, in which one trusts. It means property or anything that is capable of possessing us other than God. It is a powerful idol that can attract human allegiance and demand worship as if it were a god. We can be absorbed, or we can let mammon absorb and possess us without us knowing it. The worship of wealth and the clinging to one’s possessions as if it were the be-all and end-all of everything is a separation from God and a rejection of God. There is no middle ground. mammon is incompatible with God. The prophet Amos, the harbinger of social justice exposed social inequalities whose harsh comments take us to the gospel reducing the poor and the needy to mere opportunities for profit and wealth.

Life’s journey brings us two roads. We are constantly faced with series of options before making difficult choices: God or mammon? good or evil? fidelity or infidelity? Grace or sin? Sunday Mass or errands, chores, rest, etc? Sadly, what was once non-negotiable has become just one of many options. I hope that with the example of the shrewd manager, time will come these second options won’t stand a chance. Religious formation is a long-term investment. In fact, it is a lifetime of forming our consciences. Amen.

HOMILY ON THE 24TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 01:32:07 GMT

"But now, we must celebrate and rejoice because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found" (Luke 15: 32)

At a time of prayer, mourning and remembrance, we take to heart the deeply moving, perplexing, and almost unreal story of Jesus echoed by the evangelist Luke in the parable of the prodigal son (the greatest short story ever told) along with the double parable of the lost coin and the lost sheep, which tells us that God’s response to violence of all sorts is mercy and compassion. These three parables present the lost (sinner who repents) and found (came back and welcomed), the exciting and joyful announcement of the discovery to the neighbors, the rejoicing itself, and the communal celebration afterwards. Indescribable Joy, after the laborious search, is the central theme of these three parables which reflect Jesus’ life and ministry.

The parable of the lost sheep is a story of a shepherd who has a hundred sheep. After losing one, he gets up and goes after the lost sheep until he finds it. The parable of the lost coin (drachma) is a story of a destitute woman who has ten coins (drachmas) and after losing just (insignificant) one, sweeps the floor, goes in search of the lost drachma until she finds it. This woman's house possibly has no AC, lights and had to use flash tlight or candle and has to sweep the floor in the dark. Both had the same reaction after the surprising discovery and said, rejoice with me for I have found my long lost twenty-five cents and one sheep. Let’s go buy some ice cream which costs more than what they’ve found. For them, one sheep and one drachma are so precious and had sentimental value that they went out of their way to search for the lost and didn’t stop until they found them. This is who we are in the eyes of God. We are not worth much and valuable but significant and loved. The shepherd and the woman take the initiative and not the coin nor the sheep.

The double parable serves as an introduction to the unimaginable story of the prodigal son which has been completely illustrated in detail. Cultural discrepancies lead us to think that this is an unbelievable episode. When the younger son demanded a share of the inheritance, it was like saying, he wanted his dad dead or treated him like he was already dead. To do so was a complete and utter disrespect. No one in the family would have allowed such a gesture. And yet, he didn’t say anything. He tolerated his son’s rebellion. From here, things just went downhill. He spent the money on loose living and not for business ventures nor investment. He squandered and spent all his inheritance in a life of dissipation. He enjoyed life with all its pleasures. He got broke and in a total mess. His friends avoided him and none of them dared to talk to him anymore. He hired himself and worked for a local citizen (gentile) to tend swine and worse, ate pods. This is now the part when he hit rock bottom. Dying of hunger, he started to realize his miserable state. Coming to his senses, he thought his father’s hired servants are better off than him. He said, I shall get up and go to my father and work as one of the servants. He even went to say, “I have sinned against heaven and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers”. And so, he did. While still a long way off, his father caught sight of him. The father appeared to be waiting for him all the while. He was moved into the very depths of his heart. He was struck in his gut. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. Before he could open his mouth and say the first word of his well prepared and rehearsed speech, his father said, nevermind. There is no need for explanation. Let’s just say nothing happened. The father ordered his servants to bring the tailored suit and tie, ring on his finger and dressed shoes on his feet. And celebrated a great feast with a fattened calf “for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found”. The love of the father knows no bounds.

The way the elder son reacted after knowing that the younger (prodigal) son is back, and the father celebrating his homecoming, appears to be a huge scandal for him. I don’t blame him at all. He was right. He played by the rules. He followed all instructions. What made him angry and bitter was that the younger son was received immediately and forgiven unconditionally. He was not even asked to make any restitution at all. No reparation was necessary which was not fair and just by any human standard. In the scheme of things, he had to pay the damaged done and shame inflicted to the family. Not only was he received like nothing wrong happened, but his father also celebrated and threw a feast for him like he had an exceptional performance at school. The father told the elder son, “We had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found”. One thing is clear. At the start, the story seemed unrealistic and but no, we’ve seen this extraordinary love before and whenever it does, the kingdom of God breaks upon us.

HOMILY ON THE 23RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C 2022

Sat, 03 Sep 2022 23:22:03 GMT

Jesus comes and ranks first over any other loyalty...

Since Labor Day weekend is about the observance of rest and the temporary suspension of labor and time with loved ones in and out of town, Jesus’ strong words about discipleship may not sit well with us unless you are the type who feels comfortable bringing religion in every sphere of life. A devout and staunch Catholic once said, after a serious conversation with a priest who told him not to place loyalty on personalities but on Christ alone, nothing in the church will make me leave for good. While this is an exceptional claim, many of us even after making the lifetime decision still struggle to reconcile church’s teachings and its application in real life. That’s why we resort to pick and choose whichever works and brings solace and solitude in our busy lives as the church’s fountain of wisdom even if within reach is difficult to grasp. The first reading says, “Who can know God’s counsel, or who can conceive what the Lord intends? For the deliberations of mortals are timid, and unsure are our plans” (Wis. 9: 13-14). Tradition tells us the limits of human knowledge whereby the best response is surrender which is exactly what we do in worship/liturgy. That’s why, God takes the first step unaware or not by means of divine intervention/divine revelation to help us penetrate the depths of his life. “For our deliberations are weak and earthbound because of the (corruptible) body and its concerns”. The biggest human achievement started small. Even the greatest of all time had in humble beginnings. Many of them even failed numerous times. They persisted. They thrived. I bet none of them had it all in an instant. We have issues and concerns, worried and heavily preoccupied.

While great multitude were following him on the way, he took a respite, “If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers, and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14: 25). Stunned at these words, why didn’t Jesus include in detail my friend, relative, neighbor, our pets and anyone belonging into the equation. Although none of us wants to hear the word hate because of its force, it is a semitic expression meaning, to turn away from or to detach oneself from. It doesn’t mean hate (as the opposite of love) like we understand it. Rather, it is a Jewish idiom used to stress preference between loved ones and other loyalties in life. Jesus takes precedence over any relationship across the board. The fact of the matter is, religion has been reduced as one of the choices on a given weekend. Whether there is comparison between him and others, loyalty to Christ comes and ranks first. Someone said, Sunday Liturgy is non-negotiable. If that is so, we cannot place Jesus along with sacred duty and obligation, optional. “Even his own life” obviously does not mean self-loathing/self-hatred that you are undeserving and incapable of doing anything good. There are many ways of rephrasing this, if anyone comes to me without wholeheartedly loving me first in life above all created things, even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Following Jesus is not an easy decision to make as it involves giving up and turning away from previous ungodly life, toxic company, distractions that is, mostly relationships. What have you given up? Can you give a little bit more? Can you go deeper in your constant and endless search for clarity in faith and worship? How would you measure your religious commitment, parish involvement, etc? In a scale of 1-10, where are you? It is hard to gauge one’s spirituality, and yet, it is our gut feeling. We can sense whether we are on track or off the mark. Body and soul are inseparable. Where your body is at a given moment, there is your soul. Perhaps, this holiday is a sacred time to check our status, redefine and fine tune our degree of commitment, if need be, whichever comes first. As loaded and scary today’s gospel sounds, they are meant to guide us deeper in our life with God.

Following the nearly impossible conditions, Jesus told the crowd a double parable with the opening line: Which of you? The first is about building a tower which requires a lot of planning. The second is about a king heading to war, not that Jesus recommends war, needs to sit down, calculate the chances of success before proceeding for battle. No king in his right man would go to war if the armed forces were half the size of the opponent. Otherwise, peace terms will be settled in no time. This double parable is not meant to scare us but to invite us to carefully consider where we are and what we are about to do in the parish in the coming months. Faith is costly and consequential. When we make the rock-solid commitment, there are things we leave behind. Is giving up worth it? Despite it all, are you still willing to continue to suffer shame and embarrassment for Christ’s sake, for Catholicism? Are you resolved to carry and bear the burden of the cross? Are you prepared to relinquish your possessions for Jesus? Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 083122

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:59:46 GMT

Listen to the Voice of Creation!

Pope Francis established the Season of Creation which kicks off September 1, Thursday the World Day of Prayer for Creation until October 4, the memorial of St. Francis of Assisi. This year's theme is "Listen to the voice of creation".

Monday, August 29, the m emorial of the Passion of St. John the Baptist was a result of hatred (Herodias), indecisiveness (Herod), and whim (Salome). The greatest man born of a woman ever to live in his generation died alone in his cell, a martyr of truth and justice. Martyrdom is the price of faith. The precursor's life was cut short, but his life lives forever and revered throughout the ages.

We continue with our reflection of the First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians and on Tuesday, August 30, he talked about the Natural Person and the Spiritual Person. The first cannot penetrate the spiritual realm. His understanding of life stays in the surface, in the periphery. The S piritual Person is the Mature Christian whose foundation is God and can go deep in the mind of God. Our soul is the link to God's life. The spirit scrutinizes (explore, examine, search out) even the depths of God. Paul wants the Natural Person, members of the Corinthian community who have trouble after conversion to aspire to be the Spiritual Person. On Wednesday, August 31, Paul did not mince words in 1 Cor 3: 1-9. He knew, there was f action, division, rivalry within the community citing loyalties to various leaders " I belong to Paul, I belong to Apollos, I belong to Cephas" . He said, " I planted, Apollos watered but God caused the growth. Neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who causes the growth. He who plants and he who waters are one and each will receive wages in proportion to his labor". For we are God's co-workers; you are God's field, God's building. We all belong and work for God. This holds true whenever we say, I belong to Francis. I belong to Benedict XVI. I belong to the Tridentine Mass. I belong to the Novus Ordo. It's one and the same church.

Tomorrow, September 1 begins the BER months and that radio stations in the Philippines play the first Christmas carols. How exciting!

HOMILY ON THE 22ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C 2022

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 23:06:54 GMT

"For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled but the one who humbles himself will be exalted".

With humility as this Sunday’s theme, I honestly want to skip preaching if possible as this is the hardest theme to preach which strikes deep in our souls and breaks our hearts. No one is worthy when it comes to preaching humility. At any given point in time, we are battling our own unspeakable demons and the most ferocious ever is pride, the root of all sins/vices. Table fellowship and divine reversal of fortune are so important for the evangelist St. Luke. For him, table talk (big or small) is a serious religious, social and economic event. It is a teachable moment and not only a time to share meals. The Eucharistic liturgy was founded on the last supper of Jesus in the dining table where the Mass, the highest form of worship was instituted with the words, “Do this in memory of me”. Similarly, the setting of the gospel is a banquet hosted in the home of a leading Pharisee. Jesus was there and that people observed him carefully. Not fun at all but it mattered less. Everyone kept an eye on him which truth be told, was annoying at least on my end. A banquet often described as a preview and glimpse of the promised kingdom and communion with God is a gracious and joyful event and should never be an occasion for disruption although making scenes happen all the time. Christians may be anti-viral but never anti-social. People were probably making side comments about him. It is very uncomfortable if all eyes are on you in such an occasion unless of course you don’t mind the limelight. People watch your every move.

Anyway, Jesus gave a lesson for guests and hosts. He started with the guests by letting them know, “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in a place of honor, lest the host be forced to give your choice seat to a more distinguished guest and with embarrassment ask you to go the lowest place”. Your seat in a banquet is indicative of your degree, class, and honor. Every guest love to be in a place of honor as much as possible right next to the host, preferably front row seat near the stage in any formal dinner except for those who will have a gracious exit. While everyone is looking for the best and nicest location, do the exact opposite. Can you believe if you happen to be seated comfortably at the head table with the VIP’s and sipping aged red wine even before the party begins, the host shows up, comes to you and whispers in your ears, I’m sorry my friend but your seat is reserved for someone else. I don’t know how you ended up here, but I will have to move you. Your assigned seat is at the furthest end of the hall. You can proceed now. By the way, upon checking the guest list, your name didn’t appear. You insist and who knows what’s next. I’m exaggeration but you know the point. Rather, Jesus said, “When you are invited, go take the lowest place so that you may be invited to occupy a higher position and enjoy the esteem or honor by others”. Reverse the trend, however unpopular. Go against the current. Don’t feel you’re the most important person in the room. Humility is based on self-knowledge. You must know your strengths and weaknesses and limits. “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled (by God) but the one who humbles himself will be exalted (by God)”.

The second instruction is directed to the host. He said, “When you host a lunch or dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or your wealthy neighbors, in case they may invite you back and you have repayment”. Inviting those closest to you exists deep in our culture with preexisting conditions. We expect something in return as a courtesy. If someone takes you out for lunch or dinner in a fancy restaurant, unless you are a free loader, you are expected to reciprocate the kindness and generosity in almost the same way. If not, at least apologize. With God’s guest list, invite no one who might return the favor. As a host, expect nothing in return with no strings attached in the name of friendship with God. Luke stressed God’s preferred guest list: the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. In short, these are the people who cannot repay you back. God will repay you at the resurrection of the righteous from the dead. That’s for sure.

Pope Francis in his apostolic letter ‘Desiderio Desideravi’ reminds us that our participation in the Liturgy should lead us towards humility in heart and soul. It is not an opportunity to boast our spiritual and religious accomplishments. The introductory rite of the Mass which includes the Penitential Rite is a humbling act before God. We don’t blow our horns in the presence of God. The Sunday Eucharist is “the foundation of communion, the centre of the life of the community”. He stressed the flow from Celebration, Evangelization and Encounter. Finally, this quotation is lovely, “The liturgy takes us by the hand, together as an assembly, to lead us deep within the mystery that the Word and the sacramental signs reveal to us”.

The first reading from the book of Sirach reminds us about humility, “My child, conduct your affairs with humility”. Humble yourself. Don’t be so full of yourself. Refrain from self-exaltation and promotion in any fashion even if the whole world does. Anyone convinced that he/she is the best and smartest person in any given situation is the loneliest in the world. Everyone loves to be called GOAT (greatest of all time) and to be included in the hall of fame but end up in the wall of shame. Humble and friendly people are more loved, well received and appreciated more than the mean-spirited and the attention seeker who always talks about himself/herself. Such an individual needs a lot of recognition and affirmation. God knows what we do. There isn’t much need to broadcast them. “And you will be loved more than a giver of good gifts. Humble yourself the more, the greater you are, and you will find favor with God”.

Let me include St. Benedict’s 12 step and guide to humility which will be helpful in our reflection as well. Although this was designed and written for monks who follow a strict discipline and lifestyle, we can apply many if not all in our daily routine. 1. Fear of God. 2. Self-Denial. 3. Obedience 4. Perseverance 5. Repentance 6. Serenity 7. Self-Abasement 8. Prudence 9. Silence 10. Dignity 11. Discretion (If you must speak, do so gently, humbly, earnestly, and quietly with few and sensible words. A wise person is known by silence and choice of words 12. Reverence.

Let me end by excerpt from the Confessions of St. Augustine of Hippo about humility “For great are you, Lord, and you look kindly on what is humble, but the lofty minded you regard from afar. Only to those whose hearts are crushed do you draw close. You will not let yourself be found by the proud, nor even by those who in their inquisitive skill count stars or grains of sand, or measure the expanses of Heaven, or trace the paths of the planets”. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 082422

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 18:17:28 GMT

"You will see greater things than these" (John 1: 50).

Eight Days after the Assumption of Mary, we celebrated The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Monday, August 22 instituted by Pope Pius X. St. Rose of Lima gifted with an extraordinary physical beauty admired by many, wanted instead to focus on her inner beauty that is, the truth of our relationship with Christ like a treasure buried in a field or a pearl of great price. She spent her life in penance and prayer. On Wednesday, we commemorate the feast of St. Bartholomew (Synoptics) Nathanael (John), Apostle. He was quoted saying, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" Philip who brought him to Jesus said, Come and See!. When Jesus met him, he said, "Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him". He was honest and simply straightforward in his approach. Some of us like his style. Others don't. Jesus promised Nathanael, "You will see greater things than these". That's the price and perks of a discipleship. You see deeper heavenly things that others don't. This Saturday, August 27 is the memorial of St. Monica, the mother of St. Augustine who prayed persistently for the conversion of her son (the son of her tears) and her alcoholic husband. In the Office of Readings, St. Augustine recorded his (heart to heart) conversation with his mother Monica provided in the Confessions, whereby she said, "For my part, my son, I no longer find pleasure in anything that this life holds. What I am doing here still, or why I am still here, I do not know, for worldly hope has withered away for me. One thing only there was for which I desired to linger in this life: to see you a Catholic Christian before I died" (From the Confessions).

HOMILY ON THE 21ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C 2022

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:24:05 GMT

In order to enter through the narrow door, let us rely on divine grace and not from our own merits...

Just when you think the question about salvation is a done deal, until someone out of nowhere interrupts Jesus on the way to Jerusalem, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” We must be grateful that this unnamed individual had the courage to pose a question we thought has been settled long time ago. The intent matters less. What is striking is that such scenario became a teachable moment. In the name of a just and merciful God we get the impression that claiming and calling ourselves Catholics by name only even without joining in communal worship celebrations and exercising charitable works or doing nothing at all for the glory of God for as long we came through the door of baptism will give us entry/free pass into the kingdom of God. I don’t know how the ‘many’ arrived at this point about not doing much for our salvation. Instead, enjoy life, relax, eat, drink, be merry and the rest will take care of itself is the default mindset. Charity is only a suggestion. All you have to do is ask forgiveness before your earthly life ends. That’s all that matters. And that’s all there is to life and nothing beyond the material universe. Jesus’ response to the question about salvation doesn’t sound and work that way. In fact, it’s rather scary. I found myself surprise and shocked as well which prompted me to reflect on my status in the kingdom of God. This Sunday, then, we are in for a huge surprise.

He said, “strive to enter through the narrow door for many I tell you will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough” (Luke 13: 24). Jesus, in his remarkable reply, used the word ‘agonizomai’ which denotes to struggle to enter, or to commit wholeheartedly or make deliberate, intentional, and purposeful effort. No wonder many of the most read Catholic books that came out in the past few years touched on the important subject about commitment in all aspects of parish life: Time, Talent and Treasure. Interestingly, he also used the image of the narrow door in contrast to a wide main door of a Cathedral. It is most telling that to enter the narrow door, one must strive or struggle to do so or even fight for it. Entry into the kingdom is not going to be easy. It’s not a walk in the park as some expect to be. Many will try but unable to do so or strong enough. The ‘many’ and the ‘few’ will have to contend for their seat and squeeze in for their place in the narrow door in a short span of time. Not everyone will be able to get in. Not all will be accommodated. Only a few will gain access. What are the criteria for entry then? We’ll find out.

#14 of the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church Lumen Gentium presents the necessity of the Catholic faith for salvation and sheds light on any confusion. “Relying on scripture and tradition, it (the holy council) teaches that this pilgrim church is required for salvation. Present to us in his body which is the church, Christ alone is mediator and the way to salvation. Jesus asserts the necessity of faith and baptism as the gateway and door to membership in the church”. So far, so good. “A person who does not persevere, however, in charity is not saved even though incorporated into the church. Such people remain indeed in the bosom of the church, but only ‘bodily’ not ‘in their hearts’.

The easy part is that salvation is an open invitation but the door to the kingdom is narrow, and the demands and requirements are strict and not what you think it is. It’s no joke. The opportunity to get in will not be long and forever either. The chances are slim and tight. When the door is closed, it is closed. It won’t be open again for anyone even for those who appeal for second chances whose claims are limited to Jesus’ visit to their town and preaching in their streets. They may have heard Jesus preach and seen him in the crowds and taken a photo with him as a proof of association, but it was all casual and nothing substantial. Were they converted in that encounter and followed him through? Any meeting (chance or not, in-person or spiritual) with Jesus will always be an electrifying experience. Jesus may have known members of their families, ate and drank with them which can be a significant factor and yet, it doesn’t count. Jesus replied, “I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!” It’s unimaginable that Jesus would say this. However, evildoers here refer to the enemies that is, the wicked, of the righteous of those who are saved. After the initial encounter with Jesus, we should have done more by bringing Jesus to other and sharing his message. “All sons and daughters of the church should nevertheless remember that their exalted status is not to be ascribed to their own merits, but to the special grace of Christ. If they fail to respond in word, thought and deed to that grace, not only will they not be saved, they will be more severely judged” (LG #14).

The narrow door is locked from the inside by the master of the house. It is a closed door for life. Those outside try knocking to get in: “Lord, open the door for us”. “We ate and drank in your company, and you taught in our streets” claiming fellowship, personal connection, and company hoping that’s all matters. Obviously, not. Lord, I never missed Sunday Mass. I donated weekly to the church and helped raise funds for the parish. I volunteered in various capacities. Remember? What else do you want me to do? I have done my part, Lord. Let others take care of the rest. Can you believe if Jesus says, what you have done is not enough to get in through the narrow door. The truth of the matter is, we will always fall short of God’s expectations which is good news so that we rely solely on divine grace and not from our own merits. Did you bring Christ and share his message of salvation with your loved ones who fell from grace, from belief in Christ? Did you talk about simplicity of faith to your relatives and friends consumed and saturated by the complexity of worldly affairs whose life has been reduced to the accumulation and amassing of wealth, comfort, achievements, among others? And nothing about the afterlife? Were you charitable to your neighbor in need? Did you turn down and refuse anyone asking for help? The letter to the Hebrews tells us, “Endure your trials as “discipline”…So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees. Make straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be disjointed but healed”. What we choose to believe and what we choose to act become separate. Do something. Don’t just do it. Do it in style and with passion.

In the final countdown, there will be (loud) wailing and grinding of teeth for those who were excluded. It will certainly be a devastation in the fullest sense of the word to end up in darkness and hell. But those who were saved will recline at table and enter the kingdom of God with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as well as the prophets. It will be an unending and lasting joy. They will come from east, west, north, and south from all over the place. The first reading from book of Isaiah 66 (last chapter) talks about this, “They shall bring all your brothers and sisters from all the nations as an offering to the Lord, on horses and in chariots, in carts, upon mules and dromedaries, to Jerusalem, my holy mountain, says the Lord, just as the Israelites bring their offering to the house of the Lord in clean vessels”. This vision of the coming together of God’s people from all corners of the world, from all directions is worth our precious time and effort. Some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 081422

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:30:11 GMT

BELIEVE WHAT YOU READ. PREACH WHAT YOU BELIEVE. PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH.

This is a special post this Sunday celebrating 17th anniversary of my diaconate ordination. The words spoken by the presiding prelate Bishop Kicanas was so striking and timeless, "Believe what you read, preach what you believe and practice what you preach". I'm nowhere close to these loaded words. I'm ever grateful to Bishop Gerald Kicanas, D.D. who called my family before the ordination and thankfully, I was able to talk to my mother. Gasping for breath, I shed tears (of joy) while on the phone. This simple gesture was much appreciated considering that there was no immediate family member present. This was before the rise of social media and existence of smart phones. Possibly, there was a smart phone but I didn't have one. Facebook may have been created in 2004 but I had no account yet and back then it was much different than now. I'm thankful to the late Fr. Bob Tamminga for accommodating me at St. Francis de Sales Parish and hosting the ordination. My gratitude goes to all who came to join the solemn celebration. If my memory serves me well, I don't remember sobbing at any part of the Mass. At least, no one told me. A priest now a Monsignor told me, I talked a lot during the word of thanks which was really embarrassing. I was supposed to speak for no more than two minutes (nobody gave me a heads up) but ended up 15 minutes or so. Not good. Mea culpa. This year, honestly, I almost forgot this anniversary. As I was browsing the phone's calendar for upcoming parish events early this week, oh I said to myself August 14 is coming up. That's right, something special happened to me that day...it's my diaconate ordination! I'm quick with numbers but not always accurate. I hurriedly, opened the calculator app to double check if my initial calculation were correct. Yes, indeed, it's been 17 years since I took the vows to God/promises to human beings. I could hardly believe.

Today, August 14 is the memorial of Maximilian Mary Kolbe of polish origin, the patron saint of prisoners and chaplains. Because my ordination coincides with his memorial, I have a special calling to prison ministry. He offered himself in place of a married man, a sergeant and father of a family for execution during the Nazi Germany. My ordination too falls on the eve of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, August 15. Although the Assumption of Mary is not explicitly biblical, devotion to Mary’s assumption has been the practice and belief of the ancient church (history and tradition). In his Apostolic Constitution Munificentissimus Deus (The Most Bountiful God) published on November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII, … we pronounce, declare, and define it to be a divinely revealed dogma: "that the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever- virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory".

HOMILY ON THE 20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:15:00 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

We often hear Jesus as the peacemaker and the mediator of two opposing sides. He is the good shepherd who tends and comforts the flock but this Sunday, his words are surprisingly uncomfortable. We go to church for encouragement and not to make us feel bad about what we do. “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing. There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished!” (Luke 12: 49-50). Jesus came to cast flaming fire to purify the earth. He didn’t come only for a specific geographical location. He sounds as though he is not satisfied with the current situation in the community let alone in the domestic church. Is our parish on fire? Is it a question mark or a punctuation mark? Jesus is distressed, under so much stress until the earthly mission is completed through his suffering and death. This purifying flame is the message of salvation that will divide people out of loyalty to Christ. Those who accept his words will be gifted and comforted with peace which will result in a separation by virtue of baptism from those who reject the message. “Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you but rather division” (Luke 12: 51). This is a deeply troubling passage since we strongly promote peace and harmony in the community of faith but now, we learned that the heart and soul of his message is division. Jesus is not politically correct. His message is inherently and clearly divisive. We have seen this tension repeatedly. There is no if’s and but’s. You won’t see any blind spot. It’s either you are with him or not. He doesn’t apologize. It is what it is. It is a matter of life and death. If someone claims that the gospel is just for entertainment purposes in a comedy show, I don’t know where that came from. The gospel, by nature, is subversive. Because of its divine origin, it is meant to challenge the dominant culture and strikingly cause division in pursuit of truth and justice at the very heart of society for Christ’s sake. If that happens, if people reject the salvific message so be it. “Consider how he endured such opposition from sinners, in order that you may not grow weary and lose heart” (Heb 12: 3). There is no amicable reconciliation and consoling conclusion at the end. We’ve seen this scenario uphold in the overturning of Roe v Wade. It is sad that we don’t have a space to discuss civilly honestly and openly the tension within our church. There are those who struggle with the teaching and look for a clear explanation devoid of any politics. The Mass is our version of Assisi where we don’t talk much about or differences. People decide for themselves. In our attempt for healing and change, division is the inevitable consequence in our fidelity to Christ. Allegiance to Christ divides households and breaks down families. What it means is that commitment to faith takes precedence over any other loyalties be it blood relationship and political affiliation. Faith in Christ challenges our deeply held values which we inherited from our most loved and cherished, closest, and sacred human ties that is, our family. It sounds odd but it is true. He said, “From now on, he said, a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother- in-law against her daughter- in-law and a daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law”. This is hurting because we don’t want the screaming, yelling and silent treatment to take place especially in the dining table. It is within our families that we learn the little things about love, patience, and forgiveness. If there’s breakdown within families our most elemental human relationships, it will be a reflection in a larger scale, a falling apart in our society. And yet, beyond the drama and the cruelties of family life, loyalty to Christ is primary. It is non- negotiable. Christ wants us to put God first in our lives and the rest will take care of itself. Fidelity to God is more important than blood relationships. Because of Christ, family division is unavoidable. It is normal to discuss Christ’s message seriously and intensely as he is worth dying for. Hebrews 12:2 reminds us “to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith”. “We are surrounded with so great a cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12: 1).

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 052522

Wed, 25 May 2022 17:55:54 GMT

Yesterday, Tuesday, May 24 was Loretto School's last Mass of the school year. From the mouth of babes. At the Lord's prayer, the kindergarten and 1st graders took over the recitation of the Our Father, loud and clear like they meant every single word uttered. I usually lead the prayer but my jaw dropped in amazement the moment I heard them. All I had to do was listen and smile. I will miss the students and their screaming especially the lower grades who normally spend their recess on the west school yard close to my office. The screaming signals my own break and lunch time, too. The sight of the kids in the playground is pure joy. I missed being a kid, too. Much as I wish the school to go all year round, it doesn't work that way. Summer is essential especially for kids. They look forward to it and so do I. Vacation must be observed. As the saying goes, let the kids play. I hope by the fall, we can accommodate all the grades in person in church for Mass. Following the Mass was the school's awards assembly. It is Awards season as you know. It's time to reap and enjoy the fruit of all our hard work. For my part, I stayed and was delighted to watch the kids leave their seats in excitement and receive their certificates of recognition for best in...proficiency, honors of every sort...It was lovely. Congratulations to Mrs. Ana Romero and Mrs. Gloria Varela for their loyalty to Loretto School serving over 25 years.

At the DHS class of 2022 Baccalaureate Mass, I expressed my thanks to the graduates who have served our church: Cade Necas - altar server for as long as St. Luke Parish has been in existence and at the height of the pandemic, assisted at the 4:00 am (at the break of dawn) Easter Sunday Sunrise Mass amid 40 degrees weather. Hector Moreno, an altar server too mostly at the 8:00 am Mass. While many, if not all teenagers in town were possibly asleep, Hector served at Mass. Actually, credit to his Hector Sr. who brought him. Matthew Martinez, a regular 12:00 pm Sunday Mass goer at the Immaculate Conception Parish helped sanitize and disinfect the church after Mass. Emma, who's gifted with a great voice sings in the choir. I am deeply indebted to them for devoting and serving their time and talent in the church. Since they are graduating in HS, who's going to fill their shoes? I should mention though that I was so embarrassed showing up 30 minutes beyond the scheduled time. Mea Culpa! for being so late. The unexpected happened at a time it shouldn't.

The class of 2022 graduation Mass and ceremony took place last Thursday, May 19. I tried to insert humor during the homily but it didn't work as I thought it would. It wasn't funny. I started recalling the volleyball game between the 8th graders and the missionaries. I learned at least 3 of their names start with J as in J. So, everytime she tells me a name regardless of the start of the, I would replace it with J. I will remember this class as the one who beat all odds raising funds for St. Luke by selling candies to the school community. They teared up on May 17, their last day of school. It was alright. That's tears of joy. Who wouldn't? Loretto has been their home for years.

While we offer prayers for the repose of the souls of the victims, mourn for the devastating loss of innocent and precious lives, and sympathize with the grief and horror experienced by the families and loved ones in the school shooting in Uvalde, TX, the selling of assault weapons such as AR-15 used in mass shootings should be banned as the availability has been a huge factor to the increase of gun violence. Kids don’t need to purchase, own, and carry these weapons. Troubled kids need tender loving care and all the embrace they need, not guns. Politicians who have the power to change laws know better. It is gut wrenching to see the horrific scene again when this crisis is entirely preventable. It is happening because weapons are widely available. It’s almost like a weekly occurrence. While no one can precisely predict, I am sure it will. It is just a matter of where and when. It is terrifying because you don’t know what to expect and worse, you don’t know where the next shooting will take place (school, church, grocery store, mall, name it) at a given time. The ‘right to bear arms’ is not written in stone. Therefore, it requires a serious visit to save and protect lives.

Here's the link of the Holy Father Francis Wednesday audience and message.

HOMILY ON PALM SUNDAY C22

Sat, 09 Apr 2022 22:08:33 GMT

HOSANNA! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD!

Our version of HOLY WEEK has evolved across centuries such that it is difficult to trace the origins of our practices. The diary of Egeria, a Spanish Nun who travelled to the Holy Land in the 4th century and recorded her experiences has been an enormous resource apart from the gospels. I am going to give you a short commentary and/or brief overview of the various religious activities in our parishes. HOLY WEEK is marked by so many processions starting with Palm Sunday which commemorates Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem, the procession to the place of reposition - our version of the (agony) of the garden of gethsemane which ends the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper, the procession from each Stations of the Cross on Good Friday observing the different short pauses in our lives, on Good Friday Liturgy - the procession to adore and venerate the Lord’s cross and joining in line for communion, on Easter Vigil – the procession from the place of the Blessing of the New Fire (Lucenarium – Lighting ceremony) to the church and finally, before the Sunrise Mass - the procession of the Risen Christ which reenacts the encounter between the Resurrected Jesus and the Blessed Mother. Communal Procession reminds us that we are the pilgrim people of God.

PALM SUNDAY, April 10 begins with the procession of palms. As the diary of Egeria attests, this procession has existed as early as the fourth century. It is customary that we carry branches and cry Hosanna! In fact, I was delighted to know that children led the procession or that there were many children who joined in the procession from the mouth of babes.

On HOLY MONDAY, April 11, Fr. Marco, and I will attend the Chrism Mass at St. Augustine Cathedral, Tucson, AZ presided over by Bishop Edward Weisenberger. In this Mass, the Bishop will consecrate the oils (Sacred Chrism – Oil of the Chrism, Oil of the Catechumen, and the Oil of the Infirm) to be used to administer the sacraments in parishes. In the same liturgy, priests will renew their promises made during ordination with the opening question, are you resolved?

On HOLY TUESDAY, April 12, we shall begin our FORTY HOURS OF PRAYER FOR PEACE with the Lord, with our church, with our family, with the world, with ourselves. If you are at PEACE, you have less worries. You are closer and nearer to the Christian Message of Joy/Rejoice. I hope you can spend even just a moment with us. We will pray the liturgy of the hours, the official prayer of the church to punctuate the hours of the day. If you want to strengthen your prayer life, I highly recommend that you recite Morning Prayer (Lauds) and Evening Prayer (Vespers) and before going to bed Night Prayer (Cumpline). You can download apps and recite the prayers in your phone. This can also be the Holy Week practice of families at home. For those who missed the Communal Penance Service, CONFESSION will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday, 6pm-7pm, IC and SL, to prepare us internally for the great feast.

HOLY WEDNESDAY, April 13, is also called SPY WEDNESDAY. It is a day when Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus with a kiss. Peter denied Jesus three times but the difference between him and Judas is that Peter repented and asked forgiveness while Judas hanged himself on a tree.

Starting Thursday Morning, the communal recitation of the LITURGY OF THE HOURS, the official prayer of the church, unknown to many of us, will be observed. It is a prayer that punctuates our day.

PASCHAL TRIDUUM is the heart and soul of the Liturgical year. The original term for Easter was Pesach which is a Jewish spring religious festival/sacrifice rooted in the story of Exodus when the Lord delivered the Israelites out of Egypt. Pesach is a weeklong event in Jerusalem or can be a one-day event performed domestically in a family setting. It is all about remembrance of the gracious things God has done to his people especially in terrible times. Paschal Triduum which extends for three days (Passion, Death, and Resurrection) is the Christian version of the Passover, or the fulfillment of the scriptures. The Lenten season ends on the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on MAUNDY THURSDAY, April 14. The Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper commemorates the institution of the Holy Eucharist where Jesus left us two commandments with the words, “Do this in remembrance of me” and “love one another as I have loved you”.

GOOD FRIDAY, April 15, I understand that the Stations of the Cross, Divine Mercy Novena have gained popularity, and well attended. But, the Good Friday Liturgy which consists of the Liturgy of the Passion, the Adoration/Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion is central to Good Friday and therefore, more important than other pious devotions mentioned. They cannot replace the Good Friday Liturgy.

On the morning of HOLY SATURDAY, April 16, there is not much going on. It is the time when Christ descended into hell, hades, in the underworld, the place of those awaiting redemption to rescue them from punishment to salvation, from death to life. Liturgy Ministers will also spend this time in rehearsals for the Easter Vigil and parishioners decorate the worship environment.

EASTER VIGIL is the mother of All Vigils and Liturgies. No liturgy even comes close. All liturgies (God’s work and action performed by the gathered assembly - people of God) flow from the Easter Vigil. In fact, before the great expansion of what we no call Holy Week, Easter Vigil was the single most important celebration of the early Christians or better, the only Easter celebration. What we are currently doing is the revival/rebirth of this ancient liturgy that has probably lost its appeal, emphasis or hasn’t gotten much attention. It is celebrated yearly but not well recognized and appreciated maybe because it is a very long liturgy, the longest on record. If it’s three hours or over, so be it. The church will not apologize. Neither do I. Each Sunday of the year is a little Easter celebrating Christ’s resurrection. The vigil should start after sunset and when it is dark. On Easter Vigil, Christians stare at darkness and see life. God has been friends with darkness for a long time. The Easter Vigil readings which recount the story of our salvation from Genesis to Revelation, will tell us clearly that God has been with us from day one. Christ rose in the darkness of the tomb, bringing us out of darkness into light. On Easter Vigil, we will enter the church in shattered darkness to stress that as Christians we are not afraid of the dark anymore.

Exsultet (Easter Proclamation) is a call to Rejoice! Exult! Jump for Joy! Leap for Joy! The Exsultet summons the heavenly hosts, choirs of angels, the whole earth (the created universe), the church (people of God) to exult! Rejoice! heavenly power! Sing choir of angels! In this solemn prayer, “This is the night” is mentioned five times placing emphasis on this night. This is the night that God wants to enter in every part and cell of our bodies. It says that what happened in the past is happening in the present in the here and now, right now at this very moment. Exsultet is a long prayer of petition for the father to accept the Paschal Candle – the light of Christ. In this ancient prayer, we ask God to accept the community gathered in worship as an evening pleasing sacrifice of praise. It is a prayer to let the light persevere until dawn, unending light for all eternity. As the candle sets ablaze the whole church including the electric lights, so the community in prayer spreads the mystery of the Christian faith in the Risen Christ. The resurrected faith is the sanctifying power that “dispels wickedness, washes faults away, restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners, drives out hatred, fosters concord, and brings down the mighty”. St. Augustine said that the gathered assembly at the Easter Vigil should not leave until after midnight. If you have never attended the Easter Vigil, please plan this year. It is a very long celebration that might put you to sleep and slumber which is completely understandable but it’s worthwhile. There is nothing like Easter Vigil because we come for our earliest communion with the Risen Christ.

On EASTER SUNDAY, April 17, you are most welcome to join us in the Sunrise Mass at 6:00 am. We will start in St Luke church at 5:45 am and process the newly made statue of the Risen Christ around the block. The Sunrise Mass will be held at the Loretto School West Yard. Easter and East (where the sun rises) has a lot in common. Happy Easter!

HOMILY ON THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT C22

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 02:52:10 GMT

Go, from now on do not sin anymore...

The Fifth Sunday of Lent is called Passion Tide. This is the Sunday when crosses and sacred images in the Church may be covered (entirely optional) in purple. The practice takes us to John’s account, “they picked up stones to throw at him; but Jesus hid and went out of the temple area” (John 8:59). Although two millennia separate us from the actual events, if you follow the daily scripture readings, you can relate almost in real time the dramatic events in Jesus’ life. God is omnipresent. His presence in the Holy Land can be experienced similarly anywhere in the world. It is only through the liturgy that we bring the memories of the past and let them impact us in the present. The liturgy is the hub between the past, present and the future. The liturgy helps us understand mystery, the depths of God’s action. The liturgy as the starting point of any parish life then, needs to be celebrated well most especially, at this time of the year. To remind us of Jesus’ hiding, crucifixes and statues have been covered with purple cloth beginning this Sunday. The cross remains covered until the end of the celebration of the Lord’s passion on Good Friday, while sacred images will be unveiled not until the beginning of the Easter Vigil.

The complicated story of Jesus and the woman caught in the very act of adultery which demonstrates the forgiveness of God and indicates multiple layers of interpretation is the gospel proclaimed on the fifth Sunday of Lent. If you remain undecided and unconvinced to go to confession and need more catechesis on God’s unbounded and inexhaustible mercy, let us plunge into the puzzling story of Jesus and the adulteress that will lead us into the deep well of divine reconciliation.

THE PLOT

As it goes, the scribes and the pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle of the crowd. They said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now, in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So, what do you say? They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him” (John 8: 3-6). This is gross and vicious knowing that the sole intent of placing the poor woman still half-clad following the incident as portrayed in paintings was only to test and trap Jesus. You can imagine the woman swirling due to the distress, shame, and fate of facing death. It is one thing to bring someone to justice and another, to put Jesus in trouble.

JESUS’ RESPONSE

Jesus’ silence and gesture explains everything. He knows what is right and just at any given situation. He didn’t go with the pressure of the status quo. What is at stake is divine mercy and the rest will take care of itself. He didn’t condone such an act. Briefly, he took a moment of prayer. He paused for thought. He didn’t say anything. Not a word. It was non-verbal which was more powerful than the spoken word. He stooped down and wrote something on the ground with his finger. We don’t know what he wrote. Remember, in his entire life, he left no writing only with his finger on the sand. This was the only instance in the gospel narratives of any hint of writing which we have no clue. This tells us that writing is secondary to the truth and integrity of any minister. We can try and only make a guess what bending down and writing on the ground meant. Perhaps, he was annoyed at the accusers and the crowd that he didn’t want to deal with it and dismiss it, instead. If he wrote something, this was possibly an allusion to the words of Jeremiah 17: 13, “Those who turn away from you shall be recorded in the earth, for they have forsaken the fountain of living water, the Lord.” Or possibly, because of the impermanent and shifting nature of sand or ground for that matter, any writing can be easily erased, not guilty. The writing on the ground was a gentle reminder to the woman accusers that they too are sinners (and are sinful as she is and everyone present) and subject to God’s judgment.

But when they (accusers) insisted, Jesus stood up and said, “let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw stone at her” (John 8: 7b). Other version puts it, Let the one who is without sin cast the first stone. After this, for the second time, he bent down and wrote on the ground. I won’t try and speculate what he wrote. When the accusers started to drift away, one by one in the order of seniority, that one verse hit them in the gut and realized after all, that behind the trappings of power, authority, and robe, they too belonged in the same company of sinners who needed repentance. Their disappearance left Jesus alone with the woman. Then, he looked up. This scene was a critical part of the narrative. In fact, a turning point, moment of truth. St. Augustine says that that whole scenario was the sacred encounter of Mercy and Misery. Forgiveness means restoration. He said, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” (John 8: 10). She replied, “No one Sir”. Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, from now on, do not sin anymore.”

The First Reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah 43: 16-21 presents God’s promise of restoration, “Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not; see, I am doing something new! Now it springs forth. Do you not perceive it?”. The Responsorial Psalm 126, “When the Lord brought back the captives of Zion, we were like men dreaming. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with rejoicing” is a normal reaction to forgiveness. Paul, in the letter to the Philippians, shares what new life in Christ means, “I consider everything as a loss because of the supreme good of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake, I have accepted the loss of all things and I consider them so much rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having any righteousness of my own based on the law but that which comes through faith in Christ…” Amen.

HOMILY ON THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT C22

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 18:27:37 GMT

REPENT AND BE FORGIVEN...

The Fourth Sunday of Lent is also called Laetare Sunday. This is the Sunday of rejoicing in the middle of the Lenten season. Many of us dread lent because of too much emphasis on self-denial and penitence such that there will be no transformed and redeemed life without our cooperation. The joy that lent brings is rebirth, repentance, and fullness of grace along with the joy of minds made pure. The Entrance Antiphon says it best, “Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad because of her, all you who love her; Exult, exult with her, all you who were mourning over her! Oh, that you may suck fully of the milk of her comfort, that you may nurse with delight at her abundant breasts!” (Isaiah 66: 10-11).

The Fourth Sunday of Lent is also Forgiveness Sunday. I don’t know any story of repentance, reconciliation, and the joy of forgiveness that befits the season than the familiar and yet shocking Parable of the Prodigal Son (and the Generous Father). Jesus told this parable against the background of the complaint of the pharisees and scribes to the tax collectors and sinners drawing in droves to listen to his inspiring words. “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them”, is Christianity 101. The parable of the prodigal son is meant to tell us the depths of God’s mercy and divine forgiveness. And a lesson, too to those who tend to be self-righteous.

In this episode, we will reflect on the movement of conversion of the younger (prodigal) son who strays, repents, and returns. “I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (v. 18). The father’s words to the older son, “your brother was dead and has come to life again” (v. 32). Now we must celebrate and rejoice because your brother was dead and has come to life again. He was lost and has been found. These verses provide a summary of the parable.

A man had two sons. The story is a little tricky because even though it appears this is about the prodigal Son as per title, looking closer at the opening verses gives us hints that this is about this man who had two sons. The younger one who had a right to one-third of the property, suddenly without any provocation, regrettably demanded his share of the estate, which was unimaginable in that culture. Under any circumstance should a child do that out of respect. Although the asking of the share of inheritance was legal in an honor and shame culture, it was not appropriate. If you do which the younger son actually did, renders your parents good as dead. The level of culpability is too much to bear and upsetting.

The father, in a gesture that defied cultural norms, gave the younger son his share of the estate. Then, he left and went off to a distant country. There he spent all his inheritance on loose living. Realizing he hit rock bottom by tending the swine in the farm of a local citizen, even yearning to eat the pig’s food, he came to his senses. He knew he was in deep trouble and reached the point of no return, but was in denial for some time until finally, he owned the situation. He claimed responsibility. He said, mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa. I messed up. I can't go down anymore. I have sinned period. That’s a fact. He thought he forfeited his sonship. Knowing that his father’s laborers were better off than he. He resolved, “I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and earth and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your day laborers.’ And he got up and went back to his father.” Do you have to wait to reach the bottom of your life to realize it? Not really.

And now comes the section about the return to the father which is incredibly unreal. While he was still a long way off, still at a distance, perhaps just a glimpse or a shadow came through, his father caught sight of him and was filled with compassion and ran and embraced him and kissed him. The way I see this, the father (all the while) must have been waiting for him since (the day) he left. And the son said, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” Lo and behold, the father didn’t even let him finish his well-rehearsed speech. The return was all mattered to him. The embrace and the kiss were enough. No explanation was necessary. Tha father didn't even ask to pay for the damages done, the shame and embarrassment inflicted on the family, not to mention the stress of waiting forever. Not only that. The father said to his servants, “Quickly, bring the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and sandals on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry because this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found”. Then the celebration began. By the way, if there's any reason to party, it is the return of the prodigal son, the real party to celebrate.

The father showed unconditional love by his compassionate gesture, that he ran to meet him and put his hands around him. By giving him a robe, a ring, and sandals, he restored the recalcitrant kid (the black sheep in the family) to his former dignity as a son and not a servant. No words can completely express the father’s excitement and unrestrained joy upon his son’s return that he immediately, declared a feast. Bring everything out reserved only on special occasions. Go into my closet and pick the fancy robe that still has price tag on it.

The older son which represents the self-righteous side of faith became angry, jealous, bitter and worse, declined to join the party. He ended up as a loser. He pushed the hate button. He mistakenly thought that God's love and eternal salvation was something that can be solely attained through good works. He depended on it. Perhaps, he also needed to repent. Or if you want to rephrase it, you can it the parable of the prodigal family. Switching of roles works too in this parable such as the parent messing up and coming back to senses and needed to return and ask forgiveness from children.

Finally, this extraordinarily dramatic parable is about the unfathomable nature of God's love which none of us will ever comprehend until the next life. All you have to do is repent and guaranteed God will forgive you. The parable of the younger son shows us two aspects of God’s forgiveness. Repent and be Forgiven. Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians in the second reading tells us the transforming effects of being reconciled to God. God has placed us in Christ. Whoever is in Christ is a new creation. The old things have passed away, behold, new thing have come” 2 Cor. 5: 17. Reconciliation in Christ is the very purpose of any ministry. God has reconciled us to himself through Christ. Reconciliation then, is a gift of God, an initiative coming from him. Paul says, “We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God” (2 Cor. 5:20).

For further reading, please click here for the text of St. John Paul II's Apostolic Exhortation Reconciliation and Penance published in 1984 which is so rich and devoted quite extensively on the parable of the Prodigal Son.

ACT OF CONSECRATION ON MARCH 25

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 23:43:52 GMT

Mother of God and our mother, to your Immaculate Heart, we solemnly entrust and consecrate ourselves, the church and all humanity, especially Russia and Ukraine...

We will join the Universal church in the act of consecration of Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on March 25, 9:00 am, Arizona Time (5:00 pm, Rome Time). March 25 is the Feast of the Annunciation of the Lord to the Blessed Mother. Please click here for the text of the act of consecration in English and Spanish.

HOMILY ON THE SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT C22

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 23:34:57 GMT

Seen and Heard from Mount Tabor...That we may also be transfigured...

On the Second Sunday of Lent, we are always led to the mountaintop primarily to spend time in prayer with the Lord and to witness his (kabod) glory seen and heard in the awe-inspiring and breathtaking transfiguration story. The transfiguration story appears in all three synoptic gospels and that Luke’s version is the first ever to be recorded and written. Because we are going to ponder on the meaning of transfiguration and eventually, our transfigured bodies, let us spend a moment with the Lenten exhortation of St. Paul to the Philippians in the second reding which serves as a background for the Transfiguration story. He reminds us about two models in our faith-filled lives, one to imitate and the other to avoid. He begins with, “Join with others in being imitators of me, brothers, and sisters, and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us. keep your eyes fixed on those who live according to the pattern I gave you” (Phil 3:17). Paul says, if you are looking for someone to pattern your life, look no further. Do what I do. Not do what I say. It is either me or others who walk according to the same pattern. Paul sounds prideful but it is positive kind of pride and not the pride per se which relies on oneself, the root of all sin. If we keep our eyes on Christ, we will be transformed. Holiness will radiate in our bodies. If we gaze on the Lord, we will see the unveiled face of the glory of the Lord.

Paul now turns to those whom the Philippians should not imitate. “For many, as I have often told you and now tell you even in tears, conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction. Their God is their stomach; their glory is in their “shame”. Their minds are occupied with earthly things” (Phil 3: 18-19). He never missed reminding them that there are those who walk on the same road but acting as enemies of the cross of Christ. The end is ruin, their god is their belly, and their glory is their shame. They think only of the things of earth. These loaded words lead us to examination of conscience. Is it enough to go to Mass while leading a lifestyle not in accord with what Paul described? Is it alright to sin and be forgiven? Do you compromise with the devil? How do you deal with Satan? Do you enter settlement with enemies of the cross of Christ? After Mass, do you go back to your own ways? Any disciple of Christ must be a model and exemplar of virtue which will change our lowly body and conform with his glorified body, the archetype of the imitation of Christ.

Paul ends the exhortation with the words, “Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved” (Phil 4: 1).

The Entrance Antiphon says, “Of you my heart has spoken, Seek his face. It is your face, O Lord, that I seek; hide not your face from me” (Psalm 27: 8-19).

During Lent, there’s nothing like being with the Lord in this mountaintop experience. That’s why it was no surprise when Peter thought of pitching tents and staying there for good. As marvelous as it is, we must go down and head back to the ground level and face whatever lies ahead. It is not easy to climb a mountain, much less Mount Tabor (less than 2,000 feet elevation), the traditional site of the transfiguration. Once you have reached the peak of the mountain, there is a sense of serenity and satisfaction. If going up a mountain presents a challenge, going down is much more difficult. Following a life- changing experience, the future remains to be seen. We may not know exactly what will happen next and yet, what we saw at the top, perceptible while hidden provides energy. Whatever difficulty, bumps on the road, in the end, good will triumph over evil. Many, if not all of us have been following Ukraine and amazed at the incredible degree of courage of the citizens. I have yet to see someone appearing on television saying, we will see what happens. They believe they will win. With those words, no explanation is necessary.

This transfiguration episode has two parts: first, Jesus was praying when Moses-the lawgiver and Elijah-the greatest of all the prophets conversed with him while the privileged few were dead sleep and only when they were awakened, they saw his glory (qabod) and the two men standing with him. His face was changed, and his clothing dazzled. The glory of God is God himself as he is revealed and as he reveals himself to us. The transfiguration then helps us catch a glimpse of God and for us, that’s enough. Those of us living especially in the southern- most tip of the state can very well see in high definition and cherish without the distraction of skyscrapers the clear blue sky and what it means to be overwhelmed by clouds in broad daylight as signs of God’s radiance. What they saw carried them down. God doesn’t work in a vacuum. Whatever he does is always rooted in a human event. The transfiguration story was a mystical experience (real, not virtual) – an out- of –the- ordinary, mind-blowing event that takes us beyond our normal expectation. It can be described as an alternate reality, a different mode of consciousness aimed to renew, motivate, and lead us into a deeper knowledge and life with Christ. It is meant to jumpstart, to recharge and to provide a course of action to a drifting soul. At the end, we are told, “This is my beloved son, listen to him”. The Opening Prayer (in other words, the Collect which collects our personal intentions during the short pause following the words, Let Us Pray) goes, “O God who have commanded us to listen to your beloved Son, be pleased, we pray, to nourish us inwardly by your word, that with spiritual sight made pure, we may rejoice to behold your glory”.

Similarly, in the first reading, Genesis 15, when God promised Abram two things: descendants and land – “I am the Lord who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as a possession” and “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to the Great River, Euphrates” ending with the symbolic ceremony of covenant, he was perplexed. He initially responded with a request for assurance, “O Lord God, how am I to know that I shall possess it?” In the end, it was credited to him as an act of righteousness. Faith in God makes you firm and steadfast. The words, I believe requires no elaboration. Both Abram and the inner circle of disciples had similar reactions at the magnificent religious experience. Despite both were challenged and overwhelmed at the scene and words, they responded with Faith. How would I know that what you’re saying is true and will happen? What’s Wadi of Egypt? God’s response to these questions and ours too, was covenant.

Our Lenten practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving including our laundry list of devotions: stations of the cross, silence, meditation, confessions, and retreats must take us beyond ourselves. During Lent, all roads lead to the mountaintop experience to see for ourselves the transformed face of Christ, not only to see him face to face with the two heavenly big shots but to be mesmerized with the beauty and to be perpetually awed by the truth. We can’t get over it. We couldn’t believe it happened after the fact. I didn’t realize that. I didn’t see it that way. Now, things seem clear. Now, it makes sense. What’s been your aha moment? What does it mean for you to personally witness the face of God whose name is mercy? Some of us may be going to church out of a sense of obligation but nearly all of us keep coming back because of this once in a lifetime religious experience we hope to see at Mass once again. We must have seen and heard God somewhere, sometime ago that changed our lives forever and bring us back in church every week. The Mass is meant to do just that all the way to a transfigured life. Faith isn’t simply something that happens in church on Sunday. It’s about what we do with the experience of the glory and radiance of God. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 21:32:23 GMT

Today, February 22, 2022, (2/22/22), the feast of the Chair of St. Peter celebrates the primacy of Peter, the first pope, represented by the Holy Father Pope Francis over the universal church. The commemoration takes us back in the 4th century when early Christians commemorated St. Peter as the leader of the twelve. I am posting several photos of the church in Antioch where the original chair of St. Peter was. Although the word chair (cathedra) came out later in the understanding of this feast, we know that the office was deeply revered by our elders. For a long time, there were two celebrations one on January 18 and the other, February 22 but in the 1950's, St. John XXIII combined both and retained February 22 as the official date. The first reading from the first letter of Peter 5: 1-4 speaks of leadership and governance of the flock, "Do not Lord it over those assigned to you but be examples of the flock". While others may have issues with Pope Francis' revolutinary pastoral example and strategy, I honestly don't. In and Under Peter. In fact, I find so much inspiration in his ministry considering what we go through at this stage in history. Where the church is, stay there. Whichever direction she goes, follow. Don't leave.

February 23, Wednesday is the Memorial of St. Polycarp of Smyrna (modern-day Izmir, Turkey). He was a disciple of St. John the Evangelist (the Beloved Disciple) who sent him to Smyrna. He was one of the Apostolic Fathers (post-Apostolic era) along with Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antoich which meant that he had received Christ's teachings straight/directly from the mouth of the Apostles. He trained St. Ireneaus and Papias. When the Roman pro consul asked him to renounce his faith, swear by the genius of Caesar, and I will discharge you, revile Christ or face death, he said, "For eighty-six years I have served him and he has never wronged me. He has done me no harm. How can I renounce the King who has saved me?" I am a Christian was his confession. He was burned at stake but miraculously, the fire didn't kill him. He was instead beheaded by the sword. The Book of Revelation 2: 8-11 in the first reading which is addressed to the angel of the Church of Smyrna says, "Do not be afraid of anything that you are going to suffer...Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life".

Pastor's Musings is back from a long hiatus. It is about time. With the new platform, blogging and possibly, vlogging will turn over a new leaf because of so many exciting and wonderful features.

Thank you Immaculate Conception Parish volunteers for helping out in the Carne Asada (plus beans and macaroni) fund-raising last Saturday, February 19. We should do it again and often.

We pray for those who have passed on to eternal life. I'm going to miss a lot names but no worries we'll make a separate page in the homepage for

IN MEMORIAM...FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS...

Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace!

THANK YOU LORETTO SCHOOL 8TH GRADERS

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 17:09:08 GMT

EVERY GIFT IS GOOD. EVERY PRESENT IS PERFECT.

On Monday, February 14, I was told, Loretto School had a surprise gift for me and had to go to the school to accept the present. It was the Memorial of St. Valentine of Rome (Priest) and Terni (Bishop) both martryrs, kind and generous and always left a note, from your Valentine. From the parish office to the School, I did not know what to expect. I wondered all the while what was the gift. It must have been something very special. Mrs. Melgoza accompanied me to the 8th grade classroom. Mr. Moreno handed me an envelope and said, oh thank you, that's very thoughtful and was actually about to head out and visit other classrooms. Well, it didn't go as planned. I was asked to open the envelope which was the same dimension as last Christmas party. What exactly was on it remained to be seen until I flipped the seal. Lo and behold! It was a check with at least, three zeros. I hope it was not a typo. I momentarily removed my eyeglass to see it closer and clearer. My guess was correct. It was a thousand dollar check. Where did you get it? Or I should have said, how did you raise such a huge amount? They told me, they sold candy gram to the school only. That's incredible!

More than anything, it's the thought and the intent that touched and moved me. It is not so much the amount raised although between 3 and 4 figures, I would definitely go with the latter. Things like this especially coming from the kindness, creativity and initiative of the kids warms my hearts and is deeply moving. As St. James reminded us this Tuesday, "every gift is good. every present is perfect". Amen.

A CELEBRATION OF MARRIAGE

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 18:57:07 GMT

A CELEBRATION OF JOY AND LOVE!

Last Saturday, February 12, we celebrated the sacrament of matrimony through the convalidation of civil marriages and special anniversaries.

HOMILY ON THE SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 19:01:59 GMT

BLESSINGS AND CURSES...

What is the source of your joy? What constitutes true happiness? What does it mean to be Blessed by God? In the Sermon on the Plain, that is, Luke’s version of the Beatitudes, Jesus illustrates the various circumstances, conditions, and the hard realities in life with four blessings and curses: poor-rich, hungry-satisfied, weep-joyful, persecuted-respected that make people blessed (Makarios) with the corresponding opposite curses/woes (warning of a coming judgment). God provides blessings and pass judgments. God is the voice and the defender of the lowly that’s why he unequivocally favors the poor, the hungry and the suffering. In this gospel text, Jesus highlights the great reversal of fortunes and values in God’s eyes: the blessed are those who are poor, hungry, weeping and persecuted while the woeful ones are the rich, satisfied, the joyful and the respected. He shockingly surprised us by reversing the conventional earthly wisdom and establishing new ways of living, a clear path to follow for any disciple. The Blessedness refers primarily to those who have uncompromising commitment to the Lord borne out of the tragedy and misery in life. The Blessed are those who cling to the Lord for refuge and strength. This won’t be realized until we join him in the next life, although some may have already experienced the blessing in heaven and the curse of hell on earth.

Before we get into the details of Luke’s Blessings and Curses, let us dwell for a moment at the words of Jeremiah in the first reading, one of my all-time favorite passages that provides introduction to the blessings (Blessed is…) and curses (Cursed is…). This text is so special as it presents a striking contrast between two kinds of individuals who have totally opposing views, lifestyles, and orientations in life. Let me put a disclaimer as I figure, many of you might feel bad about the text. There is a profound difference between a well to do kind and generous religious person whose material resources are channeled to the church and support the needy and the least among us and an unreligious self-centered, selfish mentality who cares nothing about the plight of the poor. The first, the one who is cursed trusts and finds strength in human beings while the second trusts in and lives by the word of God. These two kinds of people have striking contrasts. A Grand Canyon separates them. They almost have nothing in common. Their values are completely at odds. The cursed is the one who deliberately turns away from the Lord and is like “a barren bush in the desert where there is no change of season but stands in a lava waste, a salt and empty earth”, desolate with no chance or hope of survival. It is a life that is baseless, groundless which will easily put anyone in deep trouble. Imagine being in the middle of the Sonoran Desert at over 100 degrees alone, with no water in the vicinity, cellphone signal, and contact with the world. This person’s heart is far away from God and is irreparable and irredeemable. You can tell by the word and actions of this fellow. On the other hand, “the one who trusts in the Lord whose hope is in the Lord, is like a tree that is firmly planted near the water, the wellspring of life”. It is like a tree planted in streams of living water whose roots are well irrigated, grounded, and nourished. Even if drought unexpectedly comes, it won’t wither and remains alive. That means, the one whose faith is in the Lord will find security and protection. The responsorial psalm continues the narrative, “Blessed are they who hope in the Lord (Psalm 1)”. Blessed are you who delight in the law of the Lord and meditate on it day and night. You are like “a tree planted near running waters, that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade. Whatever you do, prosper”.

“Blessed are you poor for the kingdom of God is yours”. The poor here refers to material poverty that is, those who lack material resources, economically impoverished, and socially marginalized. They are the ones who join in line and beg for food, who can’t provide for the necessities and are dependent on other people’s generosity for sustenance and survival. It is true that your life now is the result of your decisions (good or bad, big, or small) and that poverty may be a result of a series of bad choices. However, in this context, it doesn’t mean that way. The cause of social and economic inequality that is, the existence of the poor, is because we have not taken care of each other as much we should. Poverty is like being trapped in an endless vicious cycle. Unless someone from the outside takes you out into that mess, you’ll remain there. Because they don’t have the means to enjoy the material pleasures, they will inherit the reign of God. Those who did not take care of the needy when they know they could have will unfortunately, will not reap the rewards. This description includes those who are deeply concerned with social ills and are actively working for peace and justice. They dedicate their lives to alleviate poverty, volunteer in soup kitchens, end drug trafficking and abuse, reduce unemployment, help the youth and the juvenile get back on track and take care of the elderly. Blessed are they who despite the risks associated with their work, put their lives on the line during their global health crisis for they have mouths to feed, and loved ones depending on them. There are countless people who have been called to renounce possessions and have embraced poverty (or simple living), not for poverty’ sake but to share the blessings and in turn, live with a single- minded devotion to God apart from the worries and noise of the world. They are the living witness of the gospel. The scriptures come alive because of them. You don’t need a commentary, an interpreter, or a rousing preacher when you seem them face to face at work in real time. We can talk for hours about the many causes of poverty and the underlying issues (either because they are destined by the choices made or simply victims of social inequality and injustices, among others) but at this juncture, this social class (the disinherited, the dispossessed and the disenfranchised) has a special place in God’s heart.

Blessed are they who are marginalized, isolated and singled-out because of their fidelity to Christ. Blessed are they who are laughed at and mocked, even bullied for their steadfast commitment to faith. Blessed are they who are looked down upon for being religious. Blessed are they who work for peace and justice but remain true and unaffected despite the dehumanizing words and painful criticisms leveled against you. Woe to those who turned godless in prosperity that is, excessive materialism leads to spiritual blindness, emptiness and eventually, kills faith. Woe to those who do nothing to their suffering and needy neighbor. Woe to those who lost moral compass in the comfort of life that is, a loose life (without any sense of right and wrong) goes nowhere. Woe to those who put absolute trust in human power and riches, without regard to anything spiritual and religious.

Finally, the core of this whole teaching can be found in the last beatitude and the last woe. Our parish communities will not thrive without the sacrifices of so many individuals working collaboratively behind the scenes. The reason people are poor, go hungry, mourn, and persecute is because of the undying commitment and faithfulness to the gospel. Rejoice! leap for joy! and be glad! for your reward will be great in heaven. Amen.

HOMILY ON THE FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 19:13:32 GMT

PROPHECY IS OUR LIFESUPPORT

The entire readings are a continuation of the unfolding of the various prophetic ministries. This Sunday, we ponder on the incredible visions and prophetic commissioning of Peter (Luke 5: 1-11), the Prophet Isaiah (6: 1-8) and St. Paul (1 Cor. 15:1-11). There are many parallels in these theophanies (religious experience) with electrifying responses, but I will leave it to you, whichever pique your interest and speak powerfully to you. God calls us in so many ways and in varying circumstances.

GOSPEL READING (LUKE 5:1-11)

Luke presents the calling and the eventual commissioning of the first disciples in their workplaces that is, Lake of Gennesaret. The scenario shows that it was the time when Simon and company had disembarked and were hauling their nets after a fruitless night. There is nothing more heartbreaking in a risky fishing business than to come back to the shoreline with nothing but empty nets after spending all night in the sea. This was a rare phenomenon as this place had been said to have an abundance of fish. For these seasoned fishermen to catch nothing was a huge disappointment because people relied on them for daily sustenance. You can feel the frustration after an unsuccessful night of fishing. With the press and demand of the crowd, Jesus went straight to Simon’s boat and told him to take it a few distance from the shore, an interesting indication of Simon’s future role in the mission of the church in its entirety. There is a reason why Jesus chose Peter’s boat more than the others to stress the role of Simon and company to never leave the boat. Where Peter is, there is the church. He asked Simon (still Simon, not yet Peter), “To put into deep water” (literally, put out into the deep) and lower your nets for a catch. After laboring all night in vain, this surely sounded odd for the experienced fishermen Simon, his brothers, and the crew. That’s why, his initial response was not surprising at all, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing but at your command, I will lower the nets”. Simon was the first to listen and trust in Jesus’ words, the mark of a disciple. Because of his trusting faith and (perhaps) a blind obedience (all of us have gone through), they caught a great number of fish filling the boat, bursting, and tearing the nets, and needed help from the other company. He followed Jesus’ directive and was astounded by the miraculous yield. As soon as Simon saw this, he immediately fell at Jesus’ knees, prostrated himself and said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” This sense and feeling of unworthiness which always happens whenever there is an encounter of the transcendent power of God is the first step in spiritual growth. Notice in a similar fashion the reaction of the prophet Isaiah in the first reading, “a man of unclean lips” (6:5). He (Peter) was seized at the astonishment of the catch, a display of the power and presence of God. It was a theophany, a recognition of divine power at work. Peter and his companions trusted the word the Lord, “Duc in altum”. When you open yourself to the Lord, great things happen coupled with unimaginable blessings. Put the message out into the marketplace (where people are), let down the nets of the gospel, don’t hold to it and be surprised at the catch. The two boats need to be mentioned symbolizing Jews and Gentiles alike two groups that may have tension but necessary in the spread of the gospel. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid. From now on, you will be catching men”. This phrase and what Simon did afterwards is the turning point of the whole episode. Jesus did this for a purpose. From now on, effectively immediately, the nets will be catching men and women and anything in between. From now on, their primary job is to follow the instruction: “Duc in altum”. They will be catching people (spiritually) dead and alive to bring the new redeemed life in and through Christ. This catching will be done not once, not twice but countless times to gather hearers.

FIRST READING

This first reading from the Prophet Isaiah consists of three things: theophany (1-2, 3-4); the purification of the prophet (vv. 5-7); the prophet’s offer to serve. Isaiah shares his deep sense of awe with a vivid description of his highly intense visionary experience during a liturgical (worship) service in the temple, “I saw the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, with the train of his garment filling the temple.” The prophet’s encounter with God began with him seated on a throne flanked by two divine representatives, Seraphim stationed above. They cried to one another with the threefold acclamation of praise, Holy (Qadosh), Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts; the whole earth is full of his Glory (Is. 6:3), to highlight that Holiness, the other-worldly, the unapproachable mystery, is the very essence of God. This is the famous Tres Hagion to describe the splendor and majesty of God which opens the Eucharistic Prayer at Mass. Isaiah confessed that this vision was extraordinary for depicting God as high and lofty with covered faces, supreme and the mightiest, among all other gods seated on the throne. The glory of God fills the entire earth and overflows into the temple like a train of a royal robe. Following this throne scene was his cry of despair, “Woe is me, I am doomed! For I am a man of unclean lips and living with a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King (not an earthly ruler), the Lord of hosts”. This realization of being morally unfit for the job comes with the package that is, the preparation stage of prophecy. This entire experience purified him and made him closer to God and faithful to the life of service.

The way Isaiah sounded in his memoir one can easily guess that he was a highly influential biblical figure and had an inside access to the temple. He was the only prophet who volunteered for the unpopular prophetic service recounted in Isaiah 6. When God said, whom shall I send? Who will go before us? (after consulting the heavenly realm) Isaiah answered, “Here I am, send me!” after being cleansed of his lips (not his eyes or hands) and only after can he proclaim the word. Despite his inadequacies, he volunteered. If nobody else wanted to go and serve the most- high God, Isaiah said, take me! I am with you! Others who were called to be prophets declined saying, No thank you. They don’t want the job because they knew it was not easy as many were killed for their fidelity to faith. Strange as it may seem, prophets are hated because they love their people so much. In fact, none of us knows how much God loves us. St. Augustine said, people love the truth when it enlightens them, but they hate it when it accuses them. The church lives and thrives on prophecy. Without prophecy, we go nowhere. Without the authoritative pronouncements and teachings of the Pope along with the ordinary magisterium as an infallible interpretation of divine will, the church stops in existence.

HOMILY ON THE FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 19:16:30 GMT

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This Sunday’s theme is prophecy which primarily deals with the contemplation of truth. Prophecy is concerned about arriving at the truth. Prophets live and die for the truth. Preaching Justice defined as the honoring of one’s relationship with God is what consumes much of their time. Prophecy is a precious gift. It is profession and a vocation not intended for all. Not everyone has this calling. Many of us don’t envy them because of the nature of their job. The main task is to mediate and interpret divine mind and will. A prophet is one who speaks for another. Every religion ancient and modern has prophecy.

In the first reading, we encounter the prophetic vocation of the Prophet Jeremiah and the manner of his calling. It is not a 9:00 am – 5:00 pm job but a vocation, a ministry to love tenderly and forgive quickly. In the opening verses, he said, “The word of the Lord came to me saying: Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born, I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you” (1: 4-5). His vocation was stamped on him from the moment of his conception. He was destined to be a prophet. God formed him like a potter and a clay in his mother’s womb. God knew him from the first moment of his existence. God told him I have a plan for you. It was not accidental. I dedicated you. I sanctified you. I consecrated you. I separated you in service of me/for divine service. I set you aside for me for prophetic mission to all the nations. You have a choice, but you cannot say no.

Gird your loins. Get ready. Be prompt. Fasten your seatbelt. Put on your coat. This is not a walk in the park. You are about to embark on a difficult mission that involves your whole life. “Stand up and tell them all that I command you. Be not crushed on their account, as though I would leave you crushed before them; for it is I this day who have made you a fortified city, a pillar of iron, a wall of brass, against the whole land” (1:17-18). Jeremiah’s initial hesitation was that he was too young and knew not how to speak but God promised to take care of him and never leave him behind. God chose him and took the initiative without regard for human qualifications. He assured Jeremiah that “they will fight against you but not prevail over you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord” (1: 19).

The book of Jeremiah was a personal witness of his experience. He was the only or sole prophet who poured out his inner struggle and turmoil. And yet, his intimacy with God has grown much. Prophecy is a lonely life because you don’t have a lot of friends. In the case of Jeremiah, his friends deserted him. There was probably a time when he lost all his friends except God. Because the message of justice and truth were heavily loaded and unpopular, he was met with so many oppositions and complaints as expected, even death threats. People got mad and made fun of him. Jeremiah prefigures Christ (the supreme Prophet and not only a prophet but more than a prophet) in the suffering servant of the Prophet Isaiah.

In the gospel, after Jesus preached the words of the Prophet Isaiah ending it with his own, ‘Today this scripture passage has been fulfilled in your hearing. The crowds in the synagogue were astonished at his eloquence. I imagined he probably was not only given a round of applause but a standing ovation. Just before he motioned them to be seated, he heard someone asked, “isn’t this the son of Joseph?” that’s when things went awkward. The crowd got offended. You are no better than us. The famous saying “familiarity breeds contempt” is at work here. We prefer someone who has a sense of humor and make us feel good about ourselves. In a way that’s true because you never know what cross the person seated next to you is going through.

Jesus responded, “Amen I say to you no prophet is accepted in his own native place.” Prophets are not very well received because they tell the truth and in doing so, they get into people’s nerves. They lead us out of our comfort zones and make us reflect on the deeper aspects of life. We want change but none of us wants to do it. We prefer a comforting and sanitized message that maintains the status quo. Don’t kill the messenger. They are not only doing their job. They live the message faithfully and their calling religiously. As a response to the comments made, Jesus brought up the story of the great Prophets Isaiah and Elisha when God turned his favor at the wrong people. Christianity is an inclusive religion with a universal message of salvation: Christ as the sacrament of our encounter with God. It is not meant for a privileged few (the chosen people). “When the people in the synagogue heard this, they were all filled with fury.” They were offended by his words. They felt insulted when he seemed to give them the impression that God was on the side of the people they didn’t like. “They rose up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town had been built, to hurl him down headlong.”

Isn’t this how we react whenever we hear a story that seems contrary to our tradition and orthodoxy? Isn’t this our response as well whenever we hear a message we don’t like or a message we don’t expect to hear or something that must not be said in a polite conservation? Whenever the church sends a message in favor of the defenseless, insignificant, powerless poor, voiceless strangers, law breaker, the ones on death row and decries same sex marriage, direct killing of the unborn and death penalty, we express dismay, the church is wrong. The Social Catholic Teaching and the principle of sacramentality which we apply in liturgy is a worldview that invite us to see the inherent goodness in humanity and appreciate the beauty and truth of God’s creation. The liturgy is a solemn occasion, but we don’t dismiss the work of human hands.

Prophets are the spokesperson of God. They are the mouthpiece of God and the speaker of the house. They carry the voice of God addressed to the abused riches of the world and the distressed poor concerned with the plight of man. They are the public enemy number One. Their words sound harsh, relentless, and rude but underneath the spoken and written word is God's answer to the real problems of the times. They don’t care for as long as the message reached the ears of the listeners. In their long years of service to God, they have developed a deep sensitivity to evil and the depths of misery. They take us to the slums. They don’t doubt the calling. They have been sanctioned by God and cared less about what people say. They share the magnitude of the message even to the point of losing their most loved profession and lives. Failure to speak would mean doing a great disservice to God and a gradual collapse of the culture of society. We have developed a sugar- coated version of Jesus as being super nice, meek, and humble who doesn't know how to get mad even at the violation of human dignity and the exploitation of the poor. Prophecy is not a message of condemnation but proclaims God’s unadulterated message of love and kindness. It is about taking us back into the roots of our faith and right relationship with God. Love never fails (1 Cor 13:8). And the greatest of these is love/charity (1 Cor 13:13). The gospel concludes with the verse, “But Jesus passed through the midst of them and went away”. He moved on. Amen.

HOMILY ON THE THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 23:22:59 GMT

The Bible is God's love

As we devote the third Sunday in Ordinary Time (within the week of prayer for Christian Unity) as the Sunday of the Word of God, it is apt to begin with the church’s teaching on the written word, which recognizes a much broader perspective that is, Divine Revelation (as more than just the bible – written text). Divine Revelation is God’s personal engagement and constant dialogue with the created universe, the material world. The bible didn’t come straight from heaven. The scriptures are not simply handed writings devoid of any sort of personal touch and contact. Christianity is a religion of the encounter with the Word and the person of Jesus Christ and not of the book. The word (logos) is the incarnate living word of God that existed before time. God’s self-revelation is more than just revealing his verbal message to humanity but rather, it is best described as the entire process by which God reveals and expresses himself beginning with creation that is, everything that exists in the universe, from inanimate objects to the surrounding environment such as plants and animals, now called, nature. God also revealed himself to humanity whom he created in his own image and likeness, the masterpiece of his creation, and to the people of Israel, our ancestors in faith, the chosen people, whom he taught to know and worship him. These sacred encounters in many instances through various means of communication have been passed down orally and verbally as recorded in what is now called the Hebrew Bible (the Old Testament). Finally, the fullness of God’s revelation was completed through his son Jesus Christ - the word made flesh (John 1:14), whose redemptive words and actions, life, and ministry, saved humanity. Following God’s revelation carried out through series of events, comes the transmission of Divine Revelation, understood as the process by which God’s revelation is transmitted, handed down and passed on (Latin, tradition). This is very complex as it includes the historical events from the patriarchs, prophets, kings, and the entire people of Israel to Jesus Christ, Apostles, and disciples. Oral traditions deal with the stories about the past which include the teachings of the elders which have been passed down from one generation to the next. Written tradition refers to the written documents of Moses, prophets, and teachers of Israel as well as the recorded Gospels, letters, and other writings by early Christian leaders. Canonization and Interpretation understood as the transmission of God’s revelation is also part of Tradition because divine disclosure didn’t end with the composition of the written word but continues in the life and activity of the church such as the careful collection and canonization of the Old Testament and New Testament as well as the ongoing teaching (Catechesis), interpretation and application of God’s revelation in the lives of individuals and communities throughout the centuries.

Only after a brief overview of Divine Revelation and Tradition can we come to a proper understanding of the bible, the sacred scriptures. And now, we clearly see the connection between Revelation, Tradition, Scriptures. Scripture and Tradition are not opposed to each other. They are not separate entities. Scripture is part of the larger reality called Tradition, the transmission of Divine Truth which flows from Revelation > Tradition > Scripture. Although Scripture contains Revelation, not all of God’s revelation is recorded in the bible because God continues to reveal himself in the liturgy, nature, and various peoples at different stages in history. The bible is a crystallization of what happened in the past. But undeniably, the bible contains the constitutive element and core of revelation such that no other revelation could change or contradict what God teaches us in the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and New Testament, the written word. The bible contains all the truths necessary for our redemption and salvation. We don’t seek or need any other revelations to supplement what is found in the bible. The Word of God is not only the bible (the written text) but is Jesus Christ. The Bible is not the most important part of Christian faith but Jesus Christ who came before the scriptures were even written. In fact, the church came before the bible. Not only did the oral preaching of the Apostles precede the writing of NT and the early church also determined the canon of the bible and not several centuries thereafter for example, the popular notion that the Council of Trent was responsible for the canon of the scriptures. It is noteworthy that divine inspiration contrasts the fundamentalist (literalist) view of the bible which reduces the biblical writers to dictation machines. God is the author but not in the sense of word for word dictation. God is the author although he used human writers to compose them. The human authors wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. They had the freedom to write but only in so far as they were under the influence and guidance of the Spirit.

The bible is the word of God written in human languages ancient and unknown to many of us. The human authors didn’t merely write the words whispered on their ears, but they used their talents and abilities to produce the text. In the process of interpretation, we must take into serious consideration the limitations of human languages that is, the challenges of translation from one (ancient) language (Aramaic, Hebrew, Greek, Latin) to another (English and Spanish) but also, the literary forms and modes of expression used by human authors in their respective socio-cultural settings. Finally, the role of the Holy Spirit is indispensable in the composition otherwise, anyone would run the risk of limiting the scripture to the written text alone. God continues to engage with us in dialogue even outside the written word. God was active in all stages from beginning to present.

In the opening verses of the gospel, Luke tells us the background, “Since many (previous authors – biblical writers) have undertaken to compile a narrative of the events (Revelation) that have been fulfilled (completed) among us, just as those who were eyewitnesses from the beginning and ministers of the word have handed them down (Tradition) to us, I, too have decided, after investigating everything accurately anew, to write it down in an orderly sequence for you, most excellent Theophilus (literally translated, lover of God (dedicated in a general sense, community or individual) but also, financial patron, a benefactor), so that you may realize the certainty (inerrancy of the truth of the scriptures) of the teachings you have received” (Luke 1: 1-4). These opening lines incorporate Revelation-Tradition-Scripture as closely intertwined. God acts in human events. We endlessly gaze into the ordinary turning into something spectacular such as water into wine, healing of the blind, raising of the dead, walking on the sea, resurrection, etc.

Today, this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing (in your ears). Right now. At this very moment, every time we open our ears and listen to the affirmation, the Word of the Lord, we are moved by the intensity of the Word (dabar) which requires a response. Jesus is the speech. Jesus is the word of God, proclaimed, heard, lived, and encountered impressed on us in the liturgy where God pours the fullness of his life. The church, the gathered assembly, is built upon the word of God (Verbum Domini). Amen.

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C22

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 23:41:00 GMT

Jesus' miraculous changing of the water into wine at a Wedding Feast in Cana, Galilee is the beginning of his ministry. This is the first sign of the many splendid examples of his greatness (divine and human), a manifestation of his glory, the moment of truth. This is only the start. We have just begun. You will see even greater things than this. This epiphany text is often featured and used in marriage preparation programs because of what God has wrought. The fact that his first miracle was done in the context of a wedding party tells us that our relationship with him can best be compared to a marriage between a husband and a wife promising eternity. After wedding, the best is yet to come and not life after marriage, although there are bumps on the road, is a drudgery. The incarnate God in Christ loves to mingle and never leaves us behind when trouble comes most importantly if it is about wine. We shoved back to heaven the God who wanted to live with us on earth. That’s why we keep on missing him in the ordinary. Although God is other worldly, the incarnation taught us that he is not some kind of nerd, killjoy, world renouncing. He loves occasions such as this. In vino, Veritas. In wine, there is truth. When God breaks into our lives, everything changes for the better. From the scenario itself, it tells us that this occasion is a marriage celebration, on the first few days of the year, even before starting with the gospel of Luke next week and beyond, it serves as a clear reminder for us that we are wedded to God through Christ. Wine was necessary. Feast means celebration of life and love.

In the story, a problem arose, the wine ran short. Jesus happened to be there, with five other guests, his disciples who probably were the reason why the wine ran out. The Mother of Jesus was also there. She told him that they have no wine. He replied with a little hesitation, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come. Don’t say that. It’s your time. She knew better than the rest. So, she stepped in and told the ones in-charge, “Do whatever he tells you”. She did not disappoint. She knew her son would do something special and extraordinary. There is no such thing as water and donut on a wedding but certainly, it is a huge disgrace to get drunk. If Jesus had not come to the rescue, it would have been a huge humiliation and embarrassment not only to the newly- wed whose names had not been mentioned until the end (the bridegroom), the host but also, to the wedding planner and everyone involved. Can you imagine the head waiter sneaking out through the backdoor to the nearest convenience store? In my experience, a wedding party is harder to organize than a funeral because there are lots of tiny details that must be followed, almost no room for error. That’s not true of course. Every occasion has glitches: family members making scenes, cake not arriving on-time, to name a few. These may well be understood but for wine to run out in such an occasion of high importance, when your reputation is almost at stake carries with it a potential catastrophe. It's alright if the guests don't show up but if it's the wine the essential thing that make people stay, it would have ended the party early. Wine is essential. In wine, there is joy. Without wine in a wedding party, people leave early. Even a simple celebration requires some to bring a cooler full of beverages. Is it wrong? not necessarily for as long you share it.

According to the story, there were six stone water jars each can fill 20 -30 gallons. If you do the math, it’s a total of 180 gallons of wine filled to the brim and I bet you no wedding party on earth can drink this much even in a week except maybe in Douglas. That means, when we come to Jesus, there will always be a superabundance of grace. When Jesus comes into a person’s life, there comes a new quality, a little better than before same as turning an ordinary water used for ceremonial washings (meaning to say, it wasn’t even distilled and purified, not even a drinking water) into a range of high-quality wine. The headwaiter says to the bridegroom, “Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one; but you have kept the good wine until now”. You saved the best for last. The first reading from Isaiah 62: 1-5 promises that from now on, she will be called by a new name and no longer names and aliases that demean a person such forsaken and desolate. Marriage confers a new status, a new reality, a new way of living better than anyone has ever seen. Straight from the mouth of the Lord, “You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the Lord, a royal diadem held by your God…you shall be called ‘My Delight’ and your land espoused…and as a young man marries a virgin, your builder shall marry you and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you” (Isaiah 62: 5).

Without Jesus, life becomes dull, uninteresting, and flat. With him in our lives, it’s the exact opposite. Life becomes vivid, sparkling, exciting, thrilling and exhilarating. We hope and pray that as the year goes, every time we encounter Jesus, it’s like turning water into wine, a new life dawns like something we have never imagined before. Jesus' ministry kicks off in the context of a wedding feast, overflowing with wine which speaks volumes of what his ministry and life with us is about. In our culture, whenever you mention party, the impression is in a very negative sense like revelry and being inebriated with spirits but that’s not what the story shows us. Life with God is a joy-filled life. Have you ever met someone who says no to all your invitation: dinner- out and if ever that person decides to go, he/she stays in a corner of gloom? Christianity becomes the religion of the black clothes, the lowered voice, the expulsion of social fellowship and the world which in a way, is true but it just doesn’t capture the essence of the God incarnate. Christmas season is more than a two- week celebration with a possible extension to Candlemas but for many, it’s just one day of feasting with food and wine. Christians should beat their neighbors in carrying on the celebration of the Twelve Days of Christmas and beyond for as long it is allowed. A cheerful spirit wins more souls than anything. There's a famous saying: in wine, there is joy. If there’s no wine, how boring will the wedding party be. In short, they bring people together for whatever cause to beat work stress and pressure. The composition of Jesus’ wine is grounded in joy and much delight, acceptance, and gladness as it is a sign of the fullness of God’s blessings. Amen.

HOMILY ON THE SOLEMNITY OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 21:34:00 GMT

The mystery of the incarnation of the Son of God will always transcend human experience. This divine inbreaking is a historical fact we won’t completely understand in mere human terms. If there’s a way to approximate or get closer to the depths of divine reality, we turn to the liturgy: praise and worship, glad rejoicing, and adoration which reminds me of the saying, lex orandi (law of praying), lex credendi (law of believing), lex vivendi (law of living). We come to church to gaze, behold and adore the nativity scene and live that God’s life. Its purpose is for us humans to be astonished and be awed at the sight. Luke put emphasis on the manger, swaddling cloth and Bethlehem. Francis of Assisi began the tradition of Christmas crib/creche to bring the memory of the baby Jesus which we find in our churches this Christmas fresh and alive. Christmas is God’s self-abasement. His self-emptying is not what our ancestors in faith expected. The humility of God coming in human form, bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh has humbled us. The incarnation (birth of Jesus) is bending low and that’s what we do on Christmas.

Christ is born to us. Across town, the lights and sounds of Christmas are everywhere. It is sad to see establishments having more lights than our churches. Next year, we will designate a Christmas lighting evening in our churches to jumpstart the season. Lights entertain us by virtue of the season but at the same time, serve as a reminder of the true unconquered light of the world that transcends the inner forces of darkness. Many of us know that December 25 was once a pagan feast of the sun-god. In contrast, Christians made December 25, the birthday of the Son of God, the true fountain of light, the invisible light that proved stronger and brighter than the visible lights. God makes the sun shed light. The sun-god cannot conquer the inner troubles of humankind.

I don’t know if you find our manger too small. I thought of making a bigger one next year. And yet, our manger reminds me of the opening door of the church of the nativity. Many of us expect a wide- open door of any massive church. However, to enter the basilica you’ll have to bend low. The small door of the Basilica of the Nativity of the Lord will require any visitor bow to the waist to get in. Not only that. Below the main floor of the church is the grotto and the manger which will take you another few steps down through a narrow doorway. As a Pilgrim, you’ll have to go down the marble steps to see the site of Christ’s birth. Pilgrims touch, kiss, stoop, kneel and take videos and pictures at the silver star. A few feet away is a sunken area which is the manger, the place where Mary laid the newborn Jesus. What amazed me was that the exact birthplace is believed to be 100% historically accurate. The place itself is a cave adorned with marble floor, tapestries and hanging lamps. Because of the limited space in the area about 20x10 give or take and the press of the crowd which can be overwhelming, you’re only allowed a few minutes of stay. Following the visit, I said Mass with the pilgrims at the St. Joseph’s crypt.

THE MANGER WHERE MARY LAID THE NEW BORN JESUS

THE SILVER STAR WHERE CHRIST WAS BORN

FR. JOJO AFTER KISSING THE STAR

INSIDE THE GROTTO, BELOW THE MAIN FLOOR

MASS AT ST. JOSEPH CAVE (CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY)

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2021

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 21:18:00 GMT

My warmest greetings of joy and gladness this CHRISTMAS SEASON! I’m greatly delighted to welcome you in our Christmas liturgies. The Church is beautifully decorated with festive ornaments such as the little casita of the manger, hay, poinsettias, lights, figurines, and almost every Christmas decor from previous years kept in the storage are out. We didn’t leave anything behind. Many of the songs played and sung during Mass are familiar, so that everyone can join even with our masks on: from O Come all ye faithful, O Holy Night, Joy to the World and yes! Feliz Navidad. These are songs that come naturally to us and no need for rehearsals. Just belt it out. When I was growing up, in the days leading up to Christmas, I spent most of my time in the kitchen helping prepare delicacies and food to be shared at the table on Christmas Eve. In the house, the last person to leave the table is responsible for the undesirable tasks: wash the dishes, sweep the floor and throw the garbage. My pleasure. I didn’t mind doing that for as long as my belly was full. I enjoyed the food preparation and tasting for quality control.

Because of the proximity of my priesthood ordination to Christmas (3 days apart), I plunged deeply in the Mystery of the Incarnation of the Son of God, the presence of God in the flesh, the essential saving grace, the heart and soul of our redemption. This fundamental Christian belief, that God became human in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the doctrine that I found so much inspiration in my priestly ministry. Grace builds on nature. Before you delve into orthodoxy, don’t miss human reality. Although I won’t be able to greet you in person, as I cannot be in three places at the same time, rest assured you are in my prayers. I hope things go well with your familial gatherings. Winter has begun. Weather is going to get colder. As we wrap our bodies with thick layered fabrics, let God’s grace, divine favor and the warmth of our hearts dissipate the coldness of the season. Christmas is a time when our humanity is at its best. Kindness, generosity, and selfless love surround, envelop and overshadow us. God is with us (Emmanu-el) and because He is with us, there will be peace. After all the troubling circumstances surrounding the birth of Christ, God made the impossible happen. The stillness of Advent went fast. At the beginning of the Liturgical year, God in human flesh, the Incarnate Word as the starting point of Christianity, will be our guide because if we don’t, we might miss God altogether. We might even correct Him and change the way He does things. At the Vigil Mass, as families and friends come together, the Genealogy of Jesus, his ancestry, family tree, is proclaimed letting us know of the importance of the human origins of the Son of God, and ours as well.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT C21

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 03:07:00 GMT

The past few days have been busy with shopping, wrapping gifts and never-ending parties but also a sacred time to get closer to the mystery of the incarnation of the Son of God. We have heard in the sacred writings God’s plan of salvation through Old Testament prophecies and have been drawn into the God/man historical event. With Mary as our guide, we penetrate the depths of the mystery that is, the meaning or the inner dimension of the historical events as recorded in the scriptures. It is only the liturgy that we can plunge into the ‘mysterion’, the mystery - the reality/fact mediated by the sacred scriptures. In the liturgy, we internalize and deepen our faith.

The fourth Sunday of Advent presents the (second joyful) mystery of the visitation of Mary, that is, the coming of Mary to Elizabeth. As Christmas draws nearer, we relive the dramatic encounter of Elizabeth (woman of the house of God) and Mary, listen to, and take to heart the lively dialogue of these two saintly religious figures, a barren woman in her sixth month of pregnancy and a virgin in her first. The text gives the visitation minus the Magnificat (Canticle/Song of Mary). Following the annunciation of the angel Gabriel to Mary of the divine plan that she was to give birth to Jesus and assured her that Elizabeth, her cousin was on her sixth month of pregnancy who was barren, she hastened at the marvel the angel has spoken. She said yes to angel Gabriel and yielded to God, but she didn’t yet fully understand that she was going to carry in her body, ‘Dabar Adonai’, The word of the Lord. Her visit was a fulfillment of the promise of the angel at the annunciation and at the same time, reverence for her elderly cousin. Even at a very young age, she knew it was not easy for Elizabeth to carry the pregnancy. Although it’s not our concern, we may ask, that did she do for the rest of her visit? You bet, she helped and cared for her cousin do the simple and ordinary human stuff, perform household chores. She washed dishes, cooked meals, and laundry, too. And most importantly, talked deeper about God and the experience. The letter to the Hebrews in the second reading says, “When Christ came into the world, he said, sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; in holocausts and sin offerings you took no delight. Then I said, ‘As is written of me in the scroll, behold, I come to do your will, O God.” These verses highlight the significance of charitable acts during the season. We just don’t celebrate the mystery, the heart of the liturgy but also express outwardly God’s love through concrete and practical actions and gestures (gift giving).

In tough times, our humanity impels us to take care of one another. The pandemic exposed both the worst and the best of humanity by taking care of the sick especially, our neighbor (from family and friends to strangers and enemies). As we host dinners and show up at parties in the next few days, we will witness the unfolding of divine love, an experience that will last for ages. The visitation of Mary as the fulfillment of the promise was a divine command. Nothing God said is impossible. The presence of God caused them to rejoice. Mary was the ark and the child the glory of God.

Mary went in haste with great enthusiasm to the house of her cousin Elizabeth to the hill country of Judah/Judea near Jerusalem (three- day walk), a reflection of her excitement and obedience to the plan revealed to her. Mary embarked on a new mission, a new chapter, a new meaning, and substance in her life. God’s plan revealed has drawn her closer and deeper to God’s life and love. Her unexpected visit was an attempt to understand and to see the recent marvelous happenings. After Mary entered the house of Zachariah and greeted Elizabeth, the child in her womb leaped for joy and gladness which ushered the advent of the Messiah. Elizabeth’s reaction to Mary’s greeting tells us volumes about her faith-filled words and gestures. Mary’s greeting was so moving that it caused the baby to jump in the womb. God among us is the reason for the season. It was not an ordinary greeting of Hi and Hello. Elizabeth was overjoyed of her pregnancy. John could not wait to meet his cousin. It was certainly a revelation on Elizabeth’s part. She knew right away that Mary was pregnant, and that the child was special and even greater than John’s. He was the Messiah. How is it that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Elizabeth could not believe that the Lord has visited her.

With unrestrained joy and loud cry, Elizabeth uttered, “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” This was a greeting that came out naturally from Elizabeth’s mouth. I am so glad you came and visited me. Mary’s blessedness emerged by way of spiritual kinship and not blood, flesh, race, descent, etc. The Blessedness here refers to the word ‘eulogeo/eulogomenos’ which was an invocation of the blessing of God. The blessing was a petition that the one being blessed be granted divine favors. Although Blessing has already been granted to Mary at this time, it was meant to emphasize how special and blessed she was by God. Elizabeth extolled and praised Mary. She recognized her blessedness because of the child in her womb. Elizabeth’s canticle for Mary also echoes Old Testament’s motifs, “Blessed be Jael among women” (Judg 5:24). Uzziah, too, son of Micah proclaimed to Judith, “Blessed are you daughter…among all women on earth” (Judith 13:18). However, the blessedness of these two women was different from Mary. The blessing of Mary emerges from the following line: “Blessed is the fruit of your womb”. The fruit of the woman is God incarnate – Messiah. This blessing recalls Moses words to Israel that if you are obedient to the voice of the Lord, “Blessed be the fruit (offspring) of your womb” (Deut. 28: 1,4). Blessed are you who believed that was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.

We are inundated with prophecies on Advent and today, the first reading from the prophet Micah presents a vivid description (the answer) of the divine promise that the savior of the world will come not from a metropolitan city but from Bethlehem (house of bread) – Ephrathah (field of fruit), a small and insignificant town five miles south of Jerusalem. This is the Bethlehem and Ephrathah in Judah, the same place of the visitation of Mary to the hill country of Judah in the house of Zechariah. This never heard village has become a powerhouse and source of salvation. By going to an unexpected place, outskirt if you will, God is letting us know that there will be a reversal of fortunes and world order. Although this new ruler belongs to the lineage of David, his rule will be called forth and strengthened by God. He will lead as a shepherd with gentleness, much love and tender care and not iron fist. At the present, even though Bethlehem is under Palestinian authority, the church of the nativity is shared and cherished by all humanity. It’s been recently restored. The new king Israel will be like a shepherd. There will be peace and security. Amen.

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT C21

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 20:52:00 GMT

The third Sunday of Advent presents the joy that comes from the Lord amid the suffering, distress, and turmoil. The joy that is meant here is a religious sentiment, an inner experience of satisfaction expressed outwardly and not simply emotionally, which easily fades. Priests and churchgoers too wear rose-colored vestment/outfit and the rose-colored candle in the Advent wreath will be lit as well to mark the celebratory occasion much more than the violent of Advent.

Although you can’t force, let alone expect, anyone to be joyful in all circumstances, there’s a lot of cause for rejoicing this Sunday as it is also the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe who appeared to Juan Diego as an indigenous pregnant woman in 1531 in the arid desert of Tepeyac hill but now, all roads lead to this place of worship, the Basilica of Our Lady where roses bloomed and blossomed. Rose is brought and offered to Our Lady as a sign of our belief, cariño, and appreciation. Our Lady is a mantle of justice for the oppressed. Please note that whenever I write or mention Our Lady of Guadalupe, I’m an outsider, looking in, relentlessly trying to do my homework and make it my own. Devotion is personal. I defer to any devotee who claims to have a copyright on this matter. The celebratory joy this Sunday comes from the heart-felt presence of God. It is the joy that is found within. Christianity is not so much about (over) thinking and analyzing as it is rejoicing in action as John the Baptist in the gospel shows us. Wherever joy is, you cannot be mistaken, there is God. The joy of advent is found in his closeness to us.

The entrance antiphon calls us to, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say, rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near” (Phil. 4: 4-5). Paul stresses the fact that the reason for rejoicing is that the Lord is at hand. Joyful parishioners are the best evangelizing tools. He is fast approaching and will not delay. There may be some delivery issues for Christmas packages but not with the arrival of the Lord. He is coming in due time and not perishable. The second reading from the letter to the Philippians is the expanded form (4: 4-7) of the entrance antiphon letting us know, “Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all (who is not anxious in covid America?), but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God”. At a time of so much distress, Paul’s exhortation that prayer is the power that draws us closer to God and connect with him deeply can never be more emphasized. When joy is farfetched and smile appears a challenge, prayer will supply. The collect (opening prayer) says, “enable us, we pray, to attain the joys of so great a salvation and to celebrate them always with solemn worship and glad rejoicing”.

The prophet Zephaniah’s words (3: 14-18) in the first reading is a wake-up call to, “shout for joy and sing joyfully. Be glad and exult with all your heart”. Shout!...Sing!...Be glad and exult! Please! That’s the message. Put aside whatever is holding you back from faith-filled celebration and join us wholeheartedly. You’ll be glad you did. You can thank me later. When was the last time you shouted for joy? Understandably, rejoicing in all circumstances is at a minimum all year long. Are we filled and burdened with many emotions and too preoccupied with the anxieties and troubles of life that joy is now costly? How much does it take for us to rejoice with the Lord? There shouldn’t be a short supply of joy.

Zephaniah’s intent is that celebration is infectious more than the raging virus. He said, “The Lord is in your midst, you have no further misfortune to fear”. We can sense God’s nearness through the generosity of so many selfless individuals. The cause of our joy is the presence of God: palpable and tangible. It sounds complex but it’s that simple. It’s up in the air. The joyful sound of Christmas begins to surround us. Christmas carols learned as a kid come naturally to us. The atmosphere is festive all over the place. You can taste and smell divine reality. You can feel the warmth of God’s love. People are nicer this time of the year than anytime of the year perhaps because of presents. The words of Zephaniah allude to the expression in the book of Exodus that God is dwelling in the ark of the covenant, “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty savior; he will rejoice over you with gladness and renew you in his love, he will sing joyfully because of you, as one sings at festivals.” How lovely to hear that the Lord is in our midst. God is coming to our aid. He will be among us. There is then reason to celebrate. The birth of Christ demands our time. Although we are heavily immersed with the affairs of the world and influenced by the culture of our time, as we go through the motions, God will join us in Christmas parties and whatever fills our calendar at this busy season. He will rejoice over us with great gladness. That’s the plan and we don’t have to do anything. God will dwell in us and with us whether we like it or not. It is up to us to accept or ignore him. The gift of God is our savior born in our midst. “Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged!” (3:16). He will teach us how to celebrate, how to shout for joy and sing joyfully. We will learn the lyrics and the melody and in turn, sing God’s music and all his cadences. The responsorial psalm from Isaiah 12 says, “Cry out with joy and gladness: for among you is the great and holy one of Israel”.

The evangelist Luke has a special place for the lost, the last and the least. This was by far, the trademark or the brand of his gospel. It should be no surprise then that when he put things together, he had them in his mind. In this section, Luke tells us what it means that God is in our midst. John has a lot to say, “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise…stop collecting more than what is prescribed…Do not practice extortion, do not falsely accuse anyone, and be satisfied with your wages.” John asked us to share nicely our surplus ‘cloak’ – chiton that is, the inner (under) garment worn next to the skin and not the outer garment to those who don’t have much and lack the necessities of life. Giving is the spirit of Christmas. Being generous, fair, and just without taking more than our due is a cause for joy. Care for the needs of other is an expression of faith, central to our mission. Our possessions are meant for the good of others and not only for our enjoyment and personal consumption. People thought the forerunner John the Baptist was the one they have been waiting for. In his reply, he shifted away from himself as expected and pointed directly to the Messiah, “One mightier than I, is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals”. He admitted, he is not even fit to do the menial task performed by a slave by unfastening his sandal straps. As the birth of Christ draws closer, Emmanuel, God with us, will wrap and warm our hearts that we may become a precious gift and present to anyone. Amen.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT C22

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 14:01:00 GMT

John the Baptist, the forerunner, occupies a significant role in the advent season. Understandably, advent won’t pass without encountering this extraordinary religious figure whose life was destined for God for better for worse. On the second Sunday of advent, the liturgy takes us to the third chapter of Luke by laying down the historical context of the calling and ministry of John the Baptist for the forgiveness of sins. He began with the pecking order from the top-down, “in the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar when Pilate was the prefect Governor of Judea, Herod, tetrarch of Galilee…and the chief priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas”. The evangelist deemed it necessary to give us a background because for him, time – ‘chronos’ is of the essence in the immersion of the word in world history and culture which is most telling that the salvation of mankind didn’t take place in a vacuum. We cannot understand John the Baptist without knowing the lived experience. In other words, the cultural setting.

Since Luke chapter 3: 1-6 immediately follows the infancy narrative, this episode represents the end of the beginning welcoming John the Baptist as the consummation of an era which will now point to Jesus. All four gospels attest to the role of John as the forerunner. There is no way then to get to Jesus without first hearing the preaching of John. Somewhere along the way, we will encounter him. We can’t come or begin our journey with Jesus unless we hear John and go through the process of repentance, or turning back to God, or conversion – metanoia that is, change of outlook, mind, heart, life.

The word of God came to John the son of Zechariah, the Prophet in the desert. This calling is important in history and sets the tone for the birth of the Messiah. John, the forerunner was prepared at the early stage of his life for a sacred and difficult destiny, that is, to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. He lived a solitary life in the desert, set apart for a life of prayer and abstinence devoid of any worldly distraction.

Luke records the exact time of the calling of John as it was written in the words of the Prophet Isaiah: “a voice of one crying out in the desert: Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low. The winding roads shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” John is the voice crying out in the wilderness calling out everyone to fix the broken roads to prepare the royal highway for God. God is coming and so preparations are underway doing everything to make the occasion memorable for the incarnation of the word, the Son of God becoming human, coming in human flesh, one of us, God with us, Emmanuel.

The prophet Baruch, a scribe and secretary of the prophet Jeremiah, in the first reading, presents a comforting message to the sorrowing, hurting, sad and afflicted. It sounds like a dreadful and depressing message on advent season considering that it is originally addressed to those who have experienced so much loss and regret, it brings a lot of consolation and hope. After all the disruption of the pandemic which stalled normal lives, it is so refreshing to hear such an encouraging message, “to take off the robe of mourning, misery and distress; put on the splendor of glory from God forever: wrapped in the cloak of justice from God, bear on your head the mitre that displays the glory of the eternal flame”.

Although it is not easy to do this as we are still battling the depth, breadth and height of the health crisis and bracing for variants, the prophet Baruch is a comforter, a bearer of hope who tells her (Jerusalem) to remove her mourning garment. You can’t live in grief forever. You can’t be in terrible and miserable situation for life. Try to see the other side of life. He says, “Arise! Rise up! Stand upon the heights; look to the east and see your children gathered from the east and the west from all over place, at the word of the Holy One, rejoicing that they are remembered by God”. Salvation is at hand. This will all come to pass. They are on their way home. So, clothe yourself with splendid garments. Put the crown on your forehead, the mitre of the glory of the eternal name.

Christmas season draws many of us to the clothing industry. Clothes don’t make a man, but they resemble personality and character. They are precious commodities, highly symbolic, send messages, make powerful statement and self-expression. Outfit matters. How we dress signifies whether we care for ourselves or not. Since we care so much about clothing and dress especially on this season, Baruch’s message is not a clothing advice after all. Garment is not only a physical clothing that covers our bodies, it indicates inner life with God which is exactly what we do on advent that is, to wear religion on our sleeves which is what we need now more than ever.

Before putting on the robe of righteousness and peace, we must first take off the garment of sorrow and affliction. We cannot put on the robe of justice and mercy without first removing the garment of woe and despair that wear so heavily on us. We cannot wear it underneath or hide it in our smiles. We must take it off and move on. Easy to say but hard to do or by far, the hardest thing to do. What is this garment, knit and wrapped we’ve been wearing for a long time, resentment, vanity, envy? What are the garments that we’ve worn for a long time we thought there were no other alternatives? As we look forward to Christmas, let’s have a wardrobe change. Sorrow is only a garment. It is temporary. You can remove it and replace it with a robe of God’s righteousness with a diadem of glory, one size fits all. Let’s take Baruch’s words to heart. Let’s put on that robe at the back of our closet waiting to be worn. Let’s dress up on Christmas with the garment of beauty and glory of God. Amen.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT C

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 14:28:00 GMT

The somber mood in the church’s worship space explains everything about what we do at the beginning of a liturgical cycle compared to the regular (worldly) calendar year. The atmosphere at least for the next few days encourages reflection in a deeper fashion in contrast with merry making. Violet permeates the altar decorations, however mild. Violet, the color of advent, changed the environment inside the place of worship into a somber atmosphere shifting the tone into a contemplative spirit. The gloria is omitted. Music is meditative. Sanctuary décor isn’t festive for now, but it will be as Christmas draws near. It begs for a distinct way of preparation for a deeper sense of life. It’s different and something profound is about to happen. We look forward to this season as everybody else does. We know it’s coming but we’re asked to wait a few weeks to make it really special.

Advent is about waiting but not a passive waiting that is killing time in long lines in grocery stores and waiting areas. It is an active, hopeful, expectant as if expecting someone to arrive at any given moment. It is a deep sense of joyful anticipation, spiritual preparation and forward- looking awe. On advent, we look back to the history of Jesus who came in human flesh and dwelt with us. We also look to the present to the ongoing mystical experience that is, encounter with Jesus in the celebration of the sacraments which results in personal conversion and to the future, to the coming of Jesus in majesty to judge the living and dead. We wait for the Light of the World.

Advent is a time of waiting with joyful expectation for the greatest thing to break into our lives, the unexpected coming of the Son of God made man born in the manger to be one with us, an event that forever changed the course of human history. The humble birth of Jesus is the identity and mark of every disciple. This time of waiting can be best described as the excitement of an expectant mother about to give birth to her first-born child. It’s nine months and cannot be rushed. If you do, you run the huge risk of not making it whole as you wanted it to be. Advent waiting is like an expectant mother who takes it one day at a time, hopes for the best no matter how hard it takes and never plays with the idea of ending it early before due time. She knows very well it cannot be rushed. No one expecting wants a child to come out early or the waiting to end early. If not, it will spell heartaches. Pregnancy means waiting but not prematurely for the proper time. Why do we have to wait when we can go straight to the Christmas season? Our culture isn’t very friendly with waiting unless it’s worth it. What we want needs to be in the here and now. We are slaves of time. Our schedules are packed. There’s a deadline for everything. A maximum of 15- minute wait is enough. Our minds are not tuned to waiting. Advent is a time to learn the value of waiting.

As soon as we enter the church on Sunday, the atmosphere tells us the changing of times and seasons. At the liturgy of the word, the exact opposite (from worldly practice) is heard, “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap” (Luke 21: 34-35). Advent is about patient waiting but also presents a fierce warning to us people of God to straighten our lifestyles if they are not in accord with our faith. Pay attention to your interior and invisible life that is, life behind the scenes. Seize the moment with God during the advent season. Grab the opportunity the liturgy offers. Get rid of vices. Work hard on your inner struggles. Although the worries of modern life weigh us all down and hard to avoid, let not the distractions of daily life overwhelm us and ruin the whole advent preparation. Luke continues, “For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man” (Lk 21: 36). Be on the lookout! Don’t sleep on it. Be Awake! Pray for energy, strength and will to survive all that is going to happen. Wait not in frustration but in stillness, not in frenzied anticipation but embracing of the present.

Since Advent ushers a new year in the liturgical cycle, welcome aboard to the gospel of Luke chapter 21 which illustrates the early Christian’s hope for the imminent second coming of Christ. Since my arrival in the catholic community in November 2018, I have already completed one three-year cycle. The pandemic was a distraction to our comfortable lives. Things have changed. Some things will forever change. Although we are reading the same biblical texts but the depths of the infinite wellspring of divine wisdom is unchanged. Don’t be surprised if the texts are almost similar in content and tone but the focus will be slightly different.

St. Paul in the second reading exhorts us for an authentic Christian behavior, “Brothers and sisters: May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones” (1 Thessalonian 3: 12-13). To prepare for the coming of the Lord, Paul offers words for inner housecleaning and interior housekeeping. As the first reading says, “The days are coming when I will fulfill the promise I made to…I will raise up for David a just shoot…He shall do what is right and just in the land…This is what they shall call her: “The Lord our justice…” (Jer. 33: 14-16). The one who is to come will bring peace and justice to his people. He is justice and righteousness. The promise of God will be fulfilled.

What are you waiting for in this Advent season? A new sense of direction? A closer relationship with Jesus and commitment to the church? A renewed way of welcoming the birth of Christ in your life, see it through the lens of the sacred scriptures and be at peace with the Lord? To be more cheerful and lighthearted? Amen.

12TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B21

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 17:46:00 GMT

Back in my college days, I, along with two of my classmates in the seminary, took a low boat back home. The ferryboat was cancelled due to an inclement weather which was normal at that time of the year. I don't remember the exact date, but it was few days before Christmas and so, we were dying to come home. We took the risk and boarded a 10- passenger low boat made of plywood and bamboo with no lifeguard, no permission from the coastguard, no rescue team available within a 10- mile radius, lifejacket, seatbelt, nor any modern means of communication, just us. At first, a steady drizzle was manageable, but when the unforgiving winds hit us, choppy waters started filling the boat, got everybody wet, dizzy and throwing up, the torrential waves beating both sides which nearly broke the rafters, we had little chance of survival. I thought it was my moment. It was a stupid decision and swore never to brave a stormy sea again. I prayed like it was my last, pronounced every word with clarity and respect and stormed the heavens just to get us out of that mess.

The experience of so many losses especially though death was a perfect storm. There are powers in the world that threaten our very existence. Many of them are beyond our control.

This near-death experience reminds me of the miraculous story of Jesus calming of the violent squall in the sea of Galilee. Since in biblical times, sea signals chaos and therefore terrifying, even deadly, this tragedy presents humanity’s helplessness in the face of the powerful and adverse forces of nature. And when your tiny little boat is in jeopardy tossed hard by the surging waves and blowing winds, you don’t fight against it. You look for the master navigator. At that moment, nothing could be more fearful, even despairing than seeing your master in the stern, lying comfortably asleep on a cushion. The disciples said, What! Taking a nap! With a strong feeling of trepidation, they immediately turned to Jesus and tried to wake him up saying, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" Seemingly unaware and unsympathetic, he got up and rebuked the raging elements with a commanding authority, Quiet, be still! and winds subside and waters calm down.

Mark shares this miraculous story to describe and emphasize the precarious situation of the early church amidst the storms of persecution, natural disasters and the unimaginable troubles faced. It was a tumultuous time. The boat that is, the church was about to sink and drown, and God seemed absent, unaware, silent, unconcerned and unsympathetic to the mortal perils that threaten it.

I bet many times we find ourselves in this situation as well. We get frustrated when we don’t feel the divine presence after hours of prayer. We give up when our prayers remain unanswered. We voice out our concerns when the church doesn’t stand up for truth and speak on behalf of the poor, the voiceless and the powerless. We rant and rave when God allows evil to rule. We get furious when all evidence seems to suggest that God is asleep and has no concern for humanity. The urgent existential questions on the meaning and purpose of life humble us. At the onset of the pandemic, questions mounted as whether God was involved or not. Did God cause the pandemic? Does lockdown including all restrictions mean undermining the sovereign power of God over all creation? If you believe in science, you don’t have faith or your faith is weak. If you have faith, why worry about the protocols? Is God taking a break? Is God on recess? Even with the help of modern technology at our fingertips, the devastation of hurricanes, super typhoon, tornadoes in the Midwest, terrorist attacks and violence of all kinds, still confounds us, defies our human understanding, and leaves us with the question, WHY? Why are dishonest people rich and good people impoverished? These are few of the angry questions we hear, even among Christians, God is sleeping! He doesn’t do anything to eradicate the abominations of the past and the present. And so, we join in unison, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" ...A perfect question during the pandemic...

Job, in his life, suffered a lot from numerous criticisms and insults not just from critics as expected but even from those he loved: families, neighbors and friends. The Lord then appears to him amid the storm and reminds him that the Lord created the very oceans. “Thus far shall you come but no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stilled.”

We all know Jesus never sleeps. He never stops. He’s always alive, always awake in us. He was not worried. Our worry about perishing may be a direct result of our forgetfulness. We may have forgotten him and momentarily something more attractive get the upper hand but once we knew he’s there, we’re at peace even in the most ravaging/destructive storms of life, in moments of sorrow, in life’s problems: bitter tension and uncertainty. There are times when we are at a loss, when we stand at the crossroads in life and not knowing which direction to take. The real tragedy is not that we don’t know what to do but that often we don’t humbly submit to Jesus’ guidance. Everything that happens to us is controlled by his providence. Who then is this that even the sea and win obey him? Amen.

11TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B21

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 23:37:00 GMT

Even as the temperatures reach three-digit level down here in Douglas, it is still planting season. We either get up early or wait until sundown to take care of our garden. Those of us not gifted with green thumb (myself included) always try hard until something miraculous appears. I'm glad that my sweet tomato has started to show up. I wonder in amazement. I can't take eyes off it. I had no clue how it sprung. I wish I did. And so, there is hope. Planting is about trust and patience. The parable of the mysterious growth of a plant/tree and the mustard seed presents marvelous opportunities to meditate on parish life, ministry and religious practices as a whole.

Let me begin by presenting a scenario that we often hear that if this person steps down and leaves the church, the community will fall apart. Ministries will break down and decline rapidly. The parish will be in trouble and will lose a lot of people, not to mention, plate collection. The hard truth is, none of us is indispensable and we are all replaceable. Our parish vision-mission statements and carefully laid- out projects and clearly- defined plans are but a drop in the bucket compared to the majesty of God. In our efforts to get things done the way they should, we carry the heavy load on our backs to the detriment of our personal time with God. We perform our jobs too seriously we cannot even afford to smile anymore and laugh hard at our mistakes. There is no perfect parish. Every parish community has its own issues and struggles. We face adversities and respond with great resilience. We succeed. We fail. We move on. Life goes on. Due to the culture of accountability, we believe we are the ones to be blamed which is, as it were, true. We claim that the rise and fall, the success and failure of our ministries solely depend on us (individuals and groups) and our God-given abilities determine the course, direction and future of the church. It is as though we make things happen and get things done by ourselves alone devoid of any outside force and influence. But no. Jesus tells us in the parable of the mysterious growth in the kingdom of God, that doesn’t work that way. He said, the kingdom of God is like a man who scatters seed on the ground, sleeps and wakes up night and day, the seed sown, sprouts and grows, he knows not how. In the process, something gives life to the plant. The kingdom of God is a divine work and initiative. God causes the growth. We do our best. We cooperate and participate in God's plan. We preach. We minister to everyone whom we are privileged to serve with special emphasis on the lost and lowly. If there’s growth, God is the producer. Lives are changed and transformed for the better. God made it happen, not us. Growth is beyond us. The kingdom of God is his work. All we do is perform the task and fulfill the responsibilities assigned to us. We live our vows and promises. We take care of our families and children. We send them to school. We stretch our budget for their future. We protect them from harm. We don’t let them join a bad company. If they do, we immediately get them out of a messy situation. We teach the beauty and splendor of life. We pass on the faith. We hand on the religious values not only by words but more importantly, by example. As St. Francis of Assisi once said, preach, if necessary, use words. Even in adulthood, we still find ourselves mentoring them as they make crucial decisions that will affect their future such as living the faith, practicing the beliefs or abandoning them. We have no control. All we do is build the foundation and leave the rest to God. God walks and journeys with us. He is there to guide us. Behind all our hard work, sacrifices, support systems, outreach ministries initiated to care for the needy for a just and fair society, God’s invisible power relentlessly brings growth. This is how the kingdom of God operates.

On the flip side, many of us who have been let down by negative experiences felt that our efforts are fruitless. As we contemplate our lives in the early hours of the day, we ask ourselves whether or not we could have done something more for our needy neighbor living in isolation at the height of the pandemic, during lockdown. As the covid crisis slowly wanes, if we are stressed-out and emotionally drained in the rough and tumble of parish life caused by so many losses, no worries, behind our dismal failures, something happens we know not how. The parable of the hidden mysterious growth of the seed then provides a huge encouragement for many of us who lost hope and energies deflated.

The second part of the Gospel presents the parable of the tiny, lowly, insignificant, seasonal plant that grows anywhere, short-lived, unassuming, ordinary mustard seed has surprisingly and exponentially grown into the largest tree, much more than the noble cedar in Ezekiel’s time. The parable of the seed sown on the ground and the mustard seed fulfills Ezekiel’s vision of the majestic cedar. God picks more often than not, the most unlikely individuals to work for him which shatter our expectations upside down. His choice is always meant to teach us a lesson about the mysterious, imperceptible in the eyes of many, unknown kingdom of God. Yes, the kingdom can easily be ignored. A thriving parish community represents the incredible story of smallest seed turning out to be greatest shrub that gives shelter and provides shade. In the same way, our local community must be a haven of the spiritually orphaned and a refuge of those alienated in faith, hope and love and ultimately, a safe place to welcome all walks of life and to accommodate all sides of the religious spectrum.

How do you see the mysterious hand of God in the ordinary events of your life? Amen.

CORPUS CHRISTI SUNDAY B21

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 19:47:00 GMT

It is highly alarming to hear from fellow Catholics of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life of the increasing disbelief and growing denial in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the consecrated host and wine. Whenever I hear stories of Catholics claiming that the consecrated host is just a …. (I can’t even put in words), I cringe! You said what! It is nauseating to say the least. I had to control myself but honestly, I cannot. No one should remain silent and pretend nothing happens. Otherwise, if we don't do anything with the false claim, there will be catastrophic results. It is happening. I have no option but to respond as charitably as I can to this blatant rejection of the sacred Catholic teaching. Who said that? Who told you that? Who taught you that? Where did you get that? Did you just read an article online? How did you arrive at this? Where is the basis of this claim? What are your sources? It is shocking to hear that the body of Christ is just a ... (sounds sacrilegious to even put it in writing). Catholics who claim this view have been poorly catechized. They are easily swayed by other beliefs because there is no firm ground and strong foundation in faith. Many, if not all are simply operating from what they learned in childhood catechism which is not enough to sustain and articulate the Catholic faith. As we grow, our sacrosanct religious beliefs will be tested by the church of the secular age. I don’t blame them. I feel sorry for them. What we can do is to strengthen Catechesis and offer avenues for spiritual and religious growth.

Catholicism has existed since the inception of Christianity. We have been there since day one. The fact that she (Catholicism) was not founded just a few years or decades ago, her teaching on the Eucharist takes you back at the beginning of Christianity (fresh from the oven), right from the very start - take it from the original company that is, from eyewitnesses (apostles and disciples of the historical Jesus) and continued in the apostolic tradition (church fathers – Saints Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp of Smyrna, Irenaeus of Lyons, Cyril of Jerusalem, Ambrose of Milan, Augustine of Hippo, among others) to the reformation period all the way to the present time. Because of the questions regarding the Eucharist which needed reasoned explanations towards the end of the first millennium, the doctrine of Transubstantiation arose and formally defined at the Fourth Lateran Council in 1215. Catholic faith in the real presence of Jesus Christ is based in the faith-filled testimony of the Sacred Scriptures, Tradition and the Magisterium (the teaching authority) of the Church. In other words, faith. Anyone claiming to be a faithful and loyal Catholic must show respect to the sacred teaching founded even before the discovery of America and the birth of our great great grandparents. You just don’t wake up one day and tell everyone they are wrong because of an article online and/or that this person from a church you attended other than ours told you so.

We cannot fully explain how the invisible change takes place through the invocation of the Holy Spirit at the words of consecration spoken by the priest. However, the doctrine of Transubstantiation is the best way to explain the invisible change which employs ancient philosophical terms such as substance (invisible) and accidents (sensible/visible) with the help of Aristotelian philosophical analysis which at the turn of the millennium gained a lot of ground (renaissance). Transubstantiation states that the substance (exists only in the mind) of the body and blood of Christ is contained in the accidents of bread and wine. Once the change takes place, the bread becomes the body of Christ and the wine, the blood of Christ. The substance has changed. They ceased to exist and not co-exist as in the case of co-substantiation. They are no longer bread and wine but the accidents that is, the outside/sensible appearances of color, taste, smell of bread and wine, remain. This sacred belief does not depend on one’s personal view and opinion. It is an objective reality irrespective of what you think about it. You don’t say, for me…in my opinion…in my view…No, don’t go there. The mystics tried as best they can to employ a method of understanding an unseen reality. The substance of the body and blood of Christ cannot be seen in the Eucharist. Although it appears impossible to understand, it is not. We experience it everyday. The Eucharist is the deepest and innermost desire of the human heart, that is, intimate union with God. For modern people, heavily immersed in scientific discoveries/findings and empirical data, this is absurd, but in their doubt and confusion, it doesn’t mean they are correct in their observation and interpretation. The miracle of the Eucharistic presence cannot be tested by purely scientific method even the most sophisticated microscope. We cannot scientifically prove Real Presence as it lies in the realm of faith. Because it is a transcendent mystery which defies the laws of nature, we will always run short of our explanation using human language and symbols. This is so crucial in our belief as failure to understand this teaching leads to disastrous religious practices which is exactly what is happening.

Real Presence is a communion with God. The Eucharist is sharing in Christ’s body and blood. We become what we receive. You become what your heart is preoccupied. In the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. The Real presence is not a physical body of Christ, but it is connected to the historical body of Jesus as in the words of the institution. Real Presence is not a symbol nor a figure. If it is merely a symbol or figure, it will change our practices. We use lots of symbols during Mass, but this is different. A symbol points to a deeper reality other than itself. For example, a cross means resurrection, victory, etc. Real Presence is reality and truth itself. It affects our entire life. Amen.

MOST HOLY TRINITY B21

Sat, 29 May 2021 20:24:00 GMT

The Solemnity of the Most Blessed Trinity Sunday is celebrated on Sunday after Pentecost to sum up the work of the Triune God – the Father bursting with love to the world sent us his son (the logos) to redeem fallen humanity through the paschal mystery (passion, death and resurrection) and the Holy Spirit (who proceeds from the Father and the Son) - the ultimate guide of the church that is both human and divine in its nature. The mystery of salvation is accomplished by the Father through the Son in the Holy Spirit. Nowadays, great emphasis has been placed on the individual roles and functions of the Trinity: God the Father created us, God the Son redeemed us, God the Holy Spirit sanctified us as stated in the Catechism. Entrance Antiphon praises God, “for he has shown that he loves us.” The Opening Prayer (Collect) says, "God our Father, who by sending into the world the word of truth and the Spirit of sanctification made known to the human race your wondrous mercy, grant us, we pray, that in professing the true faith, we may acknowledge the Trinity of eternal glory and adore your Unity, powerful in majesty."

We may not be aware of the historical unfolding of the Trinitarian doctrine of God but I am certain that whenever we pass by and/or enter our church or any church for that matter, start a prayer be it communal or individual, say grace before meals, leave the house, drive a car, hit slot machines, pray for miracle, intercede for a person in need, watch a nail- bitter game, we make the most ordinary yet powerful Catholic gesture of making the sign of the cross invoking the power of the Triune God as a humble act of faith, surrender and belongingness. We believe that whenever we do so, we express our profound belief in the Triune God.

There is no explicit mention of the Trinity in the Old Testament but there are traces in the New Testament. Over and above, the Most Holy Trinity is borne out of the love (agape as the deepest form) of God. Trinity is all about divine affection. It is the love that takes your breath away. Although in the early years of Christianity, theological discourse has always been centered on the Trinity, the Blessed Trinity is an encounter with a mystery and not simply a doctrine to be understood correctly nor a formula to be memorized. No matter how hard we try, our minds are too little and narrow to grasp the full magnitude of its reality. We know when we start to achieve some clarity, we must drop it down. No explanation is adequate.

We will not go over the intellectual hairsplitting of the technical terms such as being, person, substance, homoousius (one in being, now consubstantial – Nicene Creed), homoiousius (similar in being) which was the central and major point of discourse in the 4th and 5th centuries thereafter. Early Church Fathers used philosophical analysis with references and fruitful insights from sacred writings in such a way as to explain the relation. While it's true that citing the controversies surrounding the formal declaration would help -Arianism (Arian Heresy) and its modern versions, including Godless lifestyles that put salvation at stake, sharing the life and love of the trinity speaks more deeply to a congregation at this time of the year when plans for summer vacation have just set in, dry heat starting to hit 3- digits down here in Douglas, Arizonans heading out to any body of water or taking shed at cooler temperatures in spite of the pandemic, church attendance on slow recovery, and so is, plate collection. Whether we experience pain, grief and loss resulting in the ravages of Covid -19, Trinity Sunday is about the pure, undefiled, truthful, sincere, genuine, safe, comfortable, and consoling love of God freely given to us, frail and mortal beings.

I am endlessly amazed at the mysterious unfolding of the living and loving God who created the world and made wonders, whom Moses made sure his people remembered in a rhetorical fashion:

"Ask now of the days of old, before your time, ever since God created man upon the earth; ask from one end of the sky to the other: Did anything so great ever happen before? Was it ever heard of? Did a people ever hear the voice of God speaking from the midst of fire, as you did, and live? Or did any god venture to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by testings, by signs and wonders, by war, with strong hand and outstretched arm, and by great terrors, all of which the lord your God, did for you in Egypt before your very eyes? (Deut. 4:32-34)". Moses then continued with a confession of Faith leading his audience to their vocation/calling: "This is why you must now know, and fix in your heart, that the Lord is God in the heavens above and on earth below, and that there is no other...(Deut. 4:39)". Moses summoned the people to examine their lives in relation to God which starts with the many and wondrous blessings God has done to them. What God bestowed on us remains to be our foundational belief. We faithfully and religiously come to Church because of the love of God. This is the God who revealed himself in the person of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit whom Matthew mentioned in the gospel with a promise, assurance and mission:

“All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit…And behold, I am with you always until the end of the age (Mt. 28:18-20).” This text towards the end of Matthew’s gospel tells us of the great commission by virtue of our baptism always in the name of the Trinity.

The alleluia verse too praises God, “Glory to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit: to God who is, who was, and who is to come.”

For further study, the ancient writings of   St. Athanasius’ Creed  and St. Augustine’s On the Trinity  (De Trinitate) are the best sources available so far. In my almost a decade of preaching, I’ve learned to be very careful with analogies especially about the Trinity as I think that metaphors if not explained well, create more confusion than clarity. In spite of the limits of human language and symbols, this is how we approach the partially hidden things of God. My God is too high, I can't go up to him. He is too low, I can't go down. He is too wide, I can't go around him. But the door is open and I can get in. He invites me to enter. Amen.

PENTECOST SUNDAY B21

Sat, 22 May 2021 19:37:00 GMT

The Solemnity of Pentecost, 50 days after Christ’s resurrection, brings to a close the Easter Season. It must be seen in light and not separated from the Jewish Festival, called Shavout, the Feast of Weeks, one of the three great pilgrimages of Ancient Israel, 50 days- seven weeks of thanksgiving after the Passover celebrating harvest. Years before the birth of Christ, it commemorated the entry into covenant with God and the giving of the law/torah at Mt. Sinai marked by flames of fire signifying the manifestation of the presence of God.

Pentecost recalls the great and momentous event of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that blew in behind closed doors and empowered everyone around in a small room in Jerusalem, a week after the ascension of Jesus. “And suddenly out of the sky came a sound like a strong rushing wind and it filled the whole house where they were sitting (Acts 2: 2-4).” The noise that swept in and filled entirely the house was a driving force that gave them new life with Jesus, a new power and energy, name it, hard to explain, manifested by their bold proclamation of the great deeds of God and the message of mercy and forgiveness to all.

It is in this context that Pentecost is often called the Birthday of the Christian Church which occurred when the Spirit sparked a group of fearful and timid followers in the least expected of circumstances began doing extraordinary works under the influence of the Holy Spirit and not any other which they wouldn’t without the power from on high. The church is made and powered by the spirit. Without the Spirit, there’s no church, no gathered assembly, no building, nada.

In the beginning of Chapter 2 of the Acts of the Apostles, a book often described as the Gospel of the Holy Spirit, presents the indwelling of the Spirit, “When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place (Acts 2:1).” Although it doesn’t exactly tell us who were present in the situation room engaged in serious discussion and deep prayer figuring out what’s next, what’s in store for the followers after Jesus’ final departure to heaven, if anything, it indicates time and place.

What is decisive and phenomenal about this besides the inclusion of time and place is that those present were all gathered together in the same place, of one mind and heart, a strong indication of unity. The In- breaking of the Holy Spirit makes the Church One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic – The Four marks professed in the creed every Sunday. Whenever there’s unity, peace and harmony, there’s the spirit and the opposite would mean the absence of it. The unity provided for by the spirit doesn’t use force, coercion or pressure. The Holy Spirit gives and sustains the life of the church. It is a sign and means of God’s intervention in the world and history. It consists of a divine and human element (LG 8). It is historical and visible.

More often than not, the church is referred to as the building of God, made of brick layered stone where the tabernacle of God resides. It’s more than that. It’s interesting to note that Vatican II described the Church in Chapter 2 of Lumen Gentium as the People of God, the gathered assembly on Sunday and the following chapter, hierarchical that functions like the bone of the body. The church by its nature is both a human and divine institution, but one reality, one entity that transcends beyond this world powered by the Spirit.

Our towering cathedrals, well decorated churches, facades and ornamented sanctuaries and altars, comfortable seats, nice- looking embroidered red linens symbolizing the intense love and fire, grandiose clothes worn by ministers/presider would mean significantly less if the church is empty, tired and has no spirit.

Staying in Jerusalem were religious Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd gathered, all excited because each heard them speaking in his own native language. Full of amazement and wonder, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans?” How is it that we hear them in our own native language? (Acts 2:5-8).” One of the effects of the Holy Spirit is the ability to speak in languages other than your own and the reaction, confused, bewildered and surprised as to what was happening inside the room but later felt delighted at the outcome of the event that drove them past their expectation.

“Here are Parthians, Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and foreigners who accept Jewish beliefs, Cretians and Arabians; and all of us hear them proclaiming in our own language what God, the savior does (Acts 2: 9-11).”

Jews congregated from all over the world to settle in the city. There was a mixed population in Jerusalem mostly composed of the Diaspora as recorded and told in the Acts of the Apostles (the First Reading) 2:9-11: “Here are Parthians, Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and foreigners who accept Jewish beliefs, Cretians and Arabians; and all of us hear them proclaiming in our own language what God, the savior does.”

If we go one more verse, we hear something different, “They were amazed and greatly confused, and they kept asking one another, “What does this mean?” But others laughed and said, “These people are drunk.”

If you are stressed out at work, people will probably tell you, you need a break. You may also be advised to attend a weekend retreat in a nearby monastery which is a must for people in ministry and come back renewed, packed with the Spirit. It’s important that we are aware of the breath of God in our personal lives whose presence is as closer to us than the air we breathe that is, to breath in and breath out the Spirit of God. Pentecost is not a question of time and place. Rather, it is an event that makes disciples. Every time we come to Church, it’s Pentecost. Every time the Eucharist is celebrated and the community gives thanks, it’s Pentecost. Christianity is not so much about fulfilling the law but going beyond it. It’s about the encounter with the person of Jesus Christ every day.

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD B21

Sat, 15 May 2021 20:54:00 GMT

For forty days following the resurrection, Jesus appeared and disappeared in the company of his disciples. In almost all occasions, they couldn’t recognize him because they didn’t expect such a thing would actually happen until the breaking of the bread which was the normal conclusion of the encounter. In the days leading up to his final departure, Jesus told them that he was going back to the father and wouldn’t be with them any longer. They didn’t know what that meant. They had a hard time getting what he said. In fact, at the Apostles’ last interview with him, in their final moments with him, they asked, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom of Israel? (Acts 1: 6)” This question speaks a lot about their confusion and ignorance concerning the future. He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or seasons…but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem (Acts 1: 7-8).” Understandably, it must have been difficult for anyone to settle with the thought of not seeing him again preach the good news, heal the sick and feed the hungry. We started missing him two weeks ago. Can he stay with them and us for good? Not really. Why ascend to the throne when we desperately need his physical presence here on the ground where the rubber meets the road. Jesus had to go to lead us closer to the Father.

The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles was a surreal moment. In an attempt to explain the Ascension of Christ, the church fathers used the word, ‘epizosome’ which until this day, the meaning along with the historical origins of the feast remains obscure and hard to trace. We are grateful for Egeria’s Travels and her accounts regarding the early Christian practices of the Ascension. We are told that in the 4 ^th century, Ascension was part of Pentecost: At the completion of forty days after his resurrection, make a commemoration of his Ascension to his glorious Father. He assured them, in the midst of all the ambiguities, “And you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1: 8).” Before he eventually left them, he commissioned to continue the work of God powered by the Spirit. This passing on is part of God’s divine plan.

On the fortieth day (in the dioceses in the United States, the Ascension of Christ is celebrated on the Seventh Sunday of Easter), another stupendous event occurred, quite different from the previous appearances but similar in the inability of the disciples to understand. “As they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him from their sight (Acts 1:9).” He was miraculously lifted up in the air…going…going and gone in the clouds. Jesus ascends to the high heavens in order to bring us to the Father. Jesus returned to the Father and now sits at the throne, the right hand of power and is to remain at his Father’s side until his enemies are put under his feet which is a divinely appointed time. His ascension takes humanity to the throne of heaven. His Ascension makes us partakers of his God-head. The Preface I of the Ascension says that “he ascended, not to distance himself from our lowly state but that we, as members, might be confident of following where he, our Head and Founder, has gone before.” Preface II also says, “…and was taken up to heaven in their sight, that he might makes us sharers in his divinity.” Every liturgical worship then, is eschatological. Every time we come together for Mass, we look forward to the end of ages and our final union with God. He left to prepare a place for us. His departure was a promise for the future. If Jesus didn’t ascend, we might altogether miss out the eternal party. If I were there, I would have been awed as anyone else. I would have left everything behind and watched the lovely and poignant scenario just like the Men of Galilee standing outside looking at the sky. Biblical accounts/witnesses led us to believe that prior to the Ascension, the Lord led the Apostles out of the city of Jerusalem to the Mount of Olives near Bethany where the Ascension took place. Mount Olivet near Bethany (overlooking Jerusalem) must have been the perfect spot since it was the place where everyone most importantly, the inhabitants of Jerusalem must have seen the spectacular event crystal clear in full view of his departure from the earth. As they stood gazing at the sky and wondering at the grace of the moment, two angels stood by them in white apparel announced to them that the same Jesus who was taken up to heaven will come back in exactly the same form sooner than later. This biblical episode ends the historical event and the bodily/physical presence of Jesus on earth.

Before he was elevated to the right hand of God, he gave them a mission to spread the divinely life-changing encounter with him beginning in Jerusalem, then to the neighboring areas and to the ends of the earth. This is meant to be global in nature and so far, after two millennia, the energy is as fresh and renewed as ever and needless to say, has exponentially exceeded expectations. Jesus counts so much on the small band of disciples to be the hands, the feet, the eyes, the voice, the mouthpiece, supply yours and not be afraid to go to the trenches where there is so much need. The pontificate of the Holy Father Pope Francis has urged us to go and minister in the outskirts.

For the time being, in- the- interim, let’s join forces and spend time together in prayer for the indwelling of the spirit, the source of our strength from up above. These in-between times, the long wait ‘until his coming again’ have spent in the celebration of sacraments that is, the sacred ritual that articulates the richness of salvation and faith. Amen.

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER B21

Fri, 07 May 2021 21:44:00 GMT

The month of May is always well celebrated. Both the secular and the sacred collide. May is the month of Mary. May is graduation season, the beginning of the end and the end of the beginning. It is therefore highly symbolic of new life and season (or full- blown springtime). This is also especially true on the Second Sunday of May, whereby we extend sincere appreciation to myriad of women who brought life to the world and this Sunday, the 6th Sunday of Easter, even if we are still reeling from the pandemic, church attendance going disappointingly low, either because people are still afraid of coming in-person or have felt comfortable with the new normal whatever that is. Easter celebrates the triumph of Christ, our Lord, the author of new life. The celebration of Mother’s Day is one of the biggest in the land where people spend millions in greeting cards, presents, meals and flowers. One possible reason for such a high regard on the occasion is that Motherhood is known to be a great example of nurture and paragon of love & care, in moments of despair, isolation, dissatisfaction and failure. Mother’s Day forms part and touches the deepest truths of our faith.

Easter is a way of giving birth from the pain of betrayal, denial and the cross to being transformed into Christ. To be a mother isn’t only about child- bearing but also learning the pain, suffering and the joys of raising a child. The love of a mother then is a classic example of God’s love. This is where I begin to see the deep connection between the sacred theme of Easter and Motherhood.

John 15: 9-17 the assigned Gospel this weekend is a continuation of Jesus’ farewell discourse, which brings to mind impending loss and separation. While we normally don’t like goodbyes, past experiences and memories of being left behind perhaps, to a childcare center, on the first day of school, leaving home for college, break up in a relationship, end of a business contract, moving out and death of a beloved, to name a few, certainly will cast a shadow. When someone who became part of your life is leaving, anxiety, fear of the unknown and troubling heart uncontrollably come into play.

This episode also presents the all-important theological theme of friendship with Jesus, “I have called you friends” . However painful departure is, friendship stays and quite often, goes to a lifetime. There is a shift from the image of a servant (doulos), disciples/followers (Metathai) to being friends with him (Philos). He says, “I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father (John 15: 12-13).” A friend is different from a slave because the former has an inside access, close relationship and equal level of association with the Master.

The commandment (not a suggestion) is that the measure of love is Jesus’ love for them termed as Agape – the highest and deepest kind of love. “As the Father loves me so I love you (John 15: 9).” This thriving small community in which he addressed this will be a community of love tasked to embrace everyone, ‘ Love one another as I love you (John 15: 12)’, a foundational teaching of Jesus. It is easier said than done. This love that originated with the Father is totally unsurpassed. The greatest love is one who lays down his/her life for friends and not learning to love yourself. The quality of love must be that of Jesus. I am reminded of the expression, Love unconditionally, the rest is commentary. Love without limits, the rest is footnote. Friendship with God is paramount. The second reading from 1 John 4: 7-10 says, “let us love one another because love is of God. God is love.” While love is the most used word, it is also elusive and mysterious. Love belongs to God. Love begins with God. Love comes from God. Although it is used all the time in describing affinity for a cuisine, love it with an emoji! deep friendship – intimate, passionate and romantic relationships, our love however human, has its origins with God. A loving person lives the inner life of God whether you are aware or not. A loving person is the most amazing person in the world and has a very attractive character. It’s this person’s way of life. This person is mostly interested/concerned in the good of the other rather than one’s own. A loving person in not possessive or dominant.

It is said that in life, you should have two kinds of friends. One who will give you listening ear and embrace you with deep affection, sentimental and emotional and will not judge and say anything bad about you no matter what you tell him/her. The other friend is someone not afraid to tell you the truth: the hard, painful and harsh reality of life which we normally claim as tough love. Regardless, true friends bear our burdens and help us carry our crosses. Friendship with Jesus requires both. It means offering and submitting our cares and worries to him in prayer but in the same fashion, faithful to his commandment of love. Genuine friends make you feel the magnitude of love. A story is told about St. Teresa of Avila pouring out to God in prayer her disappointments regarding her struggles with fund- raising projects. You know everything I am doing is for you but how come you’re giving us all these obstacles. So, this is how you treat your friends, no wonder you have so few of them. No one has greater love than this than to lay down his/her life for friends. So that my joy may be in you...

A week before the Ascension of the Lord, Jesus guaranteed his disciples with over a lifetime warranty, that the Holy Spirit will be with them as the continuing sign of the presence of God. Many people thought that the eventual cessation of conflict and the avoidance of argument meant peace but it’s more than that in actual fact. It is rather the sense of calm, serenity of heart and the tranquility of mind and soul that constitute the peace the Spirit brings.

The good Lord reminds us that regardless of our social profile, the gift of love in Motherhood, which I, as a representative of the church and a Spiritual father, share the humble privilege of providing peace to those who have desperately yearned for it. Obviously, Motherhood does not have exclusive rights and privileges nor have the sole possession of love (human and divine). May this love inspire us as we struggle to make God’s love real for ourselves, for our families, but for those who have been deprived.

Jesus described his relationship with us as friendship at a difficult time in his life, at a farewell discourse and he said, ‘ Love one another as I love you’ (John 15: 12) and the best expression of this love is when a friend lays down his/her life to the other in the case of a soldier who throws his body on a grenade, the selfless giving of one spouse to the other, the raising of children well along with the sacrifice associated with it, the care taking of an elderly parent and the act of standing with a friend when no one else does. Amen.

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER B21

Sat, 01 May 2021 18:17:00 GMT

Gone are the spectacular resurrection appearances of the glorious risen Christ. The glorified body will not be here any longer. Clock is ticking. Jesus is about to leave them for good. We take the biblical passages as his parting words in preparation for his eventual departure. These words of encouragement are promises of his abiding presence with them. Even if he will not be with them physically, they can still experience him albeit in a spiritual form, religious encounter which is the same exact thing that happened to the post-apostolic (second generation and beyond) disciples. We are connected spiritually.

I can imagine, this must have been a critical and difficult moment for the eyewitnesses that is, how to move on without the physical presence of Christ. Will they head back to the daily grind? Will they go back to their former ways of life or continue with the life-changing experience? Will the miraculous event and its message simply disintegrate? The small band of disciples and new converts to faith are now facing a new chapter, a new reality as individuals and as a community, a church (kalos, to call). They are in a precarious situation. Will they continue to remain together and be united in the Lord or completely disbanded? We will see…

John 15:1-8 forms part of a long farewell discourses delivered by Jesus to his disciples the night before he died intended and meant to console, encourage and strengthen them after his death. Many of us who stood beside the deathbed (hospital, hospice or house) of a loved one until the very last hours of life and prayed over for a safe journey back to our creator have witnessed a surreal moment and heard the last words of the dying person, most likely, peace and unity in the family. Don’t worry about me. Stay strong. If this happens to you, what would you say?

In the course of Jesus’ ministry, he used different imagery that described him which for the most part is his famous I am (sayings)…the bread of life (6:35, 48), the salt of the earth, the light of the world (8:12, 9:5), the gate/door of the sheep (10:8), the good shepherd (10:11,14), the resurrection and the life (11:15-26), the way, the truth and the life (14:6) and last but not the least and in fact, the most common metaphor in ancient religion, the vine and the vineyard (15:1). The Fifth Sunday of Easter presents an imagery of Jesus as the vine, the Father as the vine grower and we (disciples/members of the church) are the branches. The ancient symbols of vine and branches are primarily used to express communion, fruitfulness, pruning and dependence. You know a tree by its fruit. If branches are spread far and wide, it means tremendous growth. The mutual union of the branch to the vine is expected to produce fruit.

Jesus’ deep concern for the future of this newly - founded community is clearly expressed and manifested in an all- too familiar image of the vine and branches to stress the importance of union with him in faith and mutual love. While they are to remain united in the church, Jesus as the vine is the source, inspiration, admiration, empowerment and wellspring of life. Even if he is gone for good, they are to constantly depend, be firmly rooted and deeply trust in him. Let me insert a favorite (quotable), highly inspirational verse often posted on desktops: “Without me you can do nothing (John 15:5).”

This is how this small community led by mostly the unknown in that society will be fashioned, formed and shaped. The new vision for his people is to remain in close, intimate and healthy relationship with him. Only then can a redeemed community bear fruit in overflowing abundance. As individuals and members of the (local and universal) church, our major preoccupation then is to always, always, always make sure to stay connected to the vine. Apart from God, we are nowhere to be found. If we are cut off from the vine, we are God-less, soulless, lifeless. We still live our lives but not worth living. The branch that is closest to the vine produces the most abundant fruit and ironically, will be pruned to yield even more fruit. With proper pruning comes well- blossomed plants for the work of God in the vineyard of the Lord. Jesus adds, "He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit (John 15:2)." Pruning is understood mostly in a negative way, but it has a lot of positive elements, too. In actual fact, to prune is to cleanse. We are reminded that the fruitful branch will be pruned to produce much more fruit. Imagine that. Pruning is not something to be feared. If you are being pruned, that means you are good, way ahead and better than others. Remember, the unproductive will be thrown away and burned into the fire. We are already cleansed and prepared to produce much fruit because of the word spoken to us.

For many of us, regardless of the circumstances, the Easter season has been a fruitful experience as it is a sacred time to be pruned. We have learned over time that in this life, no religious person can afford to run around empty, separated from the vine, the main source of life. If you are pruned, you become more effective minister of God. Without wanting to be pruned, we end up in a road- side ditch. Uselessness leads to disaster. Separation from him is a recipe for destruction. If branches are cut off from the vine, they wither and die. In our respective ministries, there is nothing automatic. We renew our commitment every now and then. “Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me (John 15:4).” As disciples, abiding in Christ is a must. It is not merely a suggestion. There is no option. You don’t have much choice. It is imperative. You have been pruned because you are expected to bear fruit. Discipleship equals fruit-bearing. If something is unfruitful, that means it is disconnected to the life-giving source and separated from the vine. “Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing (John 15:5).” Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into the fire and they will be burned (John 15:6).”

This text is addressed to the church whose calling is to abide, to remain in love and mutual union, to be faithful to the Lord, to respect communal life, to magnify and glorify the Lord through charitable works, to show the joy and happiness of divine life that leads people to God, to share the fruits and gifts of the spirit, to engage in (various) parish ministries that take care of the church and the needy. In our respective ministries, apart from Jesus Christ, we can do nothing. There are steps to conversion and involvement for example, a powerful weekend renewal experience can lead to integration in a local community. There has to be follow-up. Otherwise, it simply fizzles out. What we need to work on as part of the pruning process is mostly the connection between Sunday celebration and commitment to prayer/worship, sharing of talents (good works) and resources to the parish community.

What fruit has your faith produced? Will there be any difference in your life if you don’t remain in God and perform service in the church? More importantly, do you bring others to Christ? Do you draw people to conversion?

Although the 50 days of Easter signaled by the farewell/parting words of Jesus are slowly coming to a close, the message of hope it brings, will forever remain in our hearts. Amen.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER B21

Sat, 24 Apr 2021 16:25:00 GMT

The Fourth Sunday of Easter is traditionally held as Good Shepherd Sunday emphasizing one of the earliest and most significant iconographic depictions of our Lord as the Good Shepherd, an ancient way to describe leadership whose first job is to feed the sheep adequately, care for their ailments, keep them gathered as one flock and put their well-being before his/her own. Nowadays, the dynamics of shepherd and sheep and the whole flock seem remote unless you have been in areas where you have seen and observed first- hand sheep’s life, its nature and qualities and the flock. We should not worry much if this familiar image is alien and mysterious to many of us which marks the Easter faith because this popular image was used metaphorically and taken up and interpreted in a whole new way (compared to the Old Testament origins and understanding) in the New Testament especially in John 10. In the three- year cycle, the whole chapter 10 of the gospel of John, primarily devoted and clearly elaborated the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is proclaimed which placed huge emphasis on the dependence of the sheep to the person, voice and work of Jesus. Each year has a specific theme. This year, John 10: 11-18 is the focal point which brings into the limelight the risen Christ as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. A good shepherd leads, guides, feeds, protects, and seeks the lost sheep. A noble shepherd cares for the sheep even to the point of dying. It is not a day job but a vocation, a form of ministry, a life-long commitment. The life of a shepherd is dangerous, risky and menial. Shepherds are engaged in the rough and tumble of life in the field.

Jesus is the shepherd who devotes his entire life taking care of the sheep. He never leaves his flock behind. He is a constant companion. His presence gives comfort. There is no flock without a shepherd. If the sheep have no shepherd, they wonder around, get lost and killed. The sheep are vulnerable when isolated. Sheep are lost without the constant vigilant care of the shepherd who is always on the lookout for those who go astray, ill, forgotten, those who need rescue, hurting, lost, ward-off and fall into ravines. Sheep hear many voices all of them vying for their attention. The voice of the shepherd will bring them back.

In contrast to the good shepherd, a hired hand seeks nothing but the destruction of the flock. It is unfortunate that John had to make this terrible comparison. On its face, it appears real, sounds genuine, looks authentic and promising but in the long run, it is all manipulation. A hireling is a great pretender, a faithless shepherd. A hired fellow is a fraud as he/she leads the sheep astray by isolation and autonomy. A hired hand is not a shepherd in the strictest sense of the word because he/she is motivated by self- interest, selfishness and cowardice. A hireling is not at all concerned (or lack of real concern thereof) for the well-being and the common good of the whole flock but only for the sake of the individual.

Once again, Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep (John 10: 14-15).” The sheep know the Shepherd because they are loved freely and unconditionally. Genuine acts of kindness and compassion go a long way. There is a great feeling of warmth, trust and security, and a deep sense of comfort on the part of the sheep. Mutual affection initiated by the shepherd exists between the two. Love draws the sheep to the shepherd and that this love is the basis of the relationship. From the biblical standpoint, knowledge does not simply mean knowing the name of an individual but rather, depicts the whole person (inside/out) and close personal relationship with the other. The mark of a good shepherd is knowledge of the flock. We are then saved by love and fellowship with the shepherd and the flock.

Jesus as the pastor bonus reminds us that although there are other sheep (originally refers to those who have not heard the gospel) that do not belong to this fold (Jews and Gentiles) time will come, “There will be one flock, one shepherd (John 10: 16).” Obviously, there is a problem of unity in the church., There are factions. Divisions exist. In spite of this, we remain hopeful in the words of our risen Lord, one flock, one shepherd. Peter’s astonishing sermon highlights says, “There is no salvation through anyone else, nor is there any other name under heaven given to the human race by which we are to be saved” (Acts 4: 12). Other members are scattered out there. Some are believers, others not. The fact that the expression “spiritual but not religious” surfaced in the last few decades can be classified in this category. They are the ones who like us believe in God but are adamant and ambivalent in the institutional religion. For them, organized religion is a personal choice. As faithful and loyal members of the clock, it is not either/or but both/and. Spiritual but not religious is an oxymoron. The difficult task lies ahead that is, to draw them according to the tender loving care of the good shepherd. We are all shepherds and sheep. We tend to our families. We govern our families. We run businesses. We administer institutions. In the ministry and holiness of everyday life, let us imitate the incredible model of the good shepherd as our guide and roadmap to eternity. Amen.

ST. JOSEPH, MOST PRUDENT, PRAY FOR US!

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 18:18:00 GMT

I am most grateful to the organizers of this evening of reflection: Go to Joseph as we celebrate the year of St. Joseph with Patris Corde (With a Father’s Heart), the Holy Father’s apostolic letter as our guide for reflection. Those of us who got the chance to read and spent some time reflecting on the words of the Holy Father have come across that St. Joseph said nothing in the Holy Scriptures, not a word but all deeds and actions. Prudence knows the will of God. Prudence is obedient to the message of an Angel. Prudent people don’t talk too much. They are individuals who are extremely careful with their words and actions. I bet that huge mistakes in life are made by not being prudent.

I am biased because I believe that prudence is the most important virtue as it is the driving force behind all other virtues. Prudence encompasses every aspect of life. It is the right reason concerning things to be done. Prudence seeks counsel from God and wise men, too. Prudence needs both experience (practical reason) and holiness (God and the church). It depends upon practical wisdom gained by experience and prayer. Prudence is wise advice and clear judgment. Before making difficult decisions and/or tough choices in life, we need to exercise prudence as every decision- making shapes our future.

In this presentation, we especially ask the intercession of St. Joseph, Most Prudent to help us be prudent in our words and actions.

What better way to begin than to take a quick look of the virtue of prudence which I presume is necessary in our meditation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (#1806) states that "Prudence is the virtue which disposes a person’s (practical reason) to discern the good and choose the correct means to accomplish it." Prudence needs practical reason and vice-versa in the difficult process of discernment which eventually leads us to goodness and right. Prudence brings us to light which lightens our way. Reason is not detached to the soul. Our bodies don’t operate without the soul and spirit. Both are inseparable. They complement each other. Our future is shaped by the small day to day decisions made. From all points of view, prudence is necessary in the well-being of society.

The Catechism continues... "Prudence is one of the cardinal moral virtues that dispose the Christian to live according to the law of Christ, prudence provides the proximate guidance for the judgment of conscience (1806)." Prudence leads us to the law of Christ that serves as our guiding principle in forming our conscience which is so important in making decisions. Decisions either make or break us. If our decisions are deeply rooted, well-founded and firmly anchored in the teachings of the church, we have less worries as they have been borne out of faith and truth. If our conscience is clear, we can sleep well at night.

St. Thomas Aquinas, the angelic doctor who authored the monumental compendium unfinished work Summa Theologiae defined Prudence, adopted from Aristotle, as "the right reason in action" STh II-II, 47, 2. Prudence is "the bridge between right reason and correct action." "It is not to be confused with timidity or fear, nor with duplicity or dissimulation (1806)." The Catechism further adds that "Prudence is called Auriga virtutum (the charioteer of the virtues)." It is "the driving force behind all other virtues." It is at the frontlines (the frontliner) of all other virtues. It is the wind beneath the wings. It serves as the guide, the GPS, the roadmap to all other virtues. Prudence immediately leads a person to the correct judgment of conscience. Prudence, therefore, is the mother of all virtues.

Let us go through the four passages in the gospel of Matthew that lead us to St. Joseph, Most Prudent.

When he came to know through the message of an Angel that Mary was pregnant/expecting, he considered divorce quietly which was the most prudent thing to do to get her out of shame. Lo and behold what comes next...

Annunciation to Joseph

But as considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins…” When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called his name Jesus ( Mt. 1: 20-25 ).”

The ancient religious people deeply believed in dreams as divine avenues of communication. Joseph knew instantly that anything that came from God through the message of divine messenger/angel Gabriel was the right thing to do. There was absolutely no hesitation on his part. He was determined to do it.

St. Joseph, most prudent, incredible model and exemplar of the virtue of prudence, as soon as you knew the message of the Angel Gabriel, you took Mary your wife into your home. Pray for Us.

Family’s flight into Egypt

An Angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him. “And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod (Mt. 2: 13-15 ).”

St. Joseph, most prudent, incredible model and exemplar of the virtue of prudence, at the instruction of the Angel, you rose from sleep and took the child Jesus and Mother Mary at night, left for Egypt and remained there. Pray for Us.

The death of Herod

But when Herod died, behold an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel (Mt. 2: 19-21)."

St. Joseph, most prudent, incredible model and exemplar of the virtue of prudence, at the message of the Angel, you rose and took the child Jesus and Mother Mary and went to the land of Israel, Pray for Us.

Taking the family to Nazareth

But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophet might be fulfilled. “He shall be called a Nazarene (Mt. 2: 22-23).”

St. Joseph, most prudent, incredible model and exemplar of the virtue of prudence, by obeying the warning, you took the family to Nazareth, Pray for Us.

Did Joseph act haphazardly? Was his decision rushed? Did he decide in haste? Was he pressured? Was he under duress? Or was it his character that is, the character of a prudent Holy Man? The fact that Joseph was able to make that instant decision, it is most telling that he knew right away on the spot the will of God. This is extraordinary. He had an inner insight and instinct of the ways and plan of God. He acted decisively and swiftly, not rashly, nor timidly but prudently. His responses are splendid examples of prudential judgment. Prudence doesn’t come easy. It is nurtured through deep prayer, inner instinct and close relationship with God.

St. Joseph, incredible model and exemplar of the virtue of prudence, Pray for Us.

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER B21

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 21:29:00 GMT

Without the anguish of Good Friday, celebrating Easter could never be more special and striking. Were it not because of the terrifying scene of the passion and the cross, no one would be led to the empty tomb early before dawn and the gravitating power of the resurrection of Christ. The fact that the disciples hid behind closed and locked doors, they were still filled with grief, despair and uncertainty but when they saw the Lord, it was a totally different story and life. We cannot blame the disciples for doing so as we would have done exactly the same if we found ourselves captive in the similar hard and tragic reality. I hope that those of us who cannot get over the sadness of Good Friday and have been living on Good Friday for quite some time now (maybe, a lifetime) and unable to let go of negative experiences which have overcome our lives, now is the time to unload the burden. Good Friday is just a bump on the road. It is a short rite of passage. There is a whole new world of Easter out there. I am always reminded of the instructions of Jesus on Easter Sunday, I will see you in Galilee. I cannot take anyone there. You have to go there in your own. Let us not quarantine our faith. Because many believers have been spiritually distanced and isolated, muted and deaf from faith, the Easter message should be shared, spread and spoken a little louder.

The Second Sunday of Easter has been designated as Divine Mercy Sunday once again letting us know of the boundless mercy and forgiveness of God through the sacramental life of the church as dispenser of God’s grace. On this Sunday, we always hear and reflect on the surprising double appearance of Jesus to his fearful disciples who were caught up in the difficult circumstances of life. We are told that when the risen Lord appeared to the disciples on the evening of the first day of week, his transformed body came through locked doors, stood in their midst and said, "Peace be with you and showed them his hands and his side (Jn 20: 19-20)." Resurrection was spectacular. It was other- worldly. It has not only flattened the curve but also changed the course of human history. The appearance though was ordinary and the greeting, normal and yet so special and heartfelt giving the timid disciples hiding behind closed doors out of fear, the assurance that everything is alright. He has paid the entire debt of sin. He has overcome the dreadful death on the cross. He has conquered the enemy. Peace is a gracious, freely given gift of the risen Christ. I bet they were stunned but tearful of joy. We should never forget that Easter is defined by joy. There is no reason to be afraid. If you continue to hide, you won’t have peace. Go out into the open. The experience with the risen Lord is not meant to be quarantined. It cannot remain in isolation for any length of time. Since last year, our lives have been run and submerged by instructions and protocols. What is the latest Easter directive? It has not changed. The message is still the same, Peace be with you! The appearance of Jesus leads us all to faith. For the second time, he said, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you (Jn 20: 21)." He breathed on them and continued, "Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained (Jn 20: 23)." The direct result of the resurrection of Jesus is reconciliation with fellows and with God. This was well rehearsed and carefully choreographed during lent in which there was a lot of focus on our sinful lives and the need for repentance which stressed individual responsibility. Today, Mercy Sunday is about the forgiveness of sins.

On Jesus’ first appearance, Thomas, one of the disciples was not around. We don’t know where he was. It mattered less. And so, when the disciples saw him, they told him, “We have seen the Lord” and that he came and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you and even showed them his hands and his side”, Thomas was incredulous. He could not believe. Even if the entire disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord”, he remained in disbelief. In fact, he said, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” Thomas demanded material proof before belief. He wanted physical evidence before coming to faith. Thomas represents so many of us who relentlessly seek signs and symbols of faith which was a pivotal moment in the life of the early church.

A week later, they came together again the upper room where the last supper was held. This time, Thomas was with them. The resurrected Lord Jesus again came through closed and locked doors and stood in their midst said the same words, “Peace be with you”. Then, he said to Thomas, “put your finger here ands see my hands, and bring your hand, and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” Thomas replied in utter amazement, My Lord and my God! These words have been inaudibly said at the consecration when the body and blood of Christ are raised.

Although Thomas was with the twelve, Jesus appeared to him in a personal and concrete way without much explanation. This experience was a clear turning point from simply an eyewitness to spiritual faith. Thomas tried to limit faith by believing in seeing. Christianity is believing without seeing. Religion deals primarily with spiritual matters. As immaterial and invisible things are, they are the real. The coronavirus pandemic taught us how much we need God. Our yearlong recollection in forced isolation has brought us to the essential things in life, that is, to what really matters. Quite often, we claim and convince ourselves that our wants are more than our needs. If we continue to stay in this mentality, we will still remain in the pandemic of life caused not by the coronavirus but by our own doing.

Jesus’ touching words and gentle way of bringing Thomas to faith were absolutely moving. There was no use of force. Thomas was not under duress. The experience speaks volumes to so many of us who were not in the upper room and did not get the chance to see the risen Christ face to face and to touch and feel the wounds on his side. The exchange of words in this whole episode was no doubt life-changing but more than anything else, in this double appearance the glorified body of Jesus still bears the marks of the passion. It most telling then that the Easter Message can also mean embracing our scars, flaws we tend to hide, pain endured, brokenness and wounds can be powerful tools in our witness of Easter joy.

“Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”

FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT B21

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 21:57:00 GMT

The Fifth Sunday of Lent, the First Sunday of the Passion, a week before Palm Sunday and Holy Week, draws us closer to the heart and soul of the liturgical year. And so, it is but fitting to focus our attention to the gospel that signals the impending passion and death of Jesus and the fruits of the resurrection (renewal and mission) that will come out of it employing the language of agriculture and the metaphor of seed, “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” In this entire scenario, Jesus announced the prediction of his death and resurrection, a touchstone of Christianity. It provides the guiding light of Christian life. This passage tells us that death may be necessary but not always the end nor the finality. We go through death, as a rite of passage and fundamental change without losing our identity. The pandemic has exposed both the weakness of humanity in a global and local level but also shown us the greatness and bravery of our fellows. “Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life.” It is on this occasion that the Holy Father Pope Francis declared 2021 as the year dedicated to St. Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Patron and Protector of the Universal Church. He was the second greatest saint next to the Blessed Mother. Devotion to him didn’t start until sometime in the 10 ^th century. He appeared only five times in the gospels: the Annunciation, the Nativity, the presentation of the child Jesus in the Temple, as a refugee to Egypt and the losing and finding of Jesus in the Jerusalem. He was a saint who never left any writings or words to hold on during difficult times. He didn’t say anything not a single word ever. So, don’t feel bad if you have no writing abilities and speaking skills. Those are secondary in ministry. What is primary is sanctity and service. His work was behind the scenes. He lived in the shadows. He is the embodiment of ministers who don’t talk much but work hard whose motive is not for personal acclaim but labor of love (lots of them). The year of St. Joseph is a stark reminder to those who love to talk and write (all words) but don’t get things done (no action). 2021 is a celebration of the unnoticed, discreet, prudent and hidden gem of our lives as exemplified by St. Joseph. He was a dreamer. He dreamed dreams and saw visions. We may not realize because of modern scientific discovery but God talks to us in our dreams, in our subconscious. Who knows his most important message and revelation will come to us via our dreams. Following the announcement of the Angel who appeared to him in a dream, he only had a few hours to discern and decide whether to take to heart the angel’s words or go with his personal plan. St. Joseph represents the numerous men and women working behind the limelight, un-appreciated in parish communities and all aspects of church life. Below is the concluding prayer of the Novena to St. Joseph taken from the Apostolic Letter:

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. To you God entrusted his only Son; in you Mary placed her trust; with you Christ became man. Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a father and guide us in the path of life. Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage, and defend us from every evil. Amen.

As you know, the Philippine Church is celebrating 500 years of Christianity with 1521 at its beginning. It is nearly impossible to understand the culture and its people without looking at the past (333 years of Spanish occupation). Philippines was founded by missionaries (religious people), not merchants. The Spanish missionaries converted the natives not through guns, force and violence. It is a nation that is heavily immersed, shaped and formed by Christian doctrine with special emphasis on devotions: the Holy Infant of Jesus, the Black Nazarene, among others. The natives whose religion was Muslim and pagan saw for themselves the beauty and grandeur of Christianity and its mysteries which became the driving force in their conversion to Catholicism. Filipinos are normally shy (for the first five minutes), courteous and respectful especially of authority. Religious life is deeply embedded in the life of a Filipino. Although, I should say, it is slowly embracing the secularized world due to the strong western influence marked by globalization. We don’t argue about God and with God. God exists as the supreme and supernatural being who created the world. We didn’t learn Spanish much unlike Mexico and Latin America because the missionaries preferred to go the difficult route, that is, learn and develop the strange native/tribal languages of the people which at that time, had no grammar, literature, etc. The missionaries learned the language by daily interaction with people. Many of the missionaries (lay and ordained trained for missionary activity) died on their journey (many of them unknown whose names never made it to the memorials) to the archipelago because of famine and disease. I thought that the un- matched dedication of the evangelizers in the 16 ^th and 17 ^th centuries is noteworthy.

Getting vaccinated requires some sort of dying to self, an exercise of the virtue of humility. It’s either you go through the pain of side effects or get covid-19. What is necessary to stress is the societal and communal aspect of vaccines. It protects the individual, others, the greater community and the world at large.

Our reflection this Sunday leads us to say that, without people prepared to die for the lived experience of faith, there is no such thing as Christianity. Christianity is marked by dying and rising. We have seen this whole pattern in the paschal triduum (Passion, Death and Resurrection of Christ).

None of us sits in our couches all day and get fed. We are and have been in the labor force. We are engaged in the daily grind of life. Only some or few live a carefree privileged life. We face crisis. We worry a lot. We’re anxious, fearful and resilient. We fail, get up and grow. Successful people tell us, they failed not once but many times. The seed of grain that is preserved and tries to be self-sufficient must die (not an option) before it can bear fruit. Unless you do so, there is no change and chance. It is the nature of a seed to be buried on the ground before transformation takes place. It undergoes a profound change (loses itself along the way) yet, it doesn’t lose its identity and in fact, brings and affirms life in a new context. Once, a parishioner who was moving out gave me all her plants. One of the plants was a grain of wheat, a seed that is recently planted and buried in the pot. It disappeared but came back alive ready to share life. In order to be a Christian and for life to be meaningful and effective, one must pass the difficult process from death to life. This is evident in the ritual of baptism. In community living, we immerse ourselves (a form of dying by embracing the other and love shown and expressed) and be part of a larger group with shared interests, hopes and visions. Jesus wasn't simply talking about his own death per se but the fruit that comes out of it, that is, the faithfulness of the community of disciples. Death must precede life. The seed that does not fall to the ground and dies remains and abides alone. It was no real life ((or better yet, no life at all) for playing safe and the notion of self preservation. Risks are involved in falling and dying. That's what we are meant to do. If we never face any crisis in life, that means, we have never grown. If we never had enemies, that means, we never stood for anything. No religious person, in his or her right mind, stay neutral on faith and moral issues. Death is a prerequisite to life. Fasting is not a burden. it is a necessity. The Stations of the Cross is a far-cry to the struggles faced in life. In just a little over a week, Lent (the lengthening of time and season) will come to an end. In the forty days, did you ever die to and for something worth dying and fighting for? What was your experience of repentance? Did you break your daily routine by quieting yourself for 5-10-15 minutes? What was your interior preparation before coming to Mass? Did you do any sort of preparation at all? What worked well for you and what didn't? What was fruitful and what was not? We are doing this for holiness’ sake which will take us to life eternal. Amen.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT B21

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 14:04:00 GMT

On the Fourth Sunday of Lent also known as Laetare Sunday, we are zeroing down on sin and repentance and the grace and love of God. The first reading from the Second book of Chronicles 36: 14-16, 19-23, the last book of the Jewish Bible, tells us of the wrath and mercy of God, the last lines right at the very end and conclusion of the book. It speaks of gross infidelity “In those days, all the princes of Judah, the priests and the people added infidelity to infidelity, practicing all the abominations and polluting the Lord’s temple which he had consecrated in Jerusalem.” “…They mocked the messengers of God, despite his warnings, and scoffed at his prophets, until the anger of the Lord against his people was so inflamed that there was no remedy.” Mockery brought divine anger. In the face of sin and evil, God never fails to send messengers in the attempt to salvage the people and the sacred temple. In spite of the doom of exile, there is a glimmer, the bright side of renewed hope and blessing.

This text invites us once again to see ourselves in the context of the people who went through the lowest point in their lives. Morale was low because of sin and iniquity. We may not have gone the same experience but who knows some of us have been through some difficult moments in life. What I mean is the experience of being at the rock bottom of one’s life albeit in varying degrees and circumstances (house arrest, isolation, quarantine, etc) or spiritual exile (dead to sin) because of our transgressions. You know the time when you find yourself at a point of no return, at the end of the murky road and the only way is to get up and pick your scattered pieces. Maybe, not you but perhaps, someone close to you and someone you know.

The Fourth Sunday is about rebirth and renewal. We evaluate our progress. Repentance which does not go out of season is key in our Lenten journey. Just a few wants to talk about it as it is a weighty subject to deal. And yet, such a thing cannot be delayed. Don’t wait to repent until later in life or in your sick bed or death bed. Do it now. The sight of sin comes first. The realization that something is wrong or that you have done something wrong is paramount. Repentance is not free ride. It's about purgation and purification. The solemn act of repentance is a tough and bitter process which involves sorrows, holy weeping over one’s iniquity. The Hebrew word is translated as a return to God whatever awful thing we have done and failed to do while the Greek, metanoia, change of heart. It takes time only because precious things deserve hard work. Lent doesn’t come easy. Because it is a well-cherished gift, it becomes labor intensive. The more regret, the better. We were born into this nature so it should not come as a big surprise. To repent is in our DNA. It may well be said as our middle name. We bury sin and sinfulness on lent. If you want the light of Christ on Easter, there’s no option but to drown sin by the grace of God. Our return to God starts with the heart where the soul resides and religion is tested. In the remaining days and weeks ahead, to come back to God is our only choice.

John 3:16, the all-time favorite text finds its inspiration in the depths of God's love "For God so loved the world (and not only a single nation or a group of people) that he gave his only son so that everyone who believes in him (in his teaching and the life-saving example he left) might not perish but might have eternal life" (Jn. 3:16). We’ve heard for the past few days how difficult it is to sacrifice one’s son, your own which happened to our very own Father Abraham and Isaac and now, to our God and his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. The experience of being wiped out or wiped away may not be literal but we know what it is to spiritually perish with no roots and/or direction. This verse often appears in public places (sports stadium) letting us know of the faith of the one (hopefully) holding the banner. Win or lose God loves us. If you lose yourself in God, you always win. This text presents the incredible, immeasurable, lavish and the indescribable love of God to humanity in spite of our constant infidelity. God turned away from his wrath and saved us through the sending his son. Even though we make bad choices and crazy decisions and suffer the consequences afterwards, he never walks away from us. God’s love is a precious gift. We can’t turn it down. It has to be wholeheartedly embraced. It has to be accepted with wide open arms. Spring is unpredictable. You don’t leave your house without checking the weather. Late February, Early March, whenever forecast tells you, high 72 possibly 3 or 4pm, you get very excited. And so, I actually started thinking about washing my winter clothes and go through the ritual of putting them back in the luggage, bury them in the storage and forget about it until late October. Last Saturday, to my surprise, when I checked with my AI around midmorning, I was told currently 50 and high of 52 F. I freaked out! You must be crazy AI! This ain't true. I think there are over four seasons with about 8 variations here in Douglas. Winter, Semi-Spring, Pre-Spring, back to Winter. And yet, the love of God is constant and unexpected, too.

Let's go a little further, "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him" (John 3:17). The message is, pure and simple, love and not condemnation. If there was a silver lining during the pandemic, it is that we have learned and put in action empathy and solidarity on a much deeper level. While many of us were afraid to put our lives at risk, the front-liners many of them in the shadows showed us love of neighbor at a time when it is most needed. Some of them will tell you, I love doing it...I love to help others...I enjoy cleaning...This may sound odd for many of us but it's true. Faith doesn't only move mountains, it inspires and changes lives, too. As you know, as faithful Catholics, good and virtuous as we are, we at times run and develop the habit of condemning those who are out of sync with us and of treating sinners and speaking about them with contempt as though we have created a different image of Jesus and crafted an adulterated version of the Gospel. At a time when millions of lives have been lost around the globe and our own personal worlds crushed, even at the height of the pandemic era, negativity has significantly diminished except (pardon me) in politics. In the church, we mellowed down. The general atmosphere is that we have become more sympathetic towards others. We can see and palpably feel the pain, loss and grief stored on the faces of our fellows easily and clearly as many of us have been there. People are more cooperative because we know life is at stake. Love is stronger than any other thing in the world. The Holy Father’s message at last Wednesday’s general audience talked about his spirit-filled experience at his historic pastoral visit in war-torn nation and persecuted Christian church of Iraq. “You are all brothers” was the theme. He said, "Fraternity, not war and violence, is the solution." and addes, "Love is our strength." Just as fresh air dilutes contaminants, so the love of God purges the power of sin and the forces of evil.

St. Paul in the letter to the Ephesians tells us that “God, who is rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ” (Ephesians 2: 4-5). Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 031021

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 18:55:00 GMT

It's about time (spring time means life) that this weekly blog gets out of hibernation. It's long overdue. Three months is too much. Ash Wednesday is long gone. This should rise from ashes. To this end, I say, Mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa! I know it is not enough but hope you know what I mean.

Every week, I'm going to feature the Holy Father's address at his Wednesday's March 10, 2021 general audience but especially, today as he emotionally shared his experience at his historic visit to Iraq many of us followed. Click here for EN and here for SP. He was the first Pope to visit Iraq, once the cradle of civilization, Ancient Mesopotamia, Ancient Babylon, Ur of the Chaldees (birthplace of Father Abraham), Ancient Nineveh and much more.

I was particularly struck by the words of the Prophet Daniel 3: 25, 34-43, which as history tells may have happened in Iraq. "We ask you to receive us with humble and contrite hearts." This is one of the most humble realization of the people of God. If you are wondering the inaudible prayers recited by the presider/celebrant during offertory at the presentation of the gifts, "With humble and contrite heart may we be accepted by you, O Lord, and may our sacrifice in your sight this day be pleasing to you."

In anticipation of the Solemnity of Saint Joseph in a year dedicated to him, Patron of the Universal Church, we join together in reciting the novena to St. Joseph. Click here for EN and aqui for SP. I also want to share the Holy Father's apostolic letter Patris Corde (With a Father's heart) released on December 8, 2020 that proclaimed the Year of Saint Joseph. Click here for EN and aqui for SP. Amen.

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT B21

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 21:22:00 GMT

Lent is an opportunity to cleanse the temples of our (physical and spiritual) bodies that is, of anything that hinders growth. On the third Sunday of Lent, we enter into our temple, body and soul. Lent is purgation. It is a time of purification. There may be some feelings of discomfort, but for the better. As Jesus says, “Destroy this temple and in three days, I will raise (build) it up.” The preceding verses are the principal theme as they illustrate a preview of the resurrection. Jesus was not referring to the physical temple itself but rather, his own body as the temple that will be destroyed in his passion.

In our further reflection, we will take a closer and deeper look (with fresh and new eyes) at the Ten Commandments which pose significant challenges to any reading of reality. Some of us might say, it is the same old thing. I don't blame you. For those of us who learned this in childhood catechism, we knew them by heart but memorizing them is no substitute to practicing them. Over the years, some claimed that they have become irrelevant to our lives, even to Christianity and that society's moral standards should depend on the human person. After all, who needs a moralistic, guilt-inducing, divine finger wagging passage that makes us think whether we are worth better human beings. Obviously, they have become burdens, weights and heavy obligations in the popular religious parlance. Here are the ten rules. Obey them. The approach and method of this kind of teaching certainly won't work anymore. Rules without rapport equals rebellion. There has to be an emotional bond established between the two parties involved. Religion is relational. As a matter of fact, it might drive people out of the church if you preach the Decalogue by the iron fist with fire and brimstone.

The decalogue will help us in the inner cleansing of the spiritual temple as it presents the basic realities of human life. They are direct (in your face, no mincing of words) instructions in how to live right in relation to God and our neighbor. It sets the boundaries of life letting us know that keeping this covenant means humanity at its fullest. They are commandments (not suggestions) to be human and profound expressions of our gratitude to God.

Understanding the commandments as a set of burdens overlooks the most essential part. These may not be seen as series of rules but as a proclamation in God's own mouth of who God is and how God shall be practiced by the community of liberated slaves. It is a sacred covenant. It is a response in gratitude to God for saving humanity for our own eternal destiny. At this point, I would like you to reflect on your experiences that made you say, Aha! I saw the hand of God. Aha! There is a God. Aha! God saved me! From this mindset, God starts his breathtaking announcement of freedom:

“I AM THE LORD, YOUR GOD, WHO BROUGHT YOU OUT OF THE LAND OF EGYPT, OUT OF THE PLACE OF SLAVERY; YOU SHALL HAVE NO OTHER GODS BESIDE ME.” The name of God is Adonai, the only one and demands us to, “worship him alone and no one else on earth” because he is the one who saved us, the One who has dominion and authority over the created universe. The experience of being cared and loved comes first. Before God gave the Decalogue, he reminded his people (including us, heirs of the covenant) what he has done to us as the foundation of our relationship with him. The truth is, we worship so many gods (money, power, fame, reputation, appearances, etc) but all of them are subordinate to the ultimate God of life. You shall have no other gods beside me. All other gods are false. YOU SHALL NOT MAKE FOR YOURSELF AN IDOL/CARVED IMAGES which means that you are now free from the tyranny of lifeless idols. What about my favorite TV show “the American Idol”? What about the wonderful carved images of the standing in almost every corner of our church? Jesus changed the way we looked at images and statues. He is God in human form. In him, images and statues have become avenues and windows to divine realities. We penetrate the mystery through tangible objects as the interface between God and his mortal people. Asking intercessions from the Blessed Virgin and the Saints is just the same asking help from a friend. Our church is both a church of the living and the dead. Unless we have an idea of pantheism and/or special appreciation of signs and symbols, it's hard to understand the Catholic Church and to be Catholic. YOU ARE TO REMEMBER AND KEEP HOLY THE SABBATH DAY. Work for 6 days but reserve that one day (Sunday for Christians) for God and family. Sunday is non-negotiable. Fight for it. Don’t mess around it. Don’t play games with it. Set this day apart from the rest. Make it different. For some Catholics, to go to church on Sunday is the hardest thing in the world. And if they go to church, it is out of a sense of obligation and not so much about spiritual nourishment. Non-observance of Sunday Mass and the overall decline in the practice of Catholic and faith life are one of the saddest things that have been happening in the church for the past few decades. Some blame it on the breakdown of traditions and other factors which need no mention. But generally, we don’t take religion seriously anymore. Rules haven’t changed. Sunday as our version of Sabbath is a day for God. Because the Lord is your God, HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER. Take care of them. Appreciate them. Make them feel important especially as they advance in years. If you want to have a bright future and long life, obey them. YOU SHALL NOT KILL promotes the sanctity and sacredness of life from conception to natural death. Life belongs to God. Life is inviolable. It is a precious gift created in the image and likeness of God. No individual can unjustly take the life of any human being just because he or she doesn’t want it. YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY is a sign of respect to the institution of marriage and family life. Marriage is a sacred relationship, handed down to us which we have the moral duty to preserve. The solemn oath (vows and promises) publicly (in the presence of the church and ministers) made are meant to draw us closer to God and our church. YOU SHALL NOT STEAL reminds us to respect the property of others. It tells to live by our means and standards. YOU SHALL NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS AGAINST YOUR NEIGHBOR. YOU SHALL NOT COVET YOUR NEIGHBOR'S HOUSE; YOUR NEIGHBOR'S WIFE, OR MALE OR FEMALE SLAVE, OR OX, OR DONKEY, OR ANYTHING THAT BELONGS TO YOUR NEIGHBOR. Find solace and happiness within the confines of your life. Be satisfied with what you have. Live within your means. Grow where you are planted. The ten teachings also constitute a kind of trust exercise about the nature of reality. What harm does a little coveting do? What damage does catching-up in the yard and office on the Sabbath do?

The Ten Commandments are (crystal clear) divine directions such as there are no other options for these kinds of behavior. No one, no individual and family, no group or whole people is permitted to do such prohibited things. If you do, your life will become complicated. The rules are simple. Don't do anything to cross the line. If you ignore these teachings, enter at your own risk. Do so at your own peril. Simplify your life. You are created to live with a greater singularity. One God, One Religion (you currently belong), One Spouse, Concern for others not so much for ourselves. To break these commandments is to complicate your life. They are straightforward. These are the ultimate commands that have stood the test of time. When individuals, communities and humanity in general look into themselves too much and do not reach out to God there's an imbalance. It's not so much that you're going to hell by breaking these commandments as you will feel like you are already in hell. The Decalogue have been around a long time. They are never our possession, any more than the God who gave them is ours. Instead, we stand among a people by holy speech and practice for the mending of God's holy word.

The Decalogue leads us to the cleansing of Jesus in the Temple. The occasion was that the Passover was near. Probably, the sellers had no intentions of violating God's purposes and they would never knowingly oppose God. And yet, Jesus discovered deceiving appearances upon closer inspection. What he wanted to do was to restore the purity of worship. “Zeal for your house will consume me.” Amen.

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT B21

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 14:25:00 GMT

On the First Sunday of Lent, as the spirit drove Jesus out into the dry and arid land where there was nothing except a space and time, so do we, his followers go. We join him in his forty- day solitary time, (number 40 as a time of testing, biblical and spiritual with lots of memories in salvation history) in the wilderness to be tempted by Satan (the accuser or evil adversary, someone who stands in opposition to God and his ways whose business is to lead the faithful astray and ruin the relationship between God and humankind) as a period of preparation for his mission and for us, to lengthen (German word for Lent) our relationship with God. Although Mark’s version of the temptation didn’t necessarily and elaborately mention the dialogue compared to and unlike in Matthew 4: 1-11 and Luke 4: 1-13, we know what it means to be put to the test and to be exposed to the cunning tricks of the devil especially when we feel we don’t have substantial immunity. What the devil does is test and probe the depths of our faithfulness and steadfastness towards God. For us living in the desert, we have been led to the wilderness countless times. We know what it feels to be in the middle of nowhere and in the outskirts. It is a lonely, desolate and dangerous place. Anyone who has lived in the desert long enough can tell you, it is a place that is tough to survive especially if your next door neighbor is a mile away. Desert is a place of hardships and adversities. And if you make it, you are tried and true, proven and tested, you can live anywhere. We entered the 40- day journey in a public celebration on Ash Wednesday for the first time in over two months of private and livestreamed worship services. The 40 days of Lent description as boot camp and spring training to prepare for a grueling and rigorous season sounds true.

Lent as a time of special closeness with God called solitude is also a moment of extreme danger and great temptation as we will be exposed or have been very well exposed all our lives to the pernicious workings of the devil. No one wants to be tested and probed, though. None of us goes to our demons and say, C’mon Man, test me and see how it goes. Worse, we don’t want to hear the bad news of testing positive. Wilderness is an undesirable place to live but it is also where you find renewal and divine help. Many, if not all, of the retreat centers are in remote and rural areas, that is, off the beaten path. During lent, we are sort of, participating in a clinical trial in relation to our faithfulness and devotion towards God. We hope no serious adverse effects occur. Under divine guidance, once you decide to break your routine and seriously make prayer, fasting and almsgiving a habit that is, the new daily drill which eventually will be your second nature, the devil will be very worried about you and you will be his prime target. God comes first. Daily readings are a priority as it is the good news for the day. Other news can wait. If you take time to examine yourself, your life and relentlessly search God in your experience and in the well of the church’s tradition, he will interfere in your personal life and stop you.

In the forty days of lent, we will encounter wild animals, experience vulnerability and face terrible temptation through the glamorous seductions of the devil. Drive in the middle of nowhere, go hunting in unfamiliar terrain and you will see first- hand extreme danger and fear among wild beasts. And yet, no worries, we got you covered. The angels (spiritual creatures subordinate to Jesus) ministered and served him by taking care of his needs (food and water, etc). In an unexpected scenario, the wild beasts have even been tamed which made him safe amidst these terrifying animals, hostile creatures. Behind wheels, you can lower your window to get a breath of fresh air, turn your car stereo's volume at max level and sing on top of your voice but you can also do the exact opposite, that is, lower the window, turn off that loud and obnoxious music and talk to God about anything, meditate and pray. Let me know what happens after.

Let us take a closer look at the first reading from the book of Genesis 9: 8-15. After the terrible destruction caused by the flood which turned creation into primeval chaos, God established a covenant (a solemn agreement) with Noah and all the living creatures. He promised never to destroy the earth again. The covenant meant that Noah and all the inhabitants had a special place in God’s heart and that he would protect them from harm. The sign of the agreement was a rainbow (object of beauty, dependability and grace of God), a symbol of peace, not war and violence. Every time it appears in the clouds, God will remember his promise. We still live our normal lives. We work, go to school, enjoy weekends, run errands but because of the covenant, God is with us and will never leave us behind. We have a much deeper understanding of life’s purpose and meaning than those who don’t. After the trials and troubles of this life, I suppose not very many of us look forward to it as we don’t want to miss the party, we will be rewarded in the next life. We will feel God’s embrace as never before. As the Psalmist says, “Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant (Psalm 25).” Amen.

ASH WEDNESDAY B21

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 20:17:00 GMT

Many were probably wondering whether there would be public (in-person) Masses along with the time-honored sacred ritual of the imposition of ashes on Ash Wednesday. Although today is not a holy day of obligation nor a requirement, we faithfully observe the ritual of ashes (a stark reminder of our humble beginnings and origins) that we came from the dust of the field and from the dirt on the ground where we walk and stand, our shared nature. The ashes imposed on our foreheads or sprinkled on our heads are external signs of repentance, acknowledgment of sinfulness and a recognition of sinful humanity where we belong. These 40 days will be spent low–key with not much fanfare.

If you have been forced into quarantine because of Covid-19 exposure, you know what it means to be in isolation, as the French word for Lent ‘careme’ means Quarantine. Lent, then, is a time of deep reflection, self-examination, introspection, inward looking and interior disposition which is summed up in the word “Repentance” because all of us without exception tested positive for sin and a long-hauler that is, suffering the wages, the effects and the implications of sin. Our Lenten sacrifices (delayed gratification) are not fun but necessary ingredients in order to distance from the influence of Satan; to avoid exposure to the deadly invisible disease called “sin.” As we regularly wash and sanitize our hands, so do we also cleanse our hearts, examine our conscience and reflect on our inner lives. Our theme this year is LENT FOR PEACE through PRAYER, FASTING AND ALMSGIVING, as an imposed and voluntary act of devotion. Lent is like going to boot camp or spring training, where we don’t have much choice but to trust the proven spiritual and religious practices.

On Ash Wednesday the beginning of Lent, the ashes on our foreheads signify a call to repentance, a special time to admit our faults, accept our mistakes, that we have sinned and freely name what we have done wrong and what we have failed to do. We practically claim, my mistake, my fault, my bad. No discussion. No excuses. All of us stand guilty. We don't remain in denial from past failings. We cannot be right and correct all the time while others (especially those we don’t like) always wrong as the case may be. If we claim that we are always right and have done nothing wrong, there is something wrong with us as at some point in time, we, too messed up. When we freely acknowledge our sins, humbly express sorrow for them, contrition in our hearts, there's peace of mind and heart and nothing is more rewarding and heartfelt than this. T hat’s why our theme is LENT FOR PEACE through PRAYER, FASTING, AND ALMSGIVING. Imagine, if we practice repentance on a regular and daily basis, we would have lived in a totally different world and environment.

Joel says, “Rend your hearts, not your garments and return to the Lord, your God.” During Lent, as we go through the rituals, we will focus on our hearts, the locus of our faith, not merely the outside appearances. On Lent, don’t just give up TV, social media, chocolate, although that will help. Give up your vices. Purge your sins. Renounce occasions of sins.

LENT FOR PEACE means being at peace with yourself. LENT FOR PEACE is a shared commitment and responsibility carried out in a family and community setting. It is a ritual practice where family members ask forgiveness for past mistakes and unknown sins. Religious Education program is family-based. We can start coming together and saying sorry to each other. As a parish community, members of the Catholic community, what are the sins/aspects of life that we need to repent? Amen.

FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B21

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 13:26:00 GMT

As the good news of Mark slowly unfolds putting greater emphasis on the healing of the sick and the casting out of demon possessed (not simply a case of mental illness but much worse and severe), today’s episode features the very first physical healing (not exorcism) and the driving out of demons, the so called, 24 hours in the life of Jesus. Immediately after the synagogue service and the expulsion of the demoniac, Jesus and his disciples hopped to the house of Simon and Andrew which was about 20 yards away (right across the synagogue) in the same small town of Capernaum. It was a typical ancient house with cluster of rooms with courtyard that can accommodate a household of two including in-laws. Because of their growing and closer personal relationship with Jesus, Simon and Andrew invited Jesus to come into his house and heal his mother -in law (name not mentioned) who laid sick with a fever. In the ancient culture, Fever was treated as an illness and not a symptom. The fact that she was unable to offer hospitality (time-honored biblical value) that is, welcome guests at the door and at least, provide water to drink and bedridden, the illness must have been serious which demanded a spiritual health insurance with no co-pay. I should note at this early that Jesus now shares intimate moments (closeness) and concerns in the family life of his disciples particularly Simon and Andrew. By inviting him and letting him know about the troubles in the family, their relationship has become personal. By now, they know who he is. By immediately telling Jesus about the situation, the disciples displayed and showed us the Christian response to a troubling need. The house visit accompanied with the four disciples along with the instant healing recovery was a consoling touch (a tender loving care), an emotional support. When he entered the house, “he grasped her hand and helped her up” (Mk. 1: 31) , a preview of the resurrection. The physical touch of taking her by the hand and helping her up was a powerful demonstration of his healing power and presence. Her reaction after feeling better and getting healed was service/ministry. Surprisingly, her faith was not mentioned as a factor. It appears it was the other way around. Immediately after the cure, she served and waited on them. This interesting scenario tells us that with healing comes from faith and belief. Interestingly, cure means therapy, that is, treating and taking care of the sick.

St. Jerome once wrote a commentary which linked Simon’s mother in-law’s fever with the fever of Job proclaimed in the first reading in which he openly shared his outcry, his lament before God, the overwhelming anguish, the excruciating and the unspeakable pain of human suffering, the distress and the existential crisis faced. For many of us, it's too much to bear. Why do people suffer? Why me? Why do bad things happen to good people? Don’t offer advice. Just listen. Job lost all his property, family members, etc. I haven’t done anything wrong and yet it seems my life is drifting apart. It’s slowly crushing from bad to worse. I felt that my life hanging on a cliff. Job endured hard labor (enslaved without freedom), underwent restless and sleepless nights, turned into despair, suffered gut and heart wrenching moments and a deadly disease, pandemic fatigue, anxiety inducing news (pandemic will get worse before it gets better). Why is there so much injustice in the world? Life’s not fair. John didn’t mince words about his miserable human experience. Is human life not drudgery? My life is like a “hireling,” a laborer with little compensation. I don’t even get appreciated for what I do. Look at me. I don’t have rights and privileges. I am treated like a machine. I earn the $12.15 minimum wage (hoping that it will be raised to $15 soon). I am not proud of what I do. I have to work two jobs/two shifts to pay my bills. Job was a victim of suffering. He felt he was a man of no luck and fortune. He was destined for suffering when his life hit rock bottom and headed into a point of no return. Life is short-lived. We are here only for a short moment. He concluded his rant, “I shall not see happiness again”. I am hopeless and you have no clue. We all through rough times which we can call as the fever of life. No one is spared. There’s a lot of Job in social media. What is your version of Job’s fever?

In the midst of the pandemic, Thank Mark for sharing the miraculous healing power of Jesus that binds our fevers and demons in life. Many of us share the frustrations and sentiments of Job. We are not alone. We are joined by the Apostles in our respective homes. Just as Jesus went into the house of Simon and Andrew along with James and John, he will also enter our homes. As we pray for strength and guidance, let us allow Jesus into our personal issues and family troubles and let him take over the healing: the powerful touch of his healing hand. We are joined not only by the Apostles but also by the crowds who went and waited outside the house to experience his healing power and save us from all our fevers, sickness and demons that continue to afflict us. You are not alone. You are joined by your parish community. After the healing experience, let us imitate the woman who served and ministered those present. Life with God and in God, entering into personal relationship with Jesus, practicing our faith means no secrets, we tell him immediately our troubles just like the four disciples who were with him.

Rising early before dawn, he went to a deserted place to renew his communion with God. This is a perfect demonstration of spiritual growth. In spite of our busyness, part of our daily routine is resting in solitude with God. Amen.

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B21

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 20:34:00 GMT

By placing the exorcism as Jesus’ first public miraculous act (the first of so many miracles), Mark sets the stage of the entire gospel: the agonizing cosmic struggle between Jesus and Satan. Since Mark is a gospel of passion and suffering inscribed at the height of brutal persecution, a church and community in crisis, we are putting together our personal and communal struggles and offer them all to the Lord as we, little by little, enter the world (the good news) of Mark.

This Sunday’s episode took place in a synagogue (sacred place) with his disciples (on the sidelines) on a sabbath (sacred time) in Capernaum, the home and center of Jesus’ public ministry. As followers embarking on this year-long journey, Mark reminds us of the apparent war between Jesus and Satan all throughout the gospel. Hence, on the very first chapter, he presents Jesus as the exorcist. In the synagogue, people were astonished and awed at his teaching for he taught them as one having authority. That is exactly the power of the sacred writings: the power that binds the strong man.

We seldom talk about demons in the church, but they are (very) real. They are powerful - manipulative - glamorous - malevolent - smart and (supply yours). They have caused tremendous damage in the well-being of society and of our beloved planet: the destruction (the direct killing) of innocent (unborn) lives, opiod crisis, meaningless/senseless violence, abuse in all forms and divisions within the church itself: internal struggle, infighting, ugliness (of all sorts), among others. They are, by nature, hostile (not necessarily immoral) and alien to God and do anything in their capacities to obstruct divine affairs and terribly harm sacred institutions. The Catechism # 391 sheds light and surely helps us better understand them: “Behind the disobedient choice of our first parents lurks a seductive force, opposed to God, which makes them fall into death out of envy.” Scripture and the Church’s Tradition see in this being a fallen angel. Called “Satan” or the “devil.” The Church teaches that Satan was at first a good angel, made by God: “The devil and the other demons were indeed created naturally good by God, but they became evil by their own doing.” The fallen angels hate God. They don’t want any part of God’s business here on earth. They cause chaos and wreak havoc in the lives of so many people. Since they cannot manipulate God, they turn to us (frail human beings) and destroy us by dragging us to hell many of us remain unaware. Demonic powers populate and inhabit marketplaces, homes, establishments and yes, sadly even holy places. And the prime target, hard to believe, but by now, we should be aware, are those known to be closest to God. Ergo, at any given point in time, unclean spirits pry on us. Don’t let Satan enter you because if you do, he will certainly ruin you. Let us do a reality check. What company are you in?

Considering its proximity to the house of Simon and Andrew, could this 4th century synagogue ruins in Capernaum be the site of the expulsion of the demoniac? Possibly. Miraculous healings dominate Mark and today is the beginning of a long- series of Jesus' marvelous deeds: the exorcism of a man with an unclean spirit (case of a demonic possession) and not a mentally disturbed individual by any standard.

The man with an unclean spirit cried out, what have you to do with us Jesus of Nazareth? What do we have in common? Demons have nothing in common (incompatible) with the divine. In the encounter, there was no dualism at- play, no contest at all. Why do you interfere in our affairs? You are from Nazareth. Don’t mess with us. Leave us alone. Demons are territorial. They have a master list, an updated database of their customers/followers. I know who you are, the Holy One of God, a prophetic title and status as God’s messenger (2 Kgs 4:19). Satan knew him. By naming him, he tried to control him, to no avail. By saying Quiet! Come out of him! God rules by silencing the man. In so doing, Jesus easily shut down the tyranny of the demoniac here and elsewhere. I find it interesting for Jesus to tell the demoniac to shut up because it is a similar expression anyone would appropriately say to an annoying, distracting person.

What Jesus performed was an exorcism, a divine act that defies the laws of nature and manipulates the spiritual world. It was not magic or a product of scientific discovery. Exorcism was a striking display of the struggle stressing especially the intense exchange of words. In our spiritual journey with Mark, this is not a one-time occurrence but a part of a wider conflict, a huge chasm and bigger problem of the power of evil in the world. Exorcism was a necessary confrontation, which was so central in the fulfillment of Jesus’ messianic ministry.

We too can stop demons from making waves and noises (unofficially, not exorcism by the book) by paying close attention in small ordinary matters: constant (daily) examination of conscience, frequent devotion to the sacrament of reconciliation and weekly attendance at Sunday Mass as there's nothing more profound than a community in worship of the divine, grow in faith, make gratitude a habit, expand social connections, speak out and create wholeness. Whenever there's harmony, joy, selflessness, forgiveness, among others, unclean, ugly spirits are quieted, the Holy One of God reigns! and the world is transformed for the better. Amen.

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B21

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 15:26:00 GMT

The calling of the first disciples Simon and Andrew, James and John as recounted in the gospel of Mark is one of the most exhilarating vocation stories. Once again, we are reminded of a familiar biblical call narrative pattern regarding the ordinaries of the nature of the call whereby the caller passes by, calls people and the recipient drops everything and follows. God’s call is an invitation to participate in proclamation and build-up of the kingdom. When Jesus saw the two brothers, he said, “Come after me and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately became his followers and walked behind him. Their mission (our mission now) was to become fishers of people. Quite surprisingly, he did not ask them to sit down and learn.

The first lesson was learning the new way of being together which means that the top priority is the renewal of community life, the bottom line of any religious teaching. They followed him wherever he went, in adversities, in successes and failures, in joys and sorrows through the rapidly changing circumstances of their lives. A famous Latin reminds me, “Sentire Cum Ecclesia (Think With the Church)”. Don’t leave her. Follow the church wherever she goes amidst all the hard and harsh realities of faith. Community living was greatly emphasized to strengthen their bond and set their focus straight in preparation for the rigorous demands along with the constant changes of life’s situation. He called them against their former way of life and standard of living. He called them contrary to their own personal plans, hopes, dreams and goals in life.

What has changed in your life since you followed Jesus? What has transformed in you? Whether you are a new- comer or cradle Catholic, when you make that ongoing decision, little by little, something has changed in your interior life. If you start and end the day with spiritual exercises, you become more patient, understanding, compassionate, and peaceful.

The opening verses lead us deeper into our vocation, “The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and Believe in the gospel”. Although it sounds scary and appears to be loaded and highly intimidating, it is an inviting phrase, a soothing verse and a welcoming gesture. Understandably, every time we hear it, we often ask, what did I do wrong? Am I in trouble? Is there something I missed or failed to do? Of course, not. What you have been waiting for that is, the arrival of God’s kingdom and rule is coming shortly, right here, right now, God joyfully and lovingly welcomes and heals us. If God asks us to turn back to him with all our hearts and think outside of our minds, that’s not a problem unless there is something wrong in you. Repentance is not something to be feared. It has to be openly welcomed. Step aside and consider divine life if you haven’t done so. Some take years if not a lifetime to finally accept the invitation and drop the nets while others respond quicker and faster. What is God calling you to do? Why is it difficult to answer the call?

Jonah was a hesitant prophet. He did not want to travel and walk to Nineveh to pronounce a day of judgment for the sin city. He hid under the belly of a whale, but God said, whatever you do, wherever you go, I will find you. You cannot hide from me. Lo and behold, even the king repented and proclaimed a day of fasting for the whole city. It was unimaginable.

Accordingly, the calling took place at the sea of Galilee when they were busy with their daily business of commercial fishing. God interrupted their routine which usually happened to biblical figures. The response from the stranger was unreal. They immediately abandoned their nets and followed him! It was a prompt and radical obedience. It was immediate. That said, God’s call is urgent. It is highly important. It was a complete and permanent change of lifestyle all for the sake of the kingdom of God which was almost unthinkable in the affairs of the modern era: leaving family and resignation from work is unpractical nowadays although that still happens. They must have seen something extraordinary. What have you given up for God? What are you willing to give up for God? For the first disciples, there was no hesitation, no discussion and no questions at all. It was an immediate abandonment of their cherished occupation and dearly beloved family. The first disciples became Jesus’ closest bonds to the extend that they followed him all the way to the cross in spite of all the troubles faced. Simon and Andrew and James suffered martyrdom while John, the longest-lived disciple, authored the Johannine Literature and tradition. These disciples who later became apostles (to be sent) were the unknown and the nobodies. They lacked talent and skills. They had no clout, no prominence, no influence in the state of affairs which provides lots of inspiration in our ministries. What would have happened if they said no? It would have been a totally different scenario. If we decline the invitation, there is going to be a void, an emptiness that not even God can fill in a parish community. None of us is indispensable but each one of us has an irreplaceable role in the church. Amen.

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B21

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 14:20:00 GMT

The initial encounter of the two would-be disciples (Andrew and the other unidentified person, which eventually came to be known as the beloved disciple) with Jesus begins with the renowned and highly acclaimed prophet John the Baptist pointing them to the lamb of God prompting them to leave him behind. Imaginably, it must have been a poignant scenario as it was not easy to let go of an inspiring preacher in a heartbeat. It happened quickly that they almost had no time to think, process and discern. At any rate, there will always be someone or something that will bring you to God: a mentor, a shady past, a personal issue or name it. The call to discipleship is so basic in faith that before he began his ministry, he called a few to join him. Summoning people is Jesus' top priority.

According to John, the two disciples searched for Jesus. When Jesus saw them following him, he asked, what are you looking for? They said, Rabbi! which means Teacher! Andrew along with the anonymous fellow says it out loud. They are seekers just like all of us. They are on-the-hunt for someone to teach them about the depths of life, obviously found only in God and the precursor was right on target, Behold! here is the Lamb of God! They replied back, where are you staying? Come and You Will See. Upon the gracious invitation, they stayed in the human (brick and mortar) house which was extremely gratifying but more importantly, learned of the spiritual dwelling place Jesus showed them. You just can’t get enough of life with God. It must have been a special, awesome, jaw-dropping and life-altering experience. It was an inexplicable happiness. They were captured and drawn by the experience and encounter with divine life. From that time on, they never looked back. There were no regrets in that decisive action to follow Jesus.

The well-known story of the call of Samuel in the first reading is enormously interesting. His mother Hannah who was barren, prayed for a son and after she gave birth, she named him Samuel, God hears. Since Samuel began his life in the temple as a kid, he needed a mentor, Eli. The enthusiasm, the energy and the dedication of this young fellow were gravitating and worthy of emulation encountering God for the first time in the temple. He didn’t know the voice of God. He had no idea what was happening. When he heard a voice he thought it was his master calling him and so, he went to Eli for guidance. He said, he didn’t call him and asked him to go back to bed. It happened twice and went back to Eli on each of those two occasions but the third time, Eli told him that if he hears the voice again, say, "Speak Lord, your servant is listening" . Since Samuel means God hears, now, he addressed God the opposite of what his name meant.

A humble invitation to Come and See is the first step in the risky business of evangelization and not, the flowery- theological- rhetoric-polemic. Any teaching ministry involves doctrines and morals but it is also experiential and relational. If you wish and/or currently engaged in bringing people to God, don’t start with the hot-button issues. Avoid fanning flames. Start with the transcendental values of kindness, courtesy, hospitality, charity, etc. Invitation means belongingness. Whatever area or field of ministry you find yourself or whatever status in life, be holy in your chosen vocation. Holiness matters. Holiness defines your ministry. We are with you for the long haul in life and death.

To invite even a familiar friend can be overwhelming and terrifying. Expect that for every ten attempts, be lucky to get an average of two. However, the goal is to spread the word as best we can. If you are unsuccessful which can be disappointing if not discouraging for not gaining the numbers intended, so be it. Don’t feel too bad. Welcome to ministry! Don't flinch. Remember the calling of the first followers starts with just two ordinary folks: Andrew and the unnamed individual. Every now and then, I get calls from parents asking me to help them bring back their unchurched children to the faith. All we can do is set the example. Come and See. Invite and Welcome.

Any host of an occasion will make sure that the environment is hospitable enough at creating a welcoming atmosphere. Otherwise, such a thing will be an exercise in futility. No further details have been disclosed about the stay. But the fact that they vividly remembered the exact time - until four in the afternoon (this detail possibly mattered less to the author), of their first encounter with Christ, it must have been extraordinarily memorable, an experience no words will ever give justice. Have you had a powerful religious experience? Do you still remember the exact date and time when a word, a phrase or a witness struck you in your innermost self? There was no mention of an attempt to convert (if that meant proselytizing) and I’m glad there was none to allow more room for mystery. Andrew broke the news to his brother Peter ‘We have found the Messiah!’ and in effect, introduced him to the Lord. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John; you will be called Cephas” which is translated Peter. Jesus changed his name for a task larger than his life in spite of who he was. Accordingly, there were numerous occasions when Peter did not get the message but the moment he did, it was meant for the long haul which led to a chain reaction of what eventually became the 12- member core group that has gone viral ever since. Come and See. Amen.

FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD Jan 9

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 16:53:00 GMT

The feast of the Baptism of the Lord brings closure to the Christmas season and the Monday following begins Ordinary Time. This feast is celebrated after the Epiphany of the Lord understandably as baptism is the revelation of the divine sonship of Jesus, the formal inauguration and the launching of his public ministry.

Quite obviously, as we celebrate this feast, one of the major questions about the baptism of Jesus is that, why did he have to be baptized? how come he asked John to baptize him if he was sinless and needed no repentance? His baptism was a dramatic act of solidarity to the guilty and fallen humanity because only through God’s power and strength, he brought us out of that sinful human condition. We all know that John’s baptism was carried for the repentance and purification of sins. Jesus didn’t have to be forgiven. He walked down steps of the Jordan river anjd joined us to express his solidarity in our suffering to all of us who have been bound by the strong man for so long and struggled with our sinful past. Even if we have been forgiven, the guilt remains and still bothers us even for a lifetime as it is the make-up of the nature we call human. Sin is a huge load in our inner lives. Jesus gave us company to be one with us in order to save and redeem us from our sinful condition which is the very reason why he came in human flesh. The creed mentions, “he descended into hell/hades.” As he immersed himself in the waters of the Jordan and emerged out of the waters, Jesus immediately saw “heaven opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove (associated with a divine symbol and figure in the ancients).” The ripping and tearing apart of heaven were an extraordinary moment of God’s gracious love giving us access to divine life. Then, a voice, a sound or an echo, so loud and clear came out from above, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased (Mark 1: 11).”

Baptism is a sacred ritual of passage from death to life. It is a participation in the life and death of our Lord. In baptism, the toxic power of sin and guilt that has imprisoned us for selfish and personal gains, is purged. We are liberated from the poison of sin. In the renunciation of sin and satan, we reject their influence in our lives. We renounce our allegiance to the one who has held us captive since birth. We die to the seven deadly sins of pride, hatred, sloth, greed, envy, lust, gluttony and rise anew to the virtues of humility, charity, diligence, kindness, chastity, and temperance. A story is told about a shocking scenario in an adult baptism at the renunciation of sin, do you reject satan and all his works and all his empty promises? Do you reject the glamour of evil and refuse to be mastered by sin? Yes! the catechumen loud and clear said, I hate him! I want him out of my life. He did nothing but brought me ruin and destruction. I was deceived by the greatest showman of all time. Please excuse the language but you get the point of the gravity and magnitude of the ritual. In so doing, we are out of his company. In baptism, original sin understood as the sinful environment and condition we are born and presently live in caused by the limits of human freedom which God respects is finally washed away by the waters of rebirth and renewal. We are transformed into a new life. We apparently leave something behind and receive a precious gift of God. The ritual says, “The Christian Community welcomes you with great joy. In its name, I claim you for Christ our savior by the sign of the cross. I now trace the cross on your forehead and invite your parents to do the same.” It is the moment of belongingness to Christ. Baptism is the beginning of Christian life. We profess a new allegiance, that is, faith in one God in three divine persons (God the Father as the creator, God the Son incarnate in Jesus Christ as the redeemer and the Holy Spirit as the sanctifier). Our threefold function of priestly, prophetic and kingly roles, we have a serious religious duty and moral obligation to work hard and offer our lives for the salvation of souls and redemption of humanity. Baptism is a gateway to the sacraments. Baptismal Preparation Session is not merely a requirement to be fulfilled and completed but an honor. We don’t just feed the mind with information but create lots of opportunities for divine encounter.

It’s been a tough week. Many of us are still processing what happened last Wednesday when notifications from all over the place suddenly flooded my phone: US Capitol Hill on lockdown, under siege. I turned the TV on. I couldn’t believe what I saw. I tried to convince myself that it was a movie, a fantasy, a myth, a video game, perhaps an uprising elsewhere beyond the American shores but no, it was real. I was nauseated. I was sickened. It was troubling. I demand explanations. I asked for answers. Welcome to America! Welcome to USA! Welcome to American democracy! You cannot remain in denial. There’s nothing you can do but accept the harsh reality of Americas’ dark past coming into light. You better believe it. America was founded on protest. Violence is part of America’s history. As I listened to the conversation on both sides of the political aisle, it dawned on me, this is more than politics. It’s the remnant of humanity’s past. It’s pure and simple, original sin in full display. Morality has no political party. The mayhem in Washington DC, in the temple of American democracy, in the hallowed halls of the Capitol Hill was, for a lack of better term, an initiation rite, for me in the American culture. A city shining on a hill? A promised land? A model of democracy? No more...America is just like any other country in the world and it is because of original sin, the sinful human condition we were born. What better way to celebrate the Baptism of the Lord reflecting on these recent happenings. Amen.

SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD B21

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 13:47:00 GMT

Consumed and saturated by the pandemic, we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord to commemorate the journey and visit of the wise men from the East bearing luxurious gifts of gold (kingship), frankincense (priesthood) and myrrh (humanity) to the infant Jesus. In some parts of the world, particularly in the East, it is oftentimes called Gentile Christmas as it is commonly observed by the Christian churches of the East in memory of the three wise men, called ‘magi’, probably, from Mesopotamia, the ancient home of Astrologers representing all sorts of background. From this standpoint, it is quite a fascinating and intriguing story of outsiders. They shouldn’t be there. As portrayed for ages, the nativity scene was not surrounded by towns people, by famous people which was odd. Instead, there were the shepherds according to Luke and the strange-looking people with full regalia, wearing bathrobes, with exaggerated make-up and heavy piercings and crowns too called “Magi” who came late with expensive gifts according to Matthew. The guests were composed of simple people represented by the Shepherds and the highly sophisticated elite that is, the Magi.

What are they doing in the nativity scene? Matthew tells us how they got there and the importance of their visit as the appearance, the manifestation of Jesus to the nations, to the world. The magi as astrologers watched day in and day out the sky and saw the star at its rising from the heavens referring to the promised and prophesied Messiah in the book of Numbers and at the request of Herod left their place and began on a long and arduous journey to look and search for the newborn king of the Jews. Go and search diligently for the child, says Herod and when you found him, let me know that I may go and worship, him, too. They traveled hundreds of miles to a little dusty town of Bethlehem, all because of that one special light they had seen from the sky that maybe spoke to them about a burning hope. Lo and behold! The star of Bethlehem preceded them which was a clear sign that God has led and guided the magi to the birthplace of our Savior. When they arrived, they found the new- born child with Mary, prostrated themselves and did him homage. One of the many marvelous things the three wise men taught us is the worship of God.

We are all aware that the highly unlikely story of the Magi has captured the imagination of so many cultures and religions. It has become a phenomenon, so popular even to this day. It appeared in Christmas cards, pageants, stage plays, parades and processions and creches. Ours is no different. Paintings show a slightly different scenario.

The journey of the magi is also our own journey. It happens to many of us, some of us don’t really want to go to Church on a given Sunday. Sometimes, we have no idea about what we are doing. Others, not sure if they are still believing in God. Some have mistaken ideas notions about church's teaching, but they hang in there due to the prompting of God at the deepest recesses of their hearts. We have our own stories of how we got into faith. Whether by chance or pursuit, we are all seekers just like the Magi. This is how we started as a church. Some have stumbled upon the simple faith of seekers. Few are committed or fully knowledgeable. Some have worshipped for a lifetime and knelt at the manger. Even those who are well schooled, informed and catechized need regular reminding. We the baptized travel a path with many distractions, some leading to disastrous ends. Their coming back has always been inspired by the testimony of a fellow believer. This is how we come to faith. These odd-looking people taught us how to worship God.

When we come to faith or come back to faith, let us not turn to Herod again. Let our soul be guided and led by the star to the birthplace of our Savior, source of timeless wisdom and joy of life and blessings especially this new year as our faith is an unfinished journey. This feast has been associated with gift-giving. What are your plans this new year? What are the gifts are you planning to bestow and give your parish?

As we start the new year, navigate the torrential waters of the pandemic and experience loss and death, let the start of Bethlehem be our guide. Let us allow ourselves to be led by the same star that pointed the Magi to the newborn king. Amen.

FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY B20

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 14:34:00 GMT

The feast of the Holy Family which falls on the octave of Christmas is a recent celebration, introduced only in the 19 ^th century. The central focus of the spirit-filled private liturgy is found in the opening prayer asking that we may imitate the splendid example of the Holy Family in practicing the virtues of family life and bonds of charity. In this feast, we ask for the grace and strength that our families may live as the holy family united in respect and love to constantly imitate them to attain the eternal company after the trials of this life.

The book of Sirach speaks of the attitude of children towards their parents. The complaints mostly of parents to their children is the talking back. Once I encountered a parishioner in the grocery store and exchanged pleasantries. Then, all of a sudden, her phone rang in the purse. Just a moment Father, let me check. When she saw who it was, she said, es mi hijo….es milagro. Sometimes I don’t know what to do with my kids. I didn’t teach them to do that but possible they learned it outside by peers. "Those who fear the Lord honor their parents." The letter to the Colossians presents the life of a Christian family which reminds us to “Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another.” Let us offer our families to God. Let the holy family continue to serve as a strong influence and true inspiration for our lives together, to live for God and for others. Just as Jesus was handed over, presented and offered to God, so too our children as blessings are offered to God in the sacrament. When the elderly Simeon who was righteous and devout awaiting for the consolation of Israel took the child in his arms, blessed and praised God saying, “Finally, at long last, now you may let your servant in peace for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.” Simeon and the prophetess Anna prayed and fasted night and day in the temple.

Nazareth is a model of what families should be and where we learn about family life: a community of love and sharing, a place where genuine family resides and the best environment to raise a child. The family is the first and vital cell of society and the domestic sanctuary of the Christian community, the foundation of society. It is in the family where we learn to be a Christian along with the values associated it: kindness, reconciliation, justice, etc. The elements of marriage which we firmly believe as free consent of the parties, fidelity to relationships, sexual exclusivity, openness to procreation, the importance of motherhood and a life-long relationship are so important in the religious upbringing of the children. There is disagreement, differences, grudges, grievances but as a family, with shared commitment in the Lord, in joys and sorrows, we will overcome any adversity.

The Holy Family is not without controversy. Even before the birth of Jesus, both Mary and Joseph underwent series of obstacles as a couple. Mary was deeply troubled and pondered things in her heart following the strange message from a divine messenger. Joseph freaked out until an Angel appeared to him in a dream. As a family, they had no option but to flee as refugees. So, there really is no reason to feel bad and be ashamed of our own every time an attempt at comparison is made. The fact that they didn't get a free ride gives us every reason to imitate them. Theirs was a life marked by an extraordinary sense of faith with the strong guidance of a well-informed conscience.

Faced with stark realities, a common thread exists in the confessional lament (not sacramental) of parents and grandparents at the departure of their children in faith (national surveys support this claim), the disintegration of sacred values and the breakdown of social structures. What did I do wrong? What can I do to bring/lure them back? There is no easy answers/solutions. Such a confession is particularly alarming to me the pastor should it happen to the kids in the next generation. Such an unfortunate phenomenon can be traced back into the limited time (which means nothing at all) devoted in Religious Education - easily be described as the interplay and the engagement between family -com posed of parents/guardians in a single household (the basic facet of society) and the parish community (the ground level of the church) where real action takes place.

This feast is a special moment for families to recollect the best and worst times and memories together. Perhaps, those who are going through the troubles of Covid-19 may not be able to do it but as we are all part of God’s family, we express our solidarity with them. Our family is God's gift to us and our efforts to anchor our lives to him is our humble response. As we pray for growth and strength in wisdom and grace, we know full well that it all starts with God and ends with him. Amen.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT B20

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 13:39:00 GMT

It is almost Christmas and yet, it is still advent. Advent will not leave us without the Blessed Virgin Mary who is so central in the incarnation of the Son of God. It is still Advent and will not go anywhere without the Blessed Mother. In fact, Mary has been with us for the most part of December. The weekday readings predominantly recount the infancy narratives along with the astonishing story of the Annunciation proclaimed today -the shocking announcement of the divine plan of salvation heralded by the ecstatic angel Gabriel, the initial (hesitant) response which could have gone otherwise, the friendly assurance of the messenger letting her know not to worry about anything for God is in complete control of the situation and the final response- the humble reception of the message relying entirely on a power outside her. Mary's humble acceptance of God's timeless invitation and the keeping of things close in her heart has become the hallmark of discipleship. She represents the hidden, the invisible, the often-ignored and taken for granted inner life without which any minister would run around empty and easily fall prey to the greatest showman ever - the devil. Spending time in silence with God is a requirement of faith, the enduring force that holds life together. Mary represents the receptive dimension of faith. Mary is the exemplar of things unseen, unpublished, behind the scenes, off-camera, the stuff that go unnoticed but an absolutely necessary component in faith life. In the sacred writings, Mary shows us the indispensable value of receptivity - a spiritual discipline that freely puts oneself on the receiving end, doing nothing at all but ponder the depths of things. This is a spiritual exercise that is easily overlooked as unnecessary in the scheme of things.

“The Angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph…” The annunciation is chronologically related to the birth of John the Baptist. In fact, it follows the timeline…in the sixth month (March 25). They were relatives. On Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth, Jesus and John encountered each while still in the womb. On that visit, John leapt in her mother’s womb and filled Elizabeth with the Holy Spirit. In the Annunciation of the birth of Jesus by the angel Gabriel to Mary, God went to the periphery and not to the metropolitan with glittering lights. Under divine dispatch, Gabriel went to the outskirts. He favored a little town with dirt roads named Nazareth (no more than 1000 square foot) and an assuming young woman/virgin named Mary.

The divine messenger’s salutatory address at his visit Hail! Rejoice! was an extraordinary moment of joy to the nature of God’s invitation. Many of us have asked about the Joy of Advent. What is there to rejoice amid a raging virus when many of the religious and social practices and tradition have been postponed. One of the joys of advent can be found in the Annunciation of the miraculous birth of Jesus to Mary. It is noteworthy that joy and grace go together. They are inseparable and almost synonymous. A person who is joyful is graceful and vice versa. The announcement was that Mary was going to bear a child and his name will be Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High/Son of God. God will give him the throne of David his Father and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever and his kingdom will have no end. The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most- High will overshadow you (Luke 1:35). God has not forgotten the promise of a kingdom founded on faith and love and not worldly affairs.

The initial response of Mary was that she was deeply troubled and pondered on the message. She did not hesitate nor was fearful. It was an internal dialogue with her heart. It was inner engagement with the word of God that has just been received. Mary was pious and devout. This reaction was not new nor alien to her. She was poised and completely composed amid a troubling message. She knew the context and the circumstances surrounding it.

How can this be since I have no husband? (Lk. 1:34). How can this be since I have no relations with a man? She did not doubt. Although it was a mind- boggling invitation and incomprehensible message considering that she was already betrothed to Joseph. St. Augustine said that she took a vow of virginity. She entered into betrothal to protect her virginity. She had no dealings with a man. Still, it is troubling. But the angel confirmed that her motherhood will come in an extraordinary way. The Most High will overshadow her and will come through the power of the Holy Spirit. For nothing will be impossible for God (Lk. 1:37).

And her most humble famous Fiat! Yes! to the invitation. "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to your word" (Lk. 1:38). God needed our freedom. God respects human freedom. To redeem humanity, God needs our yes to his will. In a way, God is dependent on our freedom. He cannot force us.

"And the angel departed from her" (Lk. 1:38). After a brief encounter, she was faced with an unbearable and daunting task. The image and statue of the Blessed Mother slightly bowed down in a pensive mood while standing on top of the world and crushing the serpent speak volumes. She was alone, by herself in these dark moments. In isolation, in quarantine, we turn inwardly. We ask tough questions. The matters are so unintelligible by human comprehension but so close and dear to the human heart. As we relentlessly long for peace and yearn for God, Rejoice! Full of Grace! Do not be afraid! Amen.

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT B20

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 20:48:00 GMT

The gradual shift from a penitential tone to a festive atmosphere, as evident in our sacred space, signals the joy and warmth of the Feast as it draws near. The Sanctuary is starting to get inundated with hues of red with a handful of yellow poinsettias as well as the Christmas ornaments richly decorated surrounding the church, the images and statues of the Blessed Mother enormously adorned, plus added (bonus) wreaths in a visible location in the sanctuary, the flickering of candles during Mass, meant to heighten the birth of Christ as it comes closer. The third Sunday of Advent, also known as “Gaudete” (Rejoice) Sunday is marked by a deep sense of joy, warmth, gladness, and harmony emanating from the religious dimension of the celebration itself, the story of a God who became flesh in Jesus Christ without diminishing his divine and human natures. The joy of the upcoming feast is directly connected (in fact, the fulfillment of the Emmanuel ‘God-with-us-in-human-form’ prophecies) of Isaiah. The trees (fresh or artificial), the lights, the candles, the crèche, gift-giving, moderate (not heavy) consumption of food, among others, contribute to the build-up of the spirit of Christmas (religious and secular). Christmas sets a joyful tone in our dealings with everyone for the entire year. If God is the source of your joy, then share the excitement of life with God. Make people feel the warmth, the beauty and harmony of the season even amidst the endless list of restrictions. Share the excitement, if not the struggles, of attending the virtual Mass on Sunday. Share the patience learned in waiting for the marvelous gift of the Son of God.

The first verses of the Entrance Antiphon, “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near (Phil. 4:4-5)” resonates well with the theme of joy on the Third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete (“Rejoice”). What does it mean to rejoice always in the Lord during pandemic? Two weeks down the road, we are shifting our attention to a lighter mood and a heightened sense of joy as Isaiah 61: 10-11 shares his sentiments, “I rejoice heartily in the Lord, in my God is the joy of my soul; for he has clothed with a robe of salvation and wrapped me in a mantle of justice, like a bridegroom adorned with a diadem, like a bride bedecked with her jewels. As the earth brings forth its plants, and a garden makes its growth spring up, so will the Lord God make justice and praise spring up before all the nations.” He tells us that when we rejoice in the Lord for whatever circumstances, we are clothed with a garment of salvation and robe of justice that we may become instruments of his healing presence and reconciliation to the brokenhearted and those experiencing terrible loss at this excruciating year. The spirit of the Lord mentioned in the preceding verses is the origin, the source and the wellspring of power and strength.

Truly, the readings today set the tone for a festive celebration, as Paul in the second reading from his first letter to the Thessalonians 5: 16-24 exhorts us, “Brothers and sisters: Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the spirit. Do not despise prophetic utterances. Test everything; retain what is good. Refrain from every kind of evil.” Christians are marked and characterized by the inner joy that radiates in our hearts. In so doing, we draw people to Jesus and to our Church community.

In the Gospel taken from John 1: 6-8, 19-28, we encounter again the figure of John the Baptist, a man sent from God to testify to the light, which defines his humble mission. Because his lifestyle and message were so attractive, he could easily draw people to him, and would have made a fortune out of it, but when asked who he was, he responded, and did not deny it, that he was not the Christ, the Messiah, neither was he Elijah, or the Prophet, but instead echoed a passage in Isaiah 40, “I am the voice of one crying out in the desert, make straight the way of the Lord.”

He describes himself as the one who prepares the way for the coming Messiah, not the fulfillment of all the prophecies. It attempts to bring us the perfect combination between the Voice and the Word, the Messenger and the Message. The voice is short-lived, affecting only the ear, and empty without the Word; the Word is eternal, reaching right to the heart, and giving the Voice its purpose and power. John is the oil lamp, Christ the light from which it is lit. John the Baptist is a witness, a martyr to the truth by his own right. In any court trial, no one can become a state witness unless that person had been there during the incident.

Before you become a witness, you must first live the truth. The voice is dependent on the message/word. They have no voice unless they have already welcomed the word. John’s witness was the same in his message and in his life. The saying holds true, nowadays, people no longer listen to teachers, but witnesses. Talk is cheap. The Baptist’s humility is a clear sign. Without a word, a voice has no meaning, without a flame a lamp is unlit, without water, a flower is dead. Once brought to life, each voice, each lamp, each flower has its own distinctive beauty of expression. The Baptist’s task was to proclaim the truth in its fullness, and in this, he found his identity.

Similarly, the candles in the wreath make little sense without the flame, if they remain unlit during the liturgy. As the week progresses, light increases, pushing out darkness, with another candle lit until all four are burning. The symbolism of the Advent candle is not in the color but in the flame. The Voice, in this case, the ministry of John the Baptist, has no meaning apart from the Word. Our souls, our lives, are devoid of any direction without God. Religion without a sense of joy and adventure lack an essential factor.

As we make final preparations to again welcome the Christ, celebrate his birth in our community, may we be the next John the Baptist whose role is to point away from oneself to the One who is to come. Amen.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT B20

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 18:21:00 GMT

John the Baptizer is trending in Advent. This saintly figure who represents the stern side of religious belief, strikingly dominates the season. The fact that there was no confusion about his role as a precursor, desiring nothing but make God’s presence felt, John deserved much respect. Arguably, his lifestyle was beyond repute. He was a no non-sense prophet (literally, all prophets destined as messengers of God). He was the living icon of religious faith. If he were Catholic, Sunday Mass would be non-negotiable, Sunday Worship, invaluable. Such religious matters would be subject for discussion only for enrichment. The real presence of Christ in the Eucharist is real. You don't play around it. It is either you belong to God or Mammon. There is no gray area, no middle ground. There are no ifs, ands or buts. Excuses are unacceptable. It is either all or nothing. He is not swayed nor tempted by the consumerist, materialist, and worldly ideals of the secular society. If you want to watch Sports on Sunday, go to Mass first. Faith and morals constitute life.

His message on the second Sunday of Advent is urgent and disturbing, evidently echoing Isaiah 40: 3 “…a voice crying out in the wilderness…prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths…” Love him or hate him, you cannot ignore him. It is said that "people of the whole Judean countryside and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the Jordan River as they acknowledged their sins". As a preacher, he had a huge following. He was profoundly influential. He drew significant numbers of people (busy or not) from all over the place. Religious seekers gravitated to him. He was charismatic, that is, gifted with an electrifying personality. To say that he wore his faith on his shoulders is an understatement. And you bet, versions of him are still in existence and in high demand across the globe. Let me tell you, John was not one of the tele-evangelists who promised cheap grace. He commended authoritative parents who religiously take their families to Sunday Mass but decried those whose beliefs are “come what may,” “anything goes” and who do little to uphold family religious values. With so much clout, he could have easily lured his followers as the promised Messiah, the One they had been waiting for ages, but no, he said, “One mightier than I is coming after me.” He vehemently denied it and shockingly, diverted everyone’s attention perhaps, to the dismay of many, including his stalwart followers. There was no doubt it was the right thing to do. His role to direct our focus on Christ was exceedingly clear. By pointing his curious, serious and staunch followers to the more powerful, he occupies a significant part in the immediate preparation of the birth of the Messiah, the Emmanuel, the One who is to come, the hope of the suffering oppressed. No wonder, John the Baptist is the forerunner. His vocation and destiny, however difficult, was divine. His life was a living testimony of God. On the second week of Advent, we join his company in the desert, in the bubble devoid of the complexities of ordinary life. I find it hard to spend a great deal with John the Baptist’s daunting challenges at a time when our minds are heavily preoccupied with safety protocols, travel restrictions, in-person or virtual parties to go, decorations to hang, gifts shopping and presents to wrap. And yet, his words are even more timely as we relentlessly search for deeper meaning to the hard realities of life.

The author of the gospel of Mark, who remained anonymous all the way to the end but popularly believed to be a disciple, a follower of St. Peter opened the discourse with, “The beginning of the gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ, the Son of God”. This introduction, referring to the very first verse, is, by far, the most important text as it sets the tone of the entire Gospel. The writer presents this as the good news (euangelion) which offers glad tidings, a great cause for rejoicing for Jesus (God saves), the Christ (Messiah), the Son of God. Immediately following, Mark quoted the emotion-filled words of the Prophet Isaiah 40-55 (book of consolation), the content of the second part of the book (Deutero-Isaiah) which substantially offers messages of hope and words of comfort evidently expressed in the classic text Isaiah 40: 1-11 (First Reading of the Second Sunday of Advent B) addressed to an exiled people who have lost morale, inviting them to come back to their land and to God, “Comfort, give comfort my people, says the Lord. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem and proclaim to her that her service is at an end, her guilt is expiated.” Isaiah gave them an assurance, a promise of healing and deliverance that the exile would soon come to an end and that God was preparing everything by clearing all means possible for their final return. The journey back home would be safe and no worries, things would fall into place as planned, “a voice cries out: in the desert prepare the way of the Lord! Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God! Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill shall be made low; the rugged land shall be made a plain, the rough country, a broad valley.” This is such an encouraging and inviting message in the Advent season, letting us know it is alright to return to God, to go to confession, and start all over. Repentance is described as a lifetime process, and not simply a 12-step program of going back and forth to God, was all John wanted from his hearers. It was as easy as making a short deliberate trip to the Church for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and as difficult as not making plans to do it or making serious reparations for sins. Advent is a new beginning. No one will say anything. No one will make rough comments about you. Sin is humiliating, but it is what it is. No one will ostracize you from being away from Church. God will meet you at the front door and tightly embrace you. The prophet Isaiah’s words bring so much comfort and consolation to the agony, pain, grief, and sorrow of those who have lost loved ones during this pandemic. Amidst this terrible crisis that has weighed on us, God, the Church, the parish community, is your refuge, a shoulder to cry on. Amen.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT B20

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 14:35:00 GMT

On Thanksgiving Weekend, at the beginning of a new liturgical season, officially, New Year in the church’s calendar, dependent on the movement of the cosmos, the Gospel of Mark asks us to stay awake! Be alert! Beginnings are always important in any endeavor. That's why waiting and staying awake marks the First Sunday of Advent. It appears he knows exactly what is happening in the current times. Advent is a time to prepare for the coming of the Lord in human flesh, the supreme gift of God who came to us to redeem and reconcile humanity with God. This is the time of the year when our schedule becomes so busy. We are feeling pressured about getting shopping done, Christmas cards dropped in the mail and make the Christmas parties planned out with the exception of 2020. The hope of advent is that the dark days brought by the pandemic will be diminished.

The prophet Isaiah’s message is of profound longing of the absence of God felt at a time of deep loss, cancelled family and community gathering which is so important for social cohesion and mental wellbeing. Coming together to celebrate the Eucharist brings joy, comfort and consolation which strengthens relationships. Isaiah, with high intensity, said, “Oh that you would rend the heavens and come down, with the mountains quaking before you, while you wrought awesome deeds we could not hope for, such as they had not heard of from of old.” Tear down the heavens! Open it up and come down to us! The prophet’s cry was a lament desperately pleading God to do something urgently. The world is in a mess. Our lives are in trouble. We can’t wait for you. Please come to the rescue and do not delay. Send us the best of humanity, the most talented, the smartest, peacemakers to get us out of this present crisis and the perils of humankind. Heal our land. Help us to practice civilly. End the pandemic. Help us to work together. Do something as soon as possible. Stakes are high. We come to you because “No ear has ever heard, no eye ever seen, any God but you doing such deeds for those who wait for him” (Is. 63: ). And yet, in spite of our yearning, we are willing to wait as challenging as it is. Remember, “There is none who calls upon your name, who rouses himself to cling to you; for you have hidden your face from us and have delivered us up to our guilt.” While waiting, we will remain active, alive and alert! We won't be lukewarm and complacent. Advent is a time of waiting for the anniversary of the coming of the Lord Jesus in the flesh and his second coming which we have been immersed in the last few weeks. Advent ushers a new liturgical cycle marked by waiting, waiting and waiting. When you wait for something, you are alert. You can’t sleep on it. You can't sit down and leave the rest to chance. Many of us have been left behind by the bus in the terminal, by the train in the train station, by the plane in the airport for whatever reason. We are no stranger to waiting. We can’t wait to end the madness 2020 has brought us. We tracked the behavior of SARS-COV-2. We checked data and analyzed the facts. We followed the trajectory of the virus. We know what it means to wait in isolation for test results. We have waited for months for the wonder drug, vaccines and therapeutics that hopefully would put us back closer to normal life. We know what it means to wait in check- out lines in grocery stores with our masks and 6 ft apart.

Advent is a time of waiting in joyful anticipation, spiritual preparation and forward-looking festive celebration. Maybe just once, priest as I am, let me do a play of words-merge these two opposing words- Christmas Holidays referring to almost the same thing in the advent season. Holidays outside, Advent inside, waiting brings them both best described in secular terms as the most wonderful time of the year. Advent is a blend and a mixture of the sacred and the secular, the contrast between darkness and light as the season draws us closer to the incarnation of the Lord. Why do we wait? What does it feel like to wait for someone? What happens when we don't wait? Why does God want us to get better at it?

Let’s end this short reflection with the Collect (Opening Prayer) Grant, you faithful, we pray, almighty God, the resolve to run forth to meet your Christ with righteous deeds a this coming, so that, gathered at his right hand, they may be worthy to possess the heavenly Kingdom. Amen.

SOLEMNITY OF THE CHRIST THE KING A20

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 21:30:00 GMT

On the Solemnity ofJesus Christ the King, the closing Sunday of the liturgical year, Matthew dramatically and graphically portrays (like a masterpiece) the eschatological scene of God’s final judgment. We have seen images, paintings, frescoes of the great last judgment and reminded of the scenario of Jesus appearing as the pantocrator with his right hand offering a blessing and left hand holding the book of the gospels. Many of us have come to know this as the story of the separation of the sheep and the goats. This vision of heavenly glory is apocalyptic in nature, the time when God will pass judgment on all of us. This whole discourse is profoundly interesting, deeply moving but also puzzling for placing huge emphasis on good works on the plight of the underprivileged and dispossessed.

And the criterion is, “Whatever you did for one of the least of brothers of mine, you did for me.” There is only one requirement and that is, love of neighbor, a simple and complex gesture but has eternal consequences. We will be judged on the basis of our response to the message but also to the messengers (the least among us).

It is intriguing and troubling in the sense that love of neighbor is the sole criterion for entrance to heavenly glory. If that is so, does this mean that doctrine, belief, liturgy and rituals, profession of faith don’t matter or unimportant? This sounds like an oversimplification of faith. Does love of neighbor override the outward expression of faith in liturgy and ritual? Does love of neighbor render the practice of a high standard of morality, charismatic gifts, volunteerism, worthless? No, not all. It doesn’t say that. The last judgment assumes that love of neighbor is borne out of faith, fueled by deep belief in the truth that Jesus wanted us to do. Act of charity springs from faith. The test of true and genuine religion doesn’t lie on the sublimity of religious talk but action.

The beauty, grandeur and the heart of the entire pericope lies in his address to the righteous, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me…Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt. 25: 35, 36, 40).

Accordingly, when the Son of Man comes in all his glory accompanied by all his angels in his glorious throne, in the end-times, the day of his final appearance pronouncing sentence to all the nations (humankind), he will separate the righteous from the wicked, reward the good and punish the evil carried out in a juridical process. Tables will be turned. Those who take care of the people we normally ignore and are objects of neglect will be rewarded while those who don’t will have to pay the consequences. The judgment scene involves the setting- apart of the guilty from the righteous taken from the shepherds’ daily routine of separating the goats (need warmer place) from the sheep (prefer open-air at night). The sheep occupy the right hand of the king, a place of honor while the goats to the left, the exact opposite. The first reading from the book of the Prophet Ezekiel 34: 11-12, 15-17 presents a similar scenario about the Shepherd tending the sheep, judging and separating between one sheep and another. This judgment, however scary, performed by the shepherd is done always out of love, in charity. The responsorial psalm which brings comfort and consolation has become the all-time favorite in funeral and memorial services, “The Lord is my shepherd, there is nothing I shall want. Fresh and green are the pastures where he gives me repose” (Psalm 23: 1-2). Our God as the shepherd will never leave his flock in moments of great distress: global health emergency. The glorious Christ reigning over heaven and earth will make his presence felt. This decision of the great judgment, the final retribution will be based on love rendered to the least of the world, that is, the troubled (the addicted which leads to destructive behaviors, the imprisoned and the sick/the ill) and the weak, the needy, the homeless in our midst, the poor and the vulnerable (the hungry, the thirsty, the naked, the stranger) that is, anyone in need (consistent with the centuries-old religious tradition that the nations refer to regardless of race, status, culture and nationality. The type of people we often blame for society’s ills whom God has also breathed the breath of life. We will be judged according to what we have done and what we have failed to do. The accursed, that is, those who reject God’s messengers will go to eternal punishment while the just that is, those who graciously received both the message and the messenger will inherit eternal life.

Surprisingly, both the wicked and righteous have the same surprised reaction and question: “When did we see you hungry, thirsty, naked, in prison or stranger, ill?” Jesus replied with, “Whatever you did or did not do to the least brother of mine, you did to me.” It is frightening and makes us feel terribly bad as quite obviously all of us stand guilty of omission before God and our fellows. Sin in this context is the failure to do something. There is always something we missed which we confess at the Confiteor, at the introductory part of the Mass. Our hands are tied. Our budgets low. We can’t help everyone. We have to take care and secure ourselves first before others. It’s a complex scenario and resources are limited. Issues blur our minds to the extent that we don’t know where to start. We find ourselves helpless in the face of endless need for the basic human necessities here and across the globe. Christian charity is about our response to a human need and not so much the size of our financial portfolio. A charitable act springing from faith, borne out of love to alleviate poverty (build a home, feed the hungry, provide shelter and give company, etc) which can potentially solve half of the world’s economic problems in a heartbeat isn’t simply a phenomenal Philanthropy but a passport, an entry by the righteous to eternity.

We have high dreams and lofty ideals of the world. We want to make and contribute to a safe and better world. However, Christian concern doesn’t mean engaging in global philantrophic efforts although that may work to those who have the skills and means but what the text tells us is the simple and pure gesture of feeding the poor and the hungry, providing drink to the thirsty, hospitality to strangers, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and sharing loneliness with the prisoners. Anyone who performs this act of kindness has a deep spiritual foundation. Such charitable act doesn’t come out of bubble or from nothing. On the Christian view, it’s about fulfilling what God wanted us to do in the first place. In the name of charity, you can’t go wrong. In fact, it is better to err on the side of charity. When we offer help and reach out, it’s not so much about significant results as it is about the good deed itself. Good works have spiritual foundations. Engagement is social action is centered on Christ. We know it’s the right thing to do but exactly, the thing we are afraid to do. Noticeably, in this drama of judgment, which is strikingly alarming, there was no mention whether terrible sins committed in the past matter or not.

There is nothing to be scared. In fact, we should be encouraged to hear the great judgment so that we can prepare well for the final countdown “Come, you who are blessed by my father says the Lord, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Mt. 25: 34). It should inspire us to work harder especially as we approach the joyous season of Christmas…

33RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 13:40:00 GMT

The parable of the talents is an extraordinary display of God confidently entrusting us the wealth of his kingdom, the treasures of his reign. The fact that the text has been placed in the 25 ^th chapter of Matthew, towards the end of the gospel, powerfully depicts the religious conduct of a follower while awaiting the last judgment. While in the past few weeks, we heard messages of watchfulness and readiness, this parable highlights the clear and unmistakable message of our current life in the world, the state of worldly affairs, faithful observance of God’s will, not only in words but more importantly, the doing, in action, that is, how to prepare and to be prepared: works of love, charitable acts, focusing on the goodness of humanity.

Talents are substantial amount of money with varying interpretations in terms of the exact number but in this context, they are highly symbolic of God’s precious gifts and the immensity of his grace. To safeguard what God has entrusted in our keeping is our top and highest priority. By way of interpretation, talents represent knowledge of the secrets of God or knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. They are the gifts and abilities. They are the endowments, everything we have received. Talents are not our possessions but gracious gifts to be used in the service of God. Others have just heard about it but we, in contrast, knew what it meant. We have insider information. Use it or lose it. You cannot ignore it. Talents are provided at our disposal for the benefit of the Lord’s kingdom, especially as we wait for the time of reckoning, the final judgment. In this sense, the reign of God which we often hear is understood not so much as a location but as his dynamic force on earth, however invisible. In giving us the talents, he expects us to be responsible and accountable stewards, to do something with it, to engage in activities that will make them fruitful, to make them profitable, to invest in the knowledge of the kingdom. The servants handled the unequal amount of talents given to them according to their individual capabilities, differently. Although some got more, others less, they exhibited two contrasting behaviors and responses. The first who received five talents immediately went out and invested them. The second who had two talents did the same. Since the first two invested and actually, doubled what they got, God applauded and promoted them to greater responsibilities and invited them to come share in his joy. Come share in your master’s happiness! Well done, good and faithful servant! Come and take your reward! This praise that brings music to our ears is quite astounding. What was commended wasn’t simply the successful outcome, but the effort exerted which involved great risks.

Because a significant section has been devoted to the slothful, wicked, and lazy third servant, the conversation comprising almost half of the entire episode, this must have been the focus of the parable. A parable is Jesus’ way of explaining things indirectly. Whenever there’s confusion or disagreement, he strikes his point and clarifies him by way of parable. It goes without saying that there must have been a controversy. On the third servant’s part, there was just an absence of gratitude, devoid of any sort of appreciation of the gifts received. What the final servant was only interested was security and protection and not service. That’s why he buried the talent which diminished any potential growth. He avoided loss and totally missed out on making anything out of it. Playing safe, out of fear of losing an extremely large sum of money may have been the right thing to do back then but doesn’t contribute (no pun intended) to the edification of the kingdom. God’s unmerited grace must not be hoarded but multiplied. This leads us to say that if we are lukewarm and disengaged and make all the excuses in the world giving everyone the impression church’s mission is unimaginably difficult and impossible to attain, God will make a harsh condemnation on us as never heard before. If we presume things would go well in the end without us having any part in it, God will stunningly rebuke and severely punish us for not sharing the perennial gifts of kindness, generosity, hospitality and love. We get it now. We owe God service in our parish community. It is not enough to keep, preserve and simply give him back what we have received in its original form. That talent must bear fruit not for our own but for God’s advantage, for the sake of the community. Whenever we engage in these sacred activities, we are turning talent into profit and become reliable servants. What are your amazing and unique God-given talents that can be put to beneficial use or already? Let’s take an inventory of the gifts received and invest them.

The fact that the first reading is taken from Proverbs 31: 10, “When one finds a worthy wife, her value is far beyond pearls” and moves on with “Her husband entrusting her heart to her, has an unfailing prize.” We need decent, God-fearing women to overturn the culture of death into the culture of life. Women are the front-liners in the battle against society's moral decadence. They are the first line of defense against rampant exploitation. Women have important roles in putting an end to all threats to life.

Understandably, many of us are probably left with more questions than answers such as where and how to begin. The truth is, we have everything at our disposal to start somewhere. And that there is no excuse for doing nothing at all. Everything we do in the church involves great risks of failure, limits of role, and of being misconstrued, etc. However, we can never go wrong with works of charity for the good of others such as prioritizing the troubled, the sick, the orphan, the isolated, the addicted, the excluded in society and those who are less fortunate than us. No act of kindness ends up in failure. As we brace for the worst and darkest moments of this pandemic, we especially extend prayers and gratitude to the front-liners regardless of the nature of the job, all those who put their lives on the line, those whose lives are at risk for the greater good. No words can express our deep appreciation to these martyrs of charity as they have exemplified both a heroic and saintly act which will be remembered in our community.

A week before the end of the liturgical season, days before Thanksgiving, shaped and fashioned by the Matthean community with a huge emphasis on the institutional church, the parable of the talents leaves us once again with an open-ended question, whether to do something with the God-given talent (natural ability, financial resource, spiritual gift and virtue), or bury it. It’s up to you but if I were you, invest on it even if it’s risky or you’ll be sorry. If the last judgment arrives at this moment, what response do you think would God give you? Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 111020

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 23:15:00 GMT

The feast of the dedication of St. John Lateran Basilica known as the Mother of all Churches is a celebration of the Universal Church honoring the residence of the Holy Father for many centuries as well as a reminder of the importance of visible churches: the beauty of the facade, the splendid interior, the magnificence of the structure, the gorgeous statues, gigantic corinthian columns, the towering pillars, among others. It is quite an experience to visit and pray in this sacred site.

Join me in expressing my gratitude to all the Veterans in the parish communities. Thank for your service! Thank you for making America safe! SALUTE!

PRAYER FOR VETERANS

Heavenly Father, on this day, help us remember those who gave themselves to keep us safe and secure. Enkindle in our consciences a desire to serve those who served their country selflessly. Give us the grace to help those who have given aid and protection to us and others both here and overseas. Let us never forget the causes for which they fought and the bravery they showed in the battlefield. May we be always be mindful of those who paid the price for our freedom, just as your Son gave his life to free us from the bondage of sin. Amen.

PRAYER FOR DECEASED VETERANS

O God, by whose mercy the faithful departed find rest, look kindly on your departed veterans who gave their lives in the service of their country. Grant that through the passion, death, and resurrection of your Son they may share in the joy of your heavenly kingdom and rejoice in you with your saints forever. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

For the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently died and condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives, and friends. Rest assured that your dearly beloved are included in the thoughts and prayers of the parish community gathered for Sunday Mass.

Marco A. Elias, Yolanda Padilla, Eduardo Montion

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

32ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 13:24:00 GMT

As the liturgical season slowly winds down, approaching the darkest moments of the pandemic and amid the stressful elections, today is a time to take a deep breath and dig deeper into the parable of the ten maidens, an inspiring story that takes us into the end of times, the age of fulfillment, the last things, and the heavenly dimension of faith urging us to add a little into our prayer life, increase our level and degree of preparedness as demonstrated by the provisions of the five wise maidens.

This is not a wedding banquet. The scene starts off with the return of the bridegroom from the house of the bride’s father and take the bride from her father’s house into his own house for the celebration of begin. If you are part of a wedding entourage or one of the guests, there’s not much you can do, you will have to wait until the grand entrance of the bridegroom. It’s the couple’s moment, not yours. Central to the story was the role of the ten maidens to welcome the bride and the groom on the way into the household. We are told that the five maidens who didn’t bring extra flasks of oil were called foolish because of the lack of foresight that is, delay which was exactly what happened and were caught off by surprise. Both groups waited and feel asleep but the wise that is, those who took extra flasks of oil with them were benefited and were commended in anticipation of trouble as they welcomed the couple whose arrival came unexpectedly.

In the story, the bridegroom is Christ. The ten maidens represent us, the parish community all the while, in and out of season waiting for the second coming of Christ. The late arrival of the bride and the groom was the delay of the Parousia. And that the sudden arrival is the unexpected coming of the Parousia. At the very end, Jesus said, stay alert, stay awake, therefore, for you neither know the day nor the time of the Lord’s arrival. Watch constantly for you do not know when the day of the lord comes. The second coming of the Lord, the Parousia, is imminent but unpredictable, uncertain and unknown. The long- standing tradition of the second coming of the Lord has been delayed but it doesn’t mean we stop waiting. Patience is virtue. Waiting is a grace. Earthly life is a time of preparation for the unexpected arrival of the Lord. While actively waiting, let me turn you to the first reading from the book of wisdom which tells us, "Wisdom is perceived by those who love her and wisdom is found by those who seek her". For some, wisdom may seem unreachable, remote and reserved only to a special talented group but no, she is accessible and within reach. She will meet us halfway. She wants to be known. It is not a waste of time to spend time with her. She is worth seeking. She is available to anyone who relentlessly seeks her. Wisdom is splendid, radiant, visible and unfading. Whoever watches for her at dawn will not be disappointed. Anyone who purposely gets up and actually wakes up early in the morning to seek God first, and not the news of the day is an indication of deep faith. There is wisdom in the early hours of the morning that midday and evening can't provide. We dream of getting good grades, landing in a satisfying job, seeking better life, raising a God-fearing, decent family but over- all, our main goal, our major and utmost preoccupation is to search, chase and pursue the wisdom of God that is, Jesus Christ. In our quest for wisdom, God will never fail us. If we continue to spend our lives chasing wisdom, others will go after us.

Live as if everything you do is in preparation for the coming of the Lord. Live as if everything you do depends on him. Live as if all your decisions look forward to eternity. Let us imitate the wise maidens for bringing extra oil and keeping the flame. Is the flame, the wisdom of Christ still lit, still alive? Hope it is as we need it for the unexpected arrival. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 110320

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 23:12:00 GMT

The commemoration of the faithful departed brought tears to so many, myself included as we once again remember our dearly beloved who have gone before us in faith.

As you know, my hometown Virac in the island province of Catanduanes was recently hit by the strongest typhoon (hurricane/cyclone) on earth in record history in 2020. You can view photos all over the internet #RollyPH or #Goni...Below are a couple of videos of the unimaginable destruction.

For the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently died and condolences, sympathy and consolation to the bereaved families, relatives, and friends. Rest assured that they are included in the thoughts and prayers of the parish community gathered for Sunday Mass.

Jose Manuel "Chemel" Quijada, Eric Andres Martinez,

SOLEMNITY OF ALL SAINTS

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 13:52:00 GMT

THE SOLEMNITY OF ALL SAINTS is a special time to honor the canonized (those who have been officially put on the list), the official, the known whose entry into heaven is certain as well as the countless unknown whose lives have been singlehandedly devoted to Christ perhaps, deceased members of our families, relatives and friends who didn't simply teach us and left us inspiring words but showed us the example of the undefiled, the undiluted and the purest version of Christian life. Often, we make excuses. We put them in the pedestal and convince ourselves we cannot be like them as they existed at a stage in history unfamiliar and detached to so many of us. Nevertheless, it's the same scenario. Saints rise at tough times. They are our role models. Eight months into the pandemic, we’ve seen an incredible display of the best of humanity. They step up to the plate and respond to the religious and spiritual needs of their times. That is exactly what we need in the church’s era…the so called, game- changers.

A Saint is a holy person, other-worldly, humble, docile, eager to grow in virtue, faithful to God and kind to neighbor. As I share my reflection, think about the people who have become an inspiration to you. The origin of the celebration of All Saints began in the eastern church as early as the fourth century to commemorate all the martyrs who have died bearing witness to Christ. Around the 8 ^th century, Christians started observing the feast of All Saints on November 1 ^st as a reaction to the pagan practices. By the 9 ^th century, there was a universal understanding of the communion of saints. The carved statues of Saints and the stained- glass windows in our parish churches are powerful symbols of their presence with us. They are windows to divine realities. When you gaze at the icon, the statue or the image, it points us to a deeper reality larger than life. The saints are our friends, parents, grandparents and heroes of faith. In our joys and sorrows, successes and failures, they are one with us interceding for God.

I’ve often been asked about the number of those attending Masses. I usually reply with John’s extraordinary and spectacular earthly and heavenly vision salvation of the saints, the vast assemblies of the righteous marked with the seal in the book of Revelation 7: 2-4, 9-14 (first reading) “a hundred and forty-four thousand…out of every tribe of the children of Israel and “a great multitude which no man could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and the lamb in white robes…with palm branches in their hands”. The ones wearing white robes are the ones who have survived the time of great distress. We are a communion (triumphant, militant and suffering) of saints. At this Mass, we join and are joined with the company (in countless number) of those who have gone before us in faith, the company of Angels and Saints in heaven..." And so, we glorify you with the multitude of Saints and Angels, as with one voice of praise we acclaim…Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of Hosts… We are surrounded by a Cloud of Witnesses (Heb. 12:1)" We are never alone. They have our backs. We worship with the gallery of the holy ones, along with all the faithful who entered the worship environment.

Although today, we celebrate both the official, whose biographies have been well-documented, famous lines quoted, and statues/images decorated on a pedestal and the unofficial (not even by loud acclamation) saints, what strikes me most is the effervescent, passionate desire of the countless, unnamed, unknown, unsung heroes, anonymous, ordinary Christians who died for their faith as if their lives didn't matter, persecuted through the centuries to this day whose names never made it in the books.

If we dream of being counted in the communion of saints in the heavenly glory, of reaching into eternal fulfillment Matthew 5: 1-12, the eight beatitudes, provides us with the roadmap to holiness (blessings to those are in poor in spirit, meek and humble of heart, innocent and pure in heart, merciful, sorrowful and mourning and persecuted for their faith will rejoice in heavenly reward. The lives of saints are profoundly inspiring and turning points in history. We remember the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our patroneess, our own patron saints and favorite saints.

With all its grandeur, this feast all started with prayers and devotions honoring local martyrs who lived lives of integrity in small towns and in local communities. A martyr is a witness to faith and that they are classified in the following: red martyrdom refers to those who died for their faith; white martyrdom are those who suffered for their faith but did not shed blood, green martyrdom is about engaging in extreme form of penance and fasting while a marytyr of charity applies to anyone who put his/her life on the line/at risk for the well-being of others. We do not run short of people of faith fighting for the equality, freedom, and dignity of the oppressed.

The feast of all saint is a story of people who helped us strengthen our faith. This feast is our story in the making so that we may continue to find inspiration and recognize the every- day saints. Truly, there are people who picked us up when we find ourselves at a point of no return and gave us encouragement. Let us therefore, remember the numerous saints in our lives who are as human as we are, imperfect, faulty, made terrible mistakes in the past but turned their lives around, revealed the truth, radiate God’ love and neighbor, too, joyful in so many ways and join us in laughter. Perhaps, not in our generation and/or lifetime but we’re hoping with fingers crossed, one day, a saint will come out in the catholic community through the handing on of the tradition.

Happy Feast of All Saints!

30TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 14:09:00 GMT

Jesus’ response to the scholar (someone who has an extensive knowledge) of the law (liturgical, ritual, moral) regarding the greatest commandment (which commandment in the law is the greatest) is the combination of two commandments: “Love of God (Deut. 6:5) and Love your Neighbor as yourself (Lev. 19:18).” Love of God would have been enough but the addition of love of neighbor as yourself makes his response original by putting the two texts together. Love of God and love of Neighbor belong at the same level and degree. They are of equal importance. You cannot do the one without the other. In these two tenets, all the rest hang. The rest is footnote. All the others are mere commentaries. This double commandment is the gist, the summary of all the laws and the prophets. They are the hook on which everything hangs. If you bind the two intimately together as the inseparable force, you get the greatest. The demand to love God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind and your neighbor as yourself taken together is by far, the highest Christian duty. The first will be interpreted in light of the second. It is a complete recipe that combines the divine and human tenets as the hinge, the bearing wall from which all the rest hang on. Though the love of God is the first and the greatest which precedes everything else, in this context, it is juxtaposed with the love of neighbor as yourself and therefore, both are of equal weight, of the same level of importance bound together such that no one can ever afford to do without.

Love of God is the highest. It is part of the Shema that every pious and faithful Jew recite as part of their daily prayers which goes “Shema Ysrael, Adonai Eloheinu, Adonai Echad”. To love God is to acknowledge him. To Love God is to recognize him. To love God is to know and observe his statutes effected and manifested in love of neighbor. Love the lord with every fiber of your body. Love the Lord in the innermost recesses of your heart, the center of your being. Love the Lord with all your ability, possessions, strength, gut, feelings, emotions, energy, everything in you. Love God with high intensity and great enthusiasm. It’s like the last two minutes of the super bowl game when the score is tied. It’s like game 7 of the World Series.

The two greatest commandments are the extension of the first reading from the book of Exodus which spells out the loaded, heavily worded love of neighbor (charitable acts takes us to the eschatological world). The word ‘neighbor’ has always been reliigous controversial as we can always cherry-pick our neighbor depending on our preferences and views. Neighbor referred here is the one normally ignored, shunned and taken for granted. Neighbor takes us to the first reading, a preview of Matthew 25, the least among us (the hungry, thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick or in person. The alien, the stranger, strange-looking, the shabbily dressed fellow, the suspicious-looking, the widow is the neighbor at a time and culture when social services were limited, the king was everything to the needy.

Love of God may seem invisible but it is the basis, the inspiration and the driving force of every charitable act. Divine love can be attained through prayer exercises, communal liturgies, scripture reading, among others. The unassuming, often-ignored and tiny consecrated host exposed in the Blessed Sacrament during Eucharist Adoration brings special affection for the invisible among us. We practice love of God through the Eucharist, Adoration, Faith formation, daily meditation and examination of conscience, time with God in silence and solitude and enter into the supernatural realm, and listen to a daily scripture reading (the word for the day). The goal is to incorporate this spiritual practice into the daily routine and eventually, make it a habit. There is no excuse not to pray as we have everything we need to ground ourselves in God. Thus, consider the Mass as the most important one hour of the whole week, and the five minute prayer each day as a must, a thing you cannot do without. This simple exercise is meant to calm us down, examine our life and conscience, control our mind and thoughts, conquer ourselves, reduce the day’s stress and create an incredible sense of peace and joy of mind, heart and soul.

The Love of God translates into love of neighbor. On the whole, love of neighbor is the stuff that binds humanity and the direct result is the special preference rendered to the invisible: the strangers, the aliens, widows, orphans, the oppressed innocent lives, the elderly and those living on the edge. Love of Neighbor can be as simple as affection rendered to a family member, fellow parishioner, and neighbor. We may not realize but a simple smile is an act of charity and kindness.

Let’s continue to add the love of God and love of neighbor as yourself into our daily schedule by spending time in prayer and perform a random act of kindness by giving a handout, respect to elder, parents and teachers. And don’t just do it out of compliance, for the sake of doing it, but carry it out with all your heart, soul and mind, with the combined forces of life and ability. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 101320

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 21:38:00 GMT

I'm glad that our slow and gradual entry into Phase Two is doing well. As coronavirus and flu season collide with the opening of schools and businesses, we will continue to pay close attention and exercise precaution.

Let me share my short reflection on this week's readings. On Tuesday, October 13, he stressed once again the inter- connection between faith and works. As you know, this is a highly contested issue not only in the 16th century protestant reformation but even at the inception of Christianity, this has been widely discussed. Are we justified by faith only or the works of the law? The last verse says it all, "only faith working through love" (Gal. 5: 6). Good works are necessary but the recognition of the grace of God is paramount to performing righteous deeds. St. Paul emphasized the all-important value of interior motive and inner intention in the performance of good works. On Wednesday, October 14, we won't celebrate the memorial of St. Callistus, Pope and martyr but instead, readings will be taken from the day which is a continuation of Paul's exhortation about the works of the flesh and fruits of the spirit. He seemed to suggest a dualism, a dichotomy between the two: the works of the flesh and the fruits of the spirit. As we anticipate the feast of St. Luke, the Evangelist, this Sunday, October 18, we reflect especially on the famous story of the parable of the Good Samaritan in chapter 15 of his gospel. As you know, Pope Francis reflected quite extensively on this parable in his latest encyclical 'Fratelli Tutti'. He focused much on the question, Who is my neighbor? He said, we are not simply neighbors. We are brothers and sisters in Christ.

All three parishes have been praying the Holy Rosary since October 1st, a powerful testimony of our devotion to the Blessed Mother drawing us closer to her son through the meditation of the sacred mysteries.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently died and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives, and friends. Rest assured that they are included in the thoughts and prayers of the gathered community.

James Wise, Adan Noriega, Bertha Acedo

28TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 15:46:00 GMT

In much of the early Christian literature, the Kingdom of God was often compared to a banquet. This Sunday’s parable of the royal wedding banquet, a story of a King hosting a marriage feast for his son is no different. It starts off by sending his servants to hand deliver the invitation ahead of time to those he intended to be in attendance, mostly the privileged few, the insiders, the elite and yes, by invitation only. No wedding crashers allowed. I bet you if someone breaks in, it will, surely, go viral in a heartbeat. Since the King is throwing a wedding party, expect a 10 (full) course meal. I don’t know what’s on the menu but I can guarantee you it’s definitely not arroz y frijoles, coffee, donuts, macaroni and cheese and bottled water. I love weddings. It is a special occasion of enjoyment and delight, off the normal daily grind. In some cultures, it is a week-long event, if not days of festivity. If the wedding falls on Saturday, party starts on Thursday. In such a special occasion, everyone appears in high definition. Wedding guests seem nice and put smile on their faces.

Accordingly, the invited guests initially accepted the king’s invitation by word of mouth. However, when the second and last reminder came out which signaled that the banquet was about to begin and actually ready, a practice in the ancient times, they refused and made all the excuses in the world for personal and business affairs without detailed reasons even resorting to violence.

Sadly, to turn down and ignore the invitation of the king is a breach of etiquette. For heaven’s sake, you do not refuse the invitation of the most influential figure. Even if you have already made a previous plan, cancel it and move it to a different date. There is nothing like a wedding banquet thrown by a king. Isaiah says, “On this mountain the Lord of hosts will provide for all peoples a feast of rich food and choice wines, juicy, rich food and pure, choice wines” (Isaiah 25: 6). It is an opportunity of a lifetime. Otherwise, you are missing out a lot from merriment, delicious food and the best wines. To be invited by a king, let alone a dignitary is always an honor and a privilege that anyone invited should consider cancelling a prior engagement to make it to the once- in- a- lifetime royal wedding banquet.

To the dismay of the king, he had no choice but ordered the servants to call anyone good and bad in the streets, in the countryside, in the marketplace which they did to fill the banquet hall. Then, the king came and greeted everyone. Noticing that one of them was not properly dressed, he said, friend, how come you came without your wedding garment? This wedding robe question is the most puzzling and baffling part of this parable. How can we expect someone in the street let alone this fellow to dress in a wedding robe suited for the royal occasion if the invitation came unexpectedly, in a moment’s notice. The under dressed guest didn’t say anything and kept silence. If it was me, I probably would have pleaded, your majesty, it was a last minute invitation, what do you expect? I was just sitting in the street corner watching people around and out of nowhere, your servants grabbed me by the hand and brought me here. I wish I had time to go home, scrounge for clothes in the closet, change and dress appropriately. And yet, there’s not much we can do as this is a royal banquet. We know what that means. Admission is free but there is a dress code. It is a free invitation but there is a standard to be followed. If you agree to come even at the last minute, you have no choice but Rise to the occasion! Even though the invitation came on a short notice, the king had every right to demand a special formal attire. If you find yourself as one of the unlikely guests and think you didn’t have the luxury of time, still put on your best clothes, wear your Sunday’s best, refrain from making excuses, face the challenge because this is a royal occasion hosted by the king. You cannot afford to miss it.

One of the most exciting things about getting invited to a wedding and actually planning to go whether part of the entourage or not, is that figuring out the clothes to wear, your attire making sure you look absolutely stunning takes time. To be dressed inappropriately in a wedding is an embarrassment. The mere fact that the king threw the unidentified guest out of the party, wedding garment must have been very important. We must be prepared anytime. We know what we wear in the heavenly banquet is not our evening dresses/gowns, tuxedos, blue jeans, flip-flops, or t-shirts but the sacred teachings, the lord’s commands, the righteous deeds, the charitable works, etc. This is what we bring on the eternal banquet. To practice such things doesn’t require special skills and talents, only the priceless robes of welcome and hospitality, decency and integrity, selflessness, forgiveness, service, generosity, patience and understanding.

The entire allegory is a preview of the heavenly banquet, an eschatological dimension. The church is the palace of the king regardless of its architecture. We are then invited or we have been invited and responded to the king’s invitation. Although not everyone responds at the same level and frequency and yet, this is the place where we joyfully commune with God and with our fellow believers through the Eucharist, a great occasion to be together. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 100620

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 17:34:00 GMT

The Holy Father Pope Francis signed the newest encyclical letter 'Fratelli Tutti' (Brother and Sisters) on fraternity and social friendship on October 3, 2020 at the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi.

It appears that confirmed cases have gone into a steady decline. The fall season has spectacularly displayed the vibrant colors of yellow, orange and red, the 100 degree heat is almost behind us and now, the chilly temperature which many of us await is underway especially on my way to the church for the 8:00am Mass. We will start our slow entry into Phase Two (pandemic version) Parish life beginning on the week of October 12. Although Phase Two indicates a gradual loosening of some restrictions, preventive safety measures that effectively control the potential spread of the contagion (mask-wearing, physical distancing, frequent use of hand sanitizer and the opening of church doors for proper ventilation and air flow) are still in effect and reasonable precautions remain in place. As we brace yet for so many unknowns, prayer and faith are our most powerful weapon. Below are some of the recent developments in Phase Two.

BAPTISMS will be allowed but will be limited to twenty (20) persons, wearing face masks and observing social distancing. In-person ‘PRAYER GROUP’ (not social) GATHERINGS will be allowed only when safety protocols are strictly observed. MASKS . Parishioners who are attending (weekend and weekday) Masses and other parish events are required to wear face masks for the safety, prevention and protection of individuals and the community, with the exception of children under the age of 6 and those who have difficulty breathing. HOLY WATER is available per request in the parish offices. Beginning October 12, Monday, WEEKDAY MASSES will allow (in-person) public celebration in alternate days, but still be live-streamed.

Jesus Rosario, Ignacia Pelayo

27TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 02:42:00 GMT

The parable of the wicked tenants presents the story of a landlord who put a hedge (enclosing wall) around the vineyard to protect it from uninvited guests such as predatory animals and the likes, dug a wine press in it for crushing of grapes and making wines and built a tower to monitor activities as well as to provide safe shelter to future laborers. It’s very tempting to send a resume to this gracious landowner and apply for any opening regardless. I don’t mind picking up and plucking grapes and operating the wine press for as long I know I will have the best wine ever produced better than the wine country come harvest time. The way the vineyard was described, I can vouch wine will sell like hotcakes. Before heading out for a much-deserved time-off on a world tour, the household owner leased it to tenants in the hope that they would take good care of it. Tenants, or any renter for that matter, must understand the rules of engagement. Even though you don’t own it, you have to take care of it like it’s yours. Regrettably, as the allegory proceeds, the exact opposite happened. When the season for harvest (vintage time) drew near, the owner sent two groups of his servants to collect the produce but unfortunately, the tenants treated them harshly, one they beat, the second they killed and the third they stoned including his own son referring to the maltreatment of the religious leaders to Jesus and the prophets, the messengers of God. This was done with the assumption that the tenant farmers would eventually seize the land. And yet, the owner was still alive, came back to them and did the same way put them to a wretched death and rented the vineyard to others who would produce great fruit.

This controversial parable has a lot in common with Isaiah 5, a love song, a poetic rendition addressed to his friend/his beloved but shifted midway to my vineyard, I love so dearly. The vineyard is cleared of stones and gravel, with a well-cultivated soil and a state of the art irrigation. The vineyard is where lovers (God and his people) meet, play hide and seek, chase each other and enjoy each other’s company. The vineyard is the house of God. In this entire pericope, there’s so much attention on the vine and the produce which strikes a very important point in the scenario because really, the vineyard is all about producing the richest and most savory of grapes. After harvest, the vine renders it useless. You have to throw it away.

The vineyard is the church, the reign of God on earth entrusted to us, people of God. We are merely caretakers and stewards of the vineyard of the Lord. As tenants, we have a sacred task to discharge our duties well and take care of the goods of the local parish community in which we are honored and privileged to belong and serve. It was given to us to produce and bear fruit. This parish was passed on to us by the past generation. God has prepared everything for us for fruitful living. The vineyard has everything to ground ourselves in God and bear fruit, not wild grapes. The example of the parishioners who have risked and sacrificed their lives, fought for justice and peace, safeguarded the doctrines and the sacred traditions and practices and exemplified the virtues of love, kindness, generosity and walk humbly will forever serve an inspiration to this parish community. I grew up in this parish. It’s home to me. I received my sacraments here. For me, this is home away from home.

The stone that the builders rejected and became the cornerstone that is, Jesus Christ has taken care of us and his vineyard as we commune with the Lord and one another in the Eucharist. This altar symbolizing Jesus Christ is the cornerstone that will bring us down our pride and prejudice, sense of guilt only to build us up to be the little bricks, bits and pieces in order to become a strong foundation of the parish. This doesn’t happen by chance, or by coincidence but by taking care of our little vineyard that was given to us.

The first Sunday of October has been designated as Respect Life Sunday. It’s usually the time to launch the respect life program from womb (innocent unborn) to tomb, (last breath, dignified suffering and death) the social catholic teaching which begins with the life and inalienable dignity of the human person created in the image and likeness of God. An example of this is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The human being is a social being. This year’s theme ‘Live the Gospel of Life’ has been inspired by the 25 ^th anniversary of Saint John Paul II encyclical letter ‘Evangelium Vitae’ The Gospel of Life, released on March 25, 1995. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 092920

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 22:29:00 GMT

San Lorenzo Ruiz whose memorial falls on Monday, September 28, is the First Filipino Saint (protomartyr), and companions, martyrs whose famous phrase, “If I have a thousand lives, I will offer them to God. I'm ashamed to compare his quotable words with the video games I played as a child offering an option to add a hundred lives or more if you figured things out. That's a program. That's a virtual reality. This is real life. There is no comparison. He was an altar server, a sacristan and had a close affiliation with the Dominican Friars. He joined them in their mission to Nagazaki, Japan only because he thoughts he was safe only to suffer persecution and go through the excruciating pain of torture, almost unimaginable for many of us. What would you do if that happens to you? I'm humbled by this reality that the first Filipino Saint was not an ordained minister, a cleric.

On Tuesday, September 29, we join together in celebrating the feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels.

In commemoration of the 1600th Anniversary of St. Jerome's death, September 30, 420 - 2020, the Holy Father has released an Apostolic Letter Scripturae Sacra Affectus to intensify and encourage us to devote more time to the divinely inspired word. St. Jerome's phenomenal contribution to the church was his translation of the Septuagint (Greek Translation of the Hebrew Bible) which he called, the Vulgate (commonly used), used by the church for centuries as the official translation of the Bible. He was drawn to monastic life, a life that allows the soul for more contemplation. As you know, he initially translated the Septuagint (the Greek Translation of the Hebrew Bible) but later, felt impelled to go deeper into the original text/version of the Hebrew Bible. St. Jerome's translation of the bible into Latin was a response to the growth and rapid spread of Christianity across Europe. That's why, Pope Damasus felt the need to provide a translation to Latin (Lengua Franca) to the faithful. His famous phrase, "Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ."

Thursday, October 1 is the memorial of St. Therese of child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church who asked Leo XIII to let her enter the convent as a Carmelite Sisters at 15 years old. She was the little flower. She walked with us 'the little way'. Her life was a story of a soul.

The memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels, October 2, Friday reminds us of God's manifold love sending us his holy angels to guard us, watch us and keep us always safe from harm. Angel of God, my Guardian Dear. To whom God's love commits me here. Ever this day, be at my side, to light and guide, to rule and guard. Amen.

October is Respect Life Month. This Sunday, October 4 is Respect Life Sunday. This year's theme is, Live the Gospel of Life inspired by the 25th Anniversary of Saint John Paul II's encyclical Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) . More resources are available at https://www.respectlife.org/ .

Graciela Tahin

26TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 13:34:00 GMT

The familiar parable of the two sons/siblings represents two ways of life, two different groups of people and two ways of responding to God’s call which can be either/or depending on where you place yourself. Which one are you? The first or the second? Perhaps, a little of both as all of us struggle with the ongoing (day to day) and radical conversion. As the story goes, the first sibling vehemently refused to obey, disregarded his father’s request but eventually, changed his mind and went while the second initially said yes and promised to go but did nothing and failed to show up. Which of the two did the Father’s will? Of course, it’s the first as represented by the tax collectors and prostitutes, the most unlikely people, the despised because of the nature of their job, will enter the Kingdom of God before the religious elite. This is real upset, a shocking story that demonstrates the very reason Jesus came and called everyone (two siblings) to repentance. We take the matter in a deeper level and ask the question in a disappointing way, how in the world will the wicked people get ahead of the religious elite in the entry to heaven? It is painful to hear that the very people looked down and shunned by society for their illegal/immoral practices and connivance with the powers that be will go before us. Ezekiel 18 had a similar scenario, "if someone virtuous turns away from virtue to commit iniquity and dies, it is because of the iniquity he committed that he must die but if someone (wicked person) turns from wickedness he has committed, and does what is right and just, he shall preserve his life ".

Perhaps, it has something to do with the stuff of life, that is, the struggle to bridge the gap between what we say and what we actually do, the attempt to connect the chasm between what we profess in public and what we do in private, between what we recite, what we perform. Many people said, what we believe is what we actually do and what happens to us. If you are fond of TV, at this time of the year, we never run out of people who love to say one thing and afterwards, do the exact opposite. We don’t run short of people who love to make promises but, in the end, fail to keep. In other words, it’s faith and action must be faith in action. It is not easy to live the principles of faith and morals. Jesus brought these two difficult words. If ever, we get in trouble, it is obviously because of the lack of the transcendent mystery. Jesus came and spent his life paying special attention to those at the bottom of the social ladder/scale, to the marginalized, to those living on the edge. It is comforting to hear this humble invitation to repentance. It is a huge encouragement for many of us who struggle to connect the dots, what we say and what we do. It provides life and gives hope to those in miserable circumstances and desperate conditions as well as those who have failed so much in life. It stresses the importance of conversion, of change, of transformation. It happened to so many people who found themselves overwhelmed by the tremendous power of the grace of God. Sin is a burden, a load and a weight on our shoulders but the moment we encounter the mercy of God, it makes all the difference in the world. The sacraments are life-changing encounters with God. We don’t do it for the sake of doing it otherwise we defeat the purpose. Renewal programs are powerful opportunities for spiritual transformation. I know a story of a young lady (back then, senior in high school, now an adult and probably married already), who was so hesitant to join the weekend retreat with fellow young people but she eventually, agreed and gave it a try. Lo and behold, she's become of the most inspiring role models I've known. This dramatic transformation was a result of this weekend renewal programs.

Let me end this short reflection with Paul's famous, quotable verse to the Philippians, that is, the Christological hymn, “Though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness, and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Amen.

POPE FRANCIS GENERAL AUDIENCE ON THE SOCIAL CATHOLIC TEACHING

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 18:58:00 GMT

As you know, the Holy Father Pope Francis has been giving Catechesis during the general audience on the Social Catholic Teaching since August. I'm going to post them:

First Catechesis, August 5, 2020, To Heal the World, Introduction and Curar el Mundo, Introduccion.

Second Catechesis, August 12, Faith and Human Dignity and Fe y Dignidad Humana.

Third Catechesis: August 19, 2020, to be continued...

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 092220

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 21:50:00 GMT

The Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, the author of the first gospel, the first book of the New Testament not in chronological order falls on Monday, September 21. He was a tax collector, a profession despised by the people of his time. Professionally, he was not very well liked because of the nature of his job. And yet, he was called by Jesus when he passed by his custom post/tolling station at a time when he was tending to his work. This scenario speaks volumes about our own calling, too. In fact, one of the most powerful and startling painting of his calling was from Carravaggio in which Matthew whose name denotes in Hebrew 'gift of God' was in utter disbelief when Jesus called him in the dining table. It seemed to me, when Jesus and Peter entered the room, he immediately pointed to Matthew signaling I want you! As portrayed, leaning on his back, his eyes were wide open almost in total surprise. His right index finger was viewed as either pointing to himself or someone else. He knew him before he saw him in person.

St. Padre Pio as he was commonly known was one of the most charismatic religious figures in the 20th century. As a capuchin friar, he led a simple life. Now, he is deeply revered both because of his proximity to modern believers but more so, his vast gifts, extraordinary talents and supernatural healings performed on the sick. He was a crowd drawer. People came to him for help. He could read the hearts and minds of his visitors. He had the rare ability to bilocate to be at two different places at the same time. He also shared in the cross and sufferings of Christ by the presence of stigmata on his hands, feet and other parts of the body for 50 years which he humbly and gladly received. St. Padre Pio, Pray for us!

This Thursday, September 24, we'll hear the familiar verse from the book of Ecclesiastes 1:2-11, Vanity of Vanities! All is Vanity! In life, there's really nothing substantial. Things eventually evaporate. All our efforts, hard work, labor, riches, wealth, fame, accollades, titles before and after our names, achievements, rewards, bragging rights are but smoke. In the end, they don't really matter. I'm curious about what happened to the author's early life as his collected wisdom sayings sound depressing and pessimistic. You can't take a pressing issue lightly. Some things in life have to be taken seriously. It's hard to preach this to a teenager who's looking forward to his/her future. And yet, I bet you the author of this wisdom book must have seen life as the verse goes, "There's nothing new under the sun." He has seen it all. Nothing lasts forever. Did this, done that! He's been around the block and we can't tell him anything he doesn't know. Life is a cycle of seasons. What's his message, then? Well, enjoy the fall season! Take pleasure at the beauty of creation. Welcome whatever comes your way with joy and gladness. Find delight in the world around you, in your relationships even if they are short-lived, in the slow explosion of the vibrant colors of red, yellow and orange. Cultures and generations come and go but what matters in the end is our soul.

The USCCB.org has updated the best resource and guide for Catholic voters in the upcoming elections Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship and Formando la Conciencia para ser Ciudadanos Fieles .

Congratulations to the First Communicants of the Loretto Catholic School and the Immaculate Conception Parish. The link of the recorded live video can be found at https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/ and https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/ .

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently died and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives, and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the gathered community.

Robert Rene Garcia

25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 00:09:00 GMT

For the past few weeks, the sense of community has been the dominant theme. The story of the generous household owner (also called the good employer or workers in the vineyard) and the grumbling workers is no different. It puts into the spotlight the extravagant generosity of God and the all-important solidarity that must be practiced among laborers in the vineyard. If, at first, it doesn’t sit well with our understanding of equal pay for equal amount of work, it’s because it’s not about economics.

The parable is addressed to an increasingly diverse religious community that constantly struggle with one’s relationship with God and one another. On a human perspective, the concern emanates from a handful of people that is, you and me, who perform the lion’s share of the job, day in and day out, in the Church, the active, the most faithful and loyal parishioners who interpret church teaching and observe policies by the letter of the law, who bear the burden of the day and the heat, put our heart and soul on it, doing everything we can to keep the institution up and running while others don’t bother at all. I honestly don’t want to dwell on this comparison as this is not the main point of the story but let’s spend a moment on it. Accordingly, those who treat Sunday obligation as optional, spend Sundays in shopping and parties, show up only once a year or once every blue moon, who have done literally nothing (or very minimal) in the area of evangelization for the build- up of the church, the so called, the eleventh hour workers, will be treated fair and square. The inactive, fallen-away, including those who have left for whatever reason will be blessed with the same amount of God’s generosity. As illustrated in the sacred writings, it is to these people that Jesus spent most of his time and energy. How’s that? It appears quite obviously that such scenario make you and me feel bad. That means, those who of us who are heavily invested in the church have every reason to gripe over the current state of affairs. It is no surprise that those of us who came on the first part of the day, take our faith seriously, make ourselves readily available for anything and get the job done, put our lives on the line, at times, bitterly grumble, “it just doesn’t sound right”. We should get more. On the final countdown, all will get a fair and equal dose of grace and that there will be no special treatment. Welcome to the gospel of the justice and mercy of God.

However, the owner has every right to generously dispose his resources at his pleasure. It is his kingdom anyway. Whatever reward bestowed upon us don’t come from our hard work but purely a gift out of the goodness and kindness of God’s sense of belongingness among people of faith. On Sunday, we bring our stories, intentions and experiences to church and temporarily suspend our socio- economic status, sit on a first-come first served seating arrangement and face the same direction as a gesture of worship to the household owner in whom praise is due. We are grateful we’re still alive. Let’s count our eternal blessings, our priceless gains (gift of life, family support, friendships made, the strength of faith, spirit of generosity, charitable efforts on behalf of the least among us) more than our losses. We are generous either because we have been there before or we see things in the eyes of faith in Jesus, ‘whatever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me.’ Coronavirus brings a lot of fear and anxiety. It feels we are on an alternative reality. We may be over the peak but it hasn't totally left us. We just have to brace for it with the changing of times and seasons. The power of generosity is a gift and blessing from God. If you're generous, you will make a huge impact everywhere you go. People will gravitate in you. Generous people are the happiest and most amazing people in the world. Spectacular kindness, simple acts of charity and deeds of love are alive and well. They inhabit the world. They are all over the place. To help build God’s real estate, we, step by step, strive for solidarity and refrain from putting ourselves first over and above others for all we know such a thing doesn’t happen by chance. All of us chip in through time, talent and treasure and whatever we bring by way of prayer, service, financial sharing and witness, is more than enough. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 091520

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 00:35:00 GMT

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross commemorates the finding of our Lord's true cross by Empress Helena on September 14, 320. Following this discovery, a veneration of the cross in a form of exposition by the faithful slowly became a custom that took us to this day. Today is also the commemoration of the dedication of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre. The solemn ceremony highlighted the 'Exaltatio' - the lifting up, the raising, the glorification of the cross. What was once an instrument of execution, a symbol of shame, defeat and death now has become sign of victory and life, a complete antithesis. The wreckage of the cross is our salvation in Christ.

The day after the feast of the Triumph of the Cross comes the significant memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows on the octave day of her birth designated by Pius X in 1913. The following are the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Mother. 1. The Prophecy of Simeon... "Behold, his child is destined for the ruin and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign of contradiction; and your own soul a sword will pierce" (Luke 2: 34-35). Indeed, that terrible suffering is the death and crucifixion her son Jesus. 2. The Flight into Egypt; 3. The loss of the twelve year old Jesus; 4. Meeting with Jesus on the way to the cross (Fourth Station); 5. The hours spent beneath the cross; 6. Resting of the dead Jesus on his mother's lap; 7. The laying of Jesus in the tomb. What is your sorrow? Nothing in worse than seeing your own child hanging on the cross suffering an excruciating pain and eventually death. Mary showed us how to handle and embrace the cross of her son and her own.

The Memorial of St. Cyprian, Bishop of Cartage and Cornelius, Pope falls on September 16, Wednesday. St. Cyprian fiercely fought against apostasy (the renunciation of Christian faith) which did in his time possibly under the threat of persecution. He was heavily criticised for being too tight in his policies and disciplines. He was exiled, persecuted and suffered martyrdom. During the plague, St. Cyprian sent letters of comfort and tenacity addressed to his faithful similar to most of the tones and sentiments of preachers/pastors during this pandemic.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently died and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives, and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the gathered community.

Jose Acosta, Pedro Saucedo, Jr.

24TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 20:45:00 GMT

This Sunday, Jesus guides us into the difficult process of forgiveness through the incredible story of the King who cancelled the enormous amount of debt his servant owed him and the servant who refused to do the same favor to a fellow slave whose debt was much smaller amount. It tells us of the infinite bound of God’s mercy and forgiveness. God is mercy. God is forgiveness. God is pardon. By way of comparison, let’s just say, $1 Billion compared to $1k, not even a fraction. The king, of course, represents God whose boundless mercy forgave the sinner upon begging for forgiveness while the forgiven servant and the unforgiving sinner out of honor/delicadeza ought to be merciful to his fellow slave but did exactly the opposite, even worse by choking him, by grabbing him in his neck.

Correct me if the opposite is true but this is an extremely impossible scenario and I bet none of us has ever seen anything like this. Hello friend, you owe me a $1M? Forget about it, what are friends for? Let's go have some drinks. It's nothing. It is, therefore, shocking. It is hard to believe and leads us to ask, how in the world the king did that and the servant afford it? We don’t know. What we know for sure is that it is a story that alerts us to the unexpected, abounding, immense and limitless mercy and forgiveness of God in total contrast to the merciless servant letting us know that for as long as we beg down on our knees and express contrition and not even a promise to settle the account in the future.

We don’t know and will never fully understand the intent of the king but the gesture extended is essential and necessary for the health and well-being of an individual and community. Remember this section of Matthew’s gospel is about community life. In a family and community setting, for as long as personal interaction (all the time) is involved, more often than not individuals will struggle and face with the issue of forgiveness. Wrath and anger are our instinctive and normal response. We hold grudges. We are resentful. We become vindictive even if we know negative energies deeply affect our emotional well-being and physical health. By simply thinking about the scenario and the person that caused us harm, they consume us as well as our precious time and energy. It is a weight. Perhaps, some even plan to take the matter to the grave but that’s too much. It’s easy to say forgive and forget if you were not the one offended. But if it happens personally to you and your loved ones, it’s a different story as the wound, the hurt and the offense run deep in human emotions which take time to heal and this is where it’s hard to forgive. As human beings we seek revenge. We want vengeance and make it even.

How often must I forgive? Seven times? Jesus said, not seven times but seventy-seven times or seventy times seven. Don’t do the math, please. Don’t go there. It means always, without limits, boundless. Why do we have to forgive? Because God has forgiven us completely of the debt of sin owed him. This is an incredibly high debt that even if we work in our entire life and sell property and possessions, we won’t be able to settle and that’s the debt of sin. Christ ransomed us. Jesus bailed us out. God has completely forgiven us of the debt we cannot pay back in return and that is, our sins, imperfections, mistakes, dents, etc. The basis of our forgiveness is forgiveness from the heart, the innermost core of the person where it communicates directly with God. The forgiveness that we receive from God is the same forgiveness that must be extended to our fellows. We struggle because of the lack of the sense of how God has forgiven us first. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 090820

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 22:08:00 GMT

Happy Birthday Mama Mary. There are only three feasts celebrating birthdays in the church calendar: Jesus Christ, John the Baptist and today, September 8, the Blessed Mother. This feast takes us back in the early centuries of Christianity which honors divine maternity and the birth of her son, our Savior and Redeemer.

I extend my warmest greetings and congratulations to the newly confirmed in the parishes of Immaculate Conception and St. Luke on September 1st and 2nd, Tuesday, and Wednesday, respectively. The sacrament of confirmation is a religious rite of passage, a ritual that young people (normally, high school students) complete the sacrament of initiation. At the rite of confirmation, they are sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit, the gifts that the Prophet Isaiah wrote in the first reading, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, spirit of counsel and strength, spirit of knowledge and piety, and the fear of the Lord. The anointing of sacred chrism at Confirmation which confers the sacrament will provide additional spiritual energy which we all need but especially, confirmands to help them battle the strong forces of the evil one. Young people go through a lot. The church expects them to be the beacon of light, to show the world the face of Christ by simple acts of kindness and charity and selflessness. If you're able to do extraordinary things beyond human ingenuity, then it must be spirit of confirmation invisibly working on you. Let the spirit be the power behind your inner life. Let the spirit be the force inside you. Let the spirit be your sacred guide in learning to navigate the intricacies of life. Allow the spirit to enter, immerse and dominate your life. Don't ignore the spirit. Come to the Holy Spirit. Ask for the intercession of your confirmation saint. You should have an image of your favorite saint in your room, phone or wallet as they are windows to divine realities.

On Friday, September 11, we join the country in a national day of mourning and remembrance of the horrific attack on American soil. We pray for those who have died. We pray for comfort for the victims for the families who are still grieving for the loss. For more info, here's the link to the 911memorial.org .

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently died and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives, and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the gathered community.

Francisco Durazo, Elena Valencia

23RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 06 Sep 2020 13:42:00 GMT

There's a strong connection and comparison between family as the domestic church and parish community being the larger household.

What do you do if a member of the parish community do you harm, hurt you, knowingly or unknowingly? Do you keep it to yourself? Do you ignore it? forget it? Let it go? Move on? Anyway, stuff happens? Do you go straight to social media, rant, blow it out? Do you retreat or lock in your room in isolation? Do you resort to violence? Or settle things down, don’t do anything and let God take care of it…

This Sunday’s theme stresses the importance of fraternal correction leading us to the core value of communal life. The lived experience, the shared life of the Matthean community offers a 3-step process to handle and resolve conflicts and how to deal with serious sins in order to bring the sinner back to God and the church. We know well that although nowadays, there are different ways of dealing with conflicts and difficult issues depending on the magnitude and severity of the situation, the church handles it differently as the school for a deeper humanity (GS 62). As it looks, it may not sound practical because we resolve matters differently depending on the gravity and seriousness of the situation. Nevertheless, the parish community exists not for the individual but for the well- being wider community and the harmony of each other’s relationships which reflects Christ.

If your brother sins (against you), go, talk to him, tell him his fault privately just between the two of you. Do everything to win him back. Do everything to salvage the relationship for the sake of the community. Make every effort to bring back the sinner. Know and understand that your sole purpose is aimed at reconciliation that is, to regain the member and not to shame the individual. Do it in charity, out of love and care for the offender and not by rebuke, condemnation, and condescension. Be nice and kind. Your intent is nothing but reconciliation and not retribution, nor revenge. If he listens to you, you won him over. You have regained him which is the end-goal. Although the sins that are addressed here are the serious and grave ones and not small matters, it can be anything for as long damage has been done. If he doesn’t listen to you, bring one or more witnesses to emphasize the severity of the issue. If after the involvement of two individuals, he/she doesn’t cooperate, take the matter to the church (ekklesia) and let the church take care of it, for where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

The 3-step procedure underlines the need to listen to both sides of the story in the interest of the community. Fraternal correction is not meant as a harsh rebuke but an act of love to help see the wrongdoing. This is done to highlight/show the seriousness of the action and assist in the repentance.

The prophet Ezekiel, a man of God, described himself as the watchman whose job is to remind his people and straighten things out. As a watchman, if he doesn't say anything nor do anything about a disaster ready to unfold and something happened, he will be held accountable. St. Paul in his letter to the Romans tells us that love is the fulfillment of the law. The amazing blend between the law of love and the love of the law is interesting. It emphasized the spirit of the teaching, of doctrine, of the law.

The process may not work for us modern believers but it tells us how they understood faith and its application to community life. When they came together, it wasn’t a private matter. It is in the church that they are nourished, sustained, encouraged, condemned and rebuked. Whatever you do, wherever you are, you represent the church. For better for worse, you belong to the family and this community. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 090120

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 13:08:00 GMT

The long series of the celebration of the sacrament of confirmation began last Wednesday evening at six at Loretto School West Yard, an outdoor setting. The same spot where they used to play and spend recess was the same place where they ( then, boys and girls, now, gentlemen and women/ladies) received the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Their playground, a place of relaxation turned into a sacred/divine encounter. It was an emotion-filled, humbling and memorable moment.

Many are probably wondering why I've been presiding over the of Sacrament of Confirmation. Isn't the Bishop of Tucson supposed to administer the sacrament? Yes, that's correct. The Bishop is the ordinary minister of confirmation as the successor of the Apostles but because of the current circumstances of our time, Bishop Weisenburger gave pastors the faculty to confirm.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the gathered community.

Manuel Othon, Ruben Cota

22ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 00:45:00 GMT

After the famous confession of Peter, Jesus sharply rebuked him saying, Get behind me, Satan! Away with me Satan! – an obstacle (skandalon), a hindrance, a stumbling block. Get out of here for putting the Son of God to the test. Satan is anyone working contrary to God’s plan. Out of my way, Peter! God has revealed to you my divine identity and you got it right but now, you are a scandal. The same person who exhilaratingly confessed that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, is the same individual and rightfully so, who was embarrassed and in fact, was called Satan! What a pity! You are thinking not as God does but as human beings do. You are operating from a purely human perspective and thought. In a way, we understand him because of his impulse to protect his master from impending danger and disaster ahead. But it appears, quite obviously that this is a strong indication that quite often, we don’t get what Jesus meant. He didn’t come to save the world by simply showing up in a dinner party and exchange pleasantries nor entertainment and happy hour. In the opening verses, he said, he had to go to Jerusalem, the center of social, religious and political life and suffer many things. The Greek ‘dei’ ‘must’ is worthy of mention as it is translated as God’s will. It is necessary (it was a necessity) for the Messiah to undergo trials to save the world.

Then Jesus goes, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me.” Following Jesus is costly and risky. There are followers of Jesus who took these hard sayings by heart as the only option in life. They gave up riches, renounced earthly possessions, denied themselves even of the simple and little pleasures of life as if they were things to avoid. And yet, it is hard to preach these words as always especially in these trying times as countless number of people are already hurting in almost all aspects of life. Some have given up on life. Others on survival mode. Simply paying the bills and putting food on the table is a tall order already. Our parish community is no exception. And now, we’re asked to deny ourselves. We may not have the same calling to go the extreme route demonstrated by the hall of famers but each of us is asked to take up our own cross, carry it, bear it, whatever burden, suffering, struggle, grief, loss, terrible sickness, unemployment, loneliness, isolation, offer it to the Lord and follow me. We are following a lot of people from celebrities, to rock stars, to public figures. We imitate their ways, lifestyles but with Jesus, there’s no comparison because it is on the way to the cross. For whoever saves his life, will lose it but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” Church attendance nowadays is more than simply obligation or showing up. It’s out of hunger for the Eucharist. The highest calling is, the rejection of one’s own ego, to deny oneself, to do things unselfishly for the sake of following Christ. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world but forfeit his life? How do we wish to be described as a disciple, as a follower?

What we heard from Jeremiah in the first reading was his confession, a personal account of his struggles similar to the confessions of St. Augustine. This is probably the most dramatic part of the book as this is an extraordinary disclosure of his inner strife, conflict with God. He laid bare. He poured it all. Prophets normally don’t care about what they say and what others think about them. They are convinced they possessed the truth. This doesn’t happen on normal circumstances. This was a searing testimony of his experience that included his sufferings. He became the laughing stock, an object of mockery. He said, You duped me, O Lord. You enticed me. You seduced me. You overpowered me. You were too strong for me. You convinced me. He felt he was misled by God. I gave my all and this is what happened to me. You led me on and I let myself be led and now, I am in big trouble. He was going to call it quits. He couldn’t endure the burden. It took a heavy toll on him. He didn’t want to do it anymore that is to speak God’s name anyway, he didn’t aspire for it. He was called and so much hesitation and restraints. Have you also been duped? Many of us can relate with Jeremiah’s painful words as we have given so much of our lives to the parish community and the larger church.

Paul, in the letter to the Roman, urged us by the mercies of God to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, to live a disciplined life, set apart your life, lead a holy way of life in the service of God and the church. Offer who you are. Offer whatever you do. Offer your whole physical existence to God. It doesn’t matter who you are, whatever you do, where you are (metropolitan city or suburbs or border town), whatever economic status you’re in. Do not conform yourself to this age but strive by the renewal of your minds and the transformation. Amen.

21ST SUNDAY IN ORDIUNARY TIME A20

Sat, 22 Aug 2020 20:00:00 GMT

The Holy Father’s twitter account which has over 10 million followers is @Pontifex, a Latin word which means bridge builder historically and literally that is to say, looking over the Rhine into the Tiber, to bridge both sides of the bank but eventually, came to be interpreted as to connect the chasm between culture and religion, faith and science, etc. As the successor of Peter and the spiritual head of the over two billion Catholics worldwide, Papacy, represented by the Pope, is the most exalted throne on earth, a divinely sanctioned institution. In fact, it is the oldest institution in the world. Many of us are familiar with the saying, Rome has spoken which means, there’s nothing you can do.

The foundational text of this supreme authority is the highly acclaimed confession of Faith of Peter at Caesarea Philippi, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” You are the Anointed One! The Messiah! This response was prompted by the survey question, who do people say that the Son of Man is? It’s interesting that Jesus used the expression, Son of Man to tell them about his humanity, that he was as human they are. And went further, “And you, who do you say that I am? Because of this leap of faith, Jesus made him the leader of the twelve. He is the rock upon which the church will be built and added with the promise and assurance that even the gates of hell cannot penetrate over it. As the chief steward, he’s been entrusted with the keys of the kingdom of heaven and invested with the sacred power to bind and to loose that is, to govern, to teach authoritatively, to dictate culture and influence religion, to clear ambiguity, to promote dialogue, to condemn false teachings, to denounce any ideology/lifestyle that goes contrary to the gospel, to declare who’s in and who’s out, heal political rifts if need be, to be a source of unity, bind wounds of division, reach out to the separated brethren and re-interpret history and tradition with the ever-changing circumstances of our time.

Blessed are you Simon (who at that time, was a thriving, successful businessman for owning a fishing boat) for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but my heavenly father. You got an A+ not because of your own accord nor from your own discovery but because it was divinely revealed by my father. The church is a divine institution for as long she came from God and human institution for as long she’s run by (imperfect) human beings as history shows.

And so, I say to you, “You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of the nether world shall not prevail against it.” It’s often said that the Gospel of Matthew is very Catholic because of its hierarchy, highly structured and authoritative united in the foundational belief in the Petrine Ministry, in the primacy of Peter, appointed and installed as the leader of the twelve and the chief steward of the church in a line of Apostolic Succession. He is the Pope, the Bishop of Rome, the Vicar of Christ, the Supreme Pontiff, the Patriarch of the West, Primate of Italy, Prince of the Apostles, Servant of the Servants of God and last but not least, Successor of Peter.

Jesus further adds, "I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." The handing of the keys to Peter is symbolic of the authority of binding and loosing interpreted as having the power to make decisions in behalf of the church directly affecting the souls of countless believers, to declare and pronounce a doctrine as part of the deposit of faith and require obedience to the faithful, to allow and forbid members and finally, to forgive and to retains sins. The anti-Catholic sentiments in America is possibly the result of the authoritative nature of the church. And yet, Christianity built Democracy.

To confess our faith following the homily is one thing, to live it is a different story altogether. The Deposit of Faith (Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition and the Magisterium) is unchangeable or some things are unchangeable. Such a thing is not a subject matter for debate and negotiation. How we express our faith in a manner that will radiate, inspire, change hearts and transform the world varies across time. In order to create an atmosphere of belongingness and hospitality to visitors, I spend time recognizing new comers, first time churchgoers in an attempt, as it were, to embrace and engage the world. In all its splendor and glory and grandeur, this sacred power is best exemplified in humble service patterned through the life and ministry of the founder Jesus Christ.

I grew up with Saint John Paul II whose holiness and spirituality captured me. My over a decade long seminary formation was shaped under his guidance and inspiration. He was the only Pope I knew until a month finishing my theological formation, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was elected to the Papacy and took the name Benedict XVI. In March 2013, as the smoke billowed over the Apostolic Palace signaling Habemus Papam, I waited and curious who the next Pope was and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio came in the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and took the name Francis. He was very different from day one of his Pontificate from a latin American background focusing heavily on lifestyle. I am not sure how I got this unsolicited info (perhaps, from a Catholic News Media Outlet) but the Cardinals elected Pope Francis because of his closeness to living the Gospel. This is what we aspire to do: to be the living example of the Gospel values, of the words any preacher utters from the pulpit. Amen.

20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 17:22:00 GMT

The dramatic encounter between Jesus and the Canaanite woman demonstrates the power of sincere, persistent and praying faith. After performing series of miracles, Jesus headed to the region of Tyre and Sidon, modern-day Lebanon, a Gentile territory, to have some downtime, necessary in any form of ministry. He decided to have a quiet time off outside his domain where no one was supposed to know him. Now comes a pagan woman whose daughter is gravely ill and desperately cries out, "Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon."

Considering her background, she was the most unlikely person to be entertained. The sudden initial responses were discouraging and disappointing because of the silence of Jesus and his remarks on the exclusivity of his mission that he was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (for my people), and the disciples’ attempt to caste her away. In a way, it's true if, we for a moment, will draw our attention to the opening verse of the evangelist, The gospel of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham denoting priority of one people over others. I don’t want to sound like I can read the mind of God but the human factor of persistence, humility, and trust played a significant factor in the granting of her desperate plea for help.

Her request was declined three times but she remained unaffected by the harsh words. Perhaps, even if she felt offended, she didn’t mind for as long as her daughter was healed. Her passion, courage, and determination was topnotched. Woman came to him because of her belief in Jesus’ power over demons and reliance on that power.

This fascinating and controversial story is central to the embodiment of the Matthean community. Her plea became the center of the story. Her identity is vital to the message in the struggle of the Matthean community. This outsider, gentile became a model of praying faith. The co-existence between Jews and Gentiles, groups of people, belonging in the same community was a hot button issue. The animosity between the two groups, a major struggle of the community formed and shaped the community. I tell you, sometimes, conflict and suffering can be opportunities for transformation, renewal and healing.

God healed the Canaanite woman’s demon-possessed daughter because of her loyalty to the name of God along with her persistence and humility. Describing her as a Canaanite woman puts emphasis on her cultural and religious background as a pagan, stranger, unbeliever. It appears that as an outsider she isn’t going to get her request granted and yet, her sincerity, persistence, tenacity and humility, made all the difference in the world. She became the center of the story.

In praising her, Jesus shows the value of persistence, determination, humility and trust. If you’re asking a favor, but especially if it’s a divine favor, these are the indispensable qualities. Her response was worth mentioning, imitating and extremely touching, even the dogs eat the scraps (take the bread from the table) that fall from the master’s table and not wait for it to fall on the floor. She’s ready to do whatever it takes for the healing of her daughter. She knew the name of God, have pity on me, Lord, Son of God! along with, Lord, save me. Faith is knowing personally the name of God.

When we pray, when we ask for something for healing and recovery, peace and reconciliation in the family, for success in our endeavors and plans, for job growth, for anything. Jesus’ silence may have been part of God’s testing. The woman demonstrates two qualities of prayer: come to God humbly and sincerely and be persistent and determined. This entire episode emphasizes two things: the faith of the woman and how vital her faith for the healing of the daughter.

After all the drama, the woman stays and pleads, Lord, help me! This profound act of humility changed the tone of the conversation. In an unexpected turn of event, Jesus said, "O woman great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish." From that time on, because of her unwavering faith, her daughter is granted healing.

We come to the church to adore God in praise and thanksgiving for the many undeserved blessings we have received. The Canaanite woman has modeled the power of persistent prayer and of praying faith. This pagan woman, known as a believer of false gods, has exemplified how prayer requests must be done. If you're asking for something, you have to be sincere and persistent. She remains unconvinced that her background is an obstacle to come to Jesus. Prayer isn't simply a ritual that needs to be followed from beginning to end. It involves sincerity, persistence and a strong belief that Jesus is Lord. We are at different levels of spirituality and prayer life. Some of us pray by going through the motions. Others pray because they are asked to do so. In these troubled times, our prayer has gone deeper just like the Canaanite Woman. It’s no longer just about the recitation of formula prayers for the sake of doing it. It has become very personal. We own it. We pay close attention to the words including the layers of meaning behind them. Amen.

19TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sat, 08 Aug 2020 19:05:00 GMT

The absolutely stunning view of Jesus walking on the (chaotic) water and the divine rescue was another manifestation Jesus’ supernatural power over nature’s powerful demonic forces. Water is life-sustaining but also, dangerous especially if you find yourself in this terrifying situation. I was told that the torrential storms along with its ferocious winds, raging waters and gigantic waves in the Sea of Galilee can be unforgiving and terribly toss and even capsize a boat. Out of nowhere, someone appeared walking on the sea, none of them ever expected. They were all terrified because it was unreal. One of them even said, it was a ghost but Jesus responded quickly, Take heart, It is I, do not be afraid. Following Jesus’ words, they calmed down. They sit still. Peter, bursting with enthusiasm asked, Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water. When Jesus said come, without a hint of hesitation, he got off the boat immediately and stepped on the water. At first, he did well but a strong wind toppled him and as soon as he realized, he was sinking deep, he cried out, Lord, save me. Jesus stretched out his hand, took Peter by the hand and gently straightened him out, O you of little faith, why did you doubt? O you of little faith, why did you take your eyes off me? O you of little faith, why did you lose focus and lack attention? O you of little faith, why did you let yourself be carried away by heavy waves and by destructive storms of life? O you of little faith, why did you let the vast ocean of fear, doubts and uncertainty to paralyze you? We falter. We mess up because of little faith, obviously not enough to overcome the powerful forces of nature. Peter represents us and our human inclinations, our propensities in the face of adversities. Peter speaks volumes to our fears and doubts and beliefs. There’s only so much we can handle at a given point in time. In our weakness, we recognize Jesus. In the storms and stillness of life, we see his hand reaching out. When life is comfortable, we often think we can do it without the aid of divine power. And yet, he doesn’t let us drown. He doesn’t abandon us in struggles. He tells us whenever that happens again, Take heart, It is I. Do not be afraid. The reason why we still stand and live and worship and come every Sunday is because of these reassuring words, Take heart. It is I. Do not be afraid. Let’s allow God to save us for we are all dependent upon him for salvation. Stand firm. Take Courage. By nature, by our own powers, we can’t. As God reminded Elijah in the first reading when he tried to run for his life. He said, I can't take it anymore. Take my life now. God replied, Elijha, you can’t escape to me. I'll find you wherever you go. Your mission isn't done yet. Don’t quit. Whatever crisis as life-threatening as it is is always viewed in the light of faith, bumps on the road including Peter’s failed attempt to walk on the water. Paul tells us that the most terrible thing that can happen to us is to be disconnected, to be separated from Christ.

This entire scenario captures the storms of Covid-19, ravages of the pandemic, of fearful anxiety. Jesus walks with us in the chaos and the devastation of life. He carries us over in the waters of unbelief. He calms the perfect storm, a powerful and threatening forces of nature showing us the presence of God coming to the rescue of a church and society under siege by a terrible times. It shows us that there are many ways in which God’s presence, his face, is evidently manifested in the world: crisis prevention (before the storm), direct intervention, low-income first responders (during the storm), inactive, relational (after the storm). In coming to the rescue, we’ve known that Jesus is the Son of God who always, always, speaks and acts in behalf of God. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 080420

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 15:05:00 GMT

Before heading to bed, I normally charge my phone and put it on silence mode. I don't sleep with it to avoid distraction except of course in extenuating circumstances. Physical rest is a spiritual moment. It is a sacred and intimate time with the Lord. As St. John XXIII once said, Lord, this is your church. Take care of it. I'm going to rest. Last night (Monday evening), I inadvertently forgot to silence it. Around 5:00 in the morning, I woke up to the sound of four unusual text messages. I'm not used to getting messages early in the morning. This must be something very important and to my surprise, it was a short message from a brother priest greeting all of us, his felllow pastor in the diocese, a Happy Priest Day on the memorial of St. John Marie Vianney, patron saint of parish priests. His pastoral zeal, commmitment to the sacrament of confession by spending countless hours in the confessional, the extraordinary loved shown to his people and the endless admonition to prayer was unmatched.

This Wednesday, August 5 is the memorial of the dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major, the oldest basilica in the West built in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God as defined in the Council of Ephesus in 431.

This Thursday, August 6 is the feast of the transfiguration of the Lord. Below are photos from my Holy Land Pilgrimage 2017.

We are slowly preparing for the partial reopening of our churches for public (in-person) worship as well as the sacramental reception.

We send our thoughts and prayers to the bereaved families who have experienced loss of death because of Covid-19.

17TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sat, 25 Jul 2020 22:25:00 GMT

The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure buried in the field that a man accidentally finds, hides it and buries it again and bursting with joy and gladness at the unexpected discovery, sells everything he has and buys the property with all of his possessions. What he lost wasn't worth from what he gained.

The Kingdom of Heaven is like a traveling wholesaler, a man of great means, constantly and diligently in search of fine pearls and after finding one of great price, sells all he has and purchase it.

These are twin parables that highlight the eternal value of the thing found as well as the enormous amount of effort and the sacrifice made to obtain it. The emphasis of the treasure and the pearl of great price is placed on the infinite value of the thing found. Only a handful know what’s in store in the surprising discovery of the concealed treasure and the priceless gem that prompted the two to do everything at their disposal even if that meant giving up all in order to gain it. To state the obvious, the value goes beyond anything they have ever seen. Noticeably, the two parables have a lot in common but also differences (first was an accidental discovery while the latter was in the business of searching for fine pearls) and yet, the bottom line is that the giving up along with the sacrifice was nothing compared to the immense value of the thing found. Not only that, it was out of sheer joy and abundance of enthusiasm that the two lucky people bought the field and the pearl. Did you ever have this experience in life?

These two individuals became the luckiest in the world, on their own right, for making the treasure buried in the field and the pearl of great price as the highest priority of their lives. The two individuals didn’t let anything stand between the treasure and others. They didn’t allow their own whims and wants to get in the way. They were both incredibly fortunate for recognizing the value, for their willingness to pay the price and the joyful abandonment of all other possessions to singularly focus on one great thing.

The central truth of these parables is that the essential value of what is found that is, the kingdom of Heaven, the reign of God is irresistible. For them, there was no other option. The value was larger and bigger than anything. It was game over. Meeting adjourned. Let me use a Filipino lingo, uwian na! (Let’s go home) May nanalo na! (Someone just won the first price). The value surpassed and transcended everything. After finding it, they spared no effort. They didn’t even spend a minute thinking about it. Overcome with joy, they wasted no time purchasing the field and the pearl with everything they have. It was an impulsive decision and yet, the right thing to do at that moment. It was inexplicable.

Solomon in the first reading from the book of Kings, inexperienced in taking over the Kingdom of his father David, begged God for an “understanding heart to judge your people and to distinguish right from wrong.” God heard and answered his prayers, “I give you a heart so wise and understanding that there has never been anyone like you up to now, and after you there will come no one to equal you.” This is one of the most searing moments I’ve encountered in the scriptures. Managing the affairs of the Kingdom along with dealing with all sorts of people, good and bad, was a tall order for a youthful leader like him. He could have easily asked for economic progress and prosperity, success in all his plans, good health and long life and/or the eventual expansion of the kingdom but no, (even if sky’s the limit for his request), he pleaded for wisdom that he may be just, fair and godly as he conducts business, discerns life and death situations, weighs options and eventually, makes tough decisions. Solomon in all his grandeur humbly asked the Lord “not for a long life, nor for riches, nor wealth, but for an understanding mind and a listening heart”. Material possessions (mansion on a hill, etc) are all smoke and status quo are all trappings of the self. If you get the chance to ask God for something, what would that be? Given the once in a lifetime opportunity, he asked for the most precious thing in the world, divine and human wisdom, the stuff that matters. In order to live wisely, you should have a heart. Once I thanked a parishioner for being so generous. She said, I have a heart, Father. Wisdom is closely associated with the heart. The expression, comes from the heart/straight from the heart, is most telling as it is the inner most depths of the person.

Wisdom is a free gift from God but it is also sought. It is a two-way strait and not one-sided. You have to search for it in order to find it. It doesn’t go automatic. It enables us to see and choose good over evil, God over unbelief, but also, a response.

By way of comparison, the two individuals who found the treasure buried in the field and the pearl of great price reflect the enthusiasm of acquiring something of enormous value, the gem of wisdom, the deposit of faith (the deeply-held beliefs), Life in Christ, the Holy Scriptures, parish community, God’s company, etc. If you have it, you are unbreakable. You are standing on a solid ground and firm foundation. You might bend but you won’t break. If you possess it, you don’t really have to worry about your adversaries, about what other people think and say about you.

Holiness, a life anchored with God, is a hidden treasure and a beautiful pearl that is worth more than any wealth, educational attainment or any material possessions. Let us strive for holiness and search for truth. Sanctity, though, can be expressed in many ways such as the generosity extended to the marginalized in our own little ways, fidelity to the church’s teaching and strong devotion to traditions, the gracious and welcoming gestures rendered to strangers, the heart-warming appreciation to volunteers, the deep sense of belongingness in a community and the joy, peace and happiness surrounding the company of fellow believers, among others. Amid this pandemic and the increasing inequality, we are not asked to do something extraordinary that would blow up the internet and crash social media. While observing safety protocols, let us imitate the simple gesture of our fellows who upon finding the treasure hidden in the field, the pearl of great value, the dragnet of good and bad and Solomon’s humble and amazing request.

Holiness as the fount of one’s life is pervasive and contagious. No wonder saints and mystics wasted no time sacrificing their lives and saw to it that nothing stood between them and God. Their examples as always are worth emulating. Perhaps, not very many of us aspire to be saints but I was amazed at a parishioner whose volunteer work was the most menial as sweeping the church grounds even under a sweltering summer heat which most of us wouldn’t even dare. I asked, why are you doing this? She told me, because I wanted to be a saint. I don’t want to jump on the gun but will she be beatified, only God knows and yet, you can’t argue the commitment and the sacrifice won’t be a loss. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 071420

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 21:39:00 GMT

Because of the risks involved even in an outdoor setting with limited attendance, this weekend, July 18/19, we will revert back to online/internet/virtual/no-congregation Mass. Worship is essential but the safeguarding and protection of lives by minimizing risks is what we've aimed to do. Religious and spiritual care of the community is important but prevalence also matters, happening now here in Douglas-Pirtleville area even with nearly 600 cases in a 15k population. SARS-COV2 is both highly contagious and deadly. Since we don't know for certain the severity of the transmission, for practical reasons, the best defense against the resurgence of this unseen enemy is to scale back to where we were before. We won't ignore scientific advice. Science and Religion/Faith should enrich each other. We'll wait until the pandemic is under control at least in our area. We can't crush the raging virus. It hops for as long as individuals interact and that's what's so scary about it. Although Douglas and Agua Prieta are separated by international borders (both countries closed its borders), people share a lot of things in common. If we don't take stringent precautions or perhaps, the basics of wearing masks, social distancing, staying home and washing hands, I'm afraid it's going to get worse. Just as I can’t compare the US situation with smaller countries in the world, so, too Douglas and Agua Prieta with smaller towns here in Cochise County.

HOLY COMMUNION will be available for those who watched the live-streamed Mass. A portable communion shield will be available to serve as barrier between the minister of communion and the communicant. Holy Communion will only be given in the hand (left over right) with arms at full stretch. Hand sanitizers are available for use prior receiving Holy Communion. More information will be given as we head towards the weekend.

LITURGY OF THE HOURS

One of the many treasures in the wellspring of the church tradition is the Liturgy of the Hours or the Divine Office. Many of us heard about it but dismissed it as only exclusive to the ordained and consecrated lives. But no, it's for everyone. I highly encourage you to learn. Here's a link to http://www.ibreviary.org/en/ available for download in multiple devices.

St. Kateri Tekakwitha, July 14, lily of the mohawks, was the first Native American saint. She was a model of holiness and chastity. She wasn’t baptized as an infant. She converted to Catholicism with the help of missionaries. Her last words were, Jesus, I love you. I came across an article that Tekakwitha means, to take all things in place or someone who bumped into something.

St. Bonaventure, July 15, franciscan friar, the Seraphic Doctor, considered as the co-founder of the franciscan order because of his many contirbutions in the reform of the order but also in theology. He led a balance life of poverty, humility and chastity and was so instrumental because of his theological prowess. Check this out for more information: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-bonaventure/

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Pray For Us! We thank God for the commitment and dedication of the Carmelite Sisters of Los Angeles whose ministry in Catholic Education in our very own Loretto School is unmatched.

If you're wondering who brought Christianity to Arizona in 1691, it's Father Eusebio Kino, the padre on a horseback who was once considered as the greatest figure in North America. His blessedness is one step away to canonization. Here's a link, https://padrekino.com/ .

Gloria Favela

15TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 12:37:00 GMT

You are probably surprised that in the midst of the rapid escalation of confirmed cases, Arizona trending in social media because of the surge, border towns such as Douglas emerging as the epicenter of the contagion/the hotspot in Cochise County, the formidable and relentless enemy invisibly hopping between individuals, outdoor (in-person) Mass is offered. While we don’t know exactly the severity and transmission of the pathogen, outdoor service at least according to science poses lesser risks. There are many options but this weekend, this is the route we take. We talk about therapies and vaccines and safety protocols as the be- all and end- all of this crisis including staying home, wearing mask, keeping distance and washing hands but no serious religious person will deny the power of prayer, the divine intervention of the omnipotent God. These challenging times have been marked by struggles of all kinds in an unimaginable degree. We’ve been consumed by the sobering news and saturated by the grim data. Just as Jesus went out of the house and headed to the shoreline, actually, in the boat, a perfect spot for his message to be heard without the aid of audio/video system, this Sunday we went from the house of worship to the great outdoors, settling temporarily in the school yard in the early hours of the morning, with a breath of fresh air as the sun slowly lights up the sky.

The parable of the sower is the first in a series of parables in this section of Matthew’s Gospel. A parable is a story or a riddle Jesus used drawn from the ordinary experiences of life to stimulate our thoughts and to puzzle us about a deeper dimension of life. Unless we look into the details, we won’t get what he meant. That’s just how it was designed. I suppose, this parable makes us all feel bad because many, if not all of us even if we claim we are devout Catholics, would unhesitatingly identify ourselves with all of the above: the beaten path/the dirt road, the rocky and stony ground with shallow earth and the thorns and thistles and last, the rich soil. We belong to different kinds of soil which represents the many ways in which we respond to God’s word. We linger at the beaten path when we do nothing but bad mouth religion and church. We glorify ourselves by criticizing our parish. We remain at the dirt road every time we become cynical, indifferent and ungrateful in spite of the many blessings bestowed on us. These are people who are completely out of sync with faith matters. We are at the rocky ground when we start off with new and fresh beginnings but are easily swayed by trials and tribulations, succumbing to temptation, caving in easily to outside pressure, losing hope and lacking perseverance and desire to bounce back, finding ourselves at the end of the cliff. The soil with an abundance of thorns and thistles represent life choked by material possessions, lust, and anxieties of all sorts. We try but we are not there. We come to Mass but our minds are actually into worldly affairs. And now comes the rich soil characterized by those who hear and understand, those who take it to heart for to them knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been granted.

Jesus is the sower. The seed sown is the word of God. It’s priceless. It looks tiny, hidden, almost invisible but has the great potential to produce much fruit. Noticeably, a large portion of the parable along with the detailed explanation has been devoted to the various sorts of soil with limited time and appearance to the sower except in the opening verses. And yet, it’s not about the soil, our response and the likes. Remember, it’s entitled the parable of the sower, that means, it’s about the sower, who despite so many adversities faced from the primitive times to the present, God will accomplish his purpose. The seed will, eventually, bear fruit. It will produce a hundred, sixty, or thirtyfold.

It’s a fascinating parable. It draws so much attention to the depths of life. I’ve heard incredible- conversion stories of fallen-away, lapsed, inactive Catholics – even the worst of humanity coming back into faith…you name it…I bet all of us have seen people who have fallen off the tracks and to our surprise, one fine Sunday you see them sitting in the pew, a perfect scenario of the parable of the sower. Whatever obstacles posed by the beaten path, the hardness of the rocky ground, the prickliness of thorns and thistles, eventually, God will accomplish his purpose. God will reach his goal. Believe in divine intervention and one day, in the smoldering heat of summer, in the dead of winter, a miracle will happen in the most unexpected time, place and event. Let the extravagant sower throw in holy abandon the tiny, invisible, almost life-less seed, for one day, we’ll see amazing and unbelievable results.

The prophet Isaiah beautifully illustrates the preciousness of water and seed in light of the wonders of God’s word, “Just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down and do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful, giving seed to the one who sows and bread to the one who eats, so shall my word be that goes forth form my mouth; my word shall not return to me void, but shall no my will, achieving the end for which I sent it (Isa. 55: 10-11)”. Just as water and seed is essential in life, so shall God’s word be.

Take these consoling words from Paul, “The sufferings of the present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us (Romans 8: 18)”. In spite of the troubles of this age, the catastrophes, the disasters, the earthquakes, the plagues, wars and violence, the devastation of Covid-19 (death, bereaved families, long road to recovery of those afflicted, economic toll, job loss, psychological impact to health, stress involved), God’s promise for a better world and bright future will come into fruition. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 070720

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 14:55:00 GMT

After over a week of quarantine, my Covid-19 test result came back negative. While it was a relief, a huge load taken off my shoulders, it was in no way an occasion to rejoice as we are still in the middle of this devastation, still suffering the onslaught of the unforgiving raging enemy. I’m concerned with the many parishioners (families and individuals) who are currently hurting because of Covid-19 especially those in the ICU's with no visitors allowed. Those of us who have been exposed, quarantined, shielded and tested, the experience is mutual. Now I can relate to the increased level of stress associated with sheltering in place. It hit home. We are in solidarity with those who bear the burden of the moment. We empathize with them even though we don’t exactly know what they are facing. We can’t imagine the stress of living with someone battling with Covid-19. Life in isolation may have been staycation, a much-needed time for R&R (at home) but for the most part, it was a rude awakening. We are facing an invisible enemy, beyond borders and bullets. Our only option is to work together so that this unimaginable crisis may be quickly put behind us. Quarantine life afforded me an enormous time to pray for deliverance for all of us who courageously put our lives on the line: priests, deacons, parish staff, liturgical ministers, super-volunteers, beloved parishioners of the Douglas-Pirtleville nation and beyond. While in isolation, I also spent a great deal of time cleaning the house which obviously included mixing solutions for sanitation, sweeping and mopping the floor which I found rather enjoyable. Since I didn't have much to do, I tried to cook dishes only God knows where the recipes came. Staying home was in a way beneficial for introspection but after the negative result, it was time for me to minister again.

Eligio Estrada Ortega, Pedro Parra, Maria Romero Tarazon, Manuel Samaniego

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 063020

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 00:15:00 GMT

Below is the letter addressed to St. Luke Parish regarding a liturgical minister who tested positive for Covid-19.

The sobering data, the grim numbers in Douglas-Pirtleville area prompted me and Fr. Marco to temporarily suspend the public celebration of Sunday Masses until further notice. Possible re-opening/restoration to in-person worship (indoor) will be based mostly (granted it's in keeping with the diocesan protocols) on the downward trajectory of cases, the collaboration of the volunteers and the cooperation of the community in regards to the observance of safety precautions. Below is the letter addressed to the Catholic Community posted in social media early this week

I personally extend my prayerful support to those who have been afflicted by Covid-19 and still battling with it including their families and those who take care of them. My fervent prayers for the eternal repose of those who have died of Coronavirus especially members of our very own communities. My sincere condolences to the bereaved families, relatives and friends.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 062320

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 00:30:00 GMT

Today at 12pm, I joined Sisters Lucy and Judy, SSND, along with the parishioners of the Immaculate Conception Church and one DACA recipient for a solemn 7- minute ringing of bells as a sign of gratitude, support and appreciation for the supreme court's decision in favor of #DACA (Deferred Action Childhood Arrival). I'm not a lawyer nor am familiar with immigration but I'm in solidarity with the #DACA recipients.

Guillermon Valenzuela

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 061620

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 16:32:00 GMT

The graduation of the Loretto School Class of 2020 was humble yet so special, an occasion that will be remembered for years to come. It was a graduation like no other. Perhaps, in the school's century-old history, this is the only class that endured the scourge of the pandemic where participants' faces donned face masks/coverings and seated 6ft apart.

We've been following the book of kings. The unjust killing of Naboth for refusing to obey and sell his property/vineyard to king Ahab is just one of the numerous examples of society's moral decadance. Jezebel conspired and her constituents connived with her. It was so corrupt. King Ahab almost had everything. What he did was so sick and greedy. I can't believe that someone like him who almost had everything would take a life of an ordinary individual just to get a better view if the garden, overlooking sunset from the window. They were complicit. Silence was a tacit approval. The elders, the ones in-charge cooperated with the terrible injustice committed by Jezebel. The killing of an innocent unborn individual, the exploitation of the poor and the vulnerable for selfish benefits are few examples of this. The responsorial psalm, "Lord, listen to my groaning" captures the collective inner voices of the oppressed. If you're wondering how come I’ve been mentioning the stuff of social justice in my weekday reflections, it’s because of the role of the church, as the conscience of society in spite of her imperfections. Society (ancient and modern) needs what religion offers from an otherworldly perspective that is, what we have done and what we have failed to do. We need the church not as an arbiter but as the voice. For the past week, we’ve heard the prophecy and the prophet Elijah as the greatest prophetic figure in his time because of his incredible and charismatic personality. He had falling out with the secular authorities because of his role. We heard one of the searing moments of his life and career which had lots of tension. Time came for him to pass on the baton, to choose his successor. In their conversations, Elisha told him, I want to be like you. Because of their friendship, Elisha was transformed. Some friendships turn out for the worse but this is exceptionally different. The life of a prophet is deeply distressing because of so many adversaries but it's music to the ears when suddenly someone tells you, I admire your zeal, your devotion. In fact, I idolize you. You have a lot of influence in my life. I want a double portion of your spirit not out of greed and selfish motives says Elisha but for better service. True. As ministers (catechists, teachers, volunteers), we look up to someone who we want to imitate and pattern our ministerial styles. And so, the story goes, Elijah was enveloped in a whirlwind. Elisha’s wish was granted. He was filled with the twofold portion of his spirit. Who doesn't want to follow and share Elijah's passion and zeal?

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, the gathered community they are included in the prayers of the community.

Ramon Leatherman

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 060920

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 00:05:00 GMT

This week, we'll hear the magnificent story of the glorified Prophet Elijah in the First Book of Kings from obeying God's command to leaving his place and headed to Zarepath to pronounce the divine announcement of terrible drought followed by famine and hunger. I don't want to rush to the end of the story but they (widow and her son) did survive with only a jar of flour and a jug of water. It was daunting and I said, really! This miraculous episode highlights trust in divine providence. Back in those times, there was no such thing as social services, government aid or churches readily available to offer help. If the widow and her son along with the blessing of Elijah made through tough times, so, can we by trusting that God is faithful to his promises. What is your food of last resort? Rice and salt, Rice and soy sauce, Rice and water.

There has to be some level of tolerance in the ongoing peaceful protests all because it's coming from years and decades of accumulated anger, pain, lament and grief. The destruction of properties and looting must be condemned since it doesn't show any sense of solidarity to the ideals of the mass demonstrations. Once I was told, Father, America is a racist country. Should I say, Racism is also America’s original sin? Although marches have been taking place for over two weeks now, they need to be heard more than ever. It’s not only about the police department. This gutteral issue strikes deep into the American history and culture, soul and identity. I'm slowly coming into my sense that with all America's might and prowess, America's fiercest enemy is its own people/citizens, not offshore. Let's pray for peace and change.

We pray for the more than 100,000 souls who have died of Covid-19 and express collective condolences to the grieving families.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, the gathered community they are included in the prayers of the community.

Kristian Orlando Guerrero, Guillermo Valenzuela, Manuela "Nellie" Oroz Vega

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 060220

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 21:26:00 GMT

Effective immediately, the two Friday 5:30pm Masses at St. Luke and Immaculate Conception Parishes as well as the 5:30pm Sunday Mass at Loreto School yard have been removed from the expanded schedule. Below is the new updated and revised schedule this weekend, June 6/7.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION PARISH

ST. LUKE PARISH

ST. BERNARD PARISH

Beginning this weekend, the 5:30pm Saturday, Vigil Masses and the 11:30am Sunday Masses with a congregation at St. Luke and Immaculate Conception Parishes are the only Masses that will be livestreamed via St. Luke and Immaculate Conception Parishes Facebook and YouTube accounts.

https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/

WORK IN PROGRESS (TO LIVESTREAM ON MULTIPLE PLATFORMS)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCur5PHArizvcjeH3keZ7ylw

(St. Luke)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh2NYbiF45OFQK36-Mr6iQ

(Immaculate Conception)

LIVESTREAMED WEEKEND MASSES

A reduced (1/3) capacity of parish churches (same as Sunday Masses) are now allowed during FUNERALS AND WEDDINGS . Six- feet radius physical distancing rule and face wearing face masks will be observed.

It has come to my attention that some struggling families don't request FUNERAL OR MEMORIAL SERVICES for their deceased loved ones due to lack of financial resources for church services. In Douglas-Pirtleville Parishes, n o grieving family asking for the sacrosanct religious ritual will be turned down for that matter. No deceased person will be denied funeral or memorial services.

JUSTICE FOR GEORGE FLOYD

We have heard and seen much of the national unrest for the past few days over the unjust (sudden) death of George Floyd. Peaceful protests are on-going mainly in major cities. Prayer vigils for an end of racism have been organized as well. Looting and violence on both ends of the spectrum must be condemned. Pressing one’s knee on the neck of a handcuffed person begging "I CAN'T BREATHE" several times with his face on the ground with no obvious sign of resistance is sickening and outrageous. I cringed seeing the raw footage of the video.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the bereaved families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

George Floyd

PENTECOST SUNDAY A20

Sun, 31 May 2020 12:55:00 GMT

It’s been a rough couple of months. It was a disastrous experience for all of us. We hope it never comes back. We pray it's over but it appears we haven't seen the worst. We’re still reeling from the pandemic which, undoubtedly, has a lingering psychological impact in all aspects of our lives. We’re moving slowly with cautious optimism. We’ll closely observe how the virus behaves. As it stands, you cannot argue or negotiate with the virus that's causing the pandemic which puts us in a tough spot. We didn’t get the chance to celebrate publicly the most solemn moments of our faith, the celebration of the Paschal Mystery on Holy Week. Our homes (domestic church) have become our sanctuaries, our places of worship. Our families became our church. We were hit hard. It came like a lightning jolt. It was fast and furious. We were caught off guard. We didn’t have much choice but to work collaboratively with modern science. Although in centuries past, religion/faith which deals with things immaterial, unseen and invisible was at odds with science whose main concern is the material world, we heeded the recommendations of health experts. God works in science, too. Although we know science doesn’t have final say or the ultimate word, we listened and respected its findings and discoveries to educate and inform us about this tiny molecule that has caused so much untold suffering and incredible damage to all of us. For example, bereaved families haven’t only lost a loved one but also, deprived of the deeply-held beliefs and time-honored rituals to express grief along with the physical presence of friends as sources of comfort and consolation. Even from a human standpoint, I can't say that physical distancing, washing hands, staying home, and wearing masks are our best defenses. For us religious people, the power of prayer (communal and private) no matter what happens is our weapon against the pandemic. If only, the novel coronavirus can talk and speak for itself, I bet it doesn’t want to be called a disease much less a pandemic. Coronavirus doesn’t intend to bring so much suffering in the world. This was a disruption, an interruption in our comfortable lives. God wants to let us see something in the midst of chaos. What if this is not simply a break from normalcy. What if this pandemic will forever change humanity.

It is so timely that the reopening of our churches falls on Pentecost. Under this new normal, the Eucharist will be experienced in a new and different way. The Eucharist won’t just be a usual gathering that needs to be done or something that has to be fulfilled. I hope that Eucharist will no longer be taught and experienced in legal terms. The Eucharist, being the source and summit of Christian life, is a prayer of thanksgiving. The Eucharist represents new life, a new energy, and a renewed life.

Pentecost is called the birthday of the Church. The church came to birth because of the breath of God. The church came to life because of the spirit of God. Pentecost commemorates the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The coming was felt like the sound of a fierce and mighty wind. After the rush that brought life to everyone around, they began talking about the great deeds of God. Isn't this what we do every time we came into contact with the divine? The spirit is liberating, consoling and encouraging. The spirit that came at Pentecost walks and stands with us. It is the spirit that will usher a new order, new harmony. Amen.

PASTOR'S MUSINGS 052620

Tue, 26 May 2020 23:49:00 GMT

Beginning this weekend, May 30/31, the Sunday Masses with a congregation will now resume following the diocesan safety protocols in Phase One. Here's the Pastor's Statement on the re-opening of churches for public gathering on Sunday Masses: English and Spanish . Thanks to Fr. Marco Basulto for the Spanish version. He translated it almost effortlessly. We're learning as we move forward. The Holy Spirit will guide through this new measures and ways of living and worshipping. Lots of restrictions will be strictly applied. Drafting the proposal demanded meticulous attention to the details. The essentials remain but since this is unpredecented, there will be glitches. None of us imagined we would go through this at this juncture much less in our lifetime.

I'm indebted to the many volunteers: deacons (over the age of 65), lectors, altar servers, ushers (Knights of Columbus), sanitation ministry composed of the various parish ministries and beyond. I can't imagine gathering for public worship even with limited capacity without the help and support of volunteers. Parish life is an intensely collaborative effort among the Pastors, staff and the volunteers. Planning took a great deal of time.

The title of this blog has been changed from Tuesday Musings to Pastor's Musings which sounds more personal.

Reina Gutierrez

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD

Sun, 24 May 2020 14:12:00 GMT

The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord features the last moments of Jesus’ encounter with his disciples, marks the end of his visible presence among his followers and completes the account of his earthly life and ministry. The Ascension of the Lord is the change in the mode of presence of the Risen Christ. Luke, the Evangelist, placed the historical account of the Ascension in the first chapter of the Acts of the Apostles and right there in the first few verses to let us know the importance of this mystery of our faith.

This supernatural occurrence that took place forty days after his resurrection looks forward to a new beginning in the earthly life of the church. Although his departure was much publicized, evident in the farewell discourses leading up to the event which supposedly prepared them for a moment like this, I imagine as Jesus was lifted up by his own powers and slowly vanished from their sight, it must have been surreal for everyone around. It’s sobering, to say the least, to all of them. As the Men of Galilee, looked up, gazed and wondered in amazement, it must have been difficult for them to be left behind this early. If you’ve experienced the loss of a loved one through death (or perhaps, separation between families and breakdown in relationships), you know what being left behind means. You go through painful process of grief and mourning.

This extraordinary phenomenon leaves the bewildered disciples with more questions than answers in spite of the promises made. The spirit, as expected, was coming to take care of business in the in-between times. I wish Jesus stayed a little longer in his glorified/resurrected body to establish the band of disciples before taking off for good. What’s in store for him to leave the group behind only to occupy the throne and sit at the right hand while the real action happens on the ground? What will happen in the next few days and weeks remains to be seen. What we do know is that he didn’t distance himself for no reason but to show us the stairway to heaven, intercede for us and to take us up back home to where we belong, God.

What we hold on for the time being is his last words inscribed in the Acts of the Apostles, “…you will receive power from on high and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth...(Acts 1: 7-8).” These explicit/specific instructions are the ones we deeply treasure as we embark on a mission to bring and draw people to God. Although we didn’t get the chance to see the first resurrection, the basis of our faith and the glorious forty days of appearances that went along with it, the experience has been passed through the grace of the sacraments, perfect opportunities for renewal of both and soul. In a time of renewal, we leave things behind (stuff that hinder life in its fullness) but also, embrace the incredible mystery of worship. The sense of mission must be done to the ends of the earth, in all corners of the world. Matthew 28: 18-20 captures the full extent of the mission, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

I bet with the inundation of Covid-19 sobering news sent through our inboxes, streaming across in social media threads, we must have become quasi-health experts (virologists and epidemiologists in our right). If probed, we possibly can explain how Coronavirus SARS-COV 2) infects and spreads. The untold pain, death and suffering it has caused humanity is unimaginable. Now that the risen Christ has been lifted up from our midst, it’s about time to let our faith be viral. It’s about time to let our actions/behaviors and the words that come out of our mouths be infectious that is, communicate divine wisdom.

There are many ways we can do to witness to the Christian story even if we didn’t see the marvelous works first hand. When we begin to talk about our faith and claim responsibility, invite and welcome wholeheartedly, reach out, know where you stand and engage society, join in the inner transformation, serve in the name of Christ, the story, little by little, inch by inch, piece and piece, becomes alive and real. In the interim, life without him must be spent in intimate moments with one another in prayer vigil while waiting for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit as scheduled next week. Amen.

PASTOR'S UPDATE ON THE FEAST OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD

Fri, 22 May 2020 21:15:00 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

Greetings of Grace and Peace!

I want to thank you for your patience and understanding at a time when we cannot come together and celebrate in-person the Eucharist, the source and summit of Christian life, the lifeblood of the Catholic faith. As we go through this very difficult moment in history, our faith remains to be our source of comfort.

THIS WEEKEND, May 23/24, all Sunday and Weekday Masses will continue to be livestreamed via St. Luke and Immaculate Conception Parishes Facebook and YouTube accounts.

https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCur5PHArizvcjeH3keZ7ylw

(St. Luke)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh2NYbiF45OFQK36-Mr6iQ

(Immaculate Conception)

I’m greatly delighted to inform you, though, that beginning THIS WEEKEND, MAY 23/24, 2020, on the FEAST OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD:

OTHER PARISH RELATED INFORMATION

https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCur5PHArizvcjeH3keZ7ylw

(St. Luke)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh2NYbiF45OFQK36-Mr6iQ

(Immaculate Conception)

Once again, THANK YOU SO MUCH…

In the service of Christ, the Lord

Fr. Jojo

DECLARACION DEL PARROCO SOBRE PROTOCOLO DE SEGURIDAD

Fri, 22 May 2020 21:10:00 GMT

Amados Parroquianos,

¡Les deseo gracia y paz!

Les escribo para informarles de la paulatina restauración pública de las misas dominicales, las cuales, empezaran a las 5:30 pm el viernes 29. Al reiniciar la liturgia publica, nuestras reuniones solemnes serán contabilizadas (capacidad para pocas personas).

Como siempre, preservar y salvaguardar las invaluables vidas, especialmente la de los vulnerables entre nosotros, es nuestra mayor preocupación. Mientras que nuestras necesidades espirituales y religiosas son esenciales, el riesgo significativo involucrado en la reapertura, debe ser tomado con consideración y seriedad.

Al establecer las preparaciones necesarias, nosotros observaremos las precauciones razonables, siguiendo las recomendaciones de salud y protección, asegurándonos que al regresar ustedes, el espacio sagrado, el ambiente de oración, tu parroquia y tu casa se encuentre lista, protegida y segura.

En la parte de abajo, presentamos para ti, el plan detallado. Por favor toma tiempo para leerlo y meditarlo. Si tienes preguntas, preocupaciones, sugerencias y/o recomendaciones, por favor no dudes en ponerte en contacto conmigo. Puedes contactarme en padre@douglascatholic.org .

INFORMACION GENERAL

CALENDARIO DE MISAS

PARROQUIA INMACULADA CONCEPCION

PARROQUIA SAN LUCAS

PARROQUIA SAN BERNARDO

LITURGIA DOMINICAL

https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/

(San Lucas)

https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/

(Inmaculada Concepción)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCur5PHArizvcjeH3keZ7ylw

(San Lucas)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh2NYbiF45OFQK36-Mr6iQ

(Inmaculada Concepción))

https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/

y a las 9:00 am de lunes a sábado (español) en la Inmaculada.

https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/

PROTOCOLO DE SALUD, SEGURIDAD Y LIMPIEZA

Muchas Gracias Padre Marco por la translacion.

En el servicio de Jesucristo, el Señor.

Padre Jojo

PASTOR'S STATEMENT FOR SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Fri, 22 May 2020 21:05:00 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

Greetings of Grace and Peace!

I’m writing to inform you of the gradual public restoration of Sunday Masses which will begin on May 29, Friday, 5:30pm. As we resume public worship, our solemn gatherings will be measured. As always, the preservation and safeguarding of precious lives especially the vulnerable among us, is of utmost concern. While our spiritual and religious needs are essential, the significant risks involved in reopening must be taken into serious consideration. As we conduct necessary preparations, we will observe reasonable precautions by following proper health and safety recommendations to ensure that as you come back, the sacred space, the worship environment, your parish church, your home, is ready, safe and secure. Below is the detailed plan laid down for you. Please take time to read and meditate. If you have questions, concerns, suggestions and/or recommendations, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me. I can be reached at padre@douglascatholic.org .

GENERAL INFORMATION

SCHEDULE OF MASSES

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION PARISH

ST. LUKE PARISH

ST. BERNARD PARISH

SUNDAY LITURGY

https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCur5PHArizvcjeH3keZ7ylw

(St. Luke)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh2NYbiF45OFQK36-Mr6iQ

(Immaculate Conception)

https://www.facebook.com/StLukeCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.facebook.com/ImmaculateConceptionCatholicDouglasAZ/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCur5PHArizvcjeH3keZ7ylw

(St. Luke)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh2NYbiF45OFQK36-Mr6iQ

(Immaculate Conception)

HEALTH, SAFETY AND CLEANING PROTOCOLS

In the service of Christ, the Lord

Fr. Jojo

TUESDAY MUSINGS 51920

Wed, 20 May 2020 00:59:00 GMT

Beginning this weekend, May 23-24, Holy Communion will be administered to the faithful at 11:15am, St. Luke Parish parking lot and 1:15pm at the Immaculate Conception and St. Bernard Parishes parking lot. Volunteers will be present to mobilize traffic.

If you or someone you know needs food or supplies, please let us know by calling the parish offices. In all times and seasons but especially, during disasters and plagues, the parish must a place of refuge for sinners as well as for the poor and needy. You should count on us to feed and nourish body, mind and soul.

In these troubled times, the most difficult words I tell a bereaved family is, only 10 people are allowed at the funeral/memorial service. My heart sank. Face masks/coverings are required. There’s no holding hands during the Lord’s prayer and no hugging at the exchange of the sign of peace. It’s not easy to find the words of comfort. What we’re going through is not only the loss of a loved one but also, the loss of rituals and mourning and the painful process associated with it. The bereaved family needs the physical presence of friends as a sign of support and sympathy at the funeral/memorial service. There´s not much we can do but to be creative and let our imagination run.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away including those who have died of the Coronavirus, and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

Enriqueta Escarcega, Virginia Aguilar, Otilia Curfman

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Sun, 17 May 2020 14:57:00 GMT

Chapter 14 of John’s Gospel is commonly described as a farewell discourse. What we have heard is a continuation of Jesus’ parting words which presents a theme of departure. This is the time when Jesus prepares his disciples of his departure from the earth and us. His disciples must have been devastated learning of his imminent departure. This is one of the most poignant moments in the life of the early church and also, in our liturgical lives. The pandemic robbed us of the Eucharist. And yet, he never missed to provide them comfort and assurance that it shouldn’t have been a reason for the baffled followers to disperse and to disintegrate, let alone a cause of fear and alarm.

The parting words is the promise of divine presence. This time, Jesus told the disciples that he would ask the Father to give another advocate to be with us always, the spirit of truth. An advocate is an intercessor, comforter, counselor, mediator, interpreter, a helper close at hand, a guide. The role of the Paraclete is to continue the growth of the persecuted and suffering community, to bear fruit. If this is the role and the job of the advocate, the spirit of truth, the world should not be hostile and unbelieving. The response is that because the world neither sees nor knows him. If the Johannine gospel was completed towards the end of the 1 ^st century, members possibly, have not seen Jesus face to face. This passage was an attempt to make sense of the situation. This story can be described as an emotion-filled departure as the case may always be but also opens up new windows of opportunity in life.

Jesus said, I will ask the Father and he will send you another advocate to be with you always. Paraclete is a special function and there’s no translation. The Paraclete is the Advocate, the one who provides encouragement, a cheerleader, the defender, the comforter (the one who brings comfort), the counselor (the one who gives you counsel), the intercessor (the one who pleads for you), the mediator (the interface between God and humanity), the interpreter (the one who enlightens you), instructor (the one who offers instructions when we find ourselves off the track), the consoler (the one who stands and stays with you when everyone deserts you), a helper close at hand and a guide, of course. As the advocate, he will make sure the distressed and the overwhelmed disciples hold fast to Jesus’ teaching. The paraclete will be the one in-charge of establishing continuity. The Holy Spirit will replace Jesus’ physical presence.

This advocate is the spirit of truth whom the world cannot accept, because it neither sees nor knows him. The paraclete is the spirit of truth, the spirit that communicates truth. The spirit of truth is the ongoing presence of the revelation of God in the world. In our daily spiritual exercises, the Spirit will continue to lead us into a greater and deeper understanding of the mystery of Jesus and thereby, make it come alive for us. Amen.

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Sun, 10 May 2020 14:56:00 GMT

After four weeks of resurrection appearances, Jesus shifts his tone to suggest a farewell discourse about this impending departure at the beginning of the 14 ^th chapter of John. This is the countdown to the magic 40 of the Ascension of the Lord and the great 50 of Pentecost. He lets them know that he won’t stay any longer and that he will ascend to the Father. He tells them not to be troubled and gives the assurance that all will be well. These are the risen Jesus’ parting words after spending quite a great deal of time with the disciples after rising from the dead.

Faith is precious. Faith is a gem. You’ll do everything in the name of faith. When you are down to the bare essentials, faith is at the top priority. At these troubling times, Faith is what keeps us going. The only thing the virus cannot kill is our faith. At a time when we can’t come together for public worship, we realize it’s worth. We feel we’ve have been robbed but the virus, the disease doesn’t follow timeline and guidelines. It’s not bureaucratic. We draw comfort to faith.

To say that we are going through rough times is an understatement. Perhaps, this is the toughest stage in our lifetime where unemployment skyrocketed since great depression, lost lives with no wakes and funerals for the deceased, while majority of us are reeling over such an tragic events. We cannot behave like we are unaffected by the increasing number of daily cases. We won’t feel comfortable and safe until the entire world overcomes this. Just like anyone else, we are facing death. Due to safety and health precautions, to safeguard the lives of people, the spiritual nourishment offered is limited compared to what we could have done. And yet, the daily visit and adoration is an opportunity to hold on and keep our faith. There’s nothing coming together to celebrate and worship God in public. We are deprived of communion of the Eucharist. While we expose the blessed sacrament for adoration on Sundays and weekdays, we mourn over not being able to receive the Eucharist. There’s nothing like the public celebration and joining in line for communion. The tangible presence cannot be replaced. We are distressed. We are stressed even staying at home. Watching TV interviews is a sobering reality. Some are relaxed but majority are very much concerned about the present and the future. It’s a life and death situation which means it cannot be taken lightly.

Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Jesus is the way of truth and life. Jesus is the way to the Father. Jesus is the lead guide that shows us the direction to God. He is the only one and there is no other. The example Jesus left us that sees the ones we normally ignore is the only way to God. This is the way to liberation, joy and happiness that includes sacrifice. More often, if you know the way, you take the side road but if it’s for the long haul, better take the freeway. The way to God cannot simply be reduced to a stress- free life, free ride or the road to prosperity.

When we walk in the way of the Gospel, we live the truth of Christianity. And the truth is, God loves us unconditionally. This doesn’t make sense but you know what I mean. The church, called upon to echo the love of God, becomes credible when she performs charitable acts. Whenever she does this, it is eternal life on earth. As we attempt each day to imitate Jesus, we hope and pray that we may become the way that leads and brings people to God and bring the God before to them, to live in integrity of heart and look forward to eternal life promised. Amen.

WEDNESDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK OF EASTER

Wed, 06 May 2020 14:17:00 GMT

We may not be aware but it's true that because of this shared crisis, all of us (no exception) are stitching/sewing a new, upgraded version and higher level of humanity (2.0). A shared life (togetherness) that is ready to face the new virus in the future. Whether you are staying at home or sheltering in place for the whole duration, don't feel bad, you're doing something for the greater humanity, one that is based on solidarity, empathy, sympathy, compassion and faith. These human and divine values go a long way, if not, a lifetime, even to eternity. As a parish community, we are, step by step, heading the outward-mission-oriented (not that it never happened before) religious institution. This, I've seen, is exemplified here locally and across the globe.

While majority of us are doing our part whatever it takes to end the spread (staying at home and sheltering in place), some brave individuals went out of the box, reached out, and risked their lives for others. Many of them are not in the health-care department. They volunteered to run errands to those who have compromised immune systems. They made DIY masks even if they didn’t know how to sew or eventually, learned how to make one. While meat factories/processing facilities have been hit hard by the crisis, community food banks are in full generous display.

Acts of the Apostles 12: 24-13:5a tells us in extravagant detail the two inseparable gestures considerably, constitutive elements of early Christianity which we can only express our admiration: help extended to the poor, suffering and needy and proclamation of faith. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 5/5/20

Tue, 05 May 2020 18:25:00 GMT

If you or someone you know (family member, relative, neighbor especially the elderly/vulnerable adult) need help with food, face masks or shopping for groceries, please let us know. Although parish offices are indefinitely closed, the staff are available to take your call and will be more than happy to assist you.

Out of love and care for our brothers and sisters, if you or someone you know, are willing to run errand for someone in the community, please let us know.

Let me share a bit of the readings today. The spread of erly Christianity was lightning speed and wildfire. Although at first the message was limited to a certain group of people, eventually, the proclamation of the Lord Jesus was shared to a large number of individuals. This transition from exclusive to inclusive was not easy. Any change is difficult for the people. And yet, a ll the while Luke tells us that "t he hand of the Lord was with them". They knew with full certainty that the Lord guided, directed and blessed them. We are told "a great number who believed turned to the Lord." In fact, w hen "Barnabas who was sent from Jerusalem, saw the grace of God, he joined, rejoiced with them and encouraged them to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart for he was a good man, filled with the holy spirit and faith."

As we devote the month of May for the Blessed Mother Mary, may the Lord continue to keep us all safe from harm, protect under Mary’s maternal care, shower us with the blessings of gratitude, joy, peace and love.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of those who have died of Coronavirus and the parishioners who recently passed away. We offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the bereaved families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

WEDNESDAY OF THE THIRD WEEK OF EASTER

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 14:00:00 GMT

Acts 8: 1b-8 grimly tells us of the severe persecution, one of the devastating stage in early Christianity. Only the twelve remained in Jerusalem while others, particularly, Philip who was single-handedly mentioned headed north to Samaria and scattered elsewhere, proclaimed the word, performed physical and spiritual healings and in turn, build new communities of faith. We all have heard of the famous quotation from Tertullian, “The blood of martyrs has been the seed of faith.” The witness and testimony of the martyrs, pioneered by St. Stephen galvanized and energized the other disciples.

Covid-19 is not an isolated event. This breakdown maybe a testament of the global human structure and yet, the collapse of our system brings new energy. There’s going to be a rebuilding of a new culture of humanity based on solidarity, I suppose. Our differences remain. Inequalities will exist for as we live. But if you and I know that someone is needy more than us, we have no option/choice but to help.

What have we become out of this mess? or rather, what have you become? Of course, we were afraid. We became fearful of life. Some of us took it lightly. We were caught off guard. Now, we find that our backs are against the wall. We never forget to turn to the bread of life, the unseen and the invisible that provides us all with wisdom and understanding.

We especially pray for the places that have emerged as the hotspots of Covid-19: nursing homes, factories/food processing centers, correctional facilities and if I forgot something, please feel free to add...Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 4/28/20

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 22:03:00 GMT

As you know, frontliners no longer refer solely to the health care workers, although the level of risk is greater and higher. This word has encompassed a wide range of areas and now, used to mean everyone sacrificing his/her life for others, that's heroism to the superlative degree. Hearing the story of the martyrdom of St. Stephen cannot be more timely and appropriate at this time. For that, we’re extremely grateful. I'm certain that this tragedy will take us to a deeper level of humanity. I don't mean wearing masks, observing proper hygiene and the likes which are definitely helpful. My personal sense is that as a whole, attitude wil change. We will be more sympathetic towards the needs of others. We will continue to be in solidarity especially to those who have been terribly affected and show empathy with the suffering. These are time-honored Christian values. For example, if I offer help or if I do something for you, you're not wasting my time and energy, it's a pleasure and delight to do so. We know too well the distraction and damage it has caused and no one remains unaffected. It impacts everyone. I sense, there will be less criticism in our dealings with one another. We'll be more gentle. We'll be more grateful for what we have and that is, life, relationships and faith. We will focus on what is essential. We'll be more loving, forgiving and understanding towards our neighbor. We will be supportive and extremely sensitive of the plight of the poor and the vulnerable among us.

If you or someone you know (family member, relative, neighbor especially the elderly/vulnerable adult) need help with food and/or shopping for groceries, please let us know. Out of love and care for our brothers and sisters, if you or someone you know, are willing to run errands for someone in the community, please let us know.

May the gracious Lord continue to keep us all safe from harm, protect us under Mary’s maternal tender care and shower us with the blessings of gratitude, joy, peace and love!

Join me once again in praying for the eternal repose of the souls of the more than 200,000 people who have died of coronavirus and our very own parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 14:22:00 GMT

We join the two disheartened and discouraged disciples who left the eleven in Jerusalem on the road to Emmaus, a place of rest, retreat, solitude and perhaps, leisure. They were at a loss. They didn’t believe the testimony of the eleven and the women in spite of what they heard. They were not convinced of the evidence brought that’s why they left the company. For them, the events on Good Friday was a colossal defeat. Their hopes dashed and expectations failed. It’s like everything’s gone in a heartbeat. How do you go back to normalcy? It’s Easter but it doesn’t feel like it. The sadness, gloom and despair is understandable. On the way, they met a mysterious stranger who engaged in tough conversation with them but seemed to be naïve and ignorant about everything that happened and is happening. It’s like talking to someone in denial of Covid-19. This was how this scenario unfolded. They described Jesus of Nazareth as a prophet mighty in deed and word. But “their eyes were prevented from recognizing him”. God prevented them in order to strike an important aspect of faith and resurrection appearances. The Risen Christ, though incognito, accompanied and aboserbed the pain and aches of the moment. Faith is gradual. Faith doesn’t come straight from up above. Faith is revealed. If you don’t believe, God won’t come to you. Remember, the risen Christ first appeared to those who have faith, to the inner circle, to people who belonged and closest to him, the disciples and the women. Faith is a way of knowing of the immense nature of God’s love. Faith is a lifetime process. Understanding the scriptures is a necessity. Jesus corrected them that what Christ’s suffering and crucifixion was a fulfillment of the scriptures. The passion was necessary to redeem humankind. This is the story of Christian redemption. Only after the scriptures have been explained did they come to faith. We learn as we walk. We grow as we live the trials and troubles that beset us.

We are in the middle of this pandemic. Although this crisis has inflicted grave damage on our lives already beyond imagination, we still don’t know the severity of the consequences. It has taken so much toll in almost all aspects of our lives. We can’t begin to imagine the lingering psychological impact. We can’t wait for this crisis to be over so that we can go back to our normal lives. We absorb so much the negative forces: the loneliness and isolation from the real world. It’s like death. We mourn. We grieve. We share our feelings and sentiments. But, tough times bring out the best in us. This is the stage in history (not that it didn’t occur in the past) when you see people risking and putting their lives on the line for others and helping each other even to the detriment of their own safety. Our community is no exception. We view our lives always in light of the scriptures.

As walk with Jesus and go through this difficult experience, we ask life and death situations. What if it happens to me? Where is God in all this? Is this crisis a punishment from God? Is God punishing us? Is this the same as the biblical plague? Is it God’s will? What are the theological implications? Can we talk about science and faith? Whose fault is it? Let’s find out. Who’s accountable? What does this crisis tell us?

Christ led them to the Eucharist. He took the bread, bless it, broke it and gave it to them. Isn’t this very gesture sums up our life? Jesus was made known to them in the breaking of the bread. The breaking of bread is our life. We see life in light of the scriptures. We understand the sacred writings. Then, our hearts are open. We learn to take care of the essentials in life. As we walk and meet Christ on the way, let’s name and identify three essential things in life.

In the end, we join them in saying, "were not our heart burning within us as we met him on the way?" It sure was. Amen.

FRIDAY ON THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 14:03:00 GMT

With intense fire in their bellies and with burning enthusiasm, the Apostles were fearless and unstoppable in advancing the name of Jesus. In fact, they felt good that "they had been found worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name (Acts 5: 41)." They rejoiced over embarrassment and rejection. Shame didn't matter. Otherwise, they would have retreated early on. To work and serve God was an honor and privilege. They were joyful for being the vessel of divine presence however costly and demanding. Faith in the resurrection of Christ was, in lay man's (secular) terms, a game-changer. Remember these are the same people who doubted and denied him just a couple of weeks ago. Now, what happened was the obvious truth. Gamaliel, a renowned teacher of the law, often described as a friendly pharisee, joined in the conversation, spoke to the people with fervour and asked the officials to let them go. He said, "...have nothing to do with these men, and let them go. For if this endeavor or this activity is of human activity or origin, it will destroy itself. But, if it comes from God, you will not be able to destroy them; you may even find yourselves fighting against God (Acts 5:38-39)." I tell you, this is one of the most chilling texts I've encountered in the sacred writings. Every time I come across this scenario, I get goosebumps. We are told, "both in the temple and at home, they didn’t stop teaching and proclaiming the Christ Jesus." How is your faith (individual and communal) lived and enlivened in the domestic church (home)? Amen.

THURSDAY ON THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 14:11:00 GMT

"We must obey God rather than men", says Peter. To say that the Apostles went through a lot doesn't come close. They were not afraid to be in trouble with the religious authorities. They didn't cave in to all sorts of conflict. They probably had a meltdown on a few occasions but it was taken with a grain of salt. They were prepared to face anything for the sake of the truth of Jesus Christ risen from the dead. God is the supreme authority in all things. While the whole country battle over the best route to take exercising cautious optimism, the common good (a very broad term) - the center of this most difficult conversation (health, safety and economy), there is a strong need to listen to all sides of the equation. There's nothing more important, though, than saving precious lives and the preservation of it. These are hot button issues. There are no easy answers. After engaging in straight talk, we take it to prayer and offer it to Lord. The wisdom and the words of John's gospel once again lifts our worries up and takes us to the heavenly realm of things. What better way to end this short reflection with the great Amen!

WEDNESDAY ON THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 13:45:00 GMT

God never leaves us behind in whatever circumstances in life. Faith cannot be quarantined. The inner life doesn't cooperate with lockdown. And so, the story goes. The angel of the Lord has already come upon us during stay-at- home, shelter- in -place moment. One one end, it feels like a house arrest. But also, it's a perfect time to be creative. There are lots of options other than going digital all day with our networked life. We absorb so much these days. Our imagination travels. Introspection kicks in every now and then. The world focus its attention on science for the hunt and discovery of the vaccine, therapy and treatment. The messenger of God shocked us again with the words, "teach about his life", the words of life, the teaching of the one who rose from the dead, the ministry of the source and author of life, tell us about your experience of the redeemed life - the converted and tranformed life, share your encounter with the with the risen Christ, everything he taught you under stay at home and shelter in place orders. The word of God begs not to be locked down for “God so loved the world the he gave his only begotten son that whoever believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life" (John 3:16). This crisis is a lesson on the limits of human system and power. While it brought us to our heels, it should also bring us to our knees. Amen.

TUESDAY ON THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 14:09:00 GMT

We are living under the threat of this global disaster. It won't escape us anytime soon. It's very tempting to go back to normalcy due to job loss and economic damage wrought. We are all affected including anyone who retreated into the paradise island. As you know, nothing is outside the realm of religion. This catastophe isn't just the burden of an individual, a family, a block, a town, county or otherwise but collectively, we all breath the same air day in and day out. You go out of your house and you see the negative effects of this tiny stuff. We argue and fight over what's best for everyone as a whole, the commond good which is a very broad term which includes health, safety and economy. We learned to take care of ourselves but at the same time, be on the look out for the well- being of others especially one who needs more help even if we have differing views. Division has no place during crisis. Acts 4: 32-37 reminds us that "the community was of one heart and one mind." A new humanity, a new world, a new US will surely emerge out of this peril. For example, if someone needs help, look no further. Barnabas (the Son of Encouragement) is worthy of mention for his fidelity and kindness. His example found him worthy of emulation. He became companions of the Apostles in their missionary journeys. Let’s spread the kindness and generosity like the Coronavirus. Thousands of lives have been sacrificed. John 3: 7-15 reminds us that we are "born from above," "that we will be lifted up by the spirit". We know, as believers, that we're heading to eternal life, a life promised by God, so much different from the here and now. Amen.

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 14:38:00 GMT

On the Second Sunday of Easter, we prayerfully listen to the conclusion of the resurrection appearances in the gospel of John and the faith of the (doubting) Thomas. The gospel proclaimed (John 20:19-31) dramatically recounted the surprising yet powerful double appearance of Jesus to his terrified disciples hiding behind closed doors for fear of the Jews (in the upper room, same place where last supper was held), afraid they might be next in line, something they tried to avoid at all costs. Suddenly, Jesus breaks in through the locked door and says, "Peace be with you and showed them his hands and his side (Jn 20: 19-20)." We’ve been told Thomas was not around when Jesus first appeared to the disciples.

PEACE settled in despite all the troubles and struggles of Good Friday. Jesus greeted them with the words, Peace be with you! What a huge relief! Everything is alright. Don’t worry too much about what happened. The appearance was an assurance that the Paschal Mystery - victory over death, has been fully accomplished in Jesue Christ. This is what all of us hoped upon entering with Jesus in the eternal city a couple of weeks ago. They were thrilled. He's back! For the second time, he said, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you (Jn 20: 21)." He breathed on them and continued, "Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained (Jn 20: 23)." These words left by Jesus gave the Apostles an all-important reason for the church's mission. He needs us to tell that frightening yet saving experience at the upper room. He counts on us...so much...I hope at the end of each confession, we'll be proud to say same as the Apostles, "We have seen the Lord! (Jn 20:25)".

While we are battling an invisible enemy whose nature is to spread like a contagion and cause as much damage, this Sunday, Jesus’ assured Thomas who said, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe” that "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believed." Although none of us is eye-witnesses, it doesn't make our faith and belief in the resurrection less authentic. A week later, Jesus came back and appeared again. He must have known Thomas' struggles and sentiments. This time, he said, "My Lord and my God."

The Acts of the Apostles, often called the gospel of the life of Christ, is a marvelous testimony of the transformation that shaped the early Christian community. They were not eye- witnesses and yet, it was not a hurdle to re-live and imitate the Apostolic example, the generation that preceded them. Chapter 2: 42-47 clearly demonstrates the very best in a Christian community. It is the most ideal in any parish dynamics. Togetherness is unmatched. Communal life is out of this world. Shared interests, mutual support and understanding went viral. This amazing story is the parish mission-vision statement in real time, the envy of so many. Their relationship with each other is the most important and cherished relationship in the world: Friendship that lasts and Fellowship that goes beyond the grave.

This happens when the risen Christ is at the center of community life. The presence of the resurrected Jesus is at the core of each member. Breaking of bread isn’t just sharing meals for the sake of physical consumption but prayer, an opportunity to praise the source and author of life regardless of what sort of food served in the table. We envy them but they were just as ordinary as we are experiencing job loss, risking lives for others, taking advantage of stay-at-home orders (spending quality time with loved ones), runing errands, watching TV, playing sports, exercising in the gym but there’s joy and great sense of awe in the way they conduct themselves. Within the group, there’s no division, no ugly attitude, no bickering, no infighting, no selfishness. There’s absolutely zero tolerance to negative energies. In so doing, they created a positive environment, a Godly ambience. Joy was highly contagious. Love was incredibly infectious. Little by little, unbelievers noticed them and they were drawn to it.

The word Koinonia, the bond that brought them as brothers and sisters propelled them to share material possessions. The moment you decide to share your precious possessions (time, talent and treasure), you must have reached a deep level of spiritual and religious life without you knowing it. They were in solidarity with each other which is where this crisis is leading us all. They took care of each other such that no one was needy and left behind. This human crisis sends a powerful message to us mere mortals whose existence is subject to a being higher than ourselves, God. We’ve learned to live by the essentials of life. Faith, belief, relationships and self-less love. Common good comes out in Catholic conversation quite often these days. Christianity is about risking life shown to us by Christ himself. It involves a lot of sacrifice. What does it mean to live this text in the here and now? How is our community doing? Does your group/ministry reflect the one described? If not, what are the things we have to work on?

As we break bread at our homes at any given time of the day, “may we eat our meals with exultation and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying favor with all the people.” Their houses became the primary places of worship. It was central to them. How do we worship at our homes? You hear a lot these days that humanity in general won't go back to normal lives ever again even after the discovery of vaccine. I hope what they meant was that solidarity will be the new normal, the new way of living, always looking out, reaching out for the invisible. Just like t he Christian community didn’t return to their former lives upon encountering the risen Christ which enlivens the church, I hope that we we will transcend from forced social isolation to a deep sense of community and fellowship, from suffering to faith-filled joy that is in Christ, and from self-love to selfless love. Amen.

THURSDAY IN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 14:20:00 GMT

The Octave of Easter is a sacred moment to encounter Jesus' many appearances in different times and place. After the Emmaus experience, he appeared to the Eleven disciples in flesh and bones. I bet if we were in the Upper Room with the disciples when the risen Christ suddenly appeared, we would have a similar reaction. We would have been troubled and amazed just like the Eleven. The Resurrected Jesus is not a ghost which all of them probably thought at first. They didn't recognize him as expected. They were in disbelief not because it wasn't true. Before all of them ran away in fear and trembling, the risen Christ asked them to touch his hands and feet. Even after all the touching, Jesus sensed it wasn't enough. Have you anything here to eat?, he asked. He got hungry talking with them and ate baked fish. Jesus' resurrection is a physical resurrection. it is a corporeal appearance but not that of the historical Jesus. He was not a ghost or pure spirit and soul. Thanks be to God for the four Evangelists who showed us in writing the resurrection appearances whose differences continue to enrich us. Amen.

WEDNESDAY IN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER 041520

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 14:26:00 GMT

On the evening of the same day as recounted by Luke, while two disciples were walking to Emmaus, a mysterious stranger met them on the way and conversed with them about everything that happened in Jerusalem for the past three days that this Jesus had to suffer, die and be raised. Since it was getting dark, they invited this stranger to stay with them and share meals. It was during the breaking of the bread that they recognized him. The Eucharist and the Mass was once the Breaking of the Bread as sharing meals and breaking our lives open.

We are on the road to Emmaus. Faith didn’t come straight from heaven. We learn as we walk. We grow from experience. We see our lives in light of the scriptures. For the daily churchgoers, daily Mass is what punctuates their day. It’s like something is missing if we don’t go and attend Mass even online. No matter how heavy the burden and the load is, the sacrifice of the Mass especially at this terrible time, provides an inexplicable sense of relief. We get a different vision in life. We learn to be gentle with ourselves and forgiving of others. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 041420

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 22:20:00 GMT

HAPPY EASTER! ALleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Easter Sunday is the beginning, not the end, of the Easter Season that extends 50 days culminating on Pentecost. It doesn't end there, actually. It makes up the entire liturgical cycle. Ordinary Time flows from Easter. Easter Sunday is the heart and soul of it all. I should say, the Paschal Mystery (Passion, Death and Resurrection). There's no Easter Sunday without Good Friday. The cross, which was a symbol of defeat and embarrassment, is now draped in white and has become the symbol of our redemption, the joy and gladness of our salvation. We don’t, we can’t and we won't forget the sadness and grief of Good Friday. It’s history. It’s a past event but it’s written and inscribed in our memories although we weren't there at the time it happened. Liturgy helps us bring back its power.

Easter is an eight- day solemn celebration from Sunday-Sunday. The scripture readings as they recount the events immediately after Christ's resurrection, are deeply moving.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION PARISH

ST. BERNARD PARISH

ST. LUKE PARISH

EASTER SUNRISE MASS

In the midst of these terrible circumstances, I've witnessed a marvelous outpouring of generosity and a wonderful and magnificent display of kindness. It's awesome. This expression of solidarity is humanity as its best, religion at its finest. This is the true spirit of Easter, selfless love. It's highly infectious.

EASTER SUNDARY EUCHARISTIC PROCESSION

As we brace for the worst of the pandemic, we pray for Douglas and Pirtleville and beyond. We pray for the speedy recovery of those as reported by douglasdispatch who have been affected at home.

Rafaela Arvizu, Marco Antonio Martinez, Luciano Gonzales III, Raul Perez, Dominga Pedrejo

TUESDAY IN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 14:07:00 GMT

The resurrection was unexpected, at least in part. On Easter Sunday, the grief-stricken Mary Magdalene came to the tomb first and discovered it was empty. She went outside weeping. Ours is a God of surprises. Today, Tuesday in the Octave of Easter, we listened to the same account again as the first witness of Jesus' resurrection and to whom the risen Christ first appeared. How come she went before anyone else? She was a close friend of Jesus in his earthly life. With Jesus and the disciples, she found true friendship. It was a friendship that transformed her and made her whole from the troubles of her life. Jesus led her to holiness and faith. In response, she generously supported the disciples' ministry and became a gracious benefactor. In this scenario, Jesus appeared to Mary as a gardener which she didn't recognize at first. This tells us that the resurrected Christ is able to penetrate to the man standing by, who happened to be a gardener. In turn, Jesus commanded her to announce to the disciples the resurrection. Loudly, she said, I have seen the Lord!

GOOD FRIDAY STATIONS OF THE CROSS

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 02:42:00 GMT

The Stations of the Cross takes us back to the fourteen episodes of our Lord’s passion from his trial, arrest and condemnation at the palace initiated by fellow religious people, to carrying the cross all the way to Golgotha- the place of crucifixion and his burial in the tomb. This popular Lenten devotion hopefully will bring and draw us closer to the last events of Jesus’ redemptive life. This ancient, and well-known devotional practice emerged out of the pilgrims’ desire (Egeria’s diary in the fourth century) to keep alive the incredible story of our faith in our local parish community. Our version of the Stations of the Cross is not even close to the original event. What I do as I lead this devotion is nothing compared to the first Good Friday, the once and for all sacrifice on the cross. No one can duplicate the Passion of the Lord nor claim to be too prepared for the live stations of the cross. While we reenact this sorrowful and yet extraordinary moving experience in our parish church as our version of Via Dolorosa, we will have a glimpse and be touched by the magnitude of the event. I am ashamed of the comfort felt inside the air-conditioned church, a roof above my head, the help provided by the volunteers setting up the musical equipment, the audio/visual, the environment, to name a few.

Stations of the cross is not a devotion that we have to go through on Good Friday. It is not something that we have to get done. We are making present a sacred event. We especially dedicate this time for those who suffered oppression, those under oppressive rule and victims of acts of violence. The horrors of Good Friday is too much to bear for humanity. We offer this devotion to those who have lost loved ones, to those who have experienced job loss in these trying times, to small businesses that have temporarily closed, to the courage and bravery shown by the front liners risking their lives for others. We offer this to those of us who have been immune and have become insensitive to violence. We lament over the death of innocent people and the more than 30,000 who have died of Coronavirus. We show compassion to victims of oppression and injustice. We stand in solidarity with the suffering humanity especially during this pandemic.

Today, while most of us are staying indoors, working at home, studying offsite, I am pleased to present and lead the virtual community in a solemn and prayerful commemoration of the Fourteen Stations of the Cross that originally took place on a hot and dusty Friday afternoon.

In this presentation, we want to focus not so much on the beatings and whipping but on the unsuspected betrayal of a close friend and ally Judas who turned the normal kiss of respect into an act of treachery all for thirty pieces of silver, the unexpected denial of a trusted leader Peter who promised his master to follow him to the point of martyrdom, the eventual desertion and abandonment of His disciples due to fear and uncertainty, the outright rejection of fellow religious people and the mocking by the soldiers. In spite of everything that he’d been through His sorrowful Mother Mary, his distraught Mother was there every step of the way. A complete stranger, Simon of Cyrene, lightened Jesus’ burden by sharing the Cross, Veronica, a woman who happened to be there, wiped His face and the women of Jerusalem’s deep sympathy touched Him.

We begin each station with this prayer: We adore You, O Christ, and we bless You. Please respond, Because by Your holy cross, You have redeemed the whole world.

WEDNESDAY OF HOLY WEEK

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 16:06:00 GMT

The unfolding of the cruel betrayal has been all over the place. For the past couple of days, Jesus informed us of the plan, his passion prediction and the would-be betrayer as a close friend, a trusted ally, an intimate companion belonging to the inner circle. In other words, the betrayer is an insider. We meditated on the development and prayerfully followed the event in the sacred writings since Palm Sunday and today, often called, spy Wednesday comes the execution of the treacherous plan. Judas delivered his Master into the hands of the enemy. He sold Jesus for thirty pieces of silver all for love of money, an all-powerful temptation.

Have you sold your soul?

Let us characterize Judas. I bet when he became a disciple, he had every intention to believe and was wholeheartedly determined to follow Jesus. But h ow did he end up in such a state? How did Satan convinced him to do such a scornful act? What happened to him is true in religious and spiritual life as we become closer to God. Truth is, we bring our human weakness into the company of faith. We take our baggage with us and not leave them behind. If we are not synced and tuned in, satan will get in.

When Jesus told them as they were reclining at table while eating that "one of you will betray me", it was unimaginably shocking to those around the table. T hey (the disciples) had no idea. They began to ask one another, "Surely it is not I, Lord." The tension within the group is palpable. I figured it made all of them uncomfortable. It must have ruined the whole dinnertime. As you know, it wasn't just a meal. It was a highly symbolic gesture: communion in every sense of the word. I thought we were in this together. Amen.

TUESDAY OF HOLY WEEK

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 16:19:00 GMT

This is the third time John said, Jesus was deeply troubled about the things to come and what he was about to reveal to the gathered disciples. The anxiety, the anguish and the torment is beyond belief. He told them, "One of you will betray me." It was mystifying. Everyone around the table was puzzled. They didn’t get it. They couldn’t believe that someone in their group would entertain such a treacherous act. They didn’t understand what he was talking about. If ever that was possible, they wanted to know. They were at a loss and so, am I as I immersed myself in the story. I also don't get the fact that the unfolding depths of God’s plan included someone to commit treachery. God allowed it. Once again, we ask the same question, did God need Judas to fulfill the scriptures? Was Judas necessitated? Could he have designed something else?

The beloved disciple seated next to Jesus' side leaned back and said, " Master, who is it?" Jesus replied, "It is the one to whom I hand the morsel after I have dipped it." So he dipped the morsel and took it and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot. The most devastating of this entire prediction is that the betrayer is an intimate companion. The traitor is in their midst, sitting with them in the table and sharing meals. A fter the handing of the morsel, "Satan entered him." Judas had a choice but he deliberately consented to Satan. He allowed himself to be possessed by the dominion outside God, a power that is irreconcilable with God. When you do such a thing, you are totally separating from God. There’s no middle ground nor gray area.

In life, nothing is worst than being betrayed by a close friend. Nothing is more devastating than being double crossed by a trusted companion. Nothing is heartbreaking than infidelity. After the betrayal, was he remorseful? Was he genuinely contrite? Did he ask for forgiveness? Or did he go in despair? One thing is certain, a betrayer is always a loser. Treachery is a no-win situation. Betrayal is the most disgusting of all. Have you ever been betrayed by a close friend? a trusted person? an intimate companion? Amen.

MONDAY OF HOLY WEEK

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 14:17:00 GMT

John 12 presents a scenario that happened just before our Lord’s triumphant entrance into Jerusalem, which we commemorated on Palm Sunday. Notice the attitude of Judas and our Lord’s reference to his burial giving us lead on what will happen in the next few days. Also, contrast the hospitality of Mary anointing Jesus with a costly oil whose fragrance filled the house and Judas’ reaction/response/complaint towards Mary’s actions about spending too much money. Jesus replied, leave her alone. Hospitality, being the number one virtue of a religious person, fills the house with the soothing fragrance. Mary’s generosity and love and Judas' objection about spending too much money where it could have been given to the poor wasn’t really his motivation. The anointing takes us to Jesus' impending death and burial. Today, Lazarus, whom Jesus raised back to life on the Fifth Sunday of Lent came back again letting us know Jesus’ association with the restored life with God. He sat, spent a great deal of time and shared meals with them.

We have entered into Holy Week. I hope that through the church’s liturgy celebrated virtually/digitally, we will religiously observe the mysteries of salvation, the story of our faith with great intensity and enthusiasm. Amen.

HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE OF SERVICES 2020

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 19:41:00 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

Grace and peace to you!

PALM SUNDAY (DOMINGO DE RAMOS), APRIL 5

HOLY MONDAY (LUNES SANTO)

HOLY TUESDAY (MARTES SANTO)

HOLY WEDNESDAY (MIERCOLES SANTO)

PASCHAL TRIDUUM

HOLY THURSDAY (JUEVES SANTO)

GOOD FRIDAY (VIERNES SANTO)

HOLY SATURDAY (SABADO DE GLORIA)

EASTER SUNDAY (DOMINGO DE PASCUA)

Blessings/Bendiciones,

In the service of Christ, the Lord

Fr. Jojo

5TH SUNDAY IN LENT

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 13:28:00 GMT

The miraculous raising of Lazarus is the greatest and the most spectacular sign of Jesus’ public ministry. The raising back to life of his beloved and dear friend Lazarus (God helps) is not just a result of their close and intimate connection (as it were it may have been a factor) but a marvelous demonstration of the glory of God of the one who is resurrection and the life. The resuscitation of Lazarus, although not strictly resurrection because although he was brought back to life, eventually he experienced physical death again, takes and points us to the days ahead, entering Holy Week, the Great Week, the Week of Salvation, leading us to the passion, death and resurrection of the one man Jesus Christ, the Paschal Mystery, the heart and soul of the liturgical year. It prefigures what will happen to Jesus in the coming days. This whole event while giving us a preview of his death and resurrection, also shows and manifests how Jesus responds to the one he loves, to those close to him, to sickness, death, grief and the miraculous restoration back to life after four days in the tomb. Jesus brings glory to the Father by bringing back life to the dead, a magnificent demonstration of his power over death. He is the Lord of life.

Today, on the announcement of the death of his friend, Jesus draws us into the reality of death. Lent reaches its peak on this event. He takes us into the realm of death, an inevitable aspect of life. Death is the most worrisome and the most fearful of all. There’s nothing worse than death.

On the fifth Sunday in Lent which is often called Life Sunday, Holy Mother Church joins the suffering among us facing the worst of Covid-19. As we battle this pandemic under lockdown and quarantine, self-isolation and social distancing, we bring our preoccupations and cares to Bethany, to the house of Lazarus, his dear friend. We join the church as she walks with us on the way to Bethany along with the disciples to comfort and to mourn. We follow Christ wherever he leads us. We follow the church wherever she directs us.

Today, Jesus deals with sickness, death, separation from life, his prayer over the dead and power over death. He visited the troubled and the sick. He consoled the bereaved family. He raised the dead to life. Life with Christ means not isolation. H umanly speaking, Lazarus’ sickness and his death, the grief of his sisters, family and friends are so central in our contemplation. Amid the terrible crisis, as the stats, the number of cases keep on rising with little signs of slowing down, we too are pierced.

Jesus showed concern and care for the sick especially when the sisters sent word, “Master, the one you love is ill” manifesting a deep affection to his beloved friend. Jesus was close to the family of Mary, Martha and Lazarus. His response was, “this illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”

Jesus wept with his friends. He mourned, grieved and consoled the bereaved family. As we watch on TV the increasing number of fatality, we join the world in grief. We mourn. We bring comfort and some measure of hope. We sympathize. We offer consoling words and lift our voices in prayer for the eternal rest of their souls. In the face of this present plague that’s ravaging and devastating us and costing so many lives, just like Jesus, we are moved by deep emotion and weep over the tragedy. He cried and shed tears which showed his deep attachment and love for his friend, his love for individual people. We are reminded that he spent the last days of his life before his death with his closest followers.

The grieving Sisters both expressed helplessness and hopelessness in the absence of Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." These words are powerful expressions of belief in the power and presence of Jesus. If you were here, he would have surely lived longer. These are also the sentiments of the families who lost loved ones. If only the whole world intervened before the crisis, if only there were more testing kits, if only there were ventilators and proper protective gears, more lives would have been saved. There’s anger, frustration and disappointed over what could have been done to prevent mortality. Jesus was perturbed and deeply troubled. He was angry at what happened. Jesus was much concerned over the disturbance and destruction of the soul. What have you and I done that contributed and added to the misery of humankind?

This episode draws us into the Christian understanding of death as a passage from the physical/material world to the spiritual. For us, death is not an isolated event. Death and resurrection are inseparable in the Catholic belief in the after-life. There’s no life without faith. The only way to God is to die and rise with him. Paul says that death is the beginning of new life. Ezekiel in his vision of the dry bones says, "I will put my spirit in you that you may live." You don’t have to do anything. How comforting as we move on to the next phase of lent.

Finally, let's heed depths of the the words of Jesus, Lazarus come out! We are the Lazarus! Jesus asks us to come out of the tomb of our sins. He invites us to rise all that is dead in us and put us back again in normal lives. Untie him, unbind him, let him go. Amen.

UPDATE ON COVID-19 3/27/20

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:18:00 GMT

Dear Parishioners, Grace and peace to you!

Blessings/Bendiciones,

In the service of Christ, the Lord

Fr. Jojo

UPDATE ON COVID-19 3/23/20

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 00:21:00 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

Grace and peace to you!

Please be informed of the following:

In case of emergency, in danger of death, please call the parish office.

Timely updates will be sent as new information becomes available. Also, please check douglascatholic.org

Blessings and Prayers,

In the service of Christ, the Lord

Fr. Jojo

FRIDAY ON THE 3RD WEEK OF LENT 3/20

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 23:07:00 GMT

When public places are mostly closed and many of us work offsite and study at home, we hear a lot about social distancing and self-isolation/quarantine but during these tough times, there’s also something that’s going viral, the stuff of life that’s trending which is getting a lot of attention and becoming contagious and infectious and that’s the increasing sense of solidarity and the overwhelming number of support on local, national and global level. Yesterday, I was told that parishioners brought canned goods in the office for the needy.

In a state of emergency, at a time when the normal course of our lives have been interrupted and almost brought to a halt: panic buying, hoarding food and stocking up supplies in our pantries which is a normal instinct is the name of the game. However, if there’s a needy person, we just have no option but to share what we have as today we are reminded of the two great commandments: to love God and to love our neighbor and that these two are inseparable. The proof that we really love God is, if we love our neighbor. While many of us are staying indoors and working at home, observing social distancing and following stringent measures, let us not forget the needy especially the most vulnerable among us, the elderly in our midst who probably are too afraid to run errands and buy groceries. Social isolation doesn’t mean the end of social love. Care for neighbor never slows down for us. Someone told me while that Douglas may be running out of frijoles and tortilla, love and care is increasingly overflowing.

In the midst of all these unprecedented troubles, there’s an outpouring of support. There’s an explosion of a deep sense of solidarity. There’s an overload of the love of God even if at this moment, virtual parish (as we may call it) until further notice pulls us together in the digital world.

This crisis will take us to a vision and level of humanity for the better. This crisis will make us better individuals. This crisis will bring out the best in humanity. They said, there’s no such thing as merely human or simply human. It’s either we are superhuman or inhumane.

Love of God and love of Neighbor start from the ground up, not from an expert, nor from a famous person but from us, in our inner circle. Generosity, forgiveness, care and concern for one another are engraved in us and not something we have to look outside. The two greatest commandments: love of God and love of neighbor are highly contagious too. In fact, they are more infectious than Covid-19.

UPDATE ON COVID-19 3/19/20

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 00:54:00 GMT

As a response to the rapidly evolving nature of Covid-19, please be informed of the following recent changes effective immediately:

Timesly updates will be posted as new information becomes available.

In the service of Christ, the Lord

Fr. Jojo

MUSINGS ON 3/18

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 02:56:00 GMT

How’s life under the threat of Coronavirus outbreak? What does life mean in the midst of this unprecedented global health crisis? It certainly disrupted and upended our daily (personal and work) lives in a way we probably have never seen before. Although developments in the daily press briefings are highly encouraging, we don’t know what will happen in the weeks and months head. The magnitude of this pandemic is just beginning to unfold. Schools, businesses and offices…places where people normally congregate and gravitate have been closed indefinitely including churches that’s why we’re going digital to better serve the Catholic Community. Although the public celebration of weekday and Sunday Masses including our carefully planned Lenten activities and other parish regular meetings and events have been temporarily suspended which means we won’t see each other in the church for quite some time, we want to make sure that the spiritual and religious needs of the parishioners are taken care of. Thanks to online life. This crisis provides opportunities to be creative in spreading the gospel, by that I mean not just the word but the reality, the experience and the encounter with God. We are live streaming our weekday and Sunday Masses, Friday stations of the cross and eucharistic adoration for healing.

When the book of Deuteronomy enjoins us to observe the statutes and decrees that you may live, the author refers to the inner life which us, modern people are desperately longing for. That you may live means that you may go through this, that you may overcome this hurdle, that you may get back to the normal course of life, that that the rapid spread of Covid-19 may quickly come to an end…

Our humble contribution is intercession.

Join me in invoking the Holy Spirit as we raise our petitions before God.

Let us pray…For the speedy recovery of the infected patients especially those who are severely ill…For the hundreds of thousands who had been exposed to Covid-19…For the whole world and for countries under lockdown and quarantine that the welfare of the citizens be safeguarded…For the overwhelmed hospitals and health care workers in the frontlines…For health experts engaged in the discovery of vaccines...For local communities and small towns such as Douglas and Pirtleville bracing for the onslaught of this pandemic…For financially struggling families and unemployed individuals thrown into economic difficulties…For all of us who have been deeply affected in all aspects of life…For anxious, worried, and fearful individuals (all of us sometime fall into this category) that together we place our trust in the arms of our loving God.

For the eternal repose of the souls who died of Coronavirus. Rest in Peace...

We pray for the migrants and refugees, the incarcerated, victims of drug addiction and the opiod epidemic, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, the gathered community they are included in the prayers of the community.

UPDATE ON THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 01:50:00 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

Grace and peace to you!

In accordance with the Diocese of Tucson Policies issued by Bishop Weisenburger and the recent recommendations set by the government ( cdc.org , azdhs.gov ) on the Coronavirus outbreak , with much love and care for the physical health and spiritual well-being of the faithful, to ensure our safety and protection, especially the most vulnerable among us, and in an effort to curb the rapid spread of Covid-19, the following Liturgical activities and parish events in the Catholic Community of Douglas – Pirtleville (Immaculate Conception, St. Bernard and St. Luke) are cancelled or suspended until Monday, April 6, 2020 (for now).

WEEKDAY AND SUNDAY MASSES will be celebrated privately for an end of the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic and to fulfill the scheduled intentions of all three parishes. Weekday Masses will be offered at 11am while Sunday Masses at 10am (English) and 12pm (Spanish), respectively. God willing, we’re going digital. Live streaming the Mass is in the works. The link will be provided later. The Sunday Mass obligation is dispensed for all parishioners of the Catholic Community. However, you are highly encouraged to spend time to reflect on the Sunday readings, recite the rosary and perform other Lenten spiritual exercises.

PARISH CHURCHES (St Luke Chapel and Immaculate Conception Church) will be open Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm for private prayer. Please observe social distancing.

Although PARISH OFFICES will remain open under normal hours of operation, please call first to see if we can address your question/concern over the phone or through email, instead of walking-in, in order to avoid social contact.

The RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM in our parishes is rooted at home and/or in the family. Although classes are postponed, I humbly ask the parents/guardians to lead the students in daily prayer, especially those who will receive the sacraments.

With the suspension of Sunday Masses comes a significant drop in SUNDAY COLLECTION . If you are not experiencing financial hardships, please continue to support your parish as we heavily rely on your remarkable kindness and generosity to sustain our daily operation. Please accept my deep appreciation and gratitude.

For timely updates, please check back here

In the face of this daunting task and with changing circumstances, let us invoke the Holy Spirit. With fervent hope, we sincerely pray that through the intercession of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Bernard and St. Luke, with the collaborative efforts of the various sectors in society especially those in the healthcare department, the Lord, our gracious God, the source and fount of life, will end the spread of Coronavirus here and across the globe, strengthen our belief, increase our faith, make us even more charitable towards the needy, shower us with the timeless blessings and gifts of peace, unity and selfless love to one another, and draw us ever closer to his Son, Jesus Christ, the Healer. Amen.

In the service of Christ, the Lord

Fr. Jojo

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 03:07:00 GMT

Panic buying, fear of the unknown and uncertainty in the future characterize the tone of the moment on a global scale. It disrupted our lifestyles in just a matter of weeks. The world has turned into disarray. Things are blowing out of proportion. Conversations are getting out of control. It will get worse before it gets better. It’s just beginning to unfold. It’s an evolving situation. We don’t know where this overwhelming crisis will take us. We don’t know the severity of this pathogen. We are all affected and no one is immune. At this time, we rely heavily on human ingenuity which includes cooperation and collaboration in all sectors of society. We complain. We murmur. We grumble. We point fingers to the powers that be for not responding quickly and for taking this situation lightly. This could have been prevented. We made tremendous sacrifices and drastic changes in the liturgy, things we won’t do on normal occasions. We observe protocol against our will for safety and wellbeing of those around us and to help contain, control and prevent the fast spread. What can religion bring into the table? Where is God in all this? Where is the power of God? Is the Lord in our midst or not? Is the Lord with us or not?

The first reading from the Book of Exodus recounts the murmuring of the Israelite people in the wilderness that ends up doubting the presence of the Lord in their midst and describes the miracle of water from the rock as God's response to their rebellion. This happened soon after the people had left Egypt. They were on foot for quite some time. They were exhausted and worn out by the travel. Glad for being released from slavery but things weren't happening the way they should. They ran out of water. They didn't know where to get it. It's probably manageable to run out of water elsewhere but not in the middle of nowhere in the desert. In Arizona, if you're thirsty, you're half dead. The use of water cannot be overemphasized. I’m reminded of the book I read few years back about Arizona history saying that it came from the Pima Indian word, 'alishonak', 'arizonac' whatever is correct, meaning, little spring (googled it to double check, quite right) and Tucson, chuk-son, same thing, small spring. In a place where water is scarce, what a joy and pride it must have been for them to behold a small body of water, an oasis, a clear indication of the means of survival, a source of nourishment and livelihood for the early settlers.

When the thirst escalated, it was almost by necessity that the people vented their fury against Moses. They were at each other's throat. It was like a lawsuit. We may not be aware of it but for someone to die of dehydration is pure and simple, dehumanizing. They were right. By logic, they had reason to complain then, "Give us water to drink" Ex. 17:2. In those days, in their thirst for water, the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "Why did you ever make us leave Egypt? Was it just to have us die here of thirst with our children and our livestock?" So Moses cried out to the Lord, "What shall I do with this people? A little more and they will stone me!"

The site in Rephidim where the incident took place was called Meribah, 'quarrel' and Massah, 'testing' to mark when the people tested God, complained and grumbled about not having enough water to drink and where Moses drew water from the rock. The place was called Massah and Meribah, because the Israelites quarreled there and tested the Lord, saying, "Is the Lord in our midst or not?" Exodus 17: 3-7.

The fact that the quarreling and testing ended up with the question, "Is the Lord among us or not?" was loaded, critical in the mind and heart of any believer. They want to feel whether God really cared for them or not. In moments of despair, when you don't feel that someone cares and shows compassion, you withdraw and back off, trust and hope wear you out. Crisis overwhelms us. That's for sure. When your life is falling part, it's hard to see the hand of God and perceive God's action, that in spite of this, you've received blessings. Only time can tell how God has shaped and molded and watched over us through difficult times. Remember, they rebelled against the God who has done so much for them. They forgot the past and the Lord's constant love for them.

So when God sensed the grumbling sounded a little too much, he intervened by telling/directing Moses to strike the rock which he faithfully did. As I wade through the passage, what surfaced was the fact that God didn't appear far and distant. He talked to them as if he was very visible standing in front of the rock on the front lines like an army commander, a coach at your beck and call, a shepherd in your midst. The Lord answered Moses, "Go over there in front of the people, along with some of the elders of Israel, holding in your hand, as you go, the staff with which you struck the river. I will be standing there in front of you on the rock in Horeb. Strike the rock, and the water will flow from it for the people to drink." This Moses did, in the presence of the elders of Israel" (Ex. 17: ) The water that gushed forth from the stubborn rock was a sign how much God loved them.

The story of Jesus encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well whose name was withheld is a major theme in the fourth gospel almost a continuation of the miraculous water in Exodus 17. By way of comparison, just as God gave water to the Israelites, so did Jesus to the Samaritan woman. There is so much involved here in John 4 particularly if it is read and interpreted purely from an exegetical point, apart from the liturgy. But, since it's the third Sunday of Lent, more so, in the presence of catechumens who will go through the first scrutiny, we'll focus on the two dialogues of Jesus with the Samaritan woman (4:7-26) and with the Disciples (4:31-38).

The Samaritan woman was just simply doing a daily household chore which was to draw water from Jacob's well that strikingly led to her encounter with Jesus who offered her living water and said, anyone who drinks this water will never be thirsty. She didn't expect that meeting with Jesus. First of all, she was a Samaritan. Her group had nothing to do with the Jews. Second, she was a woman. It was forbidden to talk to a Jew at 12noon, much less alone. Third, she was married five times already. And yet, in an unexpected moment in her life, crossing all the cultural barriers and religious boundaries, Jesus offered the living water. Jesus knew she was broken, fragile and wounded. You can look at this in many different ways but what stands out is the encounter was the background of the woman.

Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." His disciples had gone into the town to buy food. The Samaritan woman said to him, "How can you, a Jew, ask me a Samaritan woman, for a drink?" -- For Jews use nothing in common with Samaritans. Jesus answered and said to her, "If you knew the gift of God and who is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you do not even have a bucket and the cistern is deep; where then can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us this cistern and drank from it himself with his children and his flocks?" Jesus answered and said to her, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water that I shall give will never thirst; the water that I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw" (John 4: 7-).

St. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, perfectly spells out and connects the Exodus 17 and John 4 on the gift of God that has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. The gift of love that quenches our thirst.

The use of water as one of the essential/indispensable elements in life cannot be over emphasized. Water is life. It cleanses, quenches thirst, refreshes, vitalizes, and the source of strength and nourishment. Water in the bible is a symbol of the blessings the Messiah will bring. It is also associated with wisdom and the fruit derived from the study of the law. In the New Testament, Living Water is the teaching of Christ. In his dialogue with the Samaritan woman, water stood for wisdom. In the church, this living water associates the believer with the death and resurrection of Christ.

It's not by coincidence that Arizona came from a Pima Indian word, 'arizonac' meaning little spring and Tucson, 'chuk-son', village of the dark spring at the foot of the mountains, modern day A - mountain. People are drawn to water because it is a sign of life.

If you are wondering why the gospel suddenly shifts to John 4, the story of Jesus and the woman at the well, it’s because of the Living Water that Jesus gives which becomes the spring of eternal life and the catechumens as well as the candidates are in search for the wellspring of life, Jesus Christ, knowledge of him and relationship with him.

In the midst of the global pandemic caused by Coronavirus (Covid-19), in the middle of the Lenten season, we hear the story of Jesus and the woman at the well. We sincerely pray for the speedy recovery of the infected patients and safety of those who take care of them. We fervently pray that the rapid spread of Covid-19 will be contained and controlled. Whenever the world suffers, we, as individuals and community as a whole, though thousands of miles apart from our distressed brothers and sisters, are in solidarity with the rest of humanity but especially those (countries and individuals) who have been deeply affected. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 031020

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 03:36:00 GMT

We've followed the DIOCESAN PROTOCOL issued by Bishop Weisenburger on Thursday, March 3 as precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the various flu strains. Although it's flu season, we can't ignore the rapid spread of the highly infectious disease, novel Coronavirus (Covid-19). As of this writing, Tucson area in Pima County reported the first case in today's newspaper . Actually, the report circulated yesterday evening.

Last Sunday, we asked the churchgoers to (for the time being), r efrain from holding hands during the Lord’s Prayer, m ake a simple bow instead of the normal handshake and hug (un abrazo) during the sign of peace and r eceive communion reverently by the hand (in an open hand). In receiving communion in the hand, you have to place your left hand over your right. You cannot take the host (the body of Christ) from the minister. It has to be given to you to be placed at the palm like a precious gift. The body of Christ must be consumed infront of the minister. You cannot consume it on the way to the pew or wait until you reach your seat. The most difficult of all these temporary changes are the suspension of the distribution of chalice (the precious Blood of Christ) and the reception of communion in the hand (the Body of Christ) for those who, all their lives, have received communion in the tongue (the norm). Given this protocol, we're simply asking for cooperation for the safety, wellbeing and in solidarity with the community.

As an added precaution, h and sanitizers are available in the vestibule for the churchgoer's use before and after Mass, h oly water fonts are emptied. Don’t dip your finger on the stoup. A ll Presiders, Deacons, Altar Servers, Extra Ordinary Ministers will wash hands before and after Mass or use alcohol- based hand sanitizer and s acred vessels to be thoroughly washed with soap and hot water following Mass.

If you are sick ( colds, fever, with persistent coughing and sneezing), you are under no obligation to go to Mass. You can stay at home. Your cooperation is much appreciated. In so doing, you are making a huge (charitable) favor to the community gathered in worship and to your two resident priests who cannot afford to get sick. While greeting people after Mass in the vestibule, I discourage shaking my hands...I know this is unusual for affectionate people such as majority of the Douglas community.

We hope and pray that the spread of this disease (or whatever disease for that matter) will be contained through the collaborative efforts of the different sectors in society especially the government and the medical experts in the earliest possible time.

Please be reminded to support the 2020 Annual Catholic Appeal (Bishop’s Appeal). Please click here to give and help fund the 27 ministries in the Diocese of Tucson.

We pray for the migrants and refugees, the incarcerated, victims of drug addiction and the opiod epidemic, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick ( more importantly, the infected patients worldwide and the approximately hundreds of thousands who had contact with them ), hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

We prayer for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, the gathered community they are included in the prayers of the community.

Jose Berumen, Marlene Estock, Luanna Encinas

Special Prayers to the souls of those who have died of Covid-19 global outbreak

LENT SO FAR

Sat, 07 Mar 2020 22:47:00 GMT

Allow me to rant. Let me lament over the status of lent. Times have changed and the once mighty Christendom is on its tail end. We no longer observe lent the way it was done in the past and translated into practice in the present. If it is, it’s been reduced to a minimal degree. We caved in so much. We accommodated the dominant culture to the detriment of our own. Once non-negotiable, now optional and/or out of the list. Organized religion has lost its control in the lives of its own people. Given this scenario, what does lent mean in the midst of your busy lives? How do you take it seriously?

Lent is tough. It’s like doing laundry, washing dishes and cleaning our backyard. Lent is messy. It’s not tidy. Lent means decluttering. It’s spring cleaning. It’s a litmus test of how organized and structured our lives are. Ultimately, lent is about our soul, our inner life and disposition in relation to God and the church. Lent is a time to minimize excessive material pleasures, control our speech and discipline our behavior. There’s so much noise. Everyone wants to talk and be heard but many of the words are meaningless. Let’s spend more time in silence and solitude and listen to the voice of God instead. The Opening Prayer (Collect) in this Sunday's liturgy says it all,

O God, who have commanded us to listen to your beloved Son,

,be pleased, we pray

to nourish us inwardly by your word...

The absence of noise in silence will take us into the depths of life. The modern world desperately longs for this inward direction in life. What we merely have is a negative understanding of lent in preparation for the celebration of Easter. Just skim through the contents of this weekend's bulletin and you’ll see what I’m trying to get into. Lent is put in a negative light. It’s all about the ‘don’ts’ and what you and I have missed. There’s so much focus on the obligation to go to confession and the regulation of fasting and abstinence. It appears it’s all about the observance of rules and tradition devoid of any spiritual dimension. This is the strong disconnect between merely observance of the religious custom without the spiritual counterpart. Fasting and abstinence for the sake of obligation, for the sole reason of compliance is dangerous and risky. Don’t do that. We are missing it an essential component. Religious sacrifice and ascetical practice must always be accompanied with prayer. Prayer and fasting are inseparable. Otherwise, it won't have any impact at all. On Ash Wednesday, I asked the assembly the typical question, what are you giving up lent? Of course, it’s sin but shutting down external forces that can be channeled for prayer will take us closer to our goal. Just observe the examination of conscience on penance service, you go through the laundry list of negation. It’s about time to bring the Lenten season into the light. It’s about time to focus on the positive side of lent. Next time, you examine your conscience start with the love of God and not the crazy things you’ve done. View your sins in the context of the unconditional love of the Father in the parable of the prodigal son.

Happy Lent!

TUESDAY MUSINGS 030320

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 02:18:00 GMT

The Steubenville Missionaries are coming back to the Catholic Community next week. We're extremely excited to join them as they evangelize us on spring break. Again, I used the word 'evangelize', easy to say than done. It's a complex and complicated thing to do but worth it if you freely embrace it. As you know, there's a lot of preparation and commitment (spiritual, financial, logistics, etc) involved in their week-long stay. Please help me spread the word.

It drizzled on the way to the 7am and 9am Masses. Isaiah post exilic words, "Just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down and do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful...So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me void... (Isaiah 55: 10-11)" is timeless. God's word is essential for our religious and spiritual growth. We run away or hide from it but we can't live without it.

We especially pray for those who have been infected by the Coronavirus (Covid-19) and deeply affected by the growing global pandemic. We hope and pray that this will be contained earlier than later.

We pray for the migrants and refugees, the incarcerated, victims of drug addiction and the opiod epidemic, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, the gathered community they are included in the prayers of the community.

Jesus Luzania, Hector Montano

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT A20

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 20:53:00 GMT

Let me quote Blaise Pascal's words, “all the misery of mankind comes from not knowing how to sit still in the room.” All the mistakes and the troubles caused by mankind (including you and me) in the world/the existing cosmos created by the invisible supernatural being we call God can be traced back from our failure to calm ourselves down. On Ash Wednesday, we entered the season of lent, a special time to seriously recollect, to gather our scattered pieces and sincerely examine our lives. It is a sacred time to engage in prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Lent is intense. It is time-consuming.

To prepare for his public ministry (Matthew 4: 1-11), Jesus fasted (a humble act before God) for forty days and forty nights in the desert - the abode of evil spirits). We don’t know how he physically sustain himself but over a month of fasting will surely make anyone hungry afterwards. There are three dialogues between Jesus and the devil – the tempter, the tester, Satan. He was taken to three different places: wilderness, temple and mountain. The temptations were about his identity as Son of God, his divine origin. In his temptations, he remained victorious. In a world that appears to be controlled by evil forces, he demonstrated his power by quoting the Book of Deuteronomy chapters 6-8. His response to the first temptation is, “One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes forth from the mouth of God (Deut. 8:3)”. To the second test, he says, “You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test (Deut. 6:16)”. To the third, “The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve (Deut. 6:13)”. Get away, Satan! The first Adam disobeyed, the second (Christ) redeemed us. His temptations of material vs spiritual bread, trust in ourselves vs trust in God’s power, worship God vs other gods are our temptations, too.

On the first Sunday of Lent, he invites us to do the same, to join him in the battleground. He leads us into a familiar scenario. The spirit drives us into the desert, a dry and arid land where there's nothing except a space and time “to lengthen” (German word for lent) our relationship with God. Lent is a boot camp, a spring training for strength and conditioning to prepare for the long haul. For us who live in the desert, it's easy to imagine what it means to be led in the wilderness. If you've lived long in the desert, you know it's tough to survive. And if you do, you can live anywhere in the world.

The spirit summons us to spend a great deal of silence and solitude in the coming weeks on top of our packed and busy schedule. We’re going to squeeze and stretch our time. I understand we’re giving up sin but minimal use of phones, social media, TV, internet to divert and channel our precious time and energy for prayer will definitely help. In our solitary moment, we will experience disappointments and frustrations as we slowly discover and confront our pride, resentments, grudges, selfishness…to name a few. We get to know clearly our temptations, our demons, shortcomings, blessings and gifts. After this, I can almost guarantee, we will come out alive, transformed and spiritually reawakened.

In these forty days of lent, I invite you to spend if you can (an hour, 30 min or 15-minutes) of daily quiet time with God. This special closeness with God called solitude is also a time of extreme danger and great temptation as we will be exposed into the pernicious workings of the devil. However, once you decide to break your routine and seriously make prayer a habit-the new daily drill, the devil will be very worried about you and you will be his prime target. If you take time to examine yourself, your life and relentlessly search God, he will interfere into your personal life and stop you. Drive in the middle of nowhere, go hunting in unfamiliar terrain and you'll experience extreme danger and fear among wild beasts. Behind wheels, you can lower your window to get a breath of fresh air, turn your car stereo's volume at max level and sing on top of your voice but you can also do the exact opposite, that is, lower the window, turn off music and talk to God about anything.

This Sunday, SIN AND TEMPTATION is the main theme. The first reading from the book of Genesis 2: 7-9; 3: 1-7 presents the creation of the first man, his placement in the garden of Eden, the temptation (the dialogue between the serpent and the woman), the fall and the account of sin. Genesis 3 carries a lot of weight in Christianity. In fact, the doctrine of Original Sin emerged from this episode of the fall. Humanity came from a Hebrew word ‘Adamah’ meaning ground/dust. Although this is a significant text to reflect on creation, we will spend more time on sin and temptation. In the scene, the snake appears unexpectedly and interrupts the perfect life in the garden. Then, the snake engages the woman in conversation about the Lord’s instruction, ‘you will not die’ (Genesis 3:4). The serpent, described as the most cunning of all the animals, a great manipulator. The serpent represented by the snake is a fallen and rebellious creature. The author inserted this mysterious character here to tell us the masterful power of the devil that is capable of ruining any decent life of an individual or institution (religious and secular). I’m sure you’ve heard stories about good people gone bad. Knowing him/her, I can’t believe he/she did that. He/she was such a good and holy person. I don’t know what happened. The reason for any fall from grace is, has and will always be the inscrutable power of the evil one. Movies, documentaries, TV shows, telenovelas share the same idea. Humans are vulnerable to temptation. Mankind easily fall into deception. There’s a saying, I trust you but I don’t trust human nature because it’s prone to fail. That’s exactly what happened. The woman was deceived about the possibility to be like God able to know good and evil. The cause of sin then is the desire to be like God. The inclination to be like him is the reason for the fall. If we are made in the image and likeness of God, is it fair to be like him? No, it was disobedience. It was idolatry. But how come it was the woman who engaged with the serpent and not the man? Good question. Blame it on the author. We’ll discuss it some other time. Accordingly, woman was overcome by the desire for wisdom as many of us do, ate the forbidden fruit and immediately, her eyes were opened. Realization comes after the fact. Regrets come at the end. And yet, sin is known by faith. Amen.

ASH WEDNESDAY 20

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 15:06:00 GMT

What we are giving up for Lent is sin, not social media, TV, chocolate or soda. Though they help us from engaging in guilty and excessive pleasures and comfort instead channel our quality time to prayer, bodily sacrifices and almsigiving. Joel said, “Even now, says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping and mourning; Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God.” Joel knows better than anyone. Many Catholics will come to church to get ashes. Some are sincere, others not. What I mean is that getting ashes for the sake of getting ashes defeats the purpose of the day. Getting ashes means repentance. In so doing, we are joining an ancient ritual of acknowledging human nature as frail and weak and renouncing sin and sinfulness. Give up sin and anything that leads you into it.

Let me share the prayer for the blessing and the distribution of ashes:

Dear Brethren, let us humbly ask God our Father that he be pleased to bless with the abundance of his grace these ashes, which we will put on our heads in penitence.

O God, who are moved by acts of humility and respond with forgiveness to works of penance, lend your merciful ear to our prayers and in your kindness pour out the grace of blessing on your servants who are marked with these ashes, that, as they follow the Lenten observances, they may be worthy to come with minds made pure to celebrate the Paschal Mystery of your Son.

At the distribution of ashes, the two formula may be used:

Repent and believe in the Gospel…Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.

Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.

And this, Prayer over the People for the final blessing:

Pour out a spirit of compunction, O God, on those who bow before your majesty,

And by your mercy may they merit the rewards you promise

To those who do penance.

Through Christ our Lord.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 022520

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 02:02:00 GMT

Tomorrow, February 26, Ash Wednesday is a universal day of fasting and abstinence. We begin lent with ashes on our foreheads to symbolize the need for repentance as individuals and as a whole. We focus with great intensity on our sins and sinfulness. We refrain from guilty and excessive pleasures. We spend enough time for prayer, fasting and almsgiving. What we are giving up on lent is not simply soda, social media, TV and the likes but sin. The externals help us avoid occasions of sin but they are not ends in themselves. Our bodily sacrifices lean us into the deepest truth and beauty of faith such as reconciliation with God and neighbor.

Congratulations to those who joined in the wedding anniversary mass last Saturday, February 22, 2pm, St. Luke Hall.

We pray for the migrants and refugees, the incarcerated, victims of drug addiction and the opiod epidemic, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

We include in our prayers the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, the gathered community they are included in the prayers of the community.

7TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 18:03:00 GMT

This Sunday's gospel (Matthew 5: 38-48) is the climax of the antitheses: turn the other cheek, hand your cloak as well, go the extra mile, give freely, love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you. Similarly, the first reading from the book of Leviticus 19, a book bursting with God’s command to be holy and to be loving, located right at the center of the Pentateuch and the Gospel from Matthew asking us to be perfect as our heavenly father is perfect along with its heavy requirements provide us many things to ponder.

it starts off with the law of retaliation (lex talionis), “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” which is a fair and just law by ancient standards and suggests personal responsibility and accountability for one’s actions. It’s a revenge (best described as crime and punishment) but its purpose is to keep the matter from getting worse. Although it’s unthinkable in the American setting to turn the other cheek to an aggressive attacker, much less allow yourself to be slapped in the face with either hand even once, whoever does that (bullying 101) needs help. To be slapped on your right cheek is worse than the left as it deliberately brings insult and assault to the victim. If someone asks for your tunic/shirt (the inner garment that covers the whole body and touches the skin), hand your cloak (the outer larger/heavier garment) as well even if obviously you'll be left with nothing. If your oppressor or someone higher than you force you into service for one mile, double it, go the extra mile. “Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow”. Would you tolerate a slanderous person if the reputation of an individual, community and institution is at stake?

“love your neighbor and hate your enemy” may have its reference to Leviticus 19:18 but there’s no Old Testament commandment to hate one’s enemy. That’s unimaginable. If people engage in battle and go to war, they follow the law of retaliation which goes into a vicious cycle. Now comes the cream of the crop. But I say to you, “love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you.” The enemy here refers to those who harm you, oppress you and inflict evil upon you. The person whose fashion style, hairdo, looks and outside appearance you don’t like, doesn’t fall into this category. E nemies are the ones causing oppression and making life difficult for you and me. Christians are meant to break the cycle of hatred and revenge through non- violence/retaliation. Who are your enemies? I'm sure we do all have. In the biblical times to this day, hatred, revenge, violence, retaliation and holding grudges have been fairly understood as necessary evil, a powerful tool for a just and humane society. Dialogue is necessary to fulfill the church’s mission, Christ’s command. In such a magnitude as wiping terrorism and the other isms, what we have so far learned if the current state of societal and global affairs is any indication, the normal and last recourse to attain peace is war and violence. If you want peace, work for justice.

We are down to the last verse, “Be perfect just as your heavenly father is perfect.” We are called to be holy, to be ‘other’, to be different, to separate ourselves from the ways of the world, to pattern our lives after the example of Christ. These commands are God’s plan for a thriving and peaceful society which can be summed up in the Universal Call to Holiness and Perfection inscribed in the Vatican II’s Dogmatic Constitution on the Church Lumen Gentium, Chapter V. The opening verse of the first reading says it all, “Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them: Be holy, for I, the Lord, your God, am holy (Lev. 19: 1-2).” This exhortation to imitate God is communal. Holiness means character that shapes actions and not simply piety. The litmus test of being holy and perfect is determined by the manner in which we relate with one another. Love of neighbor is central.

As a people of God, we are summoned to a higher level of existence that we may lit up the world by doing the exact opposite: work wonders, seek no revenge, don’t slander, hold no grudges, turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, be generous enough, lend and don’t refuse anyone in need, hand even the tunic when asked for a cloak, love your neighbor, love not only the lovable, but go deeper even a step higher, even your enemy, seek what is best for both, people who, even without provocation, make your blood pressure go up, those who do you harm, those who ruin your name, those who unjustly take your possessions and destroy your reputation and pray for your persecutors.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 021820

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 02:06:00 GMT

The historic community mass wedding took place last Saturday, 2pm at St. Luke Parish. Six couples joined the first ever group wedding. Families, relatives, friends and guests graced the solemn and profoundly moving occasion. It was intensely emotional. I got carried away many times. We made it! We'll do it again next year February 13, Saturday, 2pm. Mark your calendar. Save the Date. Help us spread the word. The more the merrier.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEWLY-MARRIED COUPLES:

Mr. and Mrs. Esteban and Nathania de la Cruz

Mr. and Mrs. Raudelio and Maria Teresa Dillman

Mr. and Mrs. Enrique and Susanna Hurtado

Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy and Jeanette Plyler

Mr. and Mrs. Martin and Cheryl Ruppert

Mr. and Mrs. Jakob and Savanna Shilt

I've started the CONFIRMATION INTERVIEWS last week. I'm deeply awed, greatly delighted and impressed by the confirmandi's chosen service hours and projects mostly assisting the catechists in religious education on Sunday following the 9am Mass.

Please support the 2020 ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL (Bishop’s Appeal). Please click here to donate.

We pray for the migrants and refugees, those in harm's way, the incarcerated, victims of drug addiction and the opiod epidemic, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 021120

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 19:29:00 GMT

As we dedicate this day for all the sick (World Day of the Sick), not only the sick members of our community but also those (families, relatives, medical profession, hospice care, adult care, assisted living, nursing homes) who take care of them in so many capacities. On the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, whose first apparition took place on February 11 and lasted for 6 months, on the anniversary of Mary’s heavenly visitation, we pray for healing and recovery, compassion and much love. May the power of the ritual of the holy anointing, the words and gestures, the ministry of presence, the heartfelt support, bring healing and comfort to the sick!

THROUGH THIS HOLY ANOINTING MAY THE LORD IN HIS LOVE AND MERCY HELP YOU WITH THE GRACE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. MAY THE LORD WHO FREE YOU FROM SIN SAVE YOU AND RAISE YOU UP...

Tonight is the beginning of the long series of confirmation interviews. I expect them (Confirmandi) to recite (or better yet, pray) by heart the basic prayers and other info which include (The Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Act of Contrition, Nicene/Apostles Creed, Seven Sacraments, Ten Commandments, the stuff of confirmation and anything in between). I will ask them to discuss their letters to the Bishop, their chosen confirmation saint and sponsor along with their completed community service hours.

Here's the link to the Holy Father Francis' post-synodal Apostolic Exhortation Querida Amazonia (Beloved Amazon).

We pray for the migrants and refugees, those in harm's way, victims of drugs and opiod epidemic, the homebound, the sick, the cancer patients, the terminally ill and the dying.

We pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, the community gathered in worship of our Lord will continue to pray for the eternal repose of our deceased brothers and sisters.

Elizabeth Ames, Amelia Arzate, Mary Ross, Isela Verdugo Beltran, Nancy Alvarez Baltek

5TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A20

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 20:00:00 GMT

What a relief as Jesus employs the metaphors of salt and light to describe what it means to be a disciple. In the ancient of days even now, salt is greatly valued, nicknamed 'divine' because of its many uses which cannot be overemphasized. With its crystal glistening sparkling white, iodized or not, it's known as the purest and most useful of all things to offer sacrifices, to preserve raw meat/fish and for seasoning. In restaurants and food chains, it occupies the center piece of the table along with black pepper, soy sauce, ketchup, cilantro, lime, salsa, chili hot sauce, picante...etc...

Jesus exhorts his followers that they must be perfect examples of purity and modesty against a morally corrupt, dwindling and drifting society. Just as salt is used for preservation, they must prevent a godless, soul- less world (claiming there's nothing beyond the physical universe) from decay, from getting rotten by greed and immorality. Just as salt is used for seasoning, Christians must add distinctive flavor with giddy excitement to life, act as diffusers to joy, to enliven, to season, purpose-driven service, mission-oriented ministry, bring energy and enthusiasm to a tired, worried, distressed and declining congregation. The Mass must put smiles on our faces. We are diffusers of joy, dispensers of happiness to those who find it, messengers of hope, providers of love to those deprived of it. If we cease to bring joy, if we stop putting life, then we invite disaster. A story is told about the first Christians being trampled at the door of the church if they cease to do their job of bringing joy to others.

Jesus addressed his followers directly with the words, "You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." Christianity is a risky and dangerous business in the sense that there’s no middle ground. There’s no gray area. It’s either you are a Catholic or you are not. If salt loses its taste, it’s good for nothing. By the same token, if we don’t bring goodness to the world, then we are worthless and the world suffers.

Light is meant to be seen- to be visible. It is also used as a guide that serves as a warning-for danger ahead. If you see something, say something. If you know someone's life/manner of living is eating that person alive and is going down the slope, you have to come to the rescue and have the courage to tell that person even if it hurts. I've heard stories about people from all stages in life saying they would never have done such a terrible thing if they were well informed and received support through the kindness of individuals. It can be very effective if it's done always out of love and charity and not in anger, judgment and condemnation.

What is the goal of good works? How come we do what we love to do? The creed we professed Sunday after Sunday doesn't stop at the church's door but must be lived and applied out in the ordinary, not for vanity or ostentatious display. Our humble attempt at living the beatitudes, our words and languages, our work ethic and behavior, are meant to reveal the father. We engage in good works by providing food, shelter and clothing not because we want the needy to feel good about themselves nor for our own benefit and spiritual wellbeing. We perform them that people see the Father in us. There is no such thing as secret discipleship. Religion may be personal but not private. The essence of Christianity is to glorify the heavenly father.

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lamp stand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly father" (Mt. 5: 17-18).

FIRST READING

"Thus says the Lord" is quite a familiar phrase which usually appears at the beginning of a text but seen and heard, sounds less appealing mostly in quick reading. However, the mere fact that Isaiah starts off with what God says, he wants his hearers to know that the message comes from God and not his own. The bible is not just a piece of literature inscribed for inspiration, it’s divinely authored. The Prophet powerfully presents one of the most perplexing moral questions of all time on the quality of our worship stressing the need to share the basic human need: food, shelter and clothing to/with the needy. Failure to do so leaves a lot of evidence to the contrary. There was no mention of surplus. To share (paras) means to break in two regardless what you have and not wait until you get enough. A recent disturbing report says that the wealth of the 85 richest people in the world is equal to the 3.4 billion people combined. Whenever there's poverty, people lacking the basic necessities of life, something has gone wrong.

Therefore...Isaiah continues..."share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn back on your own" (Isa. 58: 7). Our minds may probably be traveling miles ahead intent on giving away our garbage, the stack of slightly used slash like new, untouched, unopened items in original packaging still with the price tag in the garage. Or maybe, if you just want to get rid of a pile of clothes, wrap them in a plastic bag as the case may be, bring it on, drop it anytime. Your surplus may be someone else's treasure.

The Eucharist has a social dimension. It is inextricably linked with a duty to the needy even if we claim to be one with them. What happens in the liturgy (the work of the people) then is inseparably connected with the world. What we do afterwards is essentially a result of worship, an effect of what transpired in the Mass. To share then is a responsibility, not an option and nor a suggestion. If fulfilled, it brings joy, happiness, healing, favor, blessings and it is, by far, the most visible, credible, reliable evidence of our belief and communion with God. "Then you light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed; your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard " (Isa. 58: 7-8). There's a price, there's a reward for selfless living. And yet, he doesn't end there. The second part illustrates additional social concerns which are expected of those who have committed to the Lord:

"Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer, you shall cry for help, and he will say: Here I am! if you remove from your midst oppression, false accusation and malicious speech; if you bestow your bread on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted; then light shall rise for you in the darkness, and the gloom shall become for you like midday" (Isa. 58: 9-10).

SECOND READING

In the second reading, Paul insists that his source of inspiration isn't human wisdom, neither to expose his resumé or cleverness of speech as many of them probably thought but Christ crucified. He was unassuming. He didn't presume he knew-it-all with full confidence turning things around. "For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling, and my message and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of Spirit and power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God" (1 Cor. 2: 2-5).

TUESDAY MUSINGS 020420

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 01:27:00 GMT

Marriage is a mystery (Gr. mysterion., Latin, Sacramentum). Although we spend a great deal of time preparing for the lifetime 'absolute' commitment, aware of woeful human weaknesses and limitations, we only know 50% of this life upon entry, after the exhange of "I do's". As we dedicate February 7-14 as National Marriage Week, let's celebrate the sacrament of matrimony and renew marriage vows. For more info on marriage preparation and enrichment, click https://www.foryourmarriage.org/ and https://portumatrimonio.org/ .

Below is a prayer for Married Couples on World Marriage Day, Sunday, February 9

We pray for the migrants and refugees, the needy, the homeless, those in harm's way, victims of drug and opiod epidemic, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Jose Edgar Aguirre, Francisca Luzania, Gustavo Luna, Xavier Herrera

THE FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 16:37:00 GMT

The Old Stoics saying sounds true that a child was not given to a parent but only lent. Children are gifts to God to us and our role is to bring them back to him. The feast of the presentation of the Lord, this year falls on a Sunday overrides the 4 ^th Sunday in Ordinary Time, was celebrated in Jerusalem as early as the 4th century originally known as "the Day of Simeon". In the course of several centuries, epochs and era, it became a commemoration of the purification of Mary until 1969. The idea is that the presentation is the fulfillment of the prophecy of Malachi, “And suddenly there will come to the temple the LORD whom you seek, And the messenger of the covenant whom you desire” (Mal. 3:1). In accordance with the law of Moses, forty days after childbirth, Mary and Joseph visited the temple and dedicated Jesus to the Lord in a special ceremony to mark that he belonged to God "when the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord" (Lk. 2: 22) just as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord" (Lk. 2:23-24) for those who cannot afford a lamb for sacrifice.

There in the outer court of the temple inscribed in chapter two of Luke's gospel, proclaims and highlights the ‘aha’ moment of Simeon, described as just, righteous and devout, whose dream came true that he wouldn't see death until the prophecy was fulfilled. In a moment of joy, he uttered a short and great prophetic hymn "Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel” (Lk. 2:29-32). This is the Nunc Dimitis – the Canticle of Simeon recited during night prayers (Compline). Simeon and Anna, both prophets and worshippers of God, spent their lives waiting for “the consolation of Israel” for the day to meet with the Lord, not only for themselves but for all God’s people. They represented the hopes and dreams as well as the longing and the desire to see the Messiah and the redemption of their own people. One of the most moving gestures in the scriptures happens in this episode when Simeon took the forty day old baby and held him into his arms. Simeon received the frail and weak baby and carried him. I can imagine this scenario at baptismal rituals with the presider warmly welcoming the family and everyone present and all eyes on the infant. Que bonita Bebe! After saying he had seen the salvation, he was ready to depart, to go in peace, to die that the child presented by his parents "will be a revealing light to the Gentiles and the glory of your people Israel" (Luke 2:32). It’s like saying, game over! I’m done! I’m ready to go! Take me now Lord! Simeon and Anna spent their lives waiting for this day to see the child promise. Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradiction --- and you yourself a sword will pierce ---, so that the thoughts of hearts may be revealed" (Lk. 2: 34-35).

By the end of the 7th century, this was celebrated in Rome on February 2 with the addition of a Candlelight procession which might have been borrowed and taken from the pagan practice of procession around the city walls. Here’s a reflection on the symbolism of candles at procession by the Dominican Friar Jacob Voragine, “On this feast day we too make a procession, carrying in our hands a lighted candle, which signifies Jesus, and bearing it into the churches. In the candle there are three things — the wick, the wax, and the fire. These three signify three things about Christ: the wax is a sign of his body, which was born of the Virgin Mary without corruption of the flesh . . . ; the wick signifies his most pure soul, hidden in his body; the fire or the light stands for his divinity because our God is a consuming fire. (The Golden Legend, “On the Feast of the Purification of Mary”)

Eventually, it came to be known as the presentation of the Lord with the Candlemas. Because of this account, Hypapante, feast of the Meeting/Encounter in the eastern tradition emerged in the 5th century known as Candlemas. Up until 1969, this was a Marian devotion called the Purification of Mary. Whatever the background, what it communicates is that the offering simply means that all life come from God, belong to God and our lifetime, hours, jobs, livelihood must be devoted in service of the Lord and the world.

On the day of our baptism, our parents were given a candle lit from the paschal candle, the symbol of the presence of Christ in our midst. What went on with that light? Do you still have them? Are they adorned in your little altar? Are those candles still burning? If not, we might as well increase our prayer time and meditation and silence to know what's important, what's necessary, and what matters most. Our participation in the Eucharist and joining in the communion line to share win the breaking of the bread will help us nourish that life just in case it was extinguished long time ago. As we contemplate the depths of the mystery of the presentation of the Lord, the feast tells us that obedience to the precepts of the Lord is essential to spiritual and religious growth for our salvation. This feast is about fulfilling the sacred duty to present and bring the incarnate Christ-child, forty days after Mary delivered her son in the house of the Lord in accordance with the law and tradition. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 012820

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 23:04:00 GMT

What separated St. Thomas Aquinas from his contemporaries was that he relentlessly asked questions and sought answers. He practically had more questions than answers which eventually produced voluminous writings (Summa Theologiae), considered as one of the greatest theological works in history. If he were alive, he would have millions of followers in social media. As someone in the academe, he loved to field questions about God as in anything under the sun. For him, a saint is someone who is ready to accept failures and mistakes. All ministers in some way fall short of God's expectation. Before he died, he humbly admitted that inspite of all his glorious achievements and honors gained, they are all but straw before the unfathomable mystery of God's love. St. Thomas Aquinas, the Angelic Doctor, pray for us!

This Sunday, the feast of the presentation of the Lord in the temple overrides the fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time because of the significance of the fourth joyful mystery. Once again, we contemplate on the depths of this reality which tells us that obedience to the law of God is essential to religious and spiritual growth. It's about fulfilling the sacred duty to bring and present the incarnate Christ-child in the house of the Lord in accordance with the law and tradition.

We pray for the migrants and refugees, those in harm's way, victims of drugs and opiod epidemic, the homebound, the sick, the terminally ill and the dying.

In observance of the International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27), we pray for all the victims of this horrible crime.

Mercedes "Merci" Leyva, Rosa Rosales Hernandez, Miguel Valenzuela

3RD SUNDAY AS SUNDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD A20

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 18:14:00 GMT

In the Apostolic Letter in the form of ‘Motu Proprio’ (from his own initiative) 'Aperuit Illis' issued on September 30, 2019 on the 1600 death anniversary of the renowned biblical scholar St. Jerome whose famous phrase, “Ignorance of the scriptures is ignorance of Christ” still appears in bookmarks and stationaries, the Holy Father Pope Francis designated the third Sunday in Ordinary Time as the Sunday of the Word of God. The proclamation of the Word of God in the Liturgy of the Word and the homily needs to be strongly emphasized. There is a difference between scriptum (the solemn divine writing) and verbum (the proclamation of the sacred writing). He added that the bible belongs to the people of God and not for a privileged few, elites and experts. It is the people’s book. They have the right for the correct interpretation of the sacred text. People are hungry for God’s word like never before. We are all hermeneuts. We are meaning seeking creatures. We breath God’s word. If we don’t find meaning in life, we give up.

Pope Francis also said that “a day devoted to the Bible should not be seen as a yearly event but rather a year-long event, for we urgently need to grow in our knowledge and love of the Scriptures and of the risen Lord, who continues to speak his word and to break bread in the community of believers.”

Noticeably, the date coincides with the week of prayer for Christian Unity in which Pope Francis mentioned that the bible has ecumenical value (even interfaith - my addition). That’s true, we share the Old Testament writings (Hebrew bible) with our Jewish brothers and sisters and the entire bible (OT and NT) with fellow Christians. Sometimes, we argue over the interpretation and the differences divide us but the celebration, the study and the sharing of the word of God never intends to break us apart but rather hopes to bring unity to the people of God.

THE CALLING OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES

This Sunday, lectionary begins with the cycle of Matthew’s gospel at chapter 4, the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, in Capernaum, on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. It all began, centuries before the dawn of the digital age, with a simple invitation to follow him and a quick response to build the largest religious institution the world has ever known with approximately 1 point- something- billion- members and counting (faithful and unfaithful included). That said, we cannot underestimate nor take for granted the impact of a humble, gracious, and friendly personal invitation as it has proven to work and yielded unimaginable results. We're told that after hearing the call, they immediately, not pre-meditated, dropped everything (their support system: livelihood, family, etc) and followed him not on twitter or Facebook but on the way, entirely embracing the gospel way of life. Did they know and hear about Jesus prior to this encounter? We don’t know for sure which highlights the magnitude, the irresistability and the attractiveness of the Jesus relentless invitation. It was not easy to leave everything behind as the fishing industry was a stable and comfortable source of livelihood.

By way of introduction to Jesus' public ministry, Matthew kicks it off by taking us back, giving us a foretaste of Isaiah's quotable verse highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus in a specified geographical location that is, Galilee, a bustling, sprawling open city by ancient standards, livelihood stemming mostly from farming and fishing industries with tremendous outside cultural influences:

"Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen (Mt. 4:15-16)."

For Matthew, it was in Galilee that Jesus called his first disciples.

"As he was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, "Come after me and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed him (Mt. 4:18-20)."

Similarly, in the case of James and John, the sons of Zebedee responded quickly.

"He walked along from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat, with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. He called them and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him (Mt. 4:21-22)."

When this occurred, Jesus wasn't sitting in the desk in the comfort of his office making calls nor standing at the intersection of G Ave and 10 ^th St. nor at the parking lot of a grocery store, a perfect spot to chance upon a prospect. He was out-on-the-go while the would-be disciples were tied up at work hauling their nets. They weren't just sitting around by the bay as the case would have been watching passers-by...hoping to get noticed...gazing at the horizon...a la buena vista...They were fishermen, by profession. They did it for a living, not for recreation and leisure. For them, to leave their livelihood, their bread and butter, their means of survival in a tough environment and most importantly, abandon their father in the middle of work to a Galilean itinerant preacher who promised nothing but an assurance, was not an easy thing to do.

Because it happened quickly which sounded too good to be true, I figured Jesus must have met them before. It appeared he was familiar with them. Strange as it may have seemed, there wasn't much talking involved, no further details as to the extent, no signed contract if need be, no term limits, no if's and buts and no hint of hesitation whatsoever. That was nothing of that sort. It's hard for us to relate in a story that doesn't much count the human aspect, the various stages we go through in making a lifetime decision. Even if it's a simple item you want to buy, it takes time to figure out whether or not you'll swipe your credit card in exchange for a stuff. Even in facebook, twitter, instagram, youtube and other networking sites, getting a friend request from someone unfamiliar makes you shiver...who is this? Let me check the profile picture, photos, background, leads and posts in the timeline if it's worth hitting the confirm button. As experience tells us, following someone goes through different stages: issue of trust, questioning, curiosity, seeking, etc. Similarly with Jesus, before we arrive at a pivotal turn, at a critical point, you get to know the person first before deciding to open your heart and risk your life to something beyond our capacity to comprehend. A personal choice usually takes place at the end all things considered.

What if the author told us the story exactly as it happened? What if it really took them just a quarter of a second, even less in my estimation, to make the decision? When you finally make a choice, you're in for the long run and the details aren't that important. When you drop the nets, you leave everything else behind driven by the mission God wants you to do. What if the early Christians wanted to let us know that when you sign up for Jesus, don't demand for anything because no amount of money can compensate you for the job and for what you're about to get into.

Paul was right on target in the second reading as he addressed the Corinthian community experiencing inner strife "in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ." Paul didn't see it firsthand. He was only informed about this. He urged them there should be no fights and quarrels, jealousies and rivalries, stop the bickering, pettiness and divisions, none of these things have place in the community. He reminded those who claimed allegiance to various religious leaders like Paul, Apollos, Cephas, and Christ to seriously reflect on their sense of loyalty as many say, I belong to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, I belong to Pope Francis, I belong to…supply the missing term…

"I urge you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ that all of you agree in what you say, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you may be united in the same mind and in the same purpose. For it has been reported to me about you, my brothers and sisters, by Chloe's people, that there are rivalries among you."

I have no doubt in my mind that there's more to the gospel than meets my senses. They must have seen something extraordinary in Jesus, in the unknowability of God and to the extent possible, in fishing that prompted them to drop their nets. Amen.

POINTS TO PONDER:

TUESDAY MUSINGS 012120

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 19:41:00 GMT

Tomorrow is a day of prayer for the legal protection of the unborn children in the United States due to Roe V Wade that legalized abortion across the country on January 22, 1973. Tonight, we start and join the 9- day novena for life.

This Sunday, the third Sunday in Ordinary Time has been designated as the Sunday of the Word of God by the Holy Father Francis on September 30, 2019, the 1600 death anniversary of St. Jerome. Here's the link of the Apostolic Letter Aperuit Illis instituting the Sunday of the Word of God. Noticeably, the date coincides with the week of prayer for Christian Unity in which the Holy Father mentioned that the celebration itself has an ecumenical value and (interfaith as well - my addition). That means, the study of the sacred scriptures brings unity (and not division) to the people of God. He also said that the sacred writings/the divine page belongs to the people. It's the people's book. I can go on and on but I would much rather have you click on the link provided and enjoy the 8-page letter over a cup of coffee for your morning prayer.

As always, we offer prayers for the migrants and refugees, those in harm's way, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying including those who offered mass intentions.

Seferino Valeras, Jesus Francisco Limon, Irma Anaya Perez, Jessie Salazar, Emilio Smith

ROE V WADE

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 19:39:00 GMT

No religious person in his/her right mind can support the direct killing of an innocent human being through abortion. On the sad 47th Anniversary (January 22, 1973) of the infamous Supreme Court Decision known as Roe v. Wade that legalized the heinous crime of abortion, we solemnly pray for the more than 50 million innocent unborn lives (who for many were nothing but a piece of tissue/cells...evil hiding under rights/priorities and wrapped with all excuses) that have been taken away and haven't had the chance to be born and lived in a country described as the land of limitless opportunities, as a result of a quick solution (an easy way out) to a complex moral dilemma. We include in our prayers the many confused men and women including parents seriously considering abortion at the present moment. We offer God's immense compassion, mercy and forgiveness to those who have committed this horrible act and are still struggling with the painful memory of loss... letting them know that there's no sin that’s unforgivable. We thank the pro-life movement for their absolute commitment to the non- violent protest and willingness to endure and face suffering, ridicule, embarrassment and shame that more often didn't matter at all so long as they can save the unborn...

Whether or not the law is overturned in the coming years, in the end, the real victims are the innocents...the unborn, the mothers to be and those directly involved on it and the entire society.

Ultimately, my body - my choice, is by far the strongest argument against the eternal battle for life as it irredeemably leaves no room for potential dialogue. No motive or circumstance will morally justify the deliberate (direct) killing of an innocent human being. Religious people, bound by the tenets of the institution, have sacred and moral responsibilities to interfere in this affair even to the point of breakdown in relationships. Ignoring altogether this pressing socio-cultural-political-medical-religious-moral issue combined conceivably means (tacit approval).

The pro-life movement exists to provide a voice for and from the unborn to the most vulnerable adult, offer support for the countless individuals whose back are against the wall and the aftermath - the terrible consequences in years to come. This movement emerged from the sidelines as a peaceful protest (not an armed struggle by any means) against a decadent society.

As a sign of prayer and mourning for the millions of innocent lives lost and sympathy for those still grieving for the loss, candles will be lit overnight at the Mother of life Grotto. Masses will be offered for peace and justice (for the legal protection of the unborn). Join us in the novena 9daysforlife!

Today is a day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of the Unborn Children.

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sat, 18 Jan 2020 05:02:00 GMT

John the Baptist’s description and designation of Jesus as the Lamb of God confirms in a profound sense the true identity of Jesus. When he saw him, John exclaimed, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." He is the one of whom I said, “A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me (John 1: 29-30).” In the end, he added, "...He is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit...Now, I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God (Jn 1:33-34)”. As John the Baptist points and leads us into the real Jesus by sharing his experience of not knowing him and seeing 'the spirit come down like a dove from the heaven and remain upon him,' (John 1: 32), he offers a reminder that holidays may be over for many and back to business as usual but for Catholics, the mystery of the incarnation is just beginning to unfold. For John, Jesus is the paschal lamb. He is depicted as the New Passover lamb whose sacrificial death on the cross brought deliverance from sin and reconciliation. The Johannine Gospel, a thinking community, specifically, presents the cosmic drama between God’s love for the world and the devil’s business that is, alienation from God, the destruction of Jesus - the incarnation of God in the flesh. The devil’s affairs has always been the promotion and the proliferation of the sin of the world. It looks like there’s battle between good and evil (so-called, religious dualism) but there’s none.

Lamb is used as sacrificial victim in ritual passages such as Passover liturgy - the great national feast of Israel (Ex 12: 1-14) where the blood of the lamb saved the Hebrews and the flesh Passover communion meal. The annual rite celebrates the Israelites entry into Canaan and their establishment as people of God. It’s a commemoration of God’s saving act. Lamb is also used in temple sacrificial system offered in worship where sins are purged and penitent reconciled with God. Many of us will agree that the flesh of the lamb is a delicacy (Deut. 32:14). In fact, lamb chop is one of the best I had. Lamb is also mentioned in one of the songs of the suffering servant (Isa. 53:7-8) as a figure of innocence where the silent lamb is led to the slaughter. There was a sense of helplessness (Ps. 119).

John is the only one in the entire New Testament who used the image and gave the title “Lamb of God” to Jesus which of course, has its allusions in the Old Testament. The startling image of Jesus as the lamb of God, a distinctive feature, highlights the notion of sacrifice. It provides a description derived from a weak, lowly and vulnerable sacrificial lamb ready for slaughter, rather painting a picture indicative of the society's status quo, that is, power and dominion. John truthfully acknowledged that he didn't know him before. Clearly, Christianity cannot be understood apart from sacrifice. In fact, there is no Christianity without sacrifice.

The Lamb of God bears away our sins. The lamb of God lifts off the sin of the world. Let’s spend a brief moment clarifying the sin of the world. It is the condition, the social milieu and the fundamental state of affair more than the act. The sinful world is the structure of evil which inhabits us and affects us in this border town including the whole human race. The sin of our first parents which we call original sin (an inherited sin) brought us into where we are now which obviously, had a lasting residual effect. This struggle takes us back to the fall of humanity through our first parents Adam and Eve. Since then, there has been a competition between God and humanity. We became fierce rivals. We wanted to be like him. We tried to grasp divinity by becoming stars in our own right to no avail. The root, the origin and the source of all the troubles faced (local and universal) is pride, our inflated egos get in the way and the desire to be like God. The Sunday Worship/Eucharist helps us get out of the prison of ourselves. A story is told about a penitent whose confession could hardly be heard by the Priest-confessor. He, in turn, told the penitent to summarize the confession in one word. The penitent said, pride! Father! Pride Father! That’s true! Pride is the root of all sins. The sin of the world is the refusal to believe in the infinite, eternal love offering gift of God through Jesus Christ. The sin of the world is the environment that promotes greed, lust, pride, sloth, disobedience, apathy, etc. Indifference puts any group/society in a stalemate. The sin of the world is the disordered human desire to be like God by seizing divinity than accepting it as a precious gift. The endless struggle, the armed conflict, the social chaos and disarray won’t stop unless we turn and behold the lamb of God who takes away the sin of world.

POINTS TO PONDER:

FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD Jan 11

Sun, 12 Jan 2020 03:15:00 GMT

In America or possibly elsewhere, sports, politics, religion and money/finance, too are the major areas of conversation people are prepared to die. Normally, to be a fan or super fan or just a bandwagon depends on one's residency, roots, and school attended. Politics, on another hand, is a little different as affiliation is deeply rooted in social and political principles a person holds mostly based on his/her experience as well as domicile. When it comes to religion, baptism makes us members of Christ's body, the church, broadly speaking and parish in a narrow sense. Fidelity flows from being baptized into Christ. Ideally, once you get baptized in his name, nothing else should matter but him and our mission. Other than that, everything else is essentially footnote and subordinated the moment we encounter the persona and teachings of Jesus. But it doesn't always work that way. For whatever reason, we don’t view religion exactly the way our ancestors in faith did as evidenced by the sacred writings and the witnesses of the saints. Not many of us live out our baptismal calling which is profoundly alarming. By way of comparison, more often, we are more involved and loyal in sports and politics than in our religious commitment. Etymologically, religion comes from the Latin word, religare which means to bind together. Ligament which holds together our bones and muscles was taken from the same root word. It obviously tells us faith and religion must also bind and hold together our religious, secular and worldly lives. For many, Sunday Eucharist, described as the source and summit of Christian life, by far, the highest form of worship is at the bottom of the to-do list. What was once non-negotiable has become optional. Nowadays, we are ready to die for our sports team and political party than for Christ and his church. We are more dedicated and passionate about others than our identities as Catholics.

The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord is a special time to contemplate on Jesus' baptism for sanctifying the waters of the Jordan. This interesting and yet mysterious verse “After Jesus was baptized, he came up from the water and behold, the heavens were opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming upon him (Mt 3:16)” opens wide the relation between heaven and earth establishing open communication between both worlds leading to our salvation. And a voice came from the heavens, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased (Mt. 3: 17)”. The Father greatly delights in his son who later in his life and ministry will be sacrificed to the Lord in atonement for our sins in behalf of humanity. The prophet Isaiah mentions the similar phrase, “Behold my servant with whom I am well pleased (Isa 42:1)” referring to one of the songs of the suffering servant, “my chosen one upon whom I have put my spirit; he shall bring forth justice to the nations, not crying out, not shouting, not making his voice heard in the street (Isa 42:2-4)”.

While the feast of the Baptism of the Lord is his humble immersion into our world except sin, it is also an intimate moment to recall and renew our baptismal promises. Baptism is the beginning of the Christian life. The Sacrament of Baptism is often called “The Door of the Church,” as it is the first of the seven sacraments not only in time but in priority, since the reception of the other sacraments depends on it. Baptism is an entry into divine life. Once baptized, a person becomes a member of the Church. It is the start of a new way of life.

The ritual begins with the presider’s warm words of welcome to the gathered assembly and asks the name of the baptismal candidate. If it’s an adult, the celebrant directly addresses the elect, what is your name? In the case of infants where the parents stand for them, the question about the new identity sounds slightly different, what name do you give your child? Then, the community warmly welcomes the soon to be baptized with great joy by the sign of the cross led by the presider. The signing of the cross on the forehead of the child is the first concrete participation of everyone present in the religious life of the child. The celebrant says, “in its name, I claim you for Christ our savior” which means that the catechumen belongs to Christ. God is claiming us back. It is an initiation into the mystery of love. Obedience is not so much about obeying rules and submission carried out externally but listening intently to the Lord. Part of the rite is listening to the word, the catechetical homily (the word proclaimed) and the litany of saints, an intercessory prayer that expresses our communion with the saints and heavenly realities. The ritual also anoints us with the oil (olive oil) of gladness which makes us priests, prophets and kings (our threefold role/function) patterned after the example of Christ. We are Christ’s athletes whenever the power of darkness strikes us. We are God’s anointed.

In baptism, we make a choice (although as infants, our parents did it for us), a decision that alters our lives forever. It is a moment of choice that all will go well as intended ready for the journey of a lifetime whatever it takes. One of the most powerful part of the ritual is the renunciation of sin and the profession of faith. The rejection of the power of sin and the dominance of evil is letting Satan know that we are completely giving up our membership; that we are totally out of his company; and that we are never coming back. We are making an absolute statement/commitment about faith even though we don’t know everything about it. God will take care of us. Following the Baptism, the first Christians, in their worship of Christ, turned around (completely) and faced east to symbolize a new loyalty, to the Lord Jesus Christ. This is why we, (the gathered assembly) during Mass, are facing the liturgical east, a gesture that is historically and theologically traced back to baptism. In so doing, this practice has a solid impact in one’s life. There are things we can’t do and places we don’t go. We’re bound to him for life. We’re tied for all eternity. More often, this is not how we see our faith these days. Our sense of commitment overlaps and usually, faith takes a lot of beating.

At a celebration of adult baptism, a story is told about a woman who when asked whether she reject sin and Satan, replied in a loud voice in front of everyone present, yeah! Yes, I hate him Father! Her response is a little off but very inspiring in a world where the glamour and the seduction of evil is irresistible and so much alive. Where wickedness, doing evil, immorality and the like is more fun, attractive and entertaining than doing good, her scandalous words are immensely striking. In the Middle Ages, Satan was often described as the greatest showman of all time all because of his empty promises. He had done nothing but ruined people’s lives. And yet, the devil (our fashionable enemy) is more popular than the prophets. These are words that came from those who found themselves at the end of the road. The only reason they’re dominant is because we’re hiding in plain sight. We’re nowhere to be found. We’re afraid of Satan. We surrendered long before the battle began. Whenever there’s chaos in society, we should count on the saints. Baptism must be seen as a real death to sin. It is the destruction of our former (sinful) lives and the rebirth into Christ’s life. It’s both death dealing and a life-giving encounter. Water is a dominant image of Baptism. It is worth noting that Arizona came from the word, alisonak, Native American (O’odham) in origin which denotes “small spring”. Tucson (the local diocese where we belong) too, came from cukson, Native American (O’odham), literally, a spring at the base of the black hill (modern-day ‘A’ Mountain). After several failed attempts I was informed by a seasoned parishioner that Agua Prieta means dark water. The fact that our state, our local diocese of Tucson and the neighboring border town AP have been named after a body of water, more or less, speaks volumes of the value of water most importantly, in the desert and its importance as baptismal symbol of cleansing and purification. In Baptism, we take the plunge.

The feast of the Baptism of the Lord brings to a close the Christmas season and the Monday following begins the Ordinary Time. This celebration sets the tone for the ministry and mission of Jesus and our humble participation in him, the beloved Son of God this year cycle A according to the gospel of Matthew. Welcome Aboard!

I invite you to ponder on the following questions:

FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 18:36:00 GMT

The Feast of the Epiphany (from the greek, Epiphanein, to show, to reveal) of the Lord celebrates the manifestation of Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, whose birth became the vehicle of the good news to the three magi from the east as recorded in Mt. 2:1-12 same Gospel story for the three year lectionary cycle. The feast was introduced in the Western (Latin) Church in the fourth century, where it came to be associated with the visit of the magi. In practice, it's usually celebrated on January 6. It evolved into a celebration of the gospel story of the visit of the Magi on the occasion of Jesus' birth: his epiphany to the gentiles. It is identified with the visit of the Magi in Mt 2:12 as part of the entire mystery of incarnation (God- in- flesh) that the Messiah came for all people, for the entire world and not just for a privileged few. The Messiah has come to all people, a theme highlighted by Matthew's gospel. The word "magi" refers to a learned caste in Babylonia, probably, astrologers and interpreters of dreams. In the early of days, everyone believed in astrology. They can tell one's future and destiny by following the star. It was the wise men's job and profession to watch the heavens. The magi saw a start they thought God was breaking into the history of humankind. Definitely, something spoke to them about the entry of the king to the world.

The magi are gentiles, foreigners, pagans-spiritual-believed in gods, not in the one God, though. The word "magus" can mean many things in different places: magicians, soothsayers, sorcerers, astronomers, astrologers, fortune tellers (not sure if it applies to the fortune cookies thrown on the table in restaurants). But, Matthews refers to them as astronomers whose job is to watch the movement of the stars 24/7. They are advisers, counselors and consultants to the king, highly- skilled people, the elite, VIP's on their right, weird- looking, dressed differently with too many piercings, and knowledgeable in almost all things. They looked and felt lost but followed the star and eventually found it. They were sometimes called kings although they didn't have a royalty. They were often depicted in Christmas pageants as wearing funny hats and bathrobes, holding a 1-800 number promising love, riches, and happiness to the first ten callers. Nowadays, because of the easy access to communication, if you want to know anything, just type it in Google search bar or go directly to Wikipedia. In the ancient of days, seekers go the Magi. Consultation may not be free but you can ask them about anything under the sun. They are men of holiness and wisdom, no doubt about that. Given their resume, they would have been the last group of people to take off and follow the guidance of the star.

Well, they just happened to walk across the stage in history but ended up in the nativity scene. Somehow they realized they didn’t belong in there. They brought strange gifts probably because they weren’t given invitation. Why would you take gold, frankincense and myrrh as gifts to a newly born? It’s like bringing a bottle of vodka instead of diapers in a hospital room. And yet, it’s not so much about what we bring and how we got to the place that matters to God. What speaks most is how we go back home safe and sound even if it's by a different route as mentioned in the last verse of the Gospel.

Epiphany means showing, appearance or revelation. It was used to describe the appearance of a god among the people, a theophany especially of the appearance of the true God in the flesh. Epiphany without the three kings is closely similar to a Mexican Christmas party without tamales. It is a feast that started in the eastern tradition and rich in history but hard to trace the details as there are limited resources prior to the 4th century.

The journey of the magi is filled with mystery. The story has been used in many cultures as a model that reflects social realities and thereby, challenge the status quo. They are foreigners, pagans, outsiders, and weird-looking people wearing elaborate garb almost similar to the outfit worn by the pirates of the Caribbean. Given their background, I bet they are the last people to follow the guidance of the star, a symbol of divinity in the ancients and even now. In today’s world, they are the people with no religious affiliation from a completely different background who found their way to Catholicism and surely, such a conversion story goes viral in the faith world and beyond.

To be a magi is to continue to search for the light the star gives. To be a magi is to relentlessly seek for the divine and human truth. To be a magi is to allow yourself to be guided by the star. To be a magi is to lead others to the star of Bethlehem. To be a magi is to leave our former way of life and never get back. To be a magi is to worship and adore God, the most obvious way to show our belief.

In an unusual moment, they probably noticed something extraordinary in the constellation as recorded in the Gospel and were unexpectedly prompted by a strange supernatural star appearing in the heavens. They entertained it, pursued and checked it out, packed their things for the adventure of a lifetime and traveled for only God knows how long it took them to arrive at Jerusalem, a light to all nations, from a distant country after a journey of a thousand miles until it rested on the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem of Judea, bringing with them expensive gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. It is an ancient custom that if someone wants to visit a dignitary, such as a state visit to the Vatican or elsewhere, gift is almost a must.

It is said that the three Magi represented generations, races and cultures. I don't think I'll be able to identify them by their appearances as they look the same. Melchor brought Jesus gold, the most precious of metals, fitting for a king. Caspar carried frankincense, a very expensive perfume used for divine worship and Balthasar, myrrh, an exotic spice for his humanity. We may not have the above luxurious and costly gifts and treasures brought by the three magi, but our presence in the church every Sunday, in praise and thanksgiving, our respect and reverence is enough to show the tiny baby we're greatly delighted to see him.

Just like them, as pilgrims to the manger who "went home by another way" Mt. 2: 12, we have already received the revelation and found it in a stable in whatever status and circumstances in life. But, if there's any difference between them and us, the sad truth is that we keep going back to Herod, to our former way of life, to the life we have supposedly left behind in exchange of the discovery of the most sublime truth and faith in the newborn king. The three magi modeled for us the first of its kind, belief starts with worship.

It happens to us when sometimes we find ourselves serving God, far beyond reality 10 years back, when we find ourselves paying a visit to God, silently seating in the pew when we know it is more practical to do household chores, help kids with their homework, run errands and the likes.

The bible tells numerous stories about how God uses those who don’t fit to accomplish his purposes. We marvel at the wonders of his love. Often those who consider themselves as not having the gifts are the ones who actually perform the depths of Christmas. When they start to find the lost, to heal the broken hearted, to light a path, to lift a burden, a shoulder to cry on, to share the cross other people carry on their backs, to feed the hungry, to release the prisoner, to rebuild the nations, to bring peace, etc, is how God is manifested in the world. This may be a good new year’s resolution.

When we start to follow Christ in our own way, we begin to notice that our lives are increasingly at odds with the surrounding culture doing things contrary to what the world dictates. It could happen to a mother who told her children that they will get only three gifts on Christmas because they will give donations to the less fortunate. At other times, it could happen to anyone of us who suddenly leaves his/her well paid position because his faith would not permit him to measure the value of human life by monetary means. But finally, it doesn’t have to be a spectacular move because the little things we do have an infinite value to God. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 12/24&31

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 20:06:00 GMT

Enjoy the festive decorations of our three parishes this Christmas. Thank you to those who helped make our advent and Christmas liturgy.

Immaculate Conception Parish

St. Luke Parish

St. Bernard Parish

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

We offer prayers for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away. We extend our sincere condolences, deep sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 19:56:00 GMT

The Feast of the Holy Family draws its inspiration from the life of Joseph, Mary and Jesus. The opening prayer (the Collect) describes the Holy Family as dazzling and to be highly esteemed “…who were pleased to give us the shining example of the Holy Family”, asks God “graciously grant that we may imitate them in practicing the virtues of family life and in the bond of charity…” The sacred writings didn't provide much details how Jesus was raised. However, towards the end of the gospel mentions the fruit of his upbringing, not to mention, his dying on the cross sealed his commitment and erased any doubt.

Faced with stark realities, a common thread exists in the confessional lament (not sacramental) of parents and grandparents at the departure of their children in faith (national surveys support this claim), the disintegration of sacred values and the breakdown of social structures. I did everything to raise my children in faith but all of them are gone. What did I do wrong? What can I do to bring/lure them back? There are no easy answers and/or solutions. Such a confession is particularly alarming to me the pastor should it happen to the kids in the next generation. Such an unfortunate phenomenon can be traced back into the limited time (which means nothing at all) devoted in religious education, easily described as the interplay and the engagement between family, composed of parents/guardians in a single household (the basic facet of society) and the parish community (the ground level of the church) where real action takes place.

The book of Sirach (also called Ecclesiasticus – or the church book) which contains religious instructions against the contemporary culture. He carefully explained the fourth commandment, “honor your parents.” The Hebrew word used is ‘kavod’, to glorify or to weigh with heavy honors. The author says “Whoever honors his father atones for sins, and preserves himself from. When he prays, he is heard. What a loaded text. He also mentions that “kindness to a father will not be forgotten, firmly planted against the debt of your sins – a house raised in justice to you” is like an investment. Paul extends the honoring of parents to the entire Christian community. The church is an extension of the domestic family where we learn the value of forgiveness. Our family is God's gift to us and our efforts to anchor our lives to him is our humble response. It starts with God and ends with him. Amen.

WELCOME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 19:43:00 GMT

There’s nothing like Christmas: a season of joy, peace, hope and love (advent themes). There’s nothing like the friendly and joyful atmosphere almost anywhere you go, the brilliant and glittering lights on porches and streets, the creative and festive decorations in the church, the disarming and measured smile shared on parties not to mention the delicious home-made goodies, the profoundly moving and deeply touching Christmas carols and t he lovely exchange of gifts and wishes. T he over- all mood is unbelievable. People are nicer on check- out lines and generous with their resources than at any time of the year.

On Christmas, Catholics, practicing and not, will come to church in droves. Many of them disengaged with the parish grind and everything in between. They're tied up with family, work, worldly pleasures and perhaps, find little meaning and relevance in church life. If a family member, a relative or a friend wants to catch up with his/her faith, please let me know and I would be more than happy to assist. Christ is our host. We are his guests. Don’t be a stranger. Please feel at home at the Nativity Scene. All our preparations for Christmas boil down to making people feel welcome with a warm smile and a divine loving embrace, provide a sanctuary for busy lives, offer a safe space in the privacy of hearts, enjoy the peace and serenity and the quiet stillness of the moment with little to no pressure of coming back.

Christmas is often described as the Annual Homecoming of Catholics. It’s like, “Here comes the crowd.” It’s that time of the year when we gather to worship the God incarnate as a baby, the savior of the world. The church and the parking lot is undeniably, jam-packed. The presence of a humungous crowd of people is a joy and a sight to behold and brings to mind both the spiritual and religious significance of Christmas. WELCOME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!

What we celebrate on Christmas is the unfathomable love of God to humankind who in extreme level of humility, stripped himself and came to us in human form in the person of Jesus Christ. The young creature in the stall of Bethlehem is God. In Jesus, God spoke so powerful and clear. In him, God appeared bodily on earth. The incarnation of the Son of God is the starting point of Christianity. Although we won’t solve the mystery of our belief, this can’t easily be dismissed. It has doctrinal implication and practical application. The word made flesh (Et verbum caro factum est), God becoming man, makes the invisible reality visible. At this juncture, I’ll leave room for doubt and questions. If, after prayerful discernment, you refuse to accept in faith, it will be deeply troubling because then, religion will be devoid of transcendence. As a result, our theological understanding of church events and parish activities will simply be reduced into mere activism which is just one side of the equation. Mystery is not meant to be understood. Its purpose is to keep us marvel and be awed at the moment of God’s in-breaking. Whatever we do, we can’t altogether grasp the mystery of our faith. Our response is obedience, faith, worship and adoration.

The Holy Father has recently published an apostolic letter on December 1, 2019 entitled ADMIRABILE SIGNUM on the meaning and importance of the Nativity Scene. I highly encourage you read it as we prayerfully welcome the Christ-child in our hearts, in our homes, in our families. He mentioned in the opening paragraph, “The nativity scene is like a living Gospel rising up from the pages of sacred Scripture. As we contemplate the Christmas story, we are invited to set out on a spiritual journey, drawn by the humility of the God who became man in order to encounter every man and woman. We come to realize that so great is his love for us that he became one of us, so that we in turn might become one with him.”

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT A19

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 21:50:00 GMT

On the 14th anniversary of my priesthood ordination, we encounter the birth-story of Jesus, Son of God conceived through the Holy Spirit of David’s royal heritage. This gospel periscope is a continuation of the genealogy of Jesus. Notice that Matthew’s gospel is symbolized as the Son of Man because of his emphasis in the Emmanuel (God with us) which frames the entire gospel. At the center of the story is the angel’s announcement to Joseph of Jesus’ birth, name and identity. In other words, it’s called Joseph’s annunciation along with his amazing response.

The circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus is intriguing, if not, bewildering. In the Gospel, Matthew keeps us close to the ground and provides a preview of the intense drama of Christmas. After hearing much from John the Baptist, Joseph takes the center stage. Many of us don't realize that behind the well- decorated nativity scene lies a very troubling story. Accordingly, "Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit (Mt. 1: 18)”. In the ancient Jewish marriage custom, betrothal is the next stage after engagement. If all goes well, the relationship is taken to the next level which meant, they have already signed the marriage license now officially recognized as husband and wife but not yet allowed to live together and have sexual relations. They have to wait for a year before "the coming together" the final stage. By the way, in the ancient of days, pairing is done either by parents or matchmaker. Nowadays, it's carried out almost completely different except maybe for a few religious families. Pre-marital sex was inconceivable under this ancient custom. If a problem comes up during the betrothal period, the couple can't simply revoke, take the ring back and cancel wedding preparations, they have to call a divorce. Betrothal took a year of wait. It was within this timeframe that Mary was found pregnant which put Joseph and the future of the relationship in an impossible and serious dilemma. Since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly... (Mt. 1: 19).” This decision has been described as reverential fear. Although he was perplexed, he knew of the supernatural origins of Mary’s circumstances. He was troubled but deeply awed. Mary might have already told Joseph of the angel Gabriel’s annunciation and graciously accepted the offer to be the mother of the Messiah. Joseph and Mary are saints and mystics. Now, the extraordinary happened, “Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins (Mt. 20-21).”

Joseph and Mary are prayerful and holy people, aware of the Angel’s appearance in a dream as mode of divine communication. It defies any sort of explanation. Something wonderful happened that changed the normal course of human history. The angel said, "I know this was not what you thought would happen but everything eventually will fall into place. Despite placed in an obviously awkward situation, he beckoned to follow. "All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means 'God is with us'. When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home (Mt. 1:22-24).”

Either through a dream, a text message, an email or a word from a familiar stranger, every encounter with God is life-changing. It alters our lives even if we don't know exactly where God would take us. In the midst of all the hype, Holy Mother Church invites us to behold Joseph as the model for Christian living. He was the type who wrestled with the complexities of life, remained docile, ever open to listen to God's word and went beyond what the law required. What would you do if you run into a similar scenario? What would you do if you find yourself at a point of no return? Would you follow what the law demands or take the road less traveled uttered by the voice of an angel? Joseph did, would you? As we come into the final days of our Christmas preparation, the "Emmanuel, God is with us" may trouble us and brings us into a halt but also, invites and calls us to do what Joseph and Mary did, that is, obeyed and trusted God, unlike Ahaz who refused divine invitation in favor of his own will. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 12/17/19

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 03:42:00 GMT

The annual religious education program Christmas Party and Pageant was held at the CYC Hall last Saturday, December 14. Just before leading the opening prayer, I happened to ask the kids on stage if they were excited about it. One of them said it out loud, No! From the mouth of babes... And the audience went in boisterous laughter.

Yesterday, I was invited to lead the invocation at the mayoral debate. I was greatly delighted and graciously accepted it. The debate was live streamed at the facebook page of the Voice of Douglas…

The Bi-national Posada Agua Prieta-Douglas version was held today, December 17 at the border, few feet west of the port of entry. This, one of the many religious traditions in anticipation of the birth of Christ, is about showing hospitality and welcoming the migrants...

As always, we offer prayers for the safety of the migrants and refugees, speedy recovery for the sick and the homebound and hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

Lupe Vega Mora, Maria Melendez, Blanca Villa, Andres Martinez, Jose Perez

POPE FRANCIS 50TH PRIESTHOOD ORDINATION ANNIVERSARY

Sat, 14 Dec 2019 19:04:00 GMT

The Catholic Community wishes to extend his Holiness Holy Father Pope Francis warmest greetings of joy, peace and love on the occasion of his 50th Priesthood Ordinary Anniversary (December 13, 1969). Click here for more information.

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT A19

Sat, 14 Dec 2019 18:55:00 GMT

The third Sunday of Advent is known as Gaudete Sunday, from the latin, Rejoice! taken from the letter of Paul to the Philippians 4:4-5 in the entrance antiphon "Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again, Rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near." The rose- colored vestment worn by the celebrant/presider, the altar draped in a marvelous and lovely hue of pink and in general, a sudden shift in the motif of the church's environment, are powerful symbolisms of sunrise depicting the coming of the Lord shortly, two weeks down the road.

For the past two weeks, we have heard John the Baptist's message setting the tone for an impending destruction and terrifying winnowing process of judgment associated with the arrival of the Messiah which on the contrary, didn't work as he thought. This time he's in prison for saying something Herod Antipas didn't like to hear. It seems his career as a Prophet is coming to an end. In a lavish party, Salome would request for John the Baptizer's head on a platter and that's it for him.

By this time, Jesus may have already making waves and news about his miraculous works have already spread like wildfire. John's disciples have certainly heard about him and thought he was an amazing fellow wanting to know who he was but couldn't tell whether he was the man or not. Part of it was the fact that he didn't look like the one John advertised. Did he have a different idea about the Messiah? We’ll know in a moment. Instead of judgment and destruction, he demonstrated love and healing which appeared to be the most credible piece of evidence. He was humble and ordinary as anyone else and assumed a lowly status, unlike the mighty with all the entourage as expected.

While in prison, his disciples may have paid a visit to check how he was doing. Possibly, in the course of the conversation, Jesus going viral thing, Jesus sensation may have surfaced. So, to clear all doubts if it ever crossed his mind, John sent them to Jesus to get a word of approval if it was really him. Fair enough. As far as he was concerned, there was no hint of doubt in his mind that Jesus was the Messiah. Did he doubt? Or was this move a preparation for the next life? He was the greatest figure of his time, preached the truth with spirit and fire, a forerunner, a precursor and a messenger to prepare God’s way for eternity. His job as a prophet was to foretell Christ – to point his finger to him. After all, he would never put himself in that position, behind bars and later, facing martyrdom, at the cost of his life for his faith if he weren't convinced, 100% positive, so to speak, about the truth and consequence of the message.

Off they went to the rough and rugged terrains of the desert plains and without much introduction, asked him, "Are you the one who is to come or should we look for another?(Mt. 11:3)" The one who is to come is generally identified as the Messiah – the Anointed One. Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see, the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear and the dead are raised and the poor have the good news preached to them (Mt. 11: 4-5)." Tell him what you see and what you hear, what I'm doing and what's happening. The deeds and the works of Jesus are the most sublime evidence that the Messiah has come in your midst. The presence of Jesus brings healing. The awareness of God provides comfort and consolation. The words of the Prophet Isaiah 35 in the first reading is clearly in line with Jesus’ mighty works: “Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; then will the lame leap like a stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing.” At this juncture, notice that Isaiah’s expectation about seeing the great light is beginning to come to light. It’s coming along pretty well. It goes according to God’s plan. It’s baffling but slowly it’s matching up. God himself will come to save us. I figure you’re probably tired reading this. It’s because prophetic voice sounds odd on advent. It doesn’t sit well with the joyful atmosphere. The stillness, the deafening silence, the long wait and the solitude is the strangeness of the season. This is the odd part and yet, the heart and soul of advent. St. James in the second reading urges us “to be patient until the coming of the Lord (James 5: 7).”

The Holy Father Pope Francis was chosen by Time Magazine as the 2013 Person of the Year. According to reports, it has to be someone whose life had profound impact in the world. You have to be talked about. In the article, Pope Francis' simplicity of life is exceptional. Though he occupies the most exalted throne on earth, he makes us think it's easy by his lifestyle.

If there's anyone who wants to know Jesus, an intellectual debate is not much needed. Give your life to him, and see what he can do for you and experience his saving and changing and transforming power in spirit, not in argument. When I taught RCIA, I always reminded my students that my job is not to give the impression that following Christ is all about studying although that’s important "And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me (Mt. 11:6)". Blessed are those who are not scandalized by God’s healing actions in the world. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 12/10/19

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 04:29:00 GMT

The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of cultural and religious immersion for me. Every year, as the celebration comes closer, I educate myself of the miraculous story, la obra and the profound symbolisms of the Tilma. Although t here are tons of information available for our own spiritual enrichment, I suspect no matter how much we try, we can't entirely capture what the symbols convey. We will always fall short of our interpretation because of the magnitude of divine majesty. This year, following the celebration here in Douglas which ended around 9pm (tan temprano), I tuned in to the en vivo Mananita performed by Mexico's pop artists/singers and midnight Mass at the Basilica. Es increible. Viva La Virgen! Viva La Virgen de Guadalupe! Viva Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe! Preciosa...

The Tilma with its powerful symbolisms

The Immaculate Conception Church

St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church

St. Luke Church

Featuring the annual Loretto School Christmas Pageant at the Cochise County Fairgrounds (@ the Barn) on December 5, Thursday. Sorry, I didn't get the chance to take photos as I couldn't keep my eyes out of the stage even for a moment. My seat was right behind Sr. Gabriella, who was busy directing her class. While enjoying the creativity and uniqueness of the presentation, I snapped a photo of the 4th graders. This is the class I administered first holy communion and so, it's hard to miss, although they've grown up so fast.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Bertha Castellano, Maria Garcia

THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE VIRGIN MARY

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 19:43:00 GMT

Quiero compartir las palabras de la bula Ineffabilis Deus que se define la dogma de la Inmaculada Concepcion en Espanol porque me encanta, " Para honor de la santa e indivisa Trinidad, para gloria y ornamento de la Virgen Madre de Dios, para exaltacion de la fe Católica y acrecentamiento de la religión cristiana, con la autoridad de nuestro Señor Jesucristo, de los bienaventurados apóstoles Pedro y Pablo y con la nuestra, declaramos, proclamamos y definimos que la doctrina que sostiene que la beatísima Virgen Maria fue preservada inmune de toda mancha de culpa original en el primer instante de su concepción, por singular gracia y privilegio de Dios omnipotente, en atención a los méritos de Cristo Jesus, salvador de genero humano, esta revelado por Dios y debe ser, por tanto, firme y constantemente creida por todos los fieles."

In the constitution Ineffabilis Deus published on December 8, 1854, Pope Pius IX proclaimed: “We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the Blessed Virgin Mary from the first moment of her conception was preserved… immune from all stain of original sin is revealed by God and is therefore firmly and constantly, to be believed by all the faithful.”

As grandiose as the declaration sounds, the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary actually comes from popular devotion in the early centuries and not so much the result of theological disputes. We don’t celebrate doctrines and teachings. We celebrate saving events. We celebrate the precious gift of God in Jesus Christ through the Blessed Virgin Mary. We deeply acknowledge her holiness. We don’t just talk about Mary to gain knowledge. The Immaculate Conception is not a piece of information that the church forgot to process in her infancy. This is not an after-thought. It’s a recognition of the gift of God. We are aware of the longing and expectation associated with advent. We know very well the prophecy that was fulfilled. God went to the simple people and not to the theologians, experts, religious elites and the highly-ranking officials. God went to Nazareth, a small forgotten village in Ancient Galilee. God called Mary, a young unassuming virgin- woman to be the bearer of the savior. God highly favored the simple-minded and not those who have complicated personalities. God invited the innocent and not the intellectuals who make excuses, reason out and talk a lot. God chose the least likely individual to carry in her womb the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.

Photo taken @ Virac, Catanduanes, Philippines

Since none of us was conceived free from “the sins of the world”, the Immaculate Conception is a silent protest to denounce the dominance of the prince of evil in which all of us have gone through. The Blessed Mother was conceived without sin and therefore, she was not affected by the structures of sin and the cycle of oppression, misery and violence we participate even if most of the time we are not aware of it. She was exempted. She was freed by any stain of sin. We belong to a sinful world. Although this year, the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is not a holy day of obligation, nonetheless, holiness is a sacred duty. Talk about the Catholic culture, if it’s not a holy day of obligation, only a handful will show up for mass while the rest take it for granted and back to business. But that’s not the intent of the Immaculate Conception. As you know, it came out as a popular devotion and being a devotion, it had a personal touch with the devotees. God always takes the initiative. God always takes the first step. Even when we come together to actively participate in the liturgy, the core of Catholic worship and the most powerful means of sanctification at the church’s disposal, we do so because God, foremost, offered each of us the grace. Amen.

Overlooking the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception @ Virac, Catanduanes, Philippines

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT A19

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 19:37:00 GMT

Isaiah dominates advent. Almost every day, we encounter the depths of his thoughts along with the complexity of his writings. This is because no prophet before the birth of Christ articulated the expectation of the Messiah than Isaiah. He started off with, “on that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse”, a positive outlook and hope for the better and restored future. He initially referred to the moral degradation and collapse of the past but someday, a flower, a branch will flesh out and emerge from the stump of Jesse - a return to the origins of the Davidic line. The long-expected Messiah, who will bring new life, will come from something that appears dead and ignored. He dreamed the impossible dream. He envisioned the most unlikely. This second Sunday of Advent, we spend a great deal of time in the all-important prophecy of Isaiah in chapter 11: 1-10 describing the charismatic character of the future ideal leader, the nature of his reign and the mythological scene demonstrated in the second section. He will constantly look for the little ones and take care of them. The spirit of the Lord will be with him. He will be filled with the strength that comes God, discern and decide with equity. The spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord shall come upon him. His life and ministry will be heavily immersed with divine life.

The second part talks about an impossible scenario. "The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall feed; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The sucking child shall play over the hole of the asp and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder's den. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord (Isa. 11:6-9).” It is a time when two opposing religious groups/organizations work in unity to advance the institution’s interest for as long it’s God-given and the completion of the mission of the church exemplified by Christ for the glory of God’s name. It’s a time when those who have strained relationships throw a feast and share meals. It’s a time when people of all denominations and faith traditions come and worship the divine. It is a time when heartbreaks are healed and family animosities written off. If the Prophet's vision fleshes out and comes true, then, the God whom Isaiah consistently prophesied and John talked about like a voice in the wilderness, has arrived in our midst. However, unless conversion of our hearts takes the centerfold, this long-awaited new era won't dawn upon us.

On Advent, Mother church wants us to look at two biblical figures: John the Baptist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. This Sunday, Matthew presents John the Baptizer, an exceedingly popular preacher of his time, dressed in camel's hair, eating locusts and wild honey, poor man's food of last resort, an astonishing combination of word and deed, leading us into the wilderness, an empty place of howling winds, with a hard-hitting message: "Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand" (Mt. 3:2). John the Baptist’s strange clothes and harsh sayings are emotionally touchstone, necessary components in getting across the full extent and meaning of the Gospel regardless of how and what we think and feel about it: "...The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths..." (Mt. 3:3). What is he talking about? He ponders on the depths of life, the stuff of what should keep us busy as the peak of the season comes close than what the contemporary culture suggests. "But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit that befits repentance, and do not presume to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into the granary, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire (Mt. 3: 7-12).”

John's preaching challen ges deeply held beliefs and age-old assumptions. His words call us to repentance, compel us to confess our sins, double check and thoroughly examine the inner life regularly. In the daily grind, there are negative forces and energies that surround and influence us. If we don’t take them to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, they weigh heavy on us. Advent has a penitential aspect evident in the atmosphere of the worship environment. This Friday, December 13, 6:30pm, please take advantage of the advent penance service offered as we look forward for the reason of the season. The church's notion of preparation for Christmas stands in huge tension with society at large. As we approach the holidays, we're asked to bask in things eternal and heavenly and the wonder of the unknown and not get stuck with hanging twinkling Christmas lights and gazing at the enormity of marked down prices. John’s message sounds scary to say the least but it’s actually a free and open invitation that all of us will be greatly delighted. It’s not something that we have to be afraid of as what we have been waiting for is near and close at hand. This Christmas, Christ welcomes us in the crib. He will be our host which is a huge relief on our end. Amen.

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 19:58:00 GMT

Thank you to all (the deacons, parish staff, grupo de oracion and the many individuals) who helped coordinate the marvelous celebration of the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Luke, Immaculate Conception and St. Bernard. Muchas Gracias por su cooperacion. I'm slowly learning the depths of this incredible celebration. Please click the following links: here and here and here for your personal study, reflection and prayer.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 12/03

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 00:04:00 GMT

On the advent season, we hear a lot from Isaiah, the 8th century B.C. prophet whose vision of the coming Messiah sounded loud and clear and referred exactly to Jesus Christ. We spent a great deal reflecting on the complexity of his thoughts.

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception celebrated on December 9, Monday, is not a holy day of obligation this year.

The Novena to our Lady of Guadalupe starts this evening 5pm (IC) and 6pm (SL).

The Diocesan Prayer and Action will be held here in Douglas on June 28-July 3, 2020, respectively. All Highschool students including incoming freshmen are invited to attend. Below is the flyer. Please click here to register. For more informatiob, please contact Joe Perdrauville or Paul Flores at the diocesan level and Fr. Jojo or Joe Alvarez here in Douglas.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Jose Aparicio Montano

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT A19

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 19:31:00 GMT

Advent ushers a new liturgical season, a new year for our church, a new way of looking at things, a preview of what lies ahead to see, time and again, from a different perspective huge windows of opportunities in which to anchor our lives. Advent interrupts the ordinary, helps us see life differently, consider it afresh amidst the busy holiday season. It is best described as a time of preparation for the birth of Christ. It means the arrival of a presence which brings the past to the present through commemoration for the future. Liturgy is subdued. Songs are mostly chanted. There’s no singing of Gloria until Christmas. With its dark purple motif, it calls us to refresh our weary hearts and souls and start anew, set simple and manageable goals, make priorities straight, dream big again, leave behind the past, awful or not, while remaining ebullient in our efforts to be faithful to Christ. As we look forward to Christmas with every intention to make it memorable to those we hold dear perhaps, many of us may have already been preoccupied with the same good-old thing associated with the holidays: parties to go, monies to spent, food to eat, perfect presents to buy, gifts to wrap, clothes to wear, stuff to décor, among others.

The 24 ^th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew reminds us of the eschatological dimension of Advent that is, the impending second coming of Christ at the end-times (Parousia), a major religious question in the early church but nowadays, seldom brought up in the church, much less in the pulpit. Possibly, we stopped looking forward to it as we are mainly concerned with the here and now, at the present time, in our efforts to make both ends meet. However, whether we are aware or not, our weekly procession to the church for Sunday gathering sharing similar vision is a dress rehearsal for final judgment.

In a dramatic fashion, Jesus' words in the Gospel is clearly at odds with people's expectation on the First Sunday of Advent, "As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. In those days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day that Noah entered the ark. They did not know until the flood came and carried them all away (Mt. 24:37-39).” Just when we keep our lives busy, engaged in the daily grind to prepare for the rainy days, the specter of God's judgment comes along, crashing us down and sweeping us all away.

Further, he mentioned, "Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left. Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come" (Mt. 24: 40-42). At a time of feasting and merry-making in America, Jesus knows better than anyone else about what really matters in life, spells it out and gives us a heads- up on things to come. What's scary about this scenario is that the day will arrive while people are out in the field harvesting, grinding, driving, running errands, eating and drinking, in short, when people are engaged in normal, everyday activities. Those taken up are the ones who, despite the temptations and signs shown and revealed, remained undistracted, kept their focus intact and manifest their faith in Christ, while the others left behind did just the exact opposite. So, when is when? "Therefore, you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect (Mt. 24:44).” Sadly, no one knows. The day will come unexpectedly without prior notice. What are we supposed to do then? Let's get on with our jobs since doing so is necessary to survive in a tough society but we also need to constantly prepare for the unannounced arrival of that day.

Paul succinctly illustrated in his letter to the Romans 13: 11-14 that it is time to wake up and get dressed, time to put on, adopt and imitate Jesus divine brand and extraordinary lifestyle, time to lead a descent and remarkably transformed life, time to get rid of things that dull and intoxicate the senses, time to stop feeding the soul with garbage, time to put aside partying, drunkenness and outrageous behavior, quarreling and jealousy- the very things that scandalize unbelievers and fellows, as well, embarrass the community, hurt feelings and fracture relationships. Paul, with a piercing advice and a thrilling exhortation, summons us with a high level of urgency, to wake up from a mere sense of obligation to a free and joyful spirit of enthusiasm, cast out the dark side of our souls, avoid any encroachment of the devil, check our moral compass, and behave like a believer.

As I skimmed through the words of the Prophet Isaiah in the first reading, although this was written centuries ago, he seemed to know very well what’s happening in the American shores and the international community. He was visionary. On Thanksgiving weekend, he takes us up to a mountain and shares what he saw, "In days to come, the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established as the highest mountain and raised above the hills and all nations shall stream toward it" (Isa. 2:2). He tells us that time will come when people from different corners of the globe will be drawn to God, seek him, press toward him, and converge at a spiritual zone "that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths" (Isa. 2:3). He envisioned that God will judge the nations, help settle disputes, weapons laid down, threats cease and instead, turn them into instruments of love. For him, war, hatred and anger are our enemies and not peoples and nations. Isaiah invites us in this side of the world to look beyond, aim for a brighter and peaceful future and live accordingly "O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the world (Isa. 2:5).” Together as a community, we will ascend to the Lord’s mountain, to the house of the God of Jacob, to meet our ancestors in faith, to give us instructions in righteous living, and to eagerly hear his message in a place where our shared unprocessed thoughts will be drawn into a unified whole. Although his vision doesn't even come close, we're asked, for the time being, to walk in God's light, make his presence felt, evident and compelling every step of the way. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 11/26

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 03:16:00 GMT

Last Sunday, the 2nd year confirmation students of the Immaculate Conception Parish enrolled themselves in the program in a solemn rite following the homily at the 12pm Mass witnessed by parents, godparents, families, friends and the community in attendance. Sorry, no photos available. We didn't get the chance for a photo opt. Before the final blessing, I asked all the teenagers in attendance to come upfront for a special blessing. I tell you I've never seen such huge presence of teenagers in the church in a very long time.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Dominic Torres

SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE C19

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 17:48:00 GMT

On the last Sunday in Ordinary Time, Holy Mother Church celebrates the solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe which marks the end of the Church’s liturgical calendar. This feast, elevated into a solemnity by Pope John XXIII, was formally instituted by His Holiness Pius XI in his December 11, 1925 Encyclical Quas Primas “that the faithful would gain strength and courage from the celebration of the feast, as we are reminded that Christ must reign in our hearts, minds, wills, and bodies (# 33).” It was a classic response to the rapidly growing disbelief among Catholics in Christ’s saving message enormously influenced by secularism, a belief that decries anything spiritual and religious, a manner of life as if God, the supreme being that inhabits the vast universe: from the largest galaxy to the tiniest sub-atomic particle, doesn’t exist and nothing beyond the physical world. At a time when respect for Christ and his Church had dramatically declined, Pope Pius XI announced the feast to encourage the Catholic Faithful (and unfaithful) as well to boldly proclaim and honor Christ’s power and sovereignty over all creation, above all things, and let it be the source and center in all aspects of life. We still engage in the daily grind, in the rough and tumble of life while faith and morals are integrated. Hence, it’s observed.

The second book of Samuel recalls the anointing of David as Shepherd and King of Israel (2 Sam 5: 1-3). The letter of Paul to the Colossians in the second reading attributes a hymn to the divine kingship of Christ: image of the Invisible God, firstborn of all creation, source of all created things, head of the body, the Church, firstborn from the dead and crucified King. “He is the image of the Invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he himself might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross through him, whether those on earth or those in heaven (Col. 1:12-20)."

Throughout the year, we have heard Luke’s story of Jesus about the kingdom of God. It is believed that the author of the Gospel was a medical physician by profession and a master storyteller who addressed his writing of the Good News of Jesus in an orderly manner to Theophilus (Lover of God). He described the kingship of Jesus as the most visible symbol of God’s love to humanity with a special focus on those living on the edge, those at the fringes: the needy, the lowly, the poor, the hungry, to name a few. The following stories illustrate his vision: the healing of the man with a withered man on a Sabbath, the Sermon on the Plain, the Parable of the Sower, the Good Samaritan, the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Lost Son, the Prodigal Son, the Rich Man and Lazarus, the Dishonest Manager, Martha and Mary, the Healing of the Ten Lepers, the Widow’s Mite, the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, and the dramatic conversion of Zacchaeus. Jesus is the kind of king who seems confusing, coming to us in disguise, in cognito, born under the law, bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh, one of us, vulnerable like we are, subject to temptation and death, but resisted and accepted it.

In the Gospel, the rulers jeered at him and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.” (Lk. 23:35). The soldiers did the same, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.” (Lk. 23: 36) Even one of the criminals beside him said, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us ( Lk. 23: ).” No response. It was annoying. He could have escaped the excruciating pain but he stayed, nailed on the cross, bloody and bowed. Silence was the answer. We know the end of the story, he saved us by dying and rising. It looked like it was a defeat with no chance of a come- back and a blow- out win for his critics but no, it was the biggest upset. The other (penitent) criminal surprisingly begged to differ from everyone else and briefly uttered , “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Lk. 23: 42) At last, Bingo! he promised the good thief with the last verse in the Gospel of the year, “Today you will be with me in Paradise (Lk. 23: 43)." What a relief to hear Jesus’ assurance and promise that those who acknowledge him will join him in Paradise. I don’t know any appropriate way in which to end the liturgical year than an open invitation to join him in suffering, pain and death, bear the insult and the brunt of evil. Amen.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 23:09:00 GMT

To give thanks to God is the the habit of our hearts and the tenor of our souls. Gratitude is our moral compass and so we say, I thank the Lord for...

Every single occurrence in our lives (good and bad) is an invitation to draw closer to God. And whenever that encounter with the divine happens either in idle moments, rush hour, or in solitude, it changes us as a person and that's where the rubber meets the road. Win or lose, life goes on...

Whether thanksgiving is spent with the family, in the company of friends and strangers, at work, in a fast food down the road, behind bars, in a hospital bed or in the living room of a rectory, what matters is the awareness that every fiber of life, from the tiniest, microscopic cell to the largest part of the anatomy, belongs entirely to God.

Happy Thanksgiving...

TUESDAY MUSINGS 11/19

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 20:35:00 GMT

The 2nd year confirmation students had an (enjoyable) day-long retreat last Saturday given by Fr. Jorge.

The day following the retreat, the 2nd year confirmation students of St. Bernard pledged to enroll/commit themselves in the program in the presence of their families, sponsors, guests and the (packed) gathered community. As they prepare for sacramental reception, they most need our prayerful help and support.

Below is an invitation from the young adults group about the monthly evening of praise and worship.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

We raise our prayers to God for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

Jose Cecena Luna, Alicia Cloud

33RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C19

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 14:21:00 GMT

As the liturgical season slowly draws to a close suggesting an end- of- times religious tone, we are reminded once again not to panic but stay calm despite the impending dangers of divisions, wars and revolutions and endless threats to peace and security. We are told that disasters such as earthquakes, plagues and famines do happen, extremely damaging and catch us by surprise and yet, it’s not the end.

There will be tomorrow and will arrive sooner than expected. Jesus says, “when you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not be immediately the end. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines and plagues from place to place and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky” (Lk. 21:9-11). Some things remain, others passing.

Nonetheless, we’re worried. We got questions. If natural calamities and disasters, including violence and shootings are not yet signs of the end-times, then what, when and will there be spectacular signs that precede it? What will happen when Christ finally comes to pass final judgment? Self-proclaimed prophets predicted the exact date and time of the end of the world for ages but that day never arrived. At least, not yet. We are heavily preoccupied with the affairs of ordinary life that any talk of the last things doesn’t get much attention. Jesus tells his followers to be extremely cautious of the false prophets who sound impeccable in the name of God, as though they were the ones who made the created universe and have everything in their fingertips. At this time of the year, the environment surrounding us that is, the falling of the leaves suggests that nature will go through a process of death. Doom and gloom movies come out in theatres in November as well. What is at stake is our giving testimony, our sense of witness to the world. There’s a famous saying, modern people don’t listen to teachers but if they do, it’s because they become credible witnesses first.

What do we do then for the time being? How do we give witness? In these uncertain and difficult times, Paul and his companions have a lot to say by strongly urging us to imitate and look up to them as models for they “labored in toil and drudgery, night and day, we worked, so as not to burden any of you” (2 Thess. 3:8) . Paul sounded frustrated by the destructive lifestyles of some members in the community. It appeared evil, wicked and crooked people ran the show. Possibly, new members were confused about the sense of mission and witness of Christ’s followers. Some have given up their faith, lost hope and lacked zeal. They were disillusioned. Their hopes dashed and expectations failed. They felt that everything they worked for ended up in dismal failure, no less a losing battle. No wonder Paul’s message presents a stern warning to those who turned complacent in faith and led immoral, mediocre and chaotic lives which negatively affected others who took their faith seriously. It is directed to those whose moral standards have eroded and have cared nothing at all about faith. We are all in the same boat and heading the same direction. No one must be left behind. And so, he tells the morally lax to work on their own spiritual growth and religious well-being instead of minding others' business. This practice leads them to the day of the Lord. Malachi in the first reading clearly points out that “the day of the Lord will separate the proud evildoers from those who fear God’s name and then, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays.” The day of the Lord will be a day of judgment and punishment.

Jesus constantly reminds us that, “you will be hated by all because of my name but not a hair on your head will be lost . By your perseverance you will secure your lives” (Lk 21:17-19). Living the gospel is counter-cultural. It doesn’t simply communicate human values that make us feel good about ourselves. It’s other-worldly, divine in origin and supernatural in nature. None except Jesus of Nazareth exemplified, fulfilled and lived up to the promises albeit in a heroic, violent and scandalous death on the cross. Righteous people should lead the world.

Our parish communities should never stop in sharing the good news. Jesus keeps us going. We don’t evangelize by simply posting an ad, a video in social media, flyers for an event or studying the church’s documents although that helps a lot. Our words and actions are our most powerful tool. We make disciples by bringing people to God and it happens always in the context of the church, in a gathered community as the locus of this sacred encounter. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 11/12

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 00:53:00 GMT

We marvel at the changing colors of autumn. We're fascinated by the gradual falling of the leaves. While driving home to Douglas yesterday, I stopped and parked by the shoulder of the road (historic interstate 80) for a moment at a place (photos below) I don't remember exactly, possibly somewhere between Benson and St. David. We may not have the same lovely hues as in other places but the shades certainly draw us to a pause. It's so timely that we heard the book of Wisdom this week letting us know, the order and beauty of nature didn't happen by mere coincidence. At this time of year, the surrounding environment has led us to the knowledge of the existence of God, the creator of the universe and the author of life. A supernatural divine being must have created this in an orderly fashion.

Immaculate Conception Parish hosted an appreciation dinner for all the fiesta volunteers. Not everyone showed up, of course and yet, it was an enjoyable evening where guests sat and chatted. Since it was an appreciation, there was no prepared agenda except to enjoy the food served, which included mouth-watering homemade barbacoa, frijoles, y mucho mas (the staff made sure what's on the menu was delicious) and each other's company. As I handed the certificates, a couple of musicians were seated next to each other. One of them agreed to render us few songs which made the crowd roared and stayed. Remember it was impromptu. He actually ended up singing a lot more than I initially thought. A young lady even volunteered. There was some hesitation about raffle winners hitting the dance floor right at the middle but no worries, we'll do a better job next time. Welcome to IC! You never know what's to come on a given moment.

CONGRATULATIONS ANA CHAVARIN for being the recipient of a prestigious award, the Cardinal Bernardin Award . If I rememeber correctly, she's from Agua Prieta and Douglas.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

32ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 17:59:00 GMT

Perhaps, many of you are wondering how come the readings sound odd and seem strange talking about marriage, martyrdom and resurrection at a time when the holiday season is just about to kick- off starting of course, with thanksgiving. It would have been be a real treat if the readings gave us new recipes for meals and tips for shopping wisely. The church's calendar runs slightly different. It's closing time. It ends in three weeks and starts again on thanksgiving weekend. It should be no surprise for everyone if the church has given us a very special theme about resurrection and its implication after listening to the Gospel of Luke for almost a year now. We are heading towards the end of the liturgical year and so the theme leads us into eternity, life after death.

The first reading from the book of Maccabees relates the fate of the seven brothers and their mother who were 'arrested and tortured with whips and scourges' in the name of faith. They suffered martyrdom at the hands of the king whose name was not mentioned. They were Jewish martyrs. They chose to die for their faith, refused to obey what the king demanded and forced them to do that is, to eat pork which was contrary to their belief and tradition of their ancestors. One of them said, "what do you expect to achieve by questioning us?" We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of our ancestors." Just before taking his last breath, he added: "You accursed friend, you are depriving us of this present life, but the king of the world will raise us up to live again forever. It is for his laws that we are dying." The third stuck his tongue out as soon as he was told without any hesitation and raised his hands in orans position and spoke: "It was from Heaven that I received these; for the sake of his laws I disdain them; from him I hope to receive them again." As mentioned, "even the King and his attendants marveled at the young man's courage, because he regarded his sufferings as nothing." The fourth brother who was later killed testified: "It is my choice to die at the hands of men with the hope God gives of being raised up by him; but for you, there will be no resurrection to life." I'm not sure if they were experts of the law but always, always, the proof of genuine and true faith is dying into it, martyrdom. Because the idea of resurrection emerges from God's vindication for those who suffered and died for their faith, endured terrible suffering and remained faithful until death, God will raise them up and will do justice to those responsible. That means, resurrection is an entirely different phenomenon and event which lies outside the earthly realm and depends solely on God.

The Gospel is similar in style and scope as it relates the silly question posed by the Sadducees to Jesus about resurrection. It was intended to mock and embarrass Jesus in the crowd but instead, he turned it into a teachable moment about the all-important belief in the resurrection and the after-life and the nature of it all.

While differences in beliefs and practices and traditions are true in Ancient Judaism, the same holds true in Christianity. An expert said that whatever Catholicism has dropped in its conversation, other denominations picked and one of which was the after-life and second coming (Parousia). How many of us talk about religion in the dinner table? Just because we have differences doesn't mean we won't engage into a friendly discussion and healthy conversation with others.

Jesus said, "The children of this age marry and remarry; but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. They can no longer die for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called out 'Lord,' the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he is not God the dead , but of the living, for to him all are alive."

It's relatively easy for a modern reader to find this dramatic encounter of Jesus and the Sadducees, described in the Gospel as "those who deny there is a resurrection," as terribly confounding given an entirely absurd scenario (Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be?). It shouldn't take us any length of time to discern that this remarkable story is meant to trap him, shame him before everyone present and prove him wrong and lacking knowledge. It was a query about resurrection, with the sole intent of embarrassing him in the crowd and certainly, not to seek greater knowledge nor dialogue. What piqued my interest was how Jesus handled the situation and took over it. Rather than taking it personally and letting himself be affected by the whole controversy as the case may have been, he acted quite differently. He seized, the- would- have- been- entrapment as a teachable moment to expose the all-important belief in life after death and heaven, as well.

The question that has constantly puzzled humankind ever since the world began is what comes after death. All of us at some point in life (from childhood - adulthood) asked whether earthly life is all there is to it. Is this life the be- all and end- all of everything? Experience tells us, we are but mere mortals. Life on earth is temporary. It’s passing. It’s a transitional. For Christians, death is the birth to new life. When we die, we will face divine judgment and be purified in purgatory. We won't reach our final destination until we enjoy the everlasting bliss, basking at the beatic vision.

Resurrection was a later development in Judaism. It was for this reason that the Sadducees, a sect heavily preoccupied with Mosaic law, this time in particular, levirate marriage, found it hard to believe in such a radically new thing, that is, rising from the dead. Resurrection is a totally different kind of existence, a much higher level than here and now. It can't be understood simply as a continuation of the present time which reminds me of the song that says it all, In Heaven there is no beer, that's why we drink it here. It's just fair to stop from breaking it down into details because the more I attempt to depict what resurrection from the dead will be like, the more I will make people confused about a reality that lies outside the realm of human language. For now, let's just do our best, keep our faith intact knowing that God is in full control both of the present and the future "for to him all are alive." Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 11/5

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 19:26:00 GMT

The parade of Saints at Loretto School was a sight and a joy to behold. It was lovely seeing the students donned in their favorite saints costume. Just watch the short clip as I struggle to find the right words to type. video to be posted later...

Although the participation was thin at Friday evening’s Memorial Mass in honor of the deceased, nonetheless, it was a delightful ritual - simple, quick and yet intensely moving. We started the service in dimmed lights. After the short homily, I asked them to proceed to the center aisle, join the short line and place the cards with the names of the deceased inscribed on it in the basket. I picked each of the cards and chanted the names and the congregation responded with, pray for him/her/them. photos to follow...

It was a little chilly (as expected per forecast no- surprise- come-November) when the Mass at Calvary Cemetery began but as the sun slowly showed up in the horizon, things settled down. Otherwise, we’d have been frozen. At the homily, each person in attendance was asked to say the names of the deceased loved ones: families, relatives and friends. We prayed for the souls of the migrants as well (especially the unidentified) who died while crossing the vast and treacherous Sonoran desert. Noticeably, as I paid close attention, many of them still broke down, teary-eyed, even stammered as the names came out of their mouth. That’s alright. Before the final blessing, everyone nodded in approval when asked to do it again next year. There’s life after death and the best place to bury our departed loved ones is the Cemetery, a final resting place for the body and a temporary abode for the soul awaiting its entry into the eternity only God knows. Cemetery represents the in-between times.

Last Saturday, November 2 was the first anniversary of my arrival here in Douglas y Pueblo Nuevo. I know for sure it was Friday. La vida en la frontera is about learning Spanglish which, of course, means immersing in both cultures other than my own. Since Douglas sits in the southernmost part of the state, I often find myself switching languages regardless of who I stumble upon. And when you do, you’re slowly, un dia la vez, getting the hang of it.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

For the victims of the recent massacre in the state of Sonora and Chihuhua.

Guadalupe Fuentes

Today, November 5 is Virgilio Tabo Sr, my beloved father's 23rd death anniversary.

31ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sat, 02 Nov 2019 19:50:00 GMT

Not all conversion stories are created equal. This familiar one from Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector, is one of the most deeply moving in the New Testament. It is considered by many as a masterpiece designed to brazenly demonstrate and highlight the extravagant desire of God, "to seek and save the lost," without which the mission of the church lacks an important dimension. He’s disliked by many because of the nature of his job but apparently, he is just as spiritually curious and needy as many of us are. In a desperate attempt, his infamous short stature led him to climb a sycamore tree, bursting out of his shell despite the presence of a huge crowd, to take a chance, to get a glimpse of this wandering, itinerant sensational preacher Jesus, reportedly passing down the streets of Jericho. That’s quite an effort in an obviously hostile environment. When Jesus took sight of him, he asked him to come down and said “for today, I must stay at your house.” He hurried down upon hearing his invitation, stood in front of him, and "promised to give up half of his riches to the poor and sought restitution to anyone he may have defrauded." Because of this encounter, his life dramatically changed, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have exhorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” The crowd reacted vehemently against this breach of etiquette that is, to sit at table with folks known as sinners.

Our biggest concern is the Zacchaeus' of our time, the seekers, those who shop around for churches, who probably have attended almost all worship services in town and still consider themselves Catholics. Their lives are intriguing. They do it for various reasons mostly, dissatisfaction with the service given them by the community. They are spiritual and would love to be religious and I guess, I know what they meant. They are our target. A significant number of these types of baptized Catholics have not reached the level of spiritual and religious maturity. They may have heard the Gospel and yet, haven't personally met the Jesus in today's Gospel asking them to come down for "Today, salvation has come to this house, for this man too is a descendant of Abraham," a fellow Catholic, just like you, a couple of years ago.

We may not have the same exact bizarre response as Zach promising to slash half of his assets, however, we are asked to respond with generosity to the growing needs of our community to serve the poor, to form a strong and solid faith foundation to our children, the young, and adults too who need both depth and a 2 ^nd grade refresher, to maintain the physical plant and make it welcoming as best we can, among others. A while back, I inadvertently forgot to leave a tip in a restaurant. I was already pulling away from the parking lot when the waiter pursued me, “Sir, we’re living on tips…15% is mandatory here.” This gave me a huge lesson in church giving. If you can afford to get a latte, a 6- pack, giving at least 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 3%, 4%, to no more than 5% of your weekly income should be easily manageable. How much of your weekly income should you give to the parish? Ideally, your hourly wage. Let’s go the extra mile.

The Christian community is built to last under the flagship of self-less love, humility and generosity. The happiest people I know are the generous people.

ALL SOULS' DAY

Sat, 02 Nov 2019 19:48:00 GMT

This year, the Catholic community experienced so many deaths in various circumstances. The memory is still fresh as ever. I can still vividly picture those moments when I stand at altars in funeral masses and graves at burial services. Words fail. Many, if not all, are still mourning for the loss which might take decades, even a lifetime to get over and come to terms with it. As a pastor, I enter into people’s deepest moments in life. I join with grieving families, relatives and friends to gravesites and offer words of consolation and sympathy about the unspeakable pain of loss, the upsetting reality of death and hope for the resurrection. This experience led me to the memorial mass in honor of the deceased on Friday evening (Nov. 1) and the Calvary cemetery mass Saturday morning (Nov. 2) for a solemn ritual to console bereaved families and one another, express our deep sorrows, allow ourselves to grieve, mourn, weep and shed tears, and provide support to the burden of grief we carry. We can’t hide our inner turmoil. Suffering loss through death is visible in our facial expression. As we commemorate the faithful departed, may our remembrances be a grace-filled moment.

Today is a special day to honor the dead. Even though, they’ve already gone before us, for many of us, they still belong to this world. They remain present in our memories. We communicate with them in so many ways. We visit their graves, spend time with them and recite a prayer or two. We bring flowers, offer mass intentions and decorate their graves to show how much we care and love them. How many of us still shed tears every time we glance at the life-size framed picture hung/mounted on the wall in the living room? Cemetery is an eternal neighborhood, a home for many of us, a place where we come together. Amen.

ALL SAINTS' DAY

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 22:29:00 GMT

I’ve often been asked about the number of those attending Masses. I usually reply with John’s vision of the saints "marked with the seal" in the book of Revelation 7: 2-4, 9-14 (first reading) “a hundred and forty-four thousand…out of every tribe of the children of Israel and “a great multitude which no man could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and the lamb in white robes…with palm branches in their hands.” We are a communion (triumphant, militant and suffering) of saints. In the Mass, we join the company of those who have gone before us in faith, the company of Angels and Saints in heaven. And so, we glorify you with the multitude of Saints and Angels, as with one voice of praise we acclaim… "Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of Hosts…We are surrounded by a Cloud of Witnesses (Heb. 12:1)" We're never alone...We worship with the gallery of the holy ones, with all the faithful who entered the worship environment.

The carved statues of saints and the stained glass windows in our parishes remind us of their continued presence. In our joys and sorrows, successes and failures, even in our laughters, they are one with us interceding for God.

The solemnity of All Saints is a special day honoring the canonized, the official, the known as well as the unknown whose lives have been singlehandedly devoted to Christ perhaps members of our families, relatives and friends who didn't simply teach us and left us inspiring words but showed us the example of Christian life, the stuff of Christianity. We put them on the pedestal and convince ourselves there's no way we can be like them as they existed at a stage in history unfamiliar and detached to many of us. But, it's the same scenario. Saints rise at difficult times. They step up to the plate and respond to the religious and spiritual needs of their times. That's exactly what we need at this juncture in the church’s era…the game- changers.

Although today, we celebrate both the official, whose biographies have been well-documented, famous lines quoted, and statues/images decorated on a pedestal and the unofficial (not even by loud acclamation) saints, what strikes me most is the effervescent, passionate desire of the countless, unnamed, unknown, anonymous, ordinary Christians who died for their faith as if their lives didn't matter, persecuted through the centuries to this day whose names never made it in the books.

If we dream of being counted in the communion of saints in the heavenly glory, of reaching into the eternal fulfillment Matthew 5: 1-12 which lays down the eight beatitudes, provides us with the roadmap to holiness. With all its grandeur, this feast all started with prayers and devotions honoring local martyrs. Perhaps, not in our generation and/or lifetime but we’re hoping with fingers crossed, one day, a saint will come out of Douglas/Pirtleville through the handing on of the tradition. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 10/29

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 21:14:00 GMT

At the 9am Mass last Sunday, October 27, the Loretto School 8 ^th graders and the St. Luke Parish 2 ^nd year confirmation students enrolled (and vice-versa) themselves in the confirmation program in the presence of their families, sponsors and the standing-room only gathered community. The solemn ritual meant commitment, a promise carried out in a public setting indicative of the support and prayers of the congregation. We are with you.

I shared this story a thousand times. Before moving to Douglas, I thought I was the only Filipino in town. Almost immediately, I heard from the grapevine that there were around 50, much to my surprise . Some of them actually showed up at Sunday Masses in the first few weeks of my arrival. A couple of months later, I was invited on a Friday evening for a dinner and greatly enjoyed the great Filipino pastime, videoke. Can they sing! I played with the idea and not too long ago, asked if they would be open to sing for the 9am Mass at St. Luke. I didn’t wait until November as I was afraid they would change their minds.

A small, simple, basic bible study program/faith sharing group to help parishioners prepare for the Sunday liturgy will begin mid- November at SL and IC. The launch of the program will be in time for the National Bible Week. We may not always realize but there's an ever-increasing hunger for God's word, the Bible-the most read book because of its divine origin and inspiration.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

30TH SUNDAY - WORLD PRIESTHOOD SUNDAY

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 22:24:00 GMT

Luke 18: 9-14 presents a parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector "to those who think they were righteous and despised others.” On its face, it looks like a warning against spiritual pride/arrogance but actually, a model of prayer that highlights a religious issue as serious as it was in the past. The plot starts with two people, one a pharisee and the other, a publican, who went to the temple to pray. They represent a group of people said to be extremes in the entire spectrum of society differing mostly in their respective religious and spiritual wavelength. Pharisees are well-known religious people leading moral and decent lives. They are the top of the class, the cream of the crop, active and dominant in religious and social affairs, people who know the law by heart, ‘Torah’ is everything to them. They wake up early enough to pray before the whole world does, strive hard to follow the minutest details of the letter of the law and generous with their money. Exactly, the type of parishioner, your pastor wishes to have.

....with head held high and outstretched arm, he gives his best shot, brags before God by proudly reciting this prayer, “O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity –greedy, dishonest, adulterous, or even like the tax collector hiding at the corner. I fast twice a week and give ten percent of my whole income to the temple."

O God, I thank you that I am not like other Catholics who stay in bed until noon and make no effort at attending the Eucharist, except maybe on Christmas, Ash Wednesday and Easter. I never miss Mass on Sunday and holy days of obligation and go to confession on a regular basis even without being aware of any real and serious sin. I might watch my favorite TV shows but that's only after I'm done with my obligations. I strictly follow the rules. I may have questions (all of us have) and struggle with some teachings but in the end, abide by it, unlike my other Catholic friend who always pokes fun at me. I pledge faithfully. A simple of note of thanks is enough. I've served in many parish capacities for years and still, actively involved in a number of ministries. Lord, would you allow that fellow standing at the back who came late, yes after the homily, to sit in the pew with me?

Let's turn our attention to the so- called, public enemy number one, the publican (the tax collector). They are crook, detestable, despicable, conniving and betrayer of their own people for acting as collaborators with Roman authority. They accepted bribes and engaged in the dirty business of pocketing poor people's hard-earned money. No wonder, they are at the bottom of the social scale. In the temple, the publican stayed in the shadows, “stood afar off and would not even lift his eyes to God,” to the Holy of Holies, no reason, by the way to do so, but “beat his breast and prayed, O God, be merciful to me a sinner!”.

O God, a TV commercial inviting lapsed Catholics back into the church was aired sometime ago. I actually stumbled upon it and felt that it spoke directly to me. I'm a public sinner in the eyes of many. I didn't want to show up today as I'm deeply ashamed of myself. I've been away for decades without excuses and broken the ten commandments not once but multiple times. It sounds funny that I bend my knee before you. My future is hanging on a balance and my life hit rock bottom. With candor, simplicity of heart and absolute trust, I beg for mercy for my past and resolve to straighten things out.

Jesus entered the scene, “I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Perhaps, we are a mixture of both, sometimes a Pharisee when we seek applause and recognition for our hard work, to name just a few and sometimes, a tax collector, when we humbly and sincerely pray to God, acknowledge our sins and failures, laugh at our mistakes and ask forgiveness for those whose feelings we’ve hurt and offended. Yes, the story went awry. It made a lot of us feel terrible. But, over all, this text clearly shows that since God declares the publican justified, so are we. Amen.

This Sunday has been designated as World Priesthood Sunday, a golden and blessed opportunity to create awareness in the vocation to the sacred order of priesthood (from the latin, presbyter) to serve Christ the Teacher (proclaim), the priest (offer sacrifice) and shepherd (to govern) through the laying on of hands. Priesthood is a divine gift, a calling to tailor and fashion our lives in the priesthood of Jesus Christ’s, once and for all, sacrifice on the cross. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 10/22

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 19:22:00 GMT

The Catholic community hosted the Cochise Vicariate level 1 certification last Saturday, October 19. About 25 catechists attended the presentation given by Peggy Guerrero of Jordan Ministry. Topics included the call to ministry, the spirituality of the ordinary, the ministry of everyday life and prayer, of course. We look forward to seeing you again on January 25, 2020.

Allow me to thank the families who hosted the October Rosary (house-house) Pilgrimage.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Julio Cesar Tanabe

29TH SUNDAY - WORLD MISSION SUNDAY

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 18:24:00 GMT

If you ever wonder how come there are more or less 1.3 billion Catholics in the world where two thirds live in the global south (Latin America, Africa and Asia), it’s because of the word ‘universal’ and ‘mission’ in contrast to local and exclusive. The early followers of Christ revolutionized their faith by proclaiming the gospel message that Christ is Lord, his life and ministry to the ends of the earth. They firmly believed that ‘mission’ to convert the world was an indispensable aspect of the church life. When the missionaries, beginning with the Apostles to St. Paul to the post- apostolic era down the centuries in all times and seasons, journeyed into the unknown, foreign lands, they were prepared to face any hardships and threat and even shed blood for the sake of the gospel. When they sailed out, their intent was nothing short of converting the entire human race. The message of salvation carried by the missionaries was not a revelation from a mere human being but founded under a supernatural command that Jesus’ life and ministry is the fulfillment of the sacred scriptures. The truth communicated and shared (for example that peace and reconciliation that Christ brings can be attained through non-violence and not by armed struggle) was eternal and timeless, always and everywhere. Now that religion is on sharp decline and church attendance dramatically fallen at least according to recent research, the cloud of witnesses: the saints (named and unnamed) and the martyrs are our models and heroes of faith. Christianity was not originally designed and crafted as an exclusive religion solely composed of a small group of individuals residing at a specific location but universal and missionary extending to the ends of the earth.

The Holy Father declared October 2019 as an extraordinary month of mission to commemorate the 100 ^th anniversary of Pope Benedict XV’s apostolic exhortation ‘Maximum Illud’ also known as the Great Missionary Command to bring the good news to all peoples (Missio Ad Gentes). The apostolic letter which was written and published by the Missionary Pope on November 30, 1919, a year after the First World War- one of the deadliest wars in history, deals with Catholic missions. Records show that the smelter here in Douglas back then (first quarter of the 20 ^th century) supplied copper in Europe. In it (apostolic letter), he stressed that “a missionary should have no other purpose except to proclaim the gospel” (#24) which means instruction is a significant aspect of ministry and “the acquisition of souls as a selfless work” (#21). He added that anyone engaging in “the apostolic ministry, sanctity of life is of crucial importance” (#26). The missionary must “burn with charity” (#28) and that “the basis of the ministerial work rests entirely on God” (#29). By acknowledging the great apostles of the gospel who contributed to the expansion of missions, he singlehandedly mentioned the vowed vocations of religious women in mission fields. We are blessed, fortunate and grateful enough to have two religious order of sisters in the Catholic Community: the Order of the Discalced Carmelites (OCD), the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles whose ministry is primarily devoted to the education of the children and the young at Loretto School and the Sisters of Notre Dame committed to peace and justice particularly migrant ministry. Such ministry is unparalleled. He suggested that there are many ways busy Catholics can help in their own capacities. First and foremost is through prayer. Our missionary work he said, is futile without the intervention of divine grace. Prayer warriors (either individual or group setting) is a sacred requirement in carrying out the divine work. Before anyone embarks on a mission, prayer is an essential element. Since this Sunday’s gospel is the story of the persistent widow who converted the unjust judge, let the persistence of the widow be our model of prayer. The story of Moses, Joshua and Amalek in the first reading was mission in action. It emphasized perseverance in mission and highlights the power of Moses’ intercession. St. Paul in the second reading, urged Timothy to be inspired by the wisdom of the scriptures and proclaim the word.

We are baptized and sent on a mission in the world. The highest form of our worship of God is often and commonly called Mass from the Latin, ‘missa’ (to send forth). After Mass, we are sent forth to proclaim in the light (in the marketplace-where crowds of people love to hang out, social media, house tops), what we heard in the solemn gathering. Together We Are Mission. Me- You- Us- Together. Never in isolation.

The extraordinary mission culminates this Sunday, World Mission Sunday. As you know, it’s not just about second collection although financial support helps non-profit institutions and communities and missionaries throughout the world. More than anything, it’s a bold attempt to revitalize, renew and reawaken the deep sense of mission in the church, develop missionary spirit and practice missionary charity.

Catholicism is mission-oriented and global in its scope. The cloud of witnesses were not afraid to go into remote places and far-flung areas, to immerse into a different culture and learn a new language. They knew full well that as they introduce the faith, there would be resistance and conflict as not all will be readily available to accept the message.

What is your mission?

TUESDAY MUSINGS 10/15

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 23:45:00 GMT

This Sunday, October 20 is designated as World Mission Sunday with the theme, Together, We Are Mission. The Holy Father's message reminds us of the missionary dimension (global and universal in its scope) of our faith. Please click here and here to learn more about the Pontifical Mission Societies. October 2019 has been declared as the Extraordinary Month of Mission, Baptized and Sent: The Church of Christ on Mission in the World.

This week we celebrate the memorials of St. Callistus Pope and Martyr (Oct 14), St. Teresa of Avila (Oct. 15), and St. Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr (Oct. 17), St. John of Brebeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests and companion, Martyrs (Oct. 19) and the feast of St. Luke, Evangelist (Oct. 18) . The liturgical readings present the letter of Paul to the Romans who introduced himself as a slave of Christ in the opening verses and greeted them with the usual gracious tone of "the grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."

Please save the date. Mark your calendars for the upcoming events.

Let’s greet and salute our newest saints, the model and heroes of our faith!

St. John Henry Newman, St. Marian Thresia, St. Giuseppina Vannini, St. Dulce Lopes Pontes and St. Marguerite Bays, Pray For Us!

A big Thank you to all the volunteers of the Immaculate Conception Parish Fiesta for all the efforts and sacrifices made for this event. Above all, glory and praise to God.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 10/1

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:07:00 GMT

The Evening of Praise and Worship hosted by the parish young adults last Tuesday September 24 was one of the many opportunities to join the community in praise and worship through songs and eucharistic adoration. I want to thank Ron and his daughter Cat for gracing us with their presence and led us in singing. The next praise and worship is slated on October 22, Tuesday, 7pm-8pm.

Yesterday, Sept. 30 was St. Jerome’s memorial. As a scripture scholar, his famous phrase which has been extensively quoted, “Ignorance of the scriptures is ignorance of Christ.” He translated the bible to Latin which was called Vulgate and had been used for 1,500 years in the church. Macassio, an Italian painter had a marvelous painting of him along with St. John the Baptist.

Today , Oct. 1 is St. Therese of the Child Jesus’ memorial. She joined the Carmelite order as a teenager at her request to the Holy Father. Her well-known phrase is to spend her time in heaven by doing good on earth. It’s so to speak, the little way. Her story of the soul was published after her death. Oct. 2, Wednesday is the feast of the Holy Guardian Angels. What Catholic doesn’t know the bedtime prayer to the Guardian Angels, Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commit me here. Ever this day, be at my side, to light and guide, to rule and guard. Amen. Oct. 4 is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the most beloved saint of Europe for his extraordinary renunciation of material wealth.

This Sunday is designated Respect Life Sunday, a special time to reflect on life from conception (womb) to natural death (tomb). This year’s theme is Christ Our Hope in every season of life. Here's the link for a plethora of resources.

As always, we offer prayers for the weakest and the invisible among us: migrants and refugees, the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and consolation for the dying.

Cristobal Robles, Angel Esqueda, Marissa Moreno, Isidro Robles

26TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 13:00:00 GMT

The unnamed rich man dressed luxuriously in Phoenician purple, dined sumptuously and feasted daily, ignored the poor man Lazarus lying outside his gate covered with sores waiting for scraps of food because he was convinced that God had everything to do with it. He was taught early on that poverty and misery is the result of your own wrongdoing. He was made to believe, he had nothing to do with his impoverished and destitute neighbor. He cared about no one in this world but himself and made no excuses. Because he thought he had no social and religious responsibility at all towards anyone except him, he treated him less than a human being, a grave act of inhumanity towards man, in general. This godless mentality allowed the so-called blessed and prosperous man to enjoy his riches even to the point of walking and rolling past the poor guy at his doorsteps. For him, the best life is a carefree life (live well and eat well). Love of neighbor (sharing meals with Lazarus) is out of the equation, not even an option. For him, poverty is your own fault, destiny and God’s design, too. If you’re poor, God must have punished you. Bad choices have direct and corresponding consequences which the rich man believed was exactly what led Lazarus to that dismal state. Trapped by the misfortunes of life, he is left on his own. He ended up at the gate perhaps because others brought him there presumably as the best place to get help and seek relief. What took us to the human chasm (the social divide between us and them in the spectrum of life? Life experience...

T his is an awful story to say the least. We’re tied up. We’re caught in the middle. It prompts us to ask whether rich people go to hell while the poor head to heaven. We find ourselves between a rock and a hard place. We’re somewhere between the rich man’s table and Lazarus at the gate. Whose character do you represent? Who do you identify yourself the most? The Rich Man? Lazarus? A little bit of both? Who are the Lazarus in our parish? In the greater community of Douglas? Who are the sick and hungry, the vulnerable, the powerless, those lying and begging at our doorsteps?

This scenario makes us all feel bad and guilty. It puts us in an awkward situation possibly due to missed opportunities and guilty pleasures and what and how we think life should be lived. For those of us who started from the bottom and climbed the ladder of success, we boldly claim that what we have is the result of hard work. We’ve been taught to love ourselves as the sole arbiter of our lives. We learned what it meant to be faithful and responsible citizens and gave charitably out of our resources (however meager). And now comes this terrible and painful story. T he central message, though, is to show us a preview of the eternity, a glimpse of our destiny, and to tell us a truth that will change the world for the better.

The rich man of royal figure and distinction draped in robes and indulged in the finest and costly clothing, celebrated life not on occasions but daily, had obviously everything money can buy. He possessed extensive wealth and was heavily absorbed by worldly gains. He had everything in his capacity to extend help to Lazarus, sitting at his gate desiring just crumbs (not ribeye), but preferred not to. While half of the world worry about food on the table next day, for him, it’s just another day.

W hat Jesus was furious about was the wrong interpretation of the scriptures: that poverty doesn’t mean God’s punishment and a godless mentality and materialistic lifestyle whose goal is nothing but the comfort and enjoyment of life and the pleasures of the world by every sense of the word. In a similar fashion, prophet Amos denounced the complacent "lying on ivory beds, feasting on lambs from the flock in self-indulgent luxury" while totally unaffected by the news that over a billion people across the globe survive less than a dollar a day.

J ust so you know, a great chasm exists between the prosperous and the deprived, the righteous and the wicked. The gap is too wide and complex that it’s impossible to bridge this fixed and absolute chasm. There’s no way you can cross and get to the other side.

T he deceased continue to communicate with us. They bring all sorts of messages. Their last words still reverberate in our hearts. The after- life is real. Both died almost at the same time. Following this scenario, the so-called eschatological reversal of fortune typical of Luke’s gospel unfolds. Immediately, human indifference was met with divine graciousness. Lazarus “God helps” a name that perfectly depicts his circumstances: no refuge except God, was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham. He ended up at Abraham’s side, basking in the beatific vision, seated comfortably beside him, the calm and the reward after the storms of his life. The rich man on the other hand suffers in torment in the netherworld.

The parable is addressed to us religious people who tend to blame the poor for being poor and to the rich man’s modern-day brothers referring of course to a lifestyle devoid of God. Our imagined life together is an urgent call to respond to the lowly Lazarus in our midst. This constant invitation which starts from hearing the gospel takes us into the eternal bliss, in the company of Abraham, in fellowship with the saints and Lazarus. The rich man is not to be blamed after all because I bet you, he didn’t get the chance to hear the gospel. Let’s point our fingers instead to the ones tasked to bring us to the heavenly banquet. This familiar and yet complicated episode of the fate of the insensitive rich man and Lazarus is an ongoing- developing story in the drama of our redemption. Amen.

25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 22:21:00 GMT

The parable of the Dishonest Steward, a man of questionable character, is a story of an estate manager charged of squandering his master’s property. He mismanaged the possessions of his master. He was accused of dispersing not his own funds but that of his master. He should have been fired on-the-spot when his boss became aware of his misdemeanor. Instead, before he was released, he was asked to provide an account of his stewardship. Strange as it may seem he was not fined. In a contract such as this, while the owner had the lion's share of the business, the rogue manager, by law, had a commission, as signed by the parties involved and recorded in the document. After his dismissal, realizing it would almost be impossible to support himself, much less feed a family in a seemingly tough economy, he was shrewdly tempted to do something solely for his own interest.

Out for personal gain, he falsified the entries in the books by asking the debtors to agree on reducing the amount owed to lower the payments, before the terrible news of his termination broke out. At the time of reckoning, dramatically shocked at the entire proceedings, the Master appreciated and commended him for a job well done. His master praised him for his cleverness by practically coming up with a clever solution to the crisis he created. This entirely blew my mind in a sigh of amazing disbelief. Pitched superbly, I’m at a loss. For the life of me, I can’t figure out what has he done to earn the praise of the beleaguered boss. Apparently, Jesus commended him not because of his dishonesty but for his foresight. And so, we will be judged not so much of our wrongdoing but how we bounce back. Just like the dishonest steward, we have all been entrusted with the spiritual and religious treasures of the kingdom and our sacred role is to bring our clients/customers and the other employees of the master/landlord to the kingdom God set before us.

This baffling text which raises questions more than answers, is a call to reclaim the sense of Christian identity. To those whose beliefs are muddled up in a vast sea of secularity, this passage is a huge silver lining. Lured by modernity's pressing demands for wealth and self-aggrandizement, where truth is but a matter of opinion, the story provides a second chance opportunity to renew the- once cloudy vision. God understands that as we overtly blend into society as loyal citizens, it's possible that somewhere along the way, our deeply held religious beliefs will be lost.

Back when I was still younger with very limited knowledge about the Church's internal/financial affairs, it shook me up every time a priest pounded the pulpit with money matters since I was clearly convinced that things of this nature should have had no place in the altar of God, let alone in the place where the sacred word, the soul of Theology, was proclaimed. But now, this daunting task of budgeting, learning to read the books and cutting expenditures is undeniably one of the biggest causes of my headache. What priests in the past talked about wasn't simply money per se but the notion of Stewardship, in its broadest sense, which in Catholic circles, was rarely used as it wasn't vividly expressed and well articulated in the pulpit in years past. In fact, in a study conducted two decades ago, of all the denominations, Catholic ratings/reviews on the financial support of local churches have been embarrassingly low. Stewardship springs from the foundational belief that we are merely managing the resources of the eternal boss meant to be utilized for God's glory and the church's mission. To claim absolute ownership on our time, talent and treasure for our own fulfillment and enjoyment and the utter refusal to act responsibly to others' needs is a huge failure in the understanding of who we are as people of God.

Our parish communities rely for the most part on free will offering, out of pocket contributions and fund raising as well. I completely understand that many of us are in financial straits. Due to unemployment, a lot of families are barely making it. My heart melts for those who have lost jobs, homes, loved ones and still, struggling to recover and survive. I'd like to thank the parishioners for the sacrificial gift in the offering plate every Sunday (regardless of the amount), for the charitable donations some have made and pledged over a period of time, for the countless hours spent on voluntary services (fund raising and the upkeep of the whole physical plant, etc) and for the sharing of exceptional talents to the wider community. This is the blueprint for a thriving Catholic parish. It might decrease our TV and shopping time and take a small percentage from our limited resources, I guarantee, though, that the measure of happiness and the experience of doing something meaningful is, by far, unsurpassed. Amen.

24TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 21:37:00 GMT

An enormous amount of effort, nowadays, is particularly devoted to welcoming Catholics back in the church after decades of endlessly seeking spiritual renewal provided mostly by Evangelicals. It's the sense of belongingness and the search for meaning that are of paramount importance to them. I have read and seen testimonies of former Catholics claiming they've never felt as alive and welcomed except in their new found community. A vast number, not into the business of organized religion and its bureaucracy, simply opt to be out of the list, become unaffiliated and who knows what they do on Sunday. There are many factors that have led to this phenomenon: failure to sustain the rapidly growing numbers, lack of manpower, training and proper implementation at the grassroots level. Programs such as CatholicsComeHome, Catholicism Project and parish initiatives help a lot in this huge undertaking of inviting, so to speak, the fallen-away Catholics.

The fifteenth chapter of Luke is often called 'the gospel within the gospel' as it remarkably contains stories that are essentially, at the core of Jesus' teaching. The parable of the lost sheep is a story of a shepherd, knowing that a sheep is missing, takes the risk of leaving the 99 behind unattended and goes out in the thicket tirelessly searching. As soon as he finds it, he drapes it around his shoulder and returns to the flock. The parable of the lost coin is a story of a woman, losing a treasured coin, refuses to give up. She, instead, lights a lamp and carefully sweeps around her house until she recovers it. And lastly, the parable of the prodigal son, the most famous the world has ever known, is a story of a Father who embraced his son unconditionally even after wasting his life and letting it sink deep. And guess what, they even partied. It's relatively easy to see our lives as the sheep wandering off in the wild brush, the coin falling through the cracks and living on the edge and the son, squandering his share of the family's property and going back home bankrupt.

The gospel is also called the parable of the lost which timely starts with the grumbling of the religious leaders about him sitting at table, associating, zipping a cup of coffee with the despised of the society, with the same people society disowns. It is a response to the complaints of the scribes and pharisees seeing Jesus hanging around with the despicable.

He acted contrary to the popular belief of staying away from the sinner and affirming the God-fearing. He didn't only talk about politics, religion and sports but worse, dined with them as if they were VIP's. Not only it was scandalous for a religious leader to do that, he seemed to give the impression, he was condoning their sinful behaviors. As you know, a person is normally judged by the company he keeps. He didn't mind at all, though. Rather, he used it as an occasion to demonstrate and depict a God, outside of the box, which for a pharisee, was unthinkable. He mirrored a compassionate God, who understands the emptiness of being lost, the pain of separation, the need to belong and the struggle to return. It was the kind of God who goes out in search mode even for one sinner. Does that mean it's alright to lose my religion to feel so special and precious, like never before, in the eyes of God? Of course, not. But, I can imagine Jesus spending time with folks terribly hooked in drugs, with those practicing witchcraft and magic in town and the alienated. It is against this backdrop that he told them the stories of the lost sheep, the lost coin and the lost son. God seeks us sinners regardless of the circumstances.

God’s joy goes beyond words upon finding the lost sheep, the lost coin and the lost son. I don’t think many of us will even attempt to search for the lost tool in the garage and the needle in a haystack as we would rather just get a new one. The lost don’t simply need to be accepted as they stand. Paul writing to Timothy says, in his unbelief, he was once lost out of ignorance and added, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners (1 Tim. 1:15)”.

Some of us are like the lost coin, simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Others are lost because, in our native stupidity, we have left the common path and wandered off on our own. And some of us get in trouble because we have willfully abandoned our Father’s house and squandered our birthright in self-indulgence. Whatever the reason for our finding ourselves far from where we want to be, we can be sure of one thing: God is actively seeking us in our misery, wanting nothing else but to bring us to that place of joyful reconciliation, whatever is lost is recovered and sinners are welcome to celebrate in the eternal banquet hall of heaven.

“There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” “There will be more rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” But we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.” The Psalm 51 says, “I will rise and go to my father.” God relentlessly doesn’t seek us sinners for the sake of taking us back but for a change. He never delights over the destruction of a sinner. Exodus tells us, “God relented in the punishment he had threatened to inflict on his people (Ex. 32: 14).”

Finally, this parable within a parable which presents layers and depths of meaning is an invitation addressed primarily to us: the faithful, righteous, obedient and well-informed Catholics, to consider taking the role of the shepherd, the woman and the Father, join and rejoice in the delightful and successful discovery of the lost. Joy has been the hallmark of Pope Francis. Notably, most of his apostolic exhortations have been about joy: Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love), Evangelii Guadium (The Joy of the Gospel), Gaudete y Exsultate (Rejoice and be glad), Christus Vivit (Christ is alive). Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 9/10

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 04:33:00 GMT

No word can fully express the grief and the loss experienced in the 9/11 horrific attacks. In a solemn moment, tomorrow, America mournfully commemorates this terrible event in her history. US will never forget. No one will get over it. The pain and wound is still as fresh as ever. Healing may take a lifetime. The souls of the victims (aboard the plane, the twin towers, the first responders as well those who died of illnesses) will forever be remembered.

FIESTA IN REVIEW

Thank you to all the volunteers who helped support the parish fiesta. It went very well. Mother nature is beyond our control. There was heavy downpour of rain especially on Sunday afternoon. We had no choice but to close. Other than that, I for one had so much fun in ways I can't tell you.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Mike Nieves

In a very solemn moment, on this world suicide prevention day, we especially pray for those who took their own lives. If you know someone having thoughts of suicide, don't wait, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK). Here's a link for more resources, SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources . If not, call the parish offices. Life is precious. Life is at stake. There's no reason to take it.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 9/3

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 02:59:00 GMT

How blissful and boring life would be if every day is labor day! Can you imagine a day no one has to get up early and work? Maybe, if you’re an exception. On the first Monday of September, the most productive nation on earth observes the value of labor. Today, US comes to a halt to honor the workforce. We recognize the contributions of the labor force including those working behind the scenes: the undocumented migrants who also help out in the economy. Please click here to read the USCCB's statement on labor day.

ST . LUKE PARISH FIESTA

This four day fiesta will certainly be fun-filled days of food, live music, raffle, games and entertainment, promising friendship and much love. Hope everything turns out well. Thanks to the fiesta organizing committee for their continued support, all the while giving us their time and talent. I pray that God will sustain the energy of all the volunteers in this 4-day event. This biggest fund-raising of the year is made possible by the sacrifices of the super-volunteers, the generous donations (cash and/or kind) of our parishioners and above all, the grace and blessing, the guidance and protection of Our God whom we bow our head in adoration. For the past few days, I’ve been friends with the weather channel checking almost round the clock the forecast. Much as we need rain, not this weekend. The administrative needs of the parish includes finance stability, the maintenance of the physical plant many of you may not realize and the spiritual vision. We need the financial support of the parishioners and beyond to settle our bills and fund our programs.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, consolation and hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, express sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

Marty Hammond, Ruben Parra, Marco Antonio Ormsby, Maria Hernandez de Rodriguez, Jesue Campoy, Rene Fraijo

22ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sat, 31 Aug 2019 14:38:00 GMT

As seen and heard in social media and real-life stories, humility is the mark of a great and holy person. Sirach says, “My child, conduct your affairs with humility, and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts. Humble yourself the more, the greater you are, and you will find favor with God.” The hallmark of the just is humility before God which begins with the fear of the Lord and the acknowledgment of sinfulness. We are told they will be blessed even more.

A humble person is a rare breed. In a world where many seek the limelight for its own sake, humble people transform society in subtle ways. I can’t tell exactly where to hunt and spot them, but evidently not in political campaigns, where inflated egos come in different shapes and sizes. To be humble is to have a mastery of thy self. A humble person is deeply spiritual, profoundly practical and yet, inexplicable. Humble people clearly know how to listen quietly and attentively, put the goodness of others ahead of themselves and take responsibility for their failures. They are feedback junkies. They know their limits, accept mistakes, are aware that some things are beyond their control, and take the blame. They discard any hint of arrogance. If you ever wonder from where the source of this penultimate energy flows, it is within, in the inner life of an individual.

I have great respect and admiration for people who remain humble in successes and accomplishments by giving credit to the sacrifices of the people behind them; the tireless support of the institution and the development of a well-organized program that cater to their needs but above all, to their faith, to God, the author and source of life.

When Jesus told the hustling guests jockeying for a comfortable and prominent seat to instead occupy a humbler location, He did it to strike a case for God's guest list. The Gospel then isn't about table manners and etiquette, but how to get an entry into God's dinner party. "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled but the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14: 11). If you wish to be invited, humility is your gate pass. This virtue denotes a “recognition” of abilities in the sight of God, and not its denial. I am just a poor individual. I'll stay in this little corner in order to be seen and hope to get an upgrade. That gesture is false humility. Pride, the root of all the vices, is the exact opposite of it. It promotes the ego and excessively regards the self as superior to God, and better than anybody else. It's worth noting that the humble, the unassuming and the unpretentious will be ahead in the end of time. Towards the end, Jesus blatantly said to the host not to invite those who can repay but the ones who can offer nothing in return: the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind-a remarkable sign of Christian identity. This message is an overturning of our cultural understanding, age-old practices and standard protocols, which if met with a frown of disapproval and disbelief it wouldn't be much of a surprise, considering the content.

St. Teresa of Calcutta, a Nobel peace prize winner, canonized on September 4, 2016 by His Holiness Pope Francis, was an epitome of humility. She wasn’t afraid or scared. She took the lowest seat. She showed us what it meant to have a missionary spirit by going out in the streets to take care of the needy, the lame, the blind and the crippled-the ultimate expression of the verse “for all who exalt themselves will be made humble, while all who humble themselves will be made great.”

Faith and Life are a constant invitation to a public banquet where the poor and disabled-the very people from whom we tend to dissociate ourselves must have the priority over our loved ones and acquaintances. Crazy as that can be, we’re asked, in our little ways, to show an act of kindness and humility.

Last Wednesday, we celebrated the memorial of a great bishop and doctor of the church, St. Augustine, whose famous line in his Confessions states: “You have made us for thyself, O Lord; our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” His confessions made him a spiritual giant by inscribing what many of us can’t express in words. With a deep sense of humility and candor, he shared his religious struggles in light of the truth and beauty of God. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 8/27

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 03:40:00 GMT

What mother doesn't pray for the conversion of a wayward son? St. Monica stormed heavens, offered prayers and shed tears for St. Augustine. Let me quote a portion of The Office of Readings taken from the Confessions of St. Augustine recounting the depths of the spiritual conversation between St. Monica and St. Augustine tells us how both of them looked forward to enjoying eternal life with the saints which “eye has not seen, nor ear heard, which has not even entered the heart of man.” St. Augustine recalls his mother’s parting words, “Son, as far as I’m concerned, nothing in this life now gives me any pleasure…I did have one reason for wanting to live a little longer: to see you become a Catholic Christian before I died.”

St. Augustine is one of the most decorated and celebrated saints in the annals of the church. His writings have become the source of our teachings. De Trinitate, the City of God and his most famous, the Confessions of St. Augustine probably ranked and classified as the top 5 Christian classic because of its searing, moving, emotion-filled testimony. “Late have I loved you, Ever ancient, ever new, late have I loved you…You have made us for yourself…our heart is restless until it rests in you…” St. Augustine bared his inner turmoil: his personal troubles in life in light of the eternal truth and beauty of God. This famous line of St. Augustine is Fr. Ricky Ordonez', my colleague, favorite quote. I can still picture him reciting this phrase in Latin by heart in the hallowed halls of Mundelein Seminary. Truly, there’s an insatiable desire, wish, dream for fame, power, wealth and in just about anything…We’re never satisfied…until we find ourselves in the loving arms of God…

CATECHISTS’ MEETING

Yesterday, I sat down with St. Luke catechists to prepare for the religious education program which starts on the week of September 8. We had a great discussion as to how to carry out our sacred task. The education of the young is such an important aspect of parish life. This year, we will emphasize the dynamic pillars of worship (Sunday Mass), catechesis, belongingness in a community and service/ministry.

LITURGY COMMITTEE MEETING

Today, I enjoyed meeting with the St. Bernard Liturgy Committee. Almost everyone who came made comments and shared thoughts about the Sunday Liturgy which was much appreciated. One of the questions in the scribbled notes handed to me which I found interesting was whether it was appropriate for a priest to tell jokes before the homily. This is sensitive. The preacher has to be careful because he is charged to communicate the living mystery of God. He has a sacred responsibility to lead the gathered assembly to Christ. He doesn't own the Mass but only an instrument. If a joke has no significant relation with the whole message, por favor, no. Telling jokes for the sake of being funny and simply making people laugh is a great disservice to God and the community. I share the sentiments of a lot of people. I'm with you. Mea culpa. I hear you. I'm guilty of this especially in a familiar crowd. Mine is an enchilada style homily.

As always, we offer prayers for the homebound, speedy recovery for the sick, hope for the terminally ill and the dying.

Juan Manuel Dorame, Silvia Martinez, David Loreto

21ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 02:44:00 GMT

When the question came up whether only a few will be saved, Jesus cautioned everyone around that the door to the kingdom is narrow, closed and locked from the inside and isn't what they expect it is. There is no sense of entitlement. Opportunity knocks only once. No second chances will be offered. When the door finally closed, it’s closed. No one will be allowed to get in even through the backdoor. Period. He reminded them “to strive” to enter through it even if it meant passing through the eye of a needle. To sit back, relax, take things for granted and wait until we breathe our last won't work. This is particularly alarming to all of us who have been devout and faithful all our lives. Many in fact will try, to no avail but it's better than doing nothing at all. Mere acquaintance is not enough. Since no one gets in by accident, luck or walk in, their best chance is to struggle just like anyone else, though in the end, there's no guarantee to make it. God admits no party crashers nor doorbusters. It appears, salvation is something earned. That means, you have to work hard on it in order to gain it. Well, if that’s the case, that's pelagianism which claims that salvation is attained exclusively through human efforts irrespective of God's inspiration. That's not true, of course. Put simply, no one can come to God without the help of his grace at work in that person.

Here comes the defense Jesus’ adversaries love to broadcast out of thin air, you dined with us and taught in our streets. Remember? We enjoyed your company and promised to have you back. We can even mimic you, recite your prayers and quote some of your famous teachings by memory. Hope that's an evidence strong enough to cite we've signed in for the long haul. Unfortunately, not. It doesn’t work that way anymore. Just because you sat down at table and shared meals doesn’t mean automatic entry. Seeing him in the streets performing spectacular healings isn’t enough either. It requires more than casual relationships. Worse, He said, Depart from me, all you evildoers! Jesus cared less. He didn't give a damn. He wasn't convinced and remained untethered all because their lifestyles bear no reflection of him. I’m not surprised if at this juncture many of us hearers slowly get frustrated because it surely makes all of us feel bad about our status with God. We didn’t realize at the outset there are hidden charges. We are tied up with the ordinary affairs of life, struggling to make both ends meet and today, we’re asked to do a little bit more.

Don’t feel bad. The Gospel indicates a stern warning to anyone who thinks that access to heaven is easy solely by virtue of baptism without the human component. It is directed to those who are so sure of their own salvation that they don’t have to do anything. It targets those who are overly confident of their entry expecting a free ride. It’s freely offered but can’t be taken for granted. For many, for as long as you’ve made a commitment to follow Christ, accepting him as your personal Lord and savior (an Evangelical wording, adopted by some Catholics), renders a free ticket to heaven. Such is a downright misconception according to the text. There is nothing automatic. There is no politicking with God. Everyone will be treated fairly.

To move a step further, the narrow door episode is addressed primarily to those who claim that the doors of the kingdom were entrusted to them so that they spend their lives focusing on other people's sins, pointing finger in just about anything, the religious freak. I’m sure you’ve encountered these people several times. I would be thrilled if we add the word 'strive' in the parish mission/vision statement because that's exactly what we need to do. To face the challenge, wrestle with it and put our lives in God's hands, is the name of the game. Much to our surprise, those we normally expect would be ahead in line with us possibly may end up at the bottom of it all, behind everyone else. "For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last" (Luke 13:30).

For the time being, it's important to refrain from passing judgment on our fellows. Let’s open wide the doors of our church and broaden our horizons for it is our best chance of getting into the narrow door. It is closed and narrow possibly because those of us insiders cherry-picked. Let’s open the doors to all people even if we have obvious differences of opinion and orientation. Let’s work together to put Catholics back in the pew, try hard, strive to go through it and leave the rest to God. It's his kingdom, anyway. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 8/20

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 02:48:00 GMT

The parishioners of St. Bernard in Pirtleville had a novena in anticipation of the Memorial of St. Bernard, Tuesday, August 20, a man of extraordinary honor, whose heart burst in kindness, and gifted with superb intellectual skills and spirituality. He was so influential in the spread of Western Christianity. Pius X, Pope, whose memorial falls on August 21 is known f or his efforts at correcting theological errors such modernism and introduced series of liturgical reforms by encouraging daily mass attendance and frequent reception of holy communion.

Congratulations to the newly-installed Knights of Columbus Officers Council 1858. The installation rite was graced by the presence of the District Deputy Robert Bridges along with his Maria and District Warden Joseph Schulte. I was particularly struck upon learning that the council was named or designated itself Prince of Peace.

This evening at 6pm, I met with the Immaculate Conception Parish Catechists to prepare for the religious education program which kicks-off on the week of September 8. I'm glad all of them are coming back for the next SY. Mission never ends, it only gets better.

Victoria Paun, Gerardo Othoniel Galaz, Maria del Carmen Gonzales Ayala

And to Mencita Sarmiento (my grade school principal) and Estrella Placides , my grade school teacher in Science and English, my words fail.

20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 01:40:00 GMT

Jesus’ harsh words, “I have come not to establish peace but rather division” seem to suggest and even encourage breakdown within our families, our most sacred and cherished relationships. “A household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.” I almost quit reading this passage even if I’d gone through this several times already. While wrestling with the text, it made me feel uncomfortable as I’m much aware that on Sunday Masses, my congregation will be packed, the pews will be occupied by families seating together in rows waiting to hear the good news, expecting consoling and comforting messages of peace, love and harmony. While I don’t deny this is hard to digest, it bids any modern reader to ask, does Jesus really want us to be at odds with our family members?

Whether we’re living in the metropolitan or the suburbs (Douglas and Pirtleville sitting at the southernmost tip of the state), our lives revolve around our families, work and friends and shopping and church, of course. We spend a lifetime almost singlehandedly working and investing for the preservation of family ties and social bonds, as needed more than ever in modern times. Understandably, our families (immediate and extended) will always be there especially at our lowest moments. They will never leave us behind. It’s alright to end relationships with those who did us harm, people we label as enemies but to be estranged with the ones who brought us to God, who introduced us to faith, who taught us the basic values of righteousness, respect and love, mercy and forgiveness, who told us the difference between right and wrong, who cuddled us to church on Sundays, who drove and dropped us to Catechism classes, who did nothing but raised us well? What is he then trying get into?

In saying that “I have come to set the earth on fire”, Jesus tells us that truth can be the cause of division in our most endearing and enduring relationships. It’s liberating but also divisive. The gospel is a fire in our belly that burns and hurts. It’s a mighty sword used not for violence, however possible but strikes and cuts us in half from sins that bind us and guilty pleasures. With these words, Jesus strongly points out that fidelity to God is the most important thing in our lives. Nothing should stand between God and worldly affairs. Our relationship with him is non-negotiable. We don’t bargain for it. We don’t juggle between work and errands. Clearly, it must be on top of our priorities. If not, then it’s about time to start working on it. Our relationship with Christ is number one in our to-do-list and not the last option. By now, we get a sense that today’s message is not one of comfort, consolation and diplomacy. It’s not about fun, enjoyment and laughter. It’s truth telling. It is a matter of life and death, literally and figuratively. It’s urgent without the need to call 911.

Encounter with Christ makes all the difference in the world. Following Jesus is a moment of truth. Following Jesus means meeting truth we can’t live without. It is irresistible. It provides the ground and the foundation from which we stand and exist. It’s a life that organically leads us to make tough choices in his name. Faith in God requires single-minded, laser- focus devotion. There is no issue in life that lies outside the realm of our relationship with Christ and the church. Quite frankly, when our deeply- held religious values stand in contrast with families and friends, we have very little choices but to slowly distance ourselves. When the dictates of our conscience lie in conflict with earthly affairs, we can’t remain in the middle. People of faith can’t be neutral on moral issues. We can’t stay on the sidelines. Although nowadays, there’s been an over emphasis on mercy, compassion and forgiveness, when it comes to critical moral life issues, we have to take sides even to the point of a divided household. This is where our parents and grandparents get into the ugliness of things. Elders can’t simply ignore complex issues. This is also where religious leaders interfere in societal and political affairs which hopefully every nation on earth recognize.

When we turn towards the person of Christ, we leave behind and turn away from our former lives. In a similar fashion, when we close our doors on something, something new and fresh opens up for us. We stand our ground. Our example become the moral compass. Even Napoleon Bonaparte once said (not sure if it’s in his deathbed but he had a conversion before death and actually requested a priest to say daily mass), “A society that has no religion is like a ship without a compass.” I’m not sure why I quoted him here. Truly, religion is the conscience of society. It promotes unchangeable, universal, timeless, eternal norms and values. The social catholic teaching that engages in the promotion of the life and dignity of the human person is fundamentally based on the truth of Christ, the sacrament of our encounter with God. We become witnesses like the prophets who get in trouble all the time for making controversial statements which anger the powers that be and affect the status quo. Jeremiah, known as the prophet of doom whose messages became the subject of national conversation, is no exception. He was thrown into the muddy cistern by King Zedekiah only to be freed through the intercession of the Ethiopian eunuch Ebed-melech. Let’s set the earth on fire! Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 8/13

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 02:55:00 GMT

I'm back in the saddle, ready to engage and immerse in the daily parish grind. August is a time of preparation. In the next few weeks, I’ll be meeting with the catechists and pastoral council members.

19 ^TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

This Monday we hear from the book of Deuteronomy 10:12-22 the instructions given to the people to take care of the orphan, the widow and the alien (foreigner/migrant) for they have nowhere to turn to except rely their basic necessities on the kindness, hospitality and generosity of the locals/natives mostly through non-profit organizations, church ministries and other social services. “Circumcise your hearts. Befriend the alien, for you were once aliens yourselves.” The immigration debate is possibly the most pressing social-political-moral issue in the land. The church, of course, sides with the lowly migrants, the refugees, and the asylum- seekers. For her, Christians have a religious obligation to take care and treat them in a humane way shown in the example of His Holiness Pope Francis. 21 ^st century has seen mass migration across the globe. The US as the promised land of so many opportunities where only 35% is inhabited, is no exception and has always been the final destination.

14 ^TH Anniversary of my Diaconate Ordination

It was so special to be ordained to the Diaconate on the memorial of Maximilian Kolbe, a Franciscan friar who died in place of a family man at the concentration camp in Auschwitz. Even more special on the eve of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary , the most popular Marian feast back then.

My ordination to the Diaconate was presided over by Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas, Emeritus of Tucson at St. Francis de Sales Parish, my adopted home parish. I’m grateful for Fr. Bob Tamminga and the parish community for graciously accommodating me upon my arrival in 2003.

June

“Infant” Uriel Cuevas Herrera

July

Jorge Sodari Peña, Juanita Escobar Montaño, Rudy P. González, Angelina Ramírez, Blanca Nidia Valdez Zamudio, “Baby” Elisa Rios, Andrew Stuppi

August

Daniel Ortega, Sr., William Gooch, Juan Rojas, Tomás Rios, Guillermo Santa Maria, Sergio Hernández, “Infant” Abel Adrian Garcia, Jr.

SOLEMNITY OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 22:56:00 GMT

Scripture has no mention of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary but tradition comes into play in its long history. As early as fifth century, a huge occasion called "Memorial of Mary" was celebrated on August 15 in the Eastern Church. This was conditioned by the belief of the early Christians that Mary simply fell asleep, rested and woke up in heaven. In fact, the feast was popularly known as "Dormition". Sometime in the 7th century, Rome adopted it and replaced "the falling asleep" with a new title, Assumption. As the years unfolded, it became the biggest Marian celebration in Europe. In 1950, Pope Pius XII infallibly defined the Assumption of the Blessed Mother, a Dogma of Faith. Said decree literally meant that at the end of Mary's earthly life, her body and soul was taken up into the Glory of heaven.

Those who hold the sole authority of Scriptures will have tremendous difficulty accepting this formal papal pronouncement because the sacred word says nothing about it. It can be very unsettling and even, unimaginable. Yet, that's exactly the point. There was a time when the bible didn't know. After the Apostles, the church has been guided by the continuing presence of the Spirit through the leaders. It's a clear indication that we just didn't make things up nor stumble in the unknown but followed logic, custom and devotion.

Reverence to the Blessed Mother is a milestone and a striving evidence of Catholicism. It does demonstrate the significant place, special privilege and spectacular role of Mary in salvation history. She is and will always be the ideal, the best example and the epitome of Christian discipleship because at a time of great uncertainty and deep trouble, she accepted the grace of God and remained open to it by humbly saying, "let it be done to me according to your word." This attitude of receptivity and absolute trust in God, is the mark of every follower of Christ. Amen.

19TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 11 Aug 2019 13:13:00 GMT

The inner disposition of a disciple is of prime importance in today’s liturgy. That’s why Luke puts together various images and parables about what it means to be prepared for the unexpected and surprising arrival of our Lord. In the end, Jesus commended the prudent and faithful servants for a job well done, “Blessed are those servants whom the Master finds vigilant on his arrival.”

Girded loins, an outer garment tucked in waist signal readiness for service, work and travel while burning lamps help people stay awake and light the way for the master’s return at an unknown hour in the middle of the night. The parable of the watchful servant presents a vivid scenario of the coming of the Lord in a sudden and unexpected way like a thief in the night. Arriving without prior notice especially if it’s God can definitely cause alarm and anxiety. It can be scary in the sense that we don’t know what’s in store. We have no clue as to what unfolds afterwards. We have no idea about this impending return. We can make guesses but it doesn’t go any further. You begin to figure out what to do. To calculate his arrival will go nowhere. Not only that, if we don’t meet the standards and expectations, we will be held accountable.

“Gird up your loins and light your lamps and be like stewards waiting for their master’s return from a wedding” says the Lord. Waiting for something or for someone is a litmus test of your patience. We always have that friend or family member who’s late at everything. Conside this, you agree with a friend to meet at a certain place and time. You arrive sooner than usual and texted your friend, no rush, take your time, got out of work early. 15min passed, you try to convince yourself, something must have happened. At the 30min mark, you start to worry. Not even a call, a text or a shadow of your friend showed up. You send a quick message, hope you’re on the way. I’m 10 min away (replied your friend) but actually, still at home unprepared and will probably take another hour. By the time, your friend arrives, he/she’s mad as hell blaming everyone about anything except her. None of us can stay awake all the time but we can ready ourselves in so many ways. Wake up Catholics! Buckle up! Dress for action! Rise to the occasion! Maximize your time! Make good use of your resources. Be ready to devoid yourselves of earthly belongings and give alms and focus instead on the spiritual treasures and the heavenly riches.

I figure there’s nothing to be afraid and feared about because although the Lord’s return is highly unpredictable and delayed, he has graciously promised us to come in surprising and disruptive ways to teach, to govern and to sanctify our lives and will actually throw a huge party (details unknown) for us good, prudent and faithful servants entrusted with much responsibilities. Blessed are those servants whom the Master finds vigilant on his arrival to be accompanied later by a meal. Table fellowship is a sign of God’s arrival. In fact, the Master will take the place of the doubly blessed servants and will wait at table. This is lovely because it gives assurance and lasting impact to us ministers, in particular and to anyone often beset with anxiety and fear of the unknown, worried about our current status with God and overly concerned about what the future holds. For the time being, we will refuse to live again in the shadows of our sinful and stubborn past and move on with absolute trust that whatever we do at the present affects the future. What a tremendous relief! What we have heard is actually not a cause for panic then but another blessed and golden opportunity that makes God’s presence felt to carefree and fretting individuals.

Let me end by this lovely and amazing text, “Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.” Faith is a willingness to be open to the promptings of the Lord, to the Master’s will even under intense pressure of the unknown exemplified by Abraham leaving his place not knowing where we was going. Amen.

18TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 13:40:00 GMT

In the eternal pursuit of happiness, we ask every so often the meaning and purpose of life. How come we do what we do? What brings joy to our work? What causes satisfaction? What inspires us to move on in spite of the struggles life has to offer? Where do we find and draw meaning to life experiences and events?

King Solomon, the author of the book of Ecclesiastes (Gr), Qoheleth (Heb) was a wealthy and a deeply spiritual person. His experiences, personal and beyond led him to inscribe the quite familiar phrase, Vanity of Vanities! All is vanity! Nothing lasts forever! All earthly things come to an end! Everything eventually fades! Wisdom is preferable than material possessions. A wise person (someone who’d rather endure suffering and sacrifice) is respectable than riches from ill-gotten wealth. Paul’s letter to the Colossians urges us to strike to the things that are above. Seek the supernatural.

The parable of the rich fool poses huge challenges to people living in an extremely materialistic society whereby the value of a person is measured and defined by the price tag of the outfit, the size of his/her bank account and stock portfolios and not how he/she shows compassion to a suspicious looking stranger and the frequency of saying no to evil. The story is about a rich fool because assumingly, he is a good fellow, fair and just in conducting business affairs and not a robber or a theft by any means. The problem was covetousness, selfishness and greed in all its forms and sizes.

We are heavily immersed in a culture highly influenced by capitalist mentality which existed in centuries past (long before the discovery of America), motivated by profit and driven by expansion and growth which is not bad at all. I may be wrong but for many, capitalism (the belief that economic growth is the ultimate good and goal) is religion. In order to recover easily from the economic crisis, we are encouraged to spend more, shop more, use more, swipe more our credit cards to the max until we're broke. Money matters and money talks. Correct me if the opposite is true. But the overwhelming message of the media is that life does indeed consist in the amassing of riches and the accumulation of wealth. It's obviously seen and heard in the entertainment world.

On the contrary, the Gospel draws and raises questions from us who barely make it. For example, a frugal minded person hoarding and hiding dollar bills under folded shirts in the closet, stashing away excess food and supplies in pantries and leaving credit cards behind when going to the mall must be commendable practice. Saving for the rainy days is encouraged as well as investing in stocks and squirreling away funds for retirement. It is a wise idea to do that especially in times of great uncertainty. And if ever we spend our hard-earned money in a fancy resto on our payday, we deserve that.

The text seems vague because it does not present in greater detail how much is enough or offer a blueprint for an alternative economic system. There is no rule that tells us whether we step over the line or not. However, to state the obvious, it warns us against all greed- the excessive desire for material possession, the disease that has brought our country into a depressing economic collapse.

What does the parable mean to people who have limited resources, rely on food stamps and social welfare and completely have no access even to the basic necessities of life and yet, try as best as they can to live faithfully to their calling as Christians? In this context, it sounds differently. I'd like to prod your imagination (myself included) instead by starting to acknowledge the presence of God in the minutest details of our life and return any blessing by sharing whatever you don't need to the needy. As the old- adage goes, There is no U-haul behind hearse , nails it. The act of selfless giving is the central thread that animates the redeemed life. As always, we are invited to be rich in the sight of God. Amen.

CORPUS CHRISTI SUNDAY

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 18:34:00 GMT

The Solemnity in honor of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi -The Body of Christ, has been celebrated since the 12 ^th century throughout the world as a visible expression of our Faith in the Real Presence of Christ in the consecrated bread to be solemnly adored in the Eucharist, a landmark in Catholic Theology. Such an intense devotion led to the introduction of an elevation of the bread and cup during Mass and ultimately to public displays such as the popular Benediction ritual. The origins of the feast trace us back in a vision Sr. Juliana, a Belgian nun and great devotee in the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, received in the 13 ^th Century. In her vision, she saw the church symbolized by the moon but had one dark spot signified as a missing/absence of a feast celebrating Christ’s body. It was spread through word of mouth until it reached Pope Urban IV and in turn summoned a synod and established the Feast of Corpus Christi. Pope Pius IX added the feast of the Precious Blood celebrated on July 1. Following the Second Vatican Council, two liturgies became one on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. Devotions such as the Eucharistic Exposition (consecrated host placed in a monstrance, to show ) and Benediction, devotional visits and prayer in the presence of the reserved sacrament in the tabernacle, forty hours of devotion, elaborate Corpus Christi processions and international Eucharistic congresses are fruits of this feast.

Medieval Catholic Theology had a strong and increased devotion to Eucharistic piety and mysticism. Adoration was huge. People came to Mass to see the host and adore it. In fact, the elevation of the host “so that it may be seen by all” and the ringing of bells at the consecration have been inserted in the Liturgy due to this. The Fourth Lateran Council in 1215, explicitly taught the doctrine of transubstantiation - the bread and wine changed into the body and blood of Christ by divine intervention.

How do we use reason to make sense of the Real Presence? How does an ordinary bread and wine change into the body and blood of Christ without losing its appearances? It looks like bread, tastes like bread, smells like wine and you’re saying it’s not the way it looks? It takes us to the Tantum Ergo…Praestet Fides Supplementum, Sensuum defectui…Faith will tell us Christ is present, When our human senses fail…La fe nos de el aumento…que al sentido ha de ayudar…Reasoning rests on transcendence.

A story is told about a husband who is not Catholic but has been going with his spouse to the church for years. I don’t think he ever converted but once, he was asked why he kept coming. He said, I don’t understand the ritual but there is something going on there I can’t fully understand. This description captures the distinctive character of the real presence of Christ. In the Eucharist, the bread offered to God is consecrated into the body of Christ – blessed and broken by the hands of the priest and crushed by the teeth of the faithful during communion. “It is a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a paschal banquet, in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.” CCC # 282. Sacrosanctum Concilium says that the “Eucharist is the Source and Summit of Christian Life.” Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 6/18

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 19:51:00 GMT

Yesterday, Monday, I met with the St. Bernard Parish Pastoral Council and discussed extensively the issues and concerns. Tonight, Tuesday, I had a listening and planning session with the Grupo Timon (Core Group) of the Charismatic Group. Fr. Marco Basulto who's joining us this July will be a huge help as he was instrumental in the establishment of the ministry here.

WORLD REFUGEE DAY

This Thursday, June 20 is designated as World Refugee Day.

"God our refuge, You share the journey with migrants and refugees, lightening their footsteps with hope. For you, Lord, are close to the broken-hearted. Pour out your Spirit upon world leaders. May they see the tragedies of our human family, and be moved to respond with wisdom, compassion and courage. Open our eyes and hearts to the God-given dignity of all your people. Move us to welcome our neighbors, and so bear witness to your love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."

EVENING CAME AND MORNING FOLLOWED…6 MONTHS AFTER…

I didn’t realize until a few weeks ago that I’ve been here over 6 months already. It went quick. I must be having a lot of fun. Like I said to many parishioners, I’m blessed to be here. Here in Douglas-Pirtleville, I’ve met one of the amazing, wonderful and nicest people I’ve met in life. I won’t mention names but I’m endlessly inspired by the lives of so many people from all walks of life.

HOLY LAND AND ITALY PILGRIMAGE 2020

I will be leading a 14-day pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Italy (Rome, Vatican City, Florence, Assisi and Venice) on June 1-14, 2020. If you are interested, a brochure which contains the complete itinerary is available in the vestibule and parish office. Please click here for the complete itinerary. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me: padre@douglascatholic.org.

Tuesday Musings will go on summer break too beginning next week and will resume on August.

TRINITY SUNDAY

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 19:21:00 GMT

I’ve often been asked about the most challenging part of my ministry. The administration of three cluster parishes within a 2.5 mile radius is a joy, a headache and a mystery. While the plan is to work collaboratively under the slogan, the Catholic Community, which if done well would be a powerful force in the evangelization of Douglas-Pirtleville, it doesn’t always work that way. Realities are bigger than ideas. I find that some members wish to remain and be identified as members of their respective parishes. This is the current make-up of the Catholic Community which somehow gives us a glimpse of the Trinity.

The Blessed Trinity is not a problem nor a puzzle to be solved. There are no words nor phrases that will completely express and explain God. Rather, in humility and love, every time we encounter the divine, we are drawn to the beauty and the majesty of God. Faced with a tough question, the church fathers in an attempt to provide a preview of God in human words but at the same time, protect the ineffable and preserve the mystery (the glory and the wonder of God), left us with an equation 1 + 1 + 1 = 1. Certainly, such an expression doesn't follow science, math and logic. There may be no text that explicitly explains the Trinity in the scriptures but God has existed even before the material world began. The Book of Proverbs tells us that “before the earth was formed, wisdom was conceived. It says further that the Lord possessed me, the beginning of his ways” (Prov. 8: 22-31). The wisdom of God existed even before the creation of the universe. The gospel is taken once again from John’s farewell discourse focusing on the Trinity, “I have much more to tell you but you cannot bear it now. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason, I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you” (Jn. 16: 12-15). It remains hidden and no matter how hard we try, we can’t fully comprehensible it.

As a response to the Trinitarian controversy which arose at the Arian heresy, strong emphasis was placed on the Trinity and thereby, this feast on the Blessed Trinity was inserted in the church calendar after the completion of the plan of salvation “accomplished by the Father through the Son in the Holy Spirit”. Same in essence but relationally distinct (individual roles): the Father as the creator, the Son as the redeemer and the Holy Spirit as the sanctifier.

Communion is at the very heart of God. Baptism is the sacrament of our official entry into the life of God which makes us inseparably connected with one another. The principle of communion is the ground and basis of the Trinitarian Faith: Father, Son and Holy Spirit powerfully illustrated on Sunday Ritual we call Mass. From our respective places called home, we process, we congregate, we commune with one another in the name of God who gives us that deep sense of identity.

The front page of the bulletin portrays the familiar image of the Trinity as a triangle surrounded by light rays with an eye in the middle. A version of this is in the great seal of the United States and also in the dollar bill. Belief in the Blessed Trinity is best expressed not in words or phrases not even in artwork but in silence and peace especially, at the moment when our heads are bowed and knees bent. Amen.

I don’t know who wrote this “My God is too high, I can't go up to him. He is too low, I can't go down. He is too wide, I can't go around him. But the door is open and I can get in...he invites me to enter.”

For further reading, the ancient writings of St. Athanasius’ Creed and S t. Augustine’s On the Trinity are the best sources available.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 6/11

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 03:40:00 GMT

We switch back to ordinary time this week, a blessed opportunity to go deeper in our faith with the second letter of Paul to the Corinthians as the assigned first reading while Matthew, the gospel. Second Corinthians seemed to be a troubled community. Paul’s words sounded like a response to a terrible situation happening internally that's why he stressed the importance of the new covenant and of the spirit.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEW OFFICERS

Grand Knight: Ray Pacheco, Deputy Grand Knight: Casey Hoyack, Advocate: Alvaro Montoya, Chancellor: Arturo Jimenez, Recorder: Miguel Breton, Treasurer: Pablo Duarte, Finance Secretary: Deacon Ed Gomez, Inside Guard: Jose Manuel, Outside Guard: Deacon Gabriel Espino, Trustee 1: Gabe Ortega, Trustee 2: Manuel Gracia. Trustee 3: Arturo Torrez, Chaplain: Fr. Jojo Tabo, Lecturer: Joe Alvarez, Warden: William Tardibuono.

This evening was my first public appearance at the K of C monthly meeting since my arrival last November. District Deputy Rob Bridges graced us with his presence.

I want to especially thank Joe Alvarez for his unwavering commitment and great dedication as the Grand Knight.

Today at 6pm, I presided over the Immaculate Conception catechists in a much-anticipated meeting/planning for the next SY. It’s exciting to hear that even after decades of service as catechists, most of them, if not all, still have an extremely high level of passion, energy, enthusiasm and interest, name it. It’s as though it’s their first time doing this. In this program, we won’t measure success by the numbers because chances are, we’ll end up frustrated, feel bad about ourselves and eventually, get discouraged. In this ministry, success lies in the impact and the influence it creates on the child's formative years.

Following the 12pm Pentecost Sunday Mass at IC, as I was heading back to the sacristy, someone stopped me and requested for a photo with the choir dressed passionately in red. Sure thing! Here it is…if you have a photo of your choir or ministry, please share…

THE DOUGLAS CATHOLIC YOUTH GROUP is inviting all the youth of the three parishes to join them/us on June 23, Sunday, 2pm-5pm, 10 ^th St. park for an afternoon of fun, games and prayer.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

We offer prayers and support to all victims of injustice, abuse of any kind, violence and natural disasters...We pray that peace and justice will reign...

We take a moment to pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives, friends and everyone affected by the loss. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the Catholic community.

THE SOLEMNITY OF PENTECOST

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 19:32:00 GMT

The Great Fifty Days has come to a close, culminating in a feast called Pentecost (Gr. Fiftieth). Its origins can be traced back to one of the great popular pilgrimages to Jerusalem called 'Shabout', a Jewish Festival of Weeks, 50 days after Passover (Deut. 16:16). Originally, a harvest celebration but later became associated with the giving of the covenant and the law on Mount Sinai. Early Christians recorded this event as the New Pentecost and gave it a new theme and meaning, that is, the powerful experience of God, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the community of the First Disciples in the inner room, the giving of the new law of the spirit (Rom. 8:2), the writing of the law on the heart (Jer. 31:31-34; 2 Cor 3:2-6).

Pentecost came at a time when the small band of timid disciples hiding behind closed doors in the upper room suddenly felt a loud noise like the rush of a mighty wind that filled the house. It is the Holy Spirit penetrating in the lives of frightened disciples. Then, tongues of fire appeared above their heads powerfully symbolizing spiritual transformation and made them speak in foreign languages. It is the Holy Spirit. Once timid, now bold. Once afraid, now fearless. The Spirit is alive!

Pentecost is a reset button. If we are facing a terrible crisis that started at the dawn of reformation, then, a miraculous outburst of the Spirit (un soplo de aire freso) to breath forth in and out of the church’s life will be a welcome surprise. We need now more than ever the driving wind to inspire the jaded, the exhausted, the frightened, the mediocre and the indifferent either due to the failure of the human institution as the case may be or the irresistible attraction of the secular forces. We have everything in our arsenal (teaching, tradition, manpower, pecking order, among others) as a start-up but there is no easy solution to the daunting tasks. Unless we allow the spirit to breath upon us, to give us courage and strength to lead, to help us figure things out, pursue changes and not be afraid of initiating well- intentioned reforms, all our efforts will be futile. If Pentecost were a reset button, then, we’d have to bring our forces together, slowly chant Veni Sancte Spiritus, wait for it, and let the rush envelope us. Anyone who’s hit rock bottom should go nowhere but come to the Holy Spirit.

The Spirit at Pentecost is an electrifying power that unites our theologies, binds the wounds inflicted (purposely or not), weaves our gifts and talents and welds us in the inner circle with God. It is a ruah that constantly transforms and renews the church and her tired members. It is a thunderous force/power that makes the church both as an institution and a community attractive again to those who find her irrelevant. As we engage the world either in the sharing of thoughts in social media or making our voices heard at peaceful protest, our demeanor must be marked by the inner beauty of our faith. The changes that took place in the parish is undeniably a work of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit gave birth to the church. We can hardly put a face on him and struggle to name him but he’s real. He is the gift of God that takes the place of Jesus here on earth. He is the wind that makes impossible things happen. We only make descriptions of the short verses recorded. He’s known only by the results, witnesses and testified by the numerous lives transformed and died for justice, goodness’ sake. We owe him all the success of church’s mission. The Holy Spirit is the breath of the eternal in the midst of a busy world and isolating society. The spirit gives life and animates us. The spirit is the fiery blast of God's nostrils that melts mountains and consumes the earth like brimstone.

The Holy Spirit is our guide who walks along with us and never leaves us behind. As a guide, he empowers us, fortifies us, strengthens us, and makes us ready for the long haul. He provides directions, gives advices, solicited or not. Before making any major decision, we take it to prayer. We offer it to the Lord. We drop by on Fridays for adoration. We attend masses after masses. We allow him- the spirit to turn our lives around. If you decide to leave your past life, that’s the spirit in you. If you decide to return to the church after decades of absence, it’s the spirit. We entrust to him our worries, job securities as well as the future of our children and wider society. The church is the people of God gathered to worship God in the eucharist celebrating the victory of the cross of Christ. That said, the church is not merely a building at a specified location and address. It's a place that conveys and exudes transcendence, that is, the power and presence of God. The church is not a social group or a circle of friends.

Acts details the famous episode "the Spirit came on the Disciples when they were all in one place together and united in prayer (1:14), a noise like a strong driving wind and the appearance of tongues as of fire that rested on each one of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit so that they began to speak in different tongues, translated as other languages. Have you ever experienced the Holy Spirit taking over your life, feeling that strike at the core your being?

The gifts of the Spirit are Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, Counsel, Piety, Fortitude, Fear of the Lord. The fruits of the Spirit are Joy, love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, long suffering, mildness, faith, modesty, contingency and chastity.

Follow the Spirit. Walk in the rhythm of the Spirit. Sing in the Spirit. Pray in the Spirit. be filled with the Spirit. Sow to the Spirit. Reap from the Spirit. Preserve the Unity of the Spirit. Be borne by the Spirit. Cling to the Spirit. Breathe in the Spirit and breathe him out. Drench yourself in the Spirit. Drink the Spirit and be drunk by him. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 6/4

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 04:04:00 GMT

Since parish programs are on (for a lack of better term) break, the summer months will be spent in meetings (which involve evaluation and tedious planning) with pastoral councils, catechists, ministries, etc. Overall, these efforts are in preparation for next SY/FY. Whether you are heading out or staying, enjoy!

I’m ever grateful to Tom and Mary Laflamme for devoting their lives with the migrants and refugees in their desperate attempt to seek asylum in the American soil through the Raul Castro port of entry here in Douglas. I'm grateful and appreciative not only of their saintly ministry but of the kind of people they are and the quality of lives lived. Please click here for the inspiring piece delivered three weeks ago at the Immaculate Conception Church.

THE DOUGLAS CATHOLIC YOUTH GROUP is inviting all the youth of the three parishes to join them/us on June 23, Sunday, 2pm-5pm, 10 ^th St. park for an afternoon of fun, games and prayer. See you! Christ is alive!

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away: Enrique Eduardo Sosa, Elvira Estrada Angulo and Ruben Montano and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 5/28

Wed, 29 May 2019 05:24:00 GMT

THANK YOU Sr. Mary Aloysius, OCD Loretto School Principal for 11 years, 16 years total. Thank you for your exceptional performance. THANK YOU Sr. Timothy Marie Kennedy, OCD, the local superior here assigned for only 4 (correction just 2, not 4) years. She wrote a book, In the Face of Darkness with the subtitle The Heroic Life and Holy Death of Mother Luisita published by Sophia Institute Press available in Amazon for $13.84 (paperback)/$7.99 (kindle). We wish them well as they head to their new assignments. Thanks for the friendship. You will be missed...so much...

THANK YOU

We bid farewell to two amazing teachers at Loretto School, Anna Anciani and Regina Luke. These two young ladies are high- caliber Catholics. They go to daily Masses, prayerful, pious, devout (name it). Both of them helped jumpstart the young adults ministry. The school and the catholic community especially St. Luke will miss them dearly.

CELEBRATING SOMETHING

Last Sunday, May 26 was the 16 ^th anniversary of my arrival in the United States. As I recall, two months after (July 2003), I drove here in Douglas and actually crossed the border, Agua Prieta to join a March. I had the chance to visit the Immaculate Conception church (which I initially thought was tiny) and rectory along with St. Bernard in Pirtleville but not St. Luke as I was told it was a quite distance. Fr. Marco took me to a Mexican Restaurant in town (I don’t remember the place). I ordered chimichanga and for over a decade, that’s the one I got (no contest) everywhere I went without looking at the menu y lemonada sin yelo.

We offer prayers for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away: Cynthia Williams and Maria del Carmen and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Sun, 26 May 2019 13:14:00 GMT

I was told that graduation celebrations in Douglas last for about a week or so. Memorial day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. Some folks will be heading out for summer break elsewhere. Others will depart for higher level of studies. Following the commencement exercises, the graduates in particular, will enter into a new phase in life.

Chapter 14 of the Gospel according to John is commonly described as a farewell discourse. This is the time when Jesus prepares his disciples of his departure from the earth and the company of his disciples and the gradual arrival of the Holy Spirit that has surfaced in the liturgy two weeks in a row. The disciples must have been devastated upon learning of his imminent departure. Stakes are high. It was a precarious situation. And yet, he never missed to provide them comfort and assurance constantly reminding that it shouldn’t be a reason for the baffled followers to disperse and disintegrate, not even a cause of fear and alarm. When he leaves, the one who’s coming is “the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name”, the Paraclete, the Advocate, the defender, the comforter, the counselor, the intercessor, the mediator, the interpreter, a helper close at hand and a guide, of course. The Holy Spirit will take over. As the advocate, he will help the distressed and the overwhelmed disciples to hold fast and tight to Jesus’ teaching and never allow any bully to tweak or change a divinely revealed doctrine. The paraclete will be the one in-charge of establishing continuity between Jesus’ ministry and the resurrection appearances. Jesus says, the Holy Spirit will “teach you everything and remind you all that I told you.” The paraclete will help them recall everything that Jesus left them behind. The Spirit will continue to lead them into a greater and deeper encounter with God. As they go through the transition, Jesus once again reassures them, “Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give you, not worldly peace” that’s attained through wars and violence but the strength, the force and the power within bestowed upon them by the risen Christ during the post-resurrection appearances. The peace Jesus brings is the wholeness of being, and the positivity of life (not the easy life spent in luxurious living without regard to the plight of the poor and the struggles of fellow human beings).

The 15 ^th chapter of the Acts of the Apostles significantly stresses the profound influence of the Holy Spirit at a crucial point in the history of the early church. The requirement for membership (of being a Christian) was the first major issue. At this moment of crisis and controversy, they turned to the Holy Spirit to help them with critical decision-making. The apostles heavily relied on the Holy Spirit to lead them in the proper direction. Thus, after listening attentively to each side of the debate, they declared that “it is the decision of the Holy Spirit not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities.” Although intense discussion was the human counterpart, the Holy Spirit made the decision for them.

How can you tell you made a right decision? The peace that Jesus gives, “My peace I give to you” is worthy of mention. Peace appears frequently in the resurrection accounts. The awareness of peace then is Christ’s gift and message to the evolving church. That means, allowing the Holy Spirit to take the center stage and inviting him to surround our meetings in the slow process of making decision brings a deep sense of peace and feeling of joy. I am certain that in the midst of an increasingly unbelieving secular world, when we involve the Holy Spirit and surrender our lives, as the 2 ^nd reading in the book of revelation testifies “the angel took me in spirit to a great, high mountain”. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 5/21

Wed, 22 May 2019 03:04:00 GMT

The boldness in preaching of the Apostle Paul and his companion Barnabas was obviously felt in their missionary journeys. Paul healed the lame from birth. We hear a striking statement from Paul, “We proclaim to you Good News that you should turn from these idols to the Living God.” Today, Tuesday, 5/21 is a time to focus on the good things God had done to us. Easter is a special time to appreciate the goodness of creation from the weather, morning dew, the snow, the rain and the thunder, and the clear blue sky. Wednesday, 5/22 tells us the familiar story of the Council of Jerusalem when the Apostles gathered to talk and solve a major controversy in the early church. The issue was about th fulfillment as to whether Gentile converts needed to be circumcised or not. For me, it wasn’t so much about the outcome as it was about the process of coming together and seriously discuss the issue affecting the church.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

The Immaculate Conception Church celebrated two first holy communion masses last Saturday, May 18. As you know, first communion has become one of the most anticipated and important events in the lives of the first communicants, a childhood rite of passage, so to speak. Boys and girls donned white dresses as brides of Christ. It was a full house attended by the padrinos/padrinas, los padres, nana’s and tata’s, abuelita’s and the great grandparents. I took a great deal of time to recognize their presence as I found it necessary to appreciate them on this marvelous occasion. I'm sure lots of photos were taken but sorry I don't have any...Once I got one, i'll posted it.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION – ST. BERNARD

At the 10:30am Sunday Mass, May 19, we celebrated the first holy communion of five communicants. The altar was beautifully decorated and the church was packed.

LORETTO SCHOOL GRADUATION

Last Thursday, May 16, the 8 ^th graders processed in the aisle in a solemn mass of thanksgiving followed by a simple awarding ceremony. Although I came in the middle of the year (November to be exact), my impression about the class of 2019 is that they're engaging, talented, helpful and respectful, to name a few. I hold a lot of pride (in a positive sense) that I was able to memorize their names. I'm grateful to Sr. Mary Aloysius, the (outgoing) school principal for her dedication, commitment and administrative skills and Sr. Caridad, the (incoming) school principal. I have great respect for them as they have introduced me into Catholic education.

DOUGLAS HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2019 GRADUATION MASS

Last Sunday, May 19, I presided over the Mass of DHS class of 2019. Boys put on black toga while girls gold. The graduates were surrounded by their families and friends. Douglas Unified School District Superintendent Ana Samaniego, Douglas High School Principal Dr. Overmann and Mrs. Diana Martinez graced us with their presence. I’m particularly grateful to Ana Samaniego for coordinating the event. I was told that the Baccalaureate Mass has been an annual tradition at DHS to give thanks to God and what better way to do it than through the highest form of Catholic worship, the Mass. Blessings and prayers for the graduates.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away: Andres Bojorquez, Enrique (Henry) Hoffman, Socorro Mejia and Antonio Aguayo and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Sun, 19 May 2019 14:01:00 GMT

We have passed the halfway mark of the Easter Season. At this juncture, Jesus signals that he can’t be with them longer than they expected. He won’t be with them forever. The spectacular post-resurrection appearances will come to an end. In a little while, he will leave them behind and sadly, they cannot go with him. How poignant it must have been to those who heard it for the first time. With these words, Jesus gives them a glimpse of the Ascension of the Lord to take place few weeks from now. This is the time when Jesus slowly but surely gives his disciples instructions before disappearing for good. Shocking and surprising as can be, as we take his parting words to heart as promise and assurance that all will be well before and after his eventual departure, there’s not much to be worried about. Although it’s going to be the end of his time on earth, he assures them that all will fall into place. What they have to do is learn to move on to the next chapter of life without him as agonizing as it seems. When you close your doors on one, a new, thrilling and stimulating opens up.

The liturgy on the Fifth Sunday of Easter brings us new things. From the entrance antiphon, “O Sing a new song to the Lord, for he has worked wonders” … to the Opening Prayer (Collect) – “that those you were pleased to make new in Holy Baptism” … to the second reading in the Book of Revelation, “a new heaven and a new earth, a new Jerusalem” ending it with “Behold, I make all things new” … to the Gospel of John, “I give you a new commandment: love one another as I have loved you” … and again in the Prayer After Communion “to pass from former ways to newness of life…”

Something new is happening. Something is percolating. We are always in the process of becoming hopefully for the better, always in search for new ways of expressing and learning our faith. Sacramental celebrations such as confirmation for adolescents and first communion for children especially on May are both parish events and family gatherings to cherish. It was a joy to behold the kids donned with white dresses, veils and crowns. As school heads for summer break, I sense great excitement on the part of the kids. Graduation ceremonies and commencement exercises mark the end of a journey as well as the beginning of what’s to come which for the most part remains to be seen.

As always, we are invited to seriously consider praying intentionally to discover ever more the beauty of the spiritual exercises and the grandeur of the communal liturgy. Even for the seasoned prayer warrior, prayer makes things new. It refreshes weary souls, brings together our torn and scattered pieces and directs our lives to godly things.

Like I said, there’s an overarching repetition of the word “new” and that the Gospel is no exception stressing the great commandment of Jesus: “ Love one another as I have loved you.” The philosopher Aristotle said that if a person doesn’t feel loved, he/she will do everything to be admired that is, to get people’s attention. In the new commandment, we are once again asked to love especially the wounded, the broken, the despised, the vulnerable, and the most fragile among us. And when we strongly devote ourselves into this ministry, we can never go wrong. Wherever you end up, don’t forget the least in society. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 5/14

Wed, 15 May 2019 05:00:00 GMT

We celebrate the apparition of Our Lady of Fatima (May 13) who asked the three shepherd children to pray for sinners but especially, recite the rosary. The Blessed Mother under the title of Our Lady of Fatima appeared in Portugal every 13th of the month for 6 consecutive months beginning on May 13, 1917. Devotion to our Lady has become widespread across the globe. Tuesday, May 14 is the feast of St. Matthias, chosen by the apostles through discernment and casting lots to replace Judas Iscariot to complete the twelve. Wednesday, May 15 is the feast of St. Isidore, patron saint of farmers. He was a humble fellow who attended daily Mass before heading to work out in the field.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

May is the month of sacramental celebrations. Last Saturday, May 11, the St. Luke Religious Education Program and Our Lady of Loretto School communicants received first holy communion in a solemn mass presided by yours truly. Occasion such as this is both a parish event and a family gathering that everyone looks forward. I’m deeply appreciative of the support of the parents/guardians, padrinos/padrinos and tata’s and nana’s. I’m profoundly grateful to the Catechists who prepared them mind, heart and soul. The kids looked lovely and fabulous. When I chatted with them before Mass, they were extremely excited obviously manifested in their disarming smiles as though it was the most important moment of their lives. Following Mass, many of them told me, they were at a loss for words to describe the experience of receiving the body of Christ for the first time.

The Catholic Community of Douglas-Pirtleville welcomes back Fr. Marco Basulto as the new Parochial Vicar beginning July 1, 2019. I have a strong connection and huge respect for him as he was my predecessor in St. James in Coolidge, AZ. He is no stranger to the community as he was assigned here in the early 2000’s. I still vividly remember he accommodated me here in town for a day back in July 2003. In fact, during the visit, I had the chance to pray at the Immaculate Conception and St. Bernard Churches. Back then, I missed St. Luke because I thought it was far from where we were only to realize that all three parishes are within 2.5 mile radius and .07 mi from IC.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away: Richard Elzy and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving family, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 5/7

Wed, 08 May 2019 04:08:00 GMT

The Acts of the Apostles, Luke’s second book, the story of the early Christians, owns the first reading of the entire Easter Season. Thisweek is no different. We come across the unwavering faith of the towering figures of Sts. Stephen, Philip and Paul. Although St. Stephen’s martyrdom was a tragedy, it was the start of the eventual spread of Christianity from Jerusalem, to Judea, to Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. The famous quotation that “something good can come out of an unfortunate situation” rings true. In the words of Tertullian, “the blood of martyrs is the seed of Christianity.” Martyrdom fueled the faith of the early Christians. Paul, in particular, experienced his dramatic encounter/conversion/revelation in Acts 9. This man is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles. He is a God of surprises, indeed considering Paul’s background as a persecutor of the followers of Christ called “On the Way”.

CONFIRMATION

Bishop Edward Weisenburger graced his presence in the Catholic Community in a solemn mass of the sacrament of confirmation to the confirmandi of Our Lady of Loretto School, St. Luke, Immaculate Conception and St. Bernard Parishes. Thank you catechists for your great dedication and commitment in the formation of the young people. Thank you parents and guardians for taking your children to religious education. Thank you sponsors/godparents for spiritually guiding them in the light of Christ. As you know, sacraments by nature draw us closer to God and not drive us away.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION AND ST. BERNARD PARISHES

OUR LADY OF LORETTO SCHOOL

The Catholic Community of Douglas-Pirtleville welcomes back Fr. Marco Basulto as the new Parochial Vicar beginning July 1, 2019. He is no stranger to the community as he was assigned here in the early 2000’s. He was my predecessor in St. James in Coolidge, AZ.

Alllow me to extend a Happy Mother's Day! Feliz dia de Madres! to all the Mothers (living and deceased) for everything they've done: for the joys and sadness, for the success and failures. We say thank you to God who's always been there for us!

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away: Juan Gustavo Acosta, Rosalio Galaz and Cruz Ramirez and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 4/30

Wed, 01 May 2019 04:30:00 GMT

The Acts of the Apostles dominate the Easter Season. The stories on the second week of Easter, recount the impact of their belief in the risen Christ. (Monday). As they prayed, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. (Tuesday). The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they have everything in common. With great power the Apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great favor was accorded them all. (Wednesday, May 1) is the feast of St. Joseph the worker, a day to ponder on the dignity of human labor. ( Thursday) was the memorial of St. Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor, a revered church father instrumental in the development of the Trinity. (Friday) is the feast of Sts. Philip and James, the lesser, whom Jesus said in John 14: 6-14, the father and I are one.

MIGRANT SHELTER HELP

Last Thursday, I went with Sr Lucy, SSND to the migrant shelter at La Sagrada Familia, Agua Prieta. There are over a 100 migrants housed there who will be joining in line to seek asylum outside the port of entry. They are running out of food supplies and utilities and asking us, the Catholic Community of Douglas, for help. The list was posted in last weekend’s bulletin. Monetary donations are welcomed as well. Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity.

PRIEST’S CONVOCATION

I’m at the priest’s convocation. It starts today Tuesday around 4pm and ends Thursday before noon. This year’s speaker is Christopher Hall reflecting on the theme the wonder, the beauty and the majesty of the Trinity according to the Church Fathers.

As announced in the recently- held convocation, the Catholic Community of Douglas-Pirtleville welcomes back Fr. Marco Basulto as the new Parochial Vicar beginning July 1, 2019. He is no stranger to the community as he was assigned here in the early 2000’s.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away: Christopher Slepika and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 4/23

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 04:12:00 GMT

EASTER WEEK was observed by the early Christians to reflect deeper on the msytagogical experiences of the paschal vigil along with continued catechesis. Over time, it has evolved into a solemnity. The Octave of Easter is about the surprising resurrection appearances and the exciting and joyful announcements of the good news. As you know, the disciples thought Good Friday was the end of it all. In his earthly days, Jesus mentioned suffering and rising from the dead several times to the disciples but they didn’t get it. Their hopes and expectations dashed and had no hint of coming to life again at least from their vantage point. The resurrection then was a totally unexpected, mysterious event as described in the reactions of the first witnesses. For instance, Mt. 28: 8-15 tells us that Mary Magdalene and the other Mary on leaving the tomb, were both fearful and overjoyed and ran to announce the good news. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee and there they will see me. Meanwhile, as a preacher, I only say so much. I can’t take you to Galilee. You have to go there on your own and meet Jesus himself. John’s version in 20: 11-18 is slightly different. Mary Magdalen initially thought Jesus was a gardener. When she recognized him, he said, stop holding on to me. Jesus’ resurrection involved letting go of the past and welcoming new opportunities for continued spiritual growth. Luke’s Emmaus story portrays the two disciples who didn't recognize Jesus on the way but only until the breaking of the bread. Jesus’ rising from the dead was clearly a new dimension of reality.

RCIA

In a small border town such as Douglas-Pirtleville where everybody knows everybody, it sounds awkward to say welcome to the newly-baptized. But allow me to welcome Chad Acosta, Martha Mendez and Rafael Mendez to the body of Christ and congratulate (for a lack of better term) the adults who completed the sacraments of initiation either through confirmation and holy communion. The celebration was well-attended by families, friends and relatives. For first- timers, I’m afraid they might describe Easter Vigil as the longest mass they’ve ever attended. Well, that’s true. It’s the vigil of all vigils, the night of all nights, the end and the beginning. It was time spent in holy abandon.

I want to thank the Catholic Community's staff, deacons, altar servers, choir, lectors and commentators, ushers, decorators, and the numerous volunteers who helped raise funds during lent. Again, thank you so much! Muchas Gracias por su apoyo!

ST. BERNARD

ST. LUKE

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

Let’s pray for the souls of the more than 300 innocent lives lost in the terrorist attack in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday. Yes, Easter Sunday. Nothing is worse than that. Let's join the world but especially, Sri Lanka in condemning this heinous crime against humanity (not just religion) and mourn with the families of the victims.

Let’s pray for all those deeply affected by the recent earthquakes in the Philippines on Easter Sunday, Monday and Wednesday (Manila Time), respectively.

In behalf of the Catholic Community, I fervently pray for the eternal repose of the souls of Estela Padilla, Lydia Reyes and Rudy Ramirez who recently passed away and extend sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to the grieving families, relatives and friends.

Rest assured, they are remembered and included in the humble prayers of the community especially at the weekend masses.

EASTER SUNDAY

Sat, 20 Apr 2019 22:44:00 GMT

The resurrection of Christ is the foundation of Christian Faith. This historically verifiable bold claim attested by the confession of faith in the sacred writings, rests on the truth that Jesus is risen from the dead. And that the incredible encounter with the risen Lord holds our faith together. Without the resurrection then, there’s no Christianity. Since the rising from the dead was a totally unexpected event, the initial reaction of the eyewitnesses was completely understandable. If I were one of them seeing dead man walking, I probably would have a similar reaction that is, to freak out as everyone thought Good Friday was an epic failure, a collapse of the mission he intended to establish.

A trending phrase in social media: no pain, no gain; no guts, no glory; no cross, no resurrection would best describe the depths of the three days. The Cross and resurrection are inseparable even in human terms. We know how the series unfolded and how it was perfectly executed by God. What was once seen as a mark of failure, embarrassment and defeat has become the central symbol of triumph and victory shattering darkness and gloom and previous claims.

The resurrection is not a resuscitation of a dead person coming back to normal life and later, goes the natural process of death. It’s not our common understanding of raising a corpse back to life. The bodily Resurrection of Jesus is a whole new way and higher level of existence able to cook fish, share meals, join the company by the beach, and even penetrate through fortified walls and closed doors. The resurrection is the fulfillment of God’s promise of lifting us up to him in the end times.

This leads me to the renewal of the baptismal promises: renounce the power of evil and profess our faith in God who raised Jesus from the dead – the ultimate expression of his love. After the renewal, the presider goes around sprinkling Holy water as a sign of rebirth (a springtime). Easter Sunday is tough because you never know whether or not the words (promises made) sink deep in the pew. If experience is any indication, the church will be half-empty next week. On the flip side, dear preacher, if God rose Jesus from the dead (vindication or otherwise), then, anything can happen. Amen.

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE

Sat, 20 Apr 2019 04:29:00 GMT

Each year, on this terrible event of Good Friday, we come together to attend the evening Memorial service facing the veiled crucified Christ, to hear the Passion of the Lord according to John, to adore the Lord in the wooden cross, to receive him in holy communion and to gaze at the horrifying view of the cross as our attempt to pay respect and to give tribute to the tortured Lord. I suspect none of us in this gathered assembly, by any stretch of the imagination, see ourselves physically nailed to the cross. Devotions on Good Friday such the Stations of the Cross emphasized the helplessness, sorrow and grief of this tragic event.

Crucifixion was God’s powerful expression of solidarity to the suffering, the distressed, the abandoned and sinful humanity. We all wish it never happened but the crucified Messiah chose to suffer crucifixion and became the object of horror to silence humanity’s endless engagement in cycles of violence, vengeance, retribution of any kind, to stop the ruling axis of evil in all its forms that many of us have been desensitized, from exploitation, to scapegoating to killing in the name of God and those who believe that peace can only be attained by the use of force and armed struggle. Only Jesus didn’t submit to the idea.

Christianity is not immune to violence. Crucifixion was the most brutal punishment anyone could ever face. To suffer crucifixion is beyond words. This unspeakable crime was widespread in antiquity. To be hung on the cross for public execution was meant to shame, to embarrass and to humiliate anyone plotting to destabilize the empire. This extremely cruel act was reserved only for slaves, for those who have no rights at all, for those at the lowest level of society, for convicted criminals blamed for all the problems in society, sort of scapegoating. The idea was that for as long as you can get rid of the outlaws, life would be a bliss and you would live in a perfect world.

Why did Jesus have to go through this to save us? The tortured Messiah, the crucified God, in cognito, had to endure a sacrificial death in such a magnitude to shock our desensitized minds.

None of us met Jesus personally. We heavily rely on the testimony of the scriptures about his life but the fact that he had a considerable following, he must have been a charismatic person: loving, caring, humble, grateful, gifted with a godly and an amazing personality. His moral vision was unshakeable even under intense pressure. He didn’t want to die. The synoptics tell us that he was troubled and even asked God in the garden of gethsemane to let the cup of suffering pass him by. In the cross, he felt God abandoned him, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? He was not some crazy person seeking attention and popularity. He was not a political instigator. He was not subversive by nature nor an outlaw for the sake of breaking the law. His purpose was to establish the kingdom of God but unfortunately, didn’t materialize in his lifetime because of his short life.

Why did Jesus have to suffer and die on the cross? Why didn’t God come to the rescue when he surely could have done something? There are as many answers as there are questions. Humanly speaking, he was considered a threat to his day and the challenge is similar in content he brings to all sectors of society as well as to secular and religious institutions. Good Friday then represents and exposes our sins against each other and the world along with the endless moral erosion. What he wanted was to end the cycle of violence and the structure of sin. That’s why, many though that his death was a bail- out, a ransom, an expiation, an atonement for our sins. Many believed that by his death alone, he already saved us.

His disciples along with the crowds thought all his efforts were a colossal failure, a phenomenal defeat. When they started to see things were falling apart, they deserted him. Peter denied him, not once but three times. The crowds who cheered for him on Palm Sunday, jeered and mocked him at the arrest and trial. His death was inevitable. He humbly accepted it but didn’t compromise his mission to bring justice and peace to the world in stark contrast to the myth of redemptive violence. Did he completely eradicate sin and the vicious cycle of apathy and indifference? No. In fact, it even got worse. Is the world more peaceful now than his time? Hard to tell. It has become even more violent. We perfected the art of killing each other. Assault weapons are our toys. Fortnite is our favorite video game. And we complain whenever violence strikes us. Think about it. Amen.

MAUNDY THURSDAY

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 19:02:00 GMT

The Evening Mass of the Lord's supper which marks the beginning of the Paschal Triduum and draws us to the most sacred mysteries of the Christian Faith, commemorates the Institution of the Holy Eucharist and the priestly order (ordained and common and the relationship between the two). The solemn liturgy also highlights the ritual of foot- washing, primarily to exemplify the new commandment, "to love one another", a call to charity. The washing of the feet is an ancient practice performed only by a slave to a Master (1 Sam 25:41). Jesus, in demonstrating such a humbling act to his disciples, made an outlandish display of love in its ultimate degree and a profound model of service contrary to social expectations. He gave such a humiliating gesture a totally different meaning. That's why Peter protested. Master, are you going to wash my feet? You will never wash my feet (Jn 13:6, 8). In their discourse, he showed that it was an act of humble service, a classic example, a true mark, a deepest expression of love, not merely a suggestion but a mandate. Thus, Maundy Thursday, from the latin, Mandatum, that loving one another should be the top priority of every Christian community. In a world, where people who constantly profess faith in Christ Jesus are divided over doctrinal, political and social issues, who couldn't even gather at the same table to worship God, Mandatum Novum will help clearly see ministry from an entirely different standpoint. And yet, it's not necessarily the actual foot washing that we are called to do but the purpose - selfless small acts of humble service we can possibly offer to one another on a regular basis.

At the twilight, the Catholic Community of Douglas-Pirtleville enter into the Easter Triduum with a grandiose introduction of the liturgy - the anniversary of the Lord’s Supper followed by a grand procession led by the altar servers with the thurifer and cross along with the 12 representative apostles as representation of the community participating in the foot-washing.

At the liturgy of the word, the first reading from the twelve chapter of the Book of Exodus 12: 1-8, 11-14 provides in great detail the account of the Jewish Passover meal: a foreshadowing of the new Passover. It says, never to forget the events of this night. St. Paul in 1 Cor. 11: 23-26 shared what he received that “on the night he was handed over, he gave thanks…Do this in remembrance of me…”

We commemorate the sacred institution of the Holy Eucharist - a worship of God in praise and thanksgiving sharing in the one saving act of Jesus Christ. We commemorate the institution of the Holy Eucharist as a meal and sacrifice and the Ministerial (ordained) Priesthood and the common Priesthood of the baptized. Take and eat (sacred meal) this is my body which is given for you (sacrifice). Take and drink (sacred meal) this is my blood which is to be shared for you. It’s very telling then that we cannot come to God and together as a community without sacrifice. The synoptic gospels testify that on the night Jesus died, he broke bread with his disciples and instituted the Eucharist in the words, “This is my body…this is my blood.” The Eucharist is a sacrifice in the sense that this is how we become one and in union with God. Participation in Christ’s sacrifice is carried out in the context of a meal.

This gathering has been described as breaking the bread and sharing the cup, a participation in the redemptive life of Jesus. Breaking bread and sharing cup unites us and creates community in a profound way. Sharing meals is a way of belongingness. Only in rare and exceptional cases/reasons, do we humans eat alone but this probably has become the norm due to work schedule and circumstances. To invite someone in table fellowship means relationship. You’re somehow related with the guests. Eating is closely connected and associated with gratitude, thank you. Following the homily, the ritual of the washing of the feet called Mandatum begins. Such a profound gesture was performed normally by a slave to a master as an imitation of the gracious act of hospitality and a sign and excellent model of humble service. There’s no formal dismissal. After communion, there will be a transfer of the holy Eucharist to the altar of repose. Amen.

SPY WEDNESDAY

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 03:11:00 GMT

In an honor-shame society that highly valued loyalty in all sorts of relationships, as the most important virtue, the opening lines of the Gospel present betrayal of trust as one of the worst sins anyone can commit in the ancient of days down to the present age.

Wednesday of Holy Week is often called Spy Wednesday, the liturgical time when Judas conspired with the Religious authorities for Jesus’ eventual arrest, “What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?” and the next thing we know Judas took a bribe for thirty pieces of silver, the price of a sheep.

The most painful part of this scenario was that Judas was a trusted fellow, a member of the magnificent twelve, who knew the affairs of the group inside out. Moreover, it happened in the middle of a table fellowship, a sacred meal on the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a domestic religious gathering signifying unity in the Lord but unfortunately, it went otherwise. Even if Jesus was aware that one of the twelve would go against him, still he allowed Judas to stay. If you were the host of a party, you normally won’t invite a treacherous person.

What Judas showed us happens almost everywhere: in the corporate world, in religious institutions, in circles of friendships and in exclusive relationships. Treachery, history tells us, is always an inside job. Your traitor is the person who knows you very well.

“The Son of Man indeed goes, as it is written of him, but to woe to that man by whom the Son is betrayed.”

Since God had nothing to do with Judas’ decision or was he necessitated to accomplish the drama of divine salvation, to fulfill what the Prophets have spoken for ages, what prompted Judas, then? His own free deliberately distanced him from God. This fateful destiny happens whenever we separate ourselves to God. Even the lowest sin cannot break God’s plan. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 4/16

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 03:46:00 GMT

Slowly but surely, the drama of human salvation unfolds. Today, John’s account of the betrayal tells us that such a tragedy was an inside job. Judas, the most trusted person, the treasurer, in-charge of the finances, perfectly executed it. He was one of the twelve inner circles who accompanied Jesus in his 3-year public ministry. He was familiar and knew really well the ins and outs of his master and the 12. As you know, to be betrayed by one of your closest fellows is the most painful part not only in this scenario but life, in general. It ruins everything. Once damage has been done in relationships, you can’t repair it. Dante’s Inferno puts traitors at the bottom of hell, a huge indication of the magnitude of the offense. There’s nothing more devastating than someone who knows you inside out, double cross you.

PASCHAL TRIDUUM services is an anamnesis, a remembrance to make Christ's redemptive presence felt and have an impact in our lives. Paschal Mystery was accomplished in Jesus once and for all. We don’t try stage it or re-play it. What we merely try to do is to remember...

Last Monday, I was overjoyed to see my brother priests and friends at the CHRISM MASS , a diocesan gathering (priests, religious and laity) in union with the Bishop at St. Augustine Cathedral in Tucson to consecrate the oils for the administration of sacraments. For practical reasons, it’s been scheduled at 2pm (for the past few years now) so that priests (myself included) assigned in rural/outlying areas would have plenty of time to drive back same day. After the homily, Bishop Weisenburger asked the priests to renew their priestly promises, ARE YOU RESOLVED…? And then, the blessing of the holy oils followed.

If you’re looking for something to do on the paschal triduum, I’d highly suggest to prayerfully reflect on the Passion of Christ according to Luke.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away, Irma Davila, Rafael Gomez, Gerardo Sanchez and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

PALM SUNDAY

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 04:53:00 GMT

Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus’ triumphal messianic entry to Jerusalem, the dwelling place and throne of God with the singular vision of peace. Although the main focus of Palm Sunday is procession, the blessing of palm branches and boughs as well as the Eucharist are equally important. Procession, not a parade, dominates Holy Week. If you take out procession in the pre-mass ritual, you lose half of the meaning of Palm Sunday. Since Procession defines Palm Sunday, we used the first form: Procession, to honor the king! About 5 minutes prior the scheduled time of mass, the commentator introduced the Sunday liturgy and invited everyone to proceed to the hall (our version of Mount of Olives). The presider blessed the branches, the Deacon proclaimed the Gospel of Luke 19 which was about the preparation for the Passover and entrance to Jerusalem. Then, the procession began slowly led by the altar servers followed by the Priest then the sizable crowd. We escorted Jesus, represented by the celebrant on his way to trial cheering for him symbolized by holding and waving blessed palm branches and singing Hosanna to the Son of David! A prayer of supplication. In other words, Save us please! provide healing to this wounded world through Jesus’ redemptive act. In his victorious entry to Jerusalem, Jesus wants to use us and join us especially in the everyday realities of pain and struggles aqui en Douglas.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 4/9

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 04:04:00 GMT

Last Sunday, the 5 ^th Sunday of Lent, we joined some parishes across the country in observance of the covering crosses, statues and images to prepare us for the impending passion of Jesus. Evidently, we get a glimpse, a preview of what’s to come that is, the drama of human salvation visible in the church environment. As we move closer to holy week, I hope that our local religious customs and practices will continue to draw us to the compelling mystery of the passion of Christ. Again, if you’re following the daily Lenten readings, (Monday) the story of Suzanna, raised strictly in the law of Moses (in today’s world, Catolico Cerrado) is highly inspirational to those who struggle with fidelity to the Lord and the church’s teachings. Suzanna said, “she would rather die than break and go against the Lord.” She was vindicated through the wisdom of a young fellow named Daniel. (Wednesday) The three young men (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) in Daniel 3, ignored the summons of the king. Instead, they remained faithful and worshipped their (our) God. Nebuchadnezzar was livid. As a punishment, he had them burned in fiery furnace set to the maximum level. In the midst of the fire, though, the three young men were still alive and actually walking and dancing (my addition). Not only that, Nebuchadnezzar saw four men and the fourth looked like the Son of God. He was converted. On Friday, Jeremiah said, “The Lord God is with me, a mighty hero.”

CONFIRMATION INTERVIEWS

The on-going interviews may seem to be a stretch for me as a lone- ranger priest down here in Douglas but the one-on-one conversation with the confirmandi is, to a large degree, an investment not for me but for the church, the bigger institution in which all of us are mere servants and stewards. Almost all of them are able to articulate their confirmation saints, choice of a godparent and the completed service hours. Your chosen saint must inevitably speak to your life in the here and now and humbly imitate him/her. I told them how appreciative I am of the enormous efforts placed in the research, an added responsibility, so to speak, on top of their school work and other activities (sports and family-related). I was particularly struck by the creativity of their service projects especially those who devoted hours painting the nails of the elderly in a nursing facility and volunteered in the parish in various capacities.

This series of interview reminds me of the prophet Daniel that wisdom can come from the youth. I expected that in the course of my platica con ellos, at least one of them will say something profoundly moving. As Catholics, we are dutybound to show by example that apart from the worldly lifestyle, there’s another way to live (moral option), and it can be done.

Welcome to Douglas!

Finally, I was able to hike the ‘D’ Hill last Sunday afternoon joined by Mr. Carlos Tobon, the photographer. Were it not because of my ankle pain, it would have been an easy climb. I was afraid to take a selfie as the terrain was rough and steep. Uphill was more challenging than the downward (halfway paved) slope.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently passed away, Maria Dolores Estrada, Linda Bojorquez, John Gustavo Acosta and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

HOLY WEEK

Sat, 06 Apr 2019 15:54:00 GMT

Holy Week is the greatest and the most solemn week of the entire year. It's the heart and soul of the liturgical calendar commemorating the unfathomable saving act of God through the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the core of Christian faith. The Paschal Mystery, the epicenter of Holy Week, brings, binds and unites together the other seasons of the year. Egeria’s diary was profoundly instrumental in the evolution of what is now called, Holy Week. For her, it’s the Great Week. In her pilgrimage to the Holy Land, she saw and witnessed first- hand the paschal observance of the early Christians as documented in her diary. To state the obvious, Holy Week had an extensive and complex history, gradually tied together down the centuries. It didn’t come out of thin air. Christians interpreted the passion of the Christ with the sacrifice of the lamb and passage from death to life. As it developed, the Paschal Triduum began with the evening mass of the Lord’s Supper reaching its highest point in the Easter Vigil and ended on Easter Sunday evening. For the first Christians, it wasn’t just an event that occurred in the past but the gathering was a remembrance of an enduring, life-altering mystery that had been kept alive ever since.

Interestingly, Holy Week is marked by procession. In fact, Lenten practices always lead us to Jerusalem, the Holy City, the city of Peace, the place God chose to dwell. Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, commemorates Jesus triumphal entry to Jerusalem. We enter Holy Week in procession along with Jesus with the blessing of the palm and leaflet branches and the proclamation of the passion account outside the church. Then, we join in procession holding palm branches cheering for Jesus’ victorious entry. We won’t settle with the simple entrance. If you take procession in the pre-mass ritual, you lose half of the meaning. The presider vested with red cope is preceded in procession by the altar servers.

Paschal Triduum is an amalgamation of the passion and resurrection of Christ beginning with the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper and culminating on the evening of Easter Vigil. It’s one whole celebration. Holy Thursday stresses the institution of the Eucharist, the washing of the feet (Mandatum) and the procession to the altar of repose. There’s no final blessing. Good Friday service is not a Mass but well-participated especially at the stations of the cross. The service is composed of the Proclamation of the Cross, the adoration of the cross and communion. All depart in silence. Again, there’s no final blessing. Saturday morning is normally spent in praying for the faithful departed and descending into hell while parish ministers are busy with decorations. Easter Vigil is the vigil of all vigils and the night of all nights. We’ll go the whole nine yards with the readings as they beautifully illustrate salvation history proclaimed only once a year. Amen.

Below is the Catholic Community's complete Holy Week Schedule of Services.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 4/2

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 04:24:00 GMT

As the buds start to come out and flowers bloom after months of hibernation, I take back my word. Much as I like the chilly temperature, there’s nothing like spring. I’ll leave winter behind and set my gaze in the springtime of life.

If you’ve been following the daily Lenten readings closer than ever, you must have noticed and presumably, enjoyed the drama of the new world to come envisioned in Isaiah 65 on Monday, the river of life that freshens the dead sea (stagnant water) in Ezekiel 47 on Tuesday, the urge to come out and show yourselves in Isaiah 49 on Wednesday, among others. During lent, all roads lead to Jerusalem, the Holy City, the place God chose to dwell, the vision of peace. We’re merely following Jesus in our devotion to prayer, fasting and almsgiving.

COMMUNAL PENANCE SERVICE

This Friday, the Catholic Community comes together in a solemn ritual of Lenten penitential service, a religious act necessary in life to lift our burdens, to ease our pain and hurts, to bring out our deepest concerns, to forgive our sins and listen to the words of absolution: “God, the Father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his son has reconciled the world to himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins, through the ministry of the church, may God give you pardon and peace, I absolve you from your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” As you know, penance in Hebrew means ‘return’ while ‘change of mind and heart’ in Greek. If we put them together, that would mean, (leaving a former life behind and turning our mind and hearts) to God. I will be joined by Fr. Marco Basulto, and Fr. Arnold Noriega (Retired).

CONFIRMATION INTERVIEW

Last Week, I finished the Confirmation Interviews at the Immaculate Conception Parish and St. Bernard. I had a great conversation with the kids mostly about the content of the Bishop’s letter, chosen confirmation saint, godparent/sponsor and the completed service hours/projects. Now, it's St. Luke's time.

Below is the photo of the Lenten Mission at St. Luke presented by Fr. Greg Adolf.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who passed away last week especially, Sandra Molina and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

THE PRODIGAL CHILD AND PARENT

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 00:02:00 GMT

Would you welcome a run-away child with wide open arms if one day, he/she finally returns home?

The parable of the prodigal son has been acclaimed as the best short story ever told which highlights the unconditional love of God towards a repentant sinner. It sounds like it’s about the son but it’s actually designed to emphasize an extremely compassionate and loving Father. The opening verse, “There was a man who had two sons…” speaks volumes regarding the intent of the story. The Father both loved his two sons without partiality. Upon the younger son’s request of his share of the inheritance (a cultural taboo), he consented. You normally wait until death before doing so. Such a thing (request) was terribly disrespectful on the part of the younger son, an unimaginable scenario even in today’s world. The father knew that giving his younger son a 1/3 of the estate wasn’t the right thing to do at that moment but he reluctantly allowed it under tough circumstances out of love and concern. After he got it, he spent money in dissolute living. Long story short, he decided to come back to his father ready to be treated as one of the servants. But lo and behold, on his return, he didn’t even get the chance to say sorry along with his rehearsed speech, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you, I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers (Lk. 15:18-19).” Before he could even utter a word, his father’s arms were already wrapped around him, a loving and heartfelt embrace all of us long for much more than any of us deserves. The most touching part of the story was that the father had been on the lookout. That meant, he must have waited all this time (that long) for his wayward child to come back. He didn’t lose hope. And so, the moment he saw him even from afar, he ran, embraced and actually kissed him.

What we just heard was out of the ordinary. I expected the Father going ballistic after all the trouble caused by the younger child. If this happened here in Douglas (I’m sure it did), this would have been the talk of the town or hit the front page of Douglas Dispatch. Following the hugs and kisses, the father, in an unusual attempt, didn’t just offer coffee and donuts which would have been more than enough for him. Wasting no time, he, in fact, called for an extravagant party! Immediately, he ordered his servants to prepare for a lavish feast, to eat, be merry and celebrate. Bring me all kinds of salsa (verde y rojo) including pico de gallo, taco (soft and hard shell, whoever invented taco must have been a genius) barbacoa, roast pig for Filipinos…pull out the never worn tuxedo and ring in the closet… “This is my son! He was dead and has come back to life! He was lost and has been found!” If you lived next door, you would have joined the party even on a short notice.

As you know, the older son was devastated. This happens to many of us devote Catholics. The embrace of the younger doesn’t mean the exact opposite. Think of it this way, if you have a special child, I bet you’re going to spend as much time with the one needing attention than anyone in the family. In so doing, it doesn't mean that you don't care about the others.

Throughout the Lenten season, we’ve been inundated with texts and messages about repentance and return. Programs, local and national, have been carefully created to target the younger son’s return, a high priority in any parish outreach ministry. Getting the inactive and the fallen-away involved, doing everything possible to put them back on the pew, is by far the ultimate business of any parish community. Unless we draw and attract people to the church, we haven’t completely done our job, our fair share. It always starts with a welcoming attitude, a hospitable environment, a deep prayer life along with a simple and humble invitation leading to the celebration of the sacrament of healing, that is, penance and reconciliation. Sacraments, by nature, will get us closer to God. Please join the catholic community in this Friday’s communal penance service, a special and solemn occasion to wipe away our sins, to rekindle our spirits, clear our conscience, to purify our hearts and souls, to get rid of our demons, to feel God’s immeasurable love in confession. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 3/26

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 03:32:00 GMT

Last Saturday’s retreat with the young adults was a great opportunity to step out of the normal routine. We delved into Holy Week. I’m sure this year, all of us (the participants, myself included), will have a different (deeper understanding) outlook about this great and solemn event of our redemption. In the presentation, I started with an overview of Holy Week as the annual commemoration of the paschal mystery of Jesus Christ using the words of James Monti in his book, The Week of Salvation: History and Traditions of Holy Week. I mentioned different names associated with Holy Week in the early centuries and ended the brief introduction with tough questions raised by Amy-Jill Levine in her new (short) book, A Beginner’s Guide to Holy Week. What she tried to get across was that Jesus risked his life in Holy Week. Yes and I can’t agree with her more. For her, we enter into Holy Week the moment we ask the question, what’s worth dying for? And what’s worth living for? Is there any valuable cause are you involved with?

We had a great discussion following a 15-minute individual reflection. My Lenten book this year is no other than Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s Jesus of Nazareth Part II. I tried to read it in year’s past but for some reason, fell through the cracks. Being a theological giant that he is, it’s a little too much for an average person like me. It’s vast in its scope. Next year, my plan is to introduce a series of study, prayer and reflection about Holy Week for the Catholic community based on the available materials. It’s a work in progress. I know there are tons of resources available out there that will be helpful in the realization of this ambitious plan. If you have suggestions, let me know. I’m open for any feedback but be nice. It’s lent. It’s a special time to purge our demons and resist any influence of the evil one. No meanie…ok?

I wish one day, I can join the Cursillo. Weekend religious encounters are life-changing. Over 75% of parish volunteers have cited Cursillo as the #1 reason for their strong commitment and involvement in the local community. The impact it brings to people’s lives is beyond words. Cursillistas can probably describe to you what it is but they can’t tell you exactly what happened. You have to go through it yourself. I crave for it, too. I believe every human being does. As far back as I can recall, the most powerful weekend experience I had extends back in high school and that is, over 2 decades ago. I don’t think I’ll ever forget that. The memory may not be fresh but it has stayed with me. The preparation involved in this weekend renewal program is massive. They’ve been preparing for the last 3 months on Thursday evenings and Saturdays mornings, respectively. Last weekend, I dropped by for a few minutes at the Men’s Cursillo. This weekend, it’s women’s turn. Let’s pray for them.

The sisters of Notre Dame along with a handful of parishioners from Immaculate Conception have helped establish the Migrant Carpentry Shop in Agua Prieta for some time now. Here's the link to the website: https://migrantcarpentry.wordpress.com/ . They'll highly appreciate whatever help we can extend. Also, here's the link to the cross planting ministry just in case you're interested: https://crossplanting.wordpress.com/ to show solidarity and express sympathy to the numerous migrants (identified or not) who died while crossing the Sonoran desert.

Let’s include in our prayers the separated families, couples struggling with their marriages, the homeless, the unemployed, the run-away youth, the sick, those recovering from drug addiction, the homebound, the terminally ill, and the dying in the Catholic community and the greater part of Douglas, Pueblo Nuevo and across the line, Agua Prieta. Although we’re separated by international border, the truth is, we’re neighbors. In a border town like Douglas, we defy conventional thinking. We share a lot of things in common.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who passed away last week: Jesus Pelayo, Bertha Worchester, Angel Morales, Joe Rodriguez, Edmund and Harlan Lewis and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured that they are included in the prayers of the community.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.

GOD PATIENTLY WAITS FOR OUR CONVERSION

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 13:20:00 GMT

Fig tree is said to grow anywhere there is a soil which has over 50% of survival. If figs were human beings, there would be no reason to complain at all as they have everything necessary to live. It draws its strength and sustenance from the soil and normally, takes 3 years to bear fruit. However, according to the story, it produces nothing. A tree that doesn’t generate fruit is useless and might as well cut it down. Nothing which only takes and receives from the outside will survive. Jesus used this parable, on the third Sunday of Lent, to describe the patience of God. We owe him our lives. We are indebted to him. We didn’t bring ourselves to the world through our unaided powers. We come to life through the peril of someone else’s life. We wouldn’t be where we are not without the care of loving people. We inherited a Christian civilization and given us all the possibilities to live free.

The parable of the fruitless fig tree then is a story of God who is like a patient gardener who waits for fruit and gives it another chance to grow. Most of us can relate to this. Everyone of us who has a garden can vouch, you can’t rush a garden. On my end, it has taken me over a year (even years) to figure out what to do in the backyard, what to plant and which soil to till to avoid pestering weeds.

What else can we say about the familiar call of Moses, the burning bush and the message associated with it? Many of us remember this central text in Exodus when God took Moses up in Mt. Horeb, in the mountain of God often described as a desolate and horrible place which makes a lot of sense following his message to Moses. The exchange of words sound really interesting as it is a normal response of someone overwhelmed by the experience and entrusted with a stake so high. Out of curiosity, it was understandable for Moses to ask God’s name and so he said, if they ask me what is your name, what am I to tell them? God’s reply was, I am who am. Tell them, I AM sent to you. Anyone would be dumbfounded by this odd name. Moses probably muttered, what in the world is that! Well, Moses, it’s not your business. Just go! It is a name that can easily be grasped and at the same time, difficult to understand. The emphasis lies in the message. God is aware of the suffering, the slavery, and the pain that his people have endured and wanted to rescue them: to take them out of the depressing situation. It looks like he’s unreachable but no, he’s much concerned with the affairs of the people.

He is a God calling us to repent otherwise we perish. He is a patient God giving us second chances just like the unproductive fig tree because he knows our lives are heavily influenced by our dispositions and the powerful cultural forces. He is the burning bush that captures our attention and plunges us into mystery. He is the gardener that allows fruitless fig tree to sap the life out of a soil that nourishes other plants hoping that a new spirit will come out. He is the God who has everything to offer us, the divine help. How many times on the season of lent did we say we’ll change? How many times have we tried to convince ourselves that we had nothing (time, talent, treasure) to give, share and contribute to the local parish community and yet, God never lets us run out of material and spiritual supply. Amen.

MISSIONARIES OF THE FRANCISCAN UNIVERSITY OF STEUBENVILLE

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 18:56:00 GMT

We welcomed the Missionaries on Sunday and bade farewell on Saturday at the 7:30am Mass. When Sr. Mary Aloysius asked me to say Mass for them, I said, anything for the Missionaries. Deuteronomy 26 was the assigned scripture reading and the opening lines sounded familiar, “this day or today.” As they headed back to school after a deeply spiritual spring break in a border town, I prayed that the experience, the journey, the trip and the break from routine would be a new beginning - fresh with opportunities to tie, to tune and to reboot their souls to God. I hope that their short stay (only a week) with us in Loretto School and the greater Catholic Community in Douglas y Pueblo Nuevo was spiritually uplifting and nourishing. I am aware of the enormous sacrifices made, notwithstanding months of logistical and spiritual preparation involved in this mission trip. They could have gone somewhere and elsewhere but they chose us, this little town (in the eyes of many) to share their experiences, to evangelize, to spread the good news to the younger generation, among others. There's something about Steubenville. I wish I have a video of the Festival of Praise.

Dear Missionaries, we may not remember everything you said but we won't forget how you made us feel. We are eternally grateful for your kindness, cheerfulness, warmth, faith, joy and love. Amen.

TUESDAY MUSINGS 3/19

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 04:32:00 GMT

This week is the start of the long- Tuesday- evening- confirmation- interviews for all three parishes. It sounds overwhelming but I look forward to it. I really do. Being the only priest down here, I'm spreading myself too thin already but the one-on-one 10-minute platica with the confirmandi is considerably, a huge investment for me. The stuff of the interview is mostly about their letter to the Bishop, chosen Confirmation saint and the completed service projects. Since this interview is relational and conversational in nature, I'll avoid the scary (intimidating) classroom discussion setting along with A-F (pass/fail, greater/lesser, smarter/needs improvement) grading system (although that’s important). Since I’m a minister of souls, my plan, by default, is to listen (to see where the stuff of religion, church and faith are in their lives) and connect with them through a post-confirmation faith formation program tailored to their level.

I’m deeply appreciative of the birthday greetings and wishes especially the birthday cards crafted by the students of Loretto School handed to me by Sr. Caridad before Mass Monday afternoon. Following the 9am Monday Mass, I joined the sisters of SSND along with some friends @IC and visited the cooperative in AP. The young mothers manning the organization and making crafts as their humble means of livelihood need so much our help. It was very especial.

I’ve always thought that those of us born on 3/18 are the nobody’s in the world sandwiched between two religious pillars and significant feasts in the calendar: St. Patrick’s and St. Joseph, the husband of Mary, the epitome of gentleness, simplicity, and humility. Although 3/17 fell on a Sunday, I bet Irish parties have been celebrated like it should be for the great prophet of Ireland. St. Cyril of Jerusalem (my saint), Bishop and Doctor of the church, though a saint of the orthodox tradition whose optional memorial was last Monday, deserves mention (even on lent) as he made extraordinary contributions especially in his efforts to correct Arian heresy (versions still in existence in modern times).

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the parishioners who recently died: Rosa Lydia Montano, Rosaura Duron, Anastacia Perez, Yolanda Alvarado, Magdalena Majalca, Gerardo Salcido and offer condolences, sympathy and consolation to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Rest assured, they are included in the prayers of the community.

THE MOUNTAINTOP EXPERIENCE

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 04:35:00 GMT

One of the many things I like about Douglas, besides the warmth of the people, is the climate. The fact that it sits in a 3995ish ft elevation surrounded by gorgeous mountains is a delight for me. Although it’s the southernmost part of the state, a border town, driving down south is actually uphill. No worries, we are closer to heaven than Phoenix and Tucson whether the sky is blue or orange. I figured, God must have said once, Douglas, because of our close proximity, I know exactly what's happening down there.

I love the chilly temperature with the occasional snowfall. In fact, the heavy snowfall on January 2 ^nd which covered the town for a couple of days was one of the most lovely things I’ve seen in Douglas. I played in the snow like a kid that I couldn’t help grab my phone camera and take a video of myself. Its music to my ears when forecast says low of 45 and high of 60. This sounds rather strange for many of us but it feels great when the weather channel tells me, before heading out of the rectory for the 7am Mass, there’s 90% chance of rain. The gloomy morning and dark clouds brighten my day when raindrops greet me at 5am along with the pop-up banner in weather app, there will be a brief rain shower. It reminds me of home. Douglas is my home away from home. I’ve never been to the D- mountain but I think, as a rite of passage for all newcomers and anyone wishing Douglas their new home, I should go for a hike and take a selfie at the center of D.

Last Sunday, we were taken into the wilderness. We've been trekking and trailing in a dry and arid land for a week now. But today, we’ll switch to a new location. On the Second Sunday of Lent, we climb the mountaintop along with Jesus and the inner circle primarily, to pray as well as to witness his glory seen and heard in the transfiguration story at Mount Tabor. Luke’s version is the first ever to be recorded and written. While Jesus was praying, his face changed and his clothing dazzled. Moses-the lawgiver and Elijah-the greatest of all the prophets, (two towering biblical figures), had conversed with him and spoke of his departure to be accomplished in Jerusalem. This whole concept about his impending exodus as a fulfillment of the prophecy must have been difficult not only to the insiders but also to all his followers. Thus, the transfiguration story has been assigned early on lent to get a preview of the difficult days ahead. Luke’s version mentioned that the privileged few were dead sleep when this happened and only after they were awakened that they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.

The transfiguration of Jesus is a mystical experience beyond any doubt. It’s an out of the ordinary, mind-blowing event that takes us beyond our normal expectation. It can be described as an alternate reality, a different mode of consciousness aimed to renew, motivate and lead us into a deeper knowledge of Christ. It is meant to jumpstart, to recharge and provide a course of action to a drifting soul. In fact, Peter opted to stay there for good, but it wasn’t a good idea as the real action takes place on the ground. Then a voice came, “This is my chosen son, listen to him.”

Similarly, in the first reading taken from Genesis 15, when God promised descendants with the words “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to the Great River, Euphrates” and land “I am the Lord who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as a possession” to Abram ending with the symbolic ceremony of covenant, he was perplexed. He initially responded with a request for assurance, “O Lord God, how am I to know that I shall possess it? ” This entire response was credited to him as an act of righteousness.

Both Abram and the inner circle of disciples had similar reactions at the magnificent religious experience. Despite both were challenged and overwhelmed at the scene and words, they responded with faith. How would I know that what you’re saying is true and will happen?

Our Lenten practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving including our laundry list of devotions: the Friday stations of the cross to remind us of the passion of Jesus but also, of the presence of Christ in the drama of life, the silence and meditation in our daily prayers, scripture readings, confessions to purify our hearts and souls, retreats/recollections and Lenten fundraiser (a treat more than a sacrifice) are meant to take us beyond ourselves. During lent, all roads lead to the mountaintop experience to see for ourselves the transformed face of Christ, both to see him face to face with the two heavenly big shots and also, to be consumed by the arresting beauty and to be perpetually awed by the truth of God.

What’s been your aha moment in life? What does it mean for you to personally witness the face of God whose name is mercy? Some of us may be regular churchgoers out of a sense of obligation but nearly of us keep coming back because of this once- in- a- lifetime religious experience we hope to see at Mass once again. We must have seen and heard God somewhere, sometime ago that changed our lives forever and bring us back in church every week. The Mass is meant to do just that all the way to a transfigured life. Amen.

JONAH AND THE NINEVITES

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 17:57:00 GMT

Among the OT readings, the common thread on the first week of lent is penance. Jonah, the reluctant prophet was sent by God to pronounce judgment on Nineveh (part of modern-day Iraq,) a great city by any measure but also considered by many especially its enemy, evil and therefore, needed to turn to God. Jonah’s story is one of the most extraordinary story of repentance. Maybe I’m too naïve but I don’t know any place in the globe whose leader declared a day of penance for all his constituents including beasts. He just didn’t ask them to observe the day but actually, joined them in the ritual/penance service, down on his knees in sackcloth and ashes in front row seat while God’s fury was unleashed. And it’s because of a never-heard prophet who actually heeded God and set foot after the 2 ^nd try and preached the shortest homily by far (others may not have been shorter but the outcome is unmatched): forty- days- more- days- and- Nineveh- shall- be- destroyed. There’s something more in this eight word homily that’s nowhere be found in thousands of homilies written, published, and preached. Homily is not the words written on a page nor the delivery but the impact it generated on people’s lives. The message was very simple: if they don’t change their ways, the whole city will be wiped out. When God heard about it, he relented from the punishment he initially intended. Did he change his mind? Yes and that means, we can’t overstate the mercy of God. Although the words were threatening, you can never doubt that underneath this message of doom was a restorative path to God which goes along the same line with the sacrament of reconciliation. Amen.

TUESDAY LETTER 3/12

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 23:08:00 GMT

The story behind this blog is one of faith journey. As a pastor, I seriously intend to keep track of my experience with the people and the community as a whole assigned under my pastoral care and responsibility and see the difference (if there’s any) between then (past), now (present) and onwards (the future). What I plan to do is piece together the stuff of life in the Catholic Community. There’s no motive other than to share to the readers (or whoever stumbled upon this blog) what transpired last week to bring people to God and vice-versa. Earlier this week, I was pleasantly surprised to hear from a parishioner (name withheld) letting me know how much he enjoys and appreciates the Pastor’s Corner and I replied back, thank you (with a few adlibs). For the life of me, I couldn’t believe that someone actually filled out the contact us form and dropped me a message. All the while, I thought I was just writing to myself (which I’ve been doing for some time now) and the brick wall as my inanimate audience. Truly, I never expected that someone in the blogosphere let alone una persona living within the cluster parishes actually reads my posts, although let’s be real, once you put something online, it will instantly travel in cyberspace (es decir, once you press the publish button, it’s for public consumption). This blog exists to serve the religious community down here in Douglas-Pirtleville and beyond.

As expected, the Ash Wednesday masses were packed. I deeply appreciate the humungous amount of people in the church. Ash Wednesday brought the many souls back. It’s not a holy day of obligation but most of the masses were standing- room- only and spilled over, after all. There’s nothing like coming together in a solemn moment of shared public penance for our sins against God, one another and the community. It rings true that all of us from all walks of life regardless of our background and status, have experienced brokenness (at some point in life) and therefore, in need of God’s mercy and forgiveness.

Last Sunday, the Catholic Community welcomed the Missionaries from the Franciscan University in Steubenville, OH spending the week mostly in Loretto School. There was nothing fancy in the welcome gesture, just a huge round of applause. I asked them to stand to be recognized by the gathered community.

Let’s pray for the eternal repose of the souls of Maria Luisa Barraza Martinez and Dylan Martinez and express our condolences and sympathies to the grieving families, relatives and friends. Also, join me in praying for all the 157 casualties of the Ethiopian airlines plane crash along with the heartbroken loved ones. Amen.

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT C19

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 13:16:00 GMT

On my drive to Douglas in October for an ocular visit, I took E Davis Rd, the shorter route by a large margin. As soon as I made the left turn, I was seized by the striking beauty of the landscape along with the mountain ranges. I enjoyed the winding roads and the sight of the herd of cows, ranches and the vast uninhabited area. Since I was driving by myself in unfamiliar zone, I got terribly scared, even if I had a GPS helping me with directions. There are dead spots in some areas. What would happen if my car broke down. About a mile passed I said Oh men! What did I get myself into. I actually thought of turning around and heading back to 80. Because I was too anxious, I pushed my phone’s home button and told Siri that I couldn’t wait to see Douglas. She said, Fr. Jojo, you have a long way to go! Thanks and I appreciate your help. Welcome to desert driving! Welcome to the middle of nowhere! Relax and enjoy the ride. Then, I lost the signal and started focusing on what’s ahead, beside and behind me. It was the perfect time to meditate. There were no distractions with the exception of the merciless truck drivers and the occasional crossing of wild animals without prior notice. It’s tough to live in the desert. You have to learn to live and accept the hard realities. Unless you work hard, you won’t make both ends meet. I was told that if you survive in the desert, you can live anywhere.

On the first Sunday of Lent, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert (and not in a cosmopolitan area) for forty days to be tempted by the devil and so are we without exception. We join Jesus in the wilderness where there’s limited help and support. Desert is known to be the place where demons love to hang out and play around. Know that you are not alone. And when you have no one else to lean on, you turn to God who will surely come to the rescue. The whole idea of taking us into the wilderness instead of settling in a busy neighborhood is that the desert is a place of testing our spiritual inclination and religious depths.

Even the Son of God was not spared from the temptation of the devil translated in Greek as slanderer and satan in Hebrew, adversary, whose business is nothing but the tremendous destruction of nature, human lives and relationships. The devil, as a manipulator and showman, will do anything to isolate us from God. I spent the past few days researching about devils in the scriptures and their cunning moves just like anyone heading into battle. As a result of the fall of humanity from grace, by virtue of concupiscence (the tendency and/or the urge to sin), we have demons inside us which are our inclination to do bad things. Once in a while, you hear stories from people about their lives have gone rock bottom in the abyss. Devils exist outside us (out in the open) doing everything in their capacities to take us out of the divine radar screen. We all face this spiritual struggle in different forms and sizes. In fact, we, the ones said to be devoted and committed to the faith are satan’s prime target. You know and your conscience tells you when things are just not right. The moment you attempt you get close to God, the devil, in his lethal craftiness, will take you to his workshop. I don’t know why anyone (in his/her right mind) would remain in his company when we know it’s going to harm us (body and soul). We only have one chance in life.

In modern parlance, Lent is often called, a boot camp and/or spring training. In these forty days, the Spirit takes us into a dead spot devoid of anything. The Spirit leads into nothingness to strengthen our (who knows, fledgling) spiritual muscles and be tested how far we’ve advanced in faith.

The devil’s opening statement in his vain attempt to lure Jesus, if you are “the Son of God” was viciously disturbing. The demon at its best and worst questioned Jesus’ divinity and ability to create miracles. The first temptation Jesus encountered was turning stone to bread (reducing life to mere material accumulation and gratification) and he replied, “one doesn’t live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Equally important with the material bread for physical nourishment and consumption is the spiritual food that comes from God. There are people who don’t have much, who don’t enjoy the pleasures as much as others do but because they hang on to God as the source and principle of life, they beamed and their smiles are as wide as the ocean. Paul said in his letter to the Romans, “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.” The second temptation took place in the high mountain and was about power and glory in worldly terms to be handed to Jesus for as long as he worshiped him. And he said, “you shall worship the Lord, your God, and him alone shall you serve.” The third and the last temptation happened in the pinnacle of the temple asking him to throw himself down if he was really the Son of God. “You shall not put the name of the Lord, your God, to the test.”

Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness may not sound right at first but it was necessary for the Spirit to drive him to a place of testing to demonstrate that what happened to him happens to us in the here and now. He showed us not to be afraid and not to easily give in and succumb to the three temptations in life. Realizing he was a loser, the devil departed in shame, just for a moment, for a while (meaning, he’s not over yet). He’ll be back soon and will continue to wreak havoc. So, buckle up...Welcome to Lent!

REAL FASTING

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 13:26:00 GMT

Charles Murphy, in his book, the Spirituality of Fasting, lamented and I don’t blame him (about the elephant in the Catholic tradition) that is, fasting being a long-lost tradition. He recalled St. John Paul II’s query when both met at the Vatican, what happened to fasting. It’s still inscribed in the books but it faded because we dropped it. It’s seldom heard from the pulpit nowadays. The faithful desire to learn and are willing to follow the ancient practice but my observation tells me that many are tired of simply dumping the law to them without proper and solid catechesis. Only a handful observe it. In order for this tradition to be recovered in style, strong emphasis needs to be placed on the spirit of the law that is, the layers of meaning behind it much more than the law itself.

Isaiah hits the nail about fasting which is apart from our normal practices. He is strikingly correct. Real fasting is not so much about giving up chocolate, cutting TV time and social media, and refraining from excessive shopping, drinking and the likes but it's going straight to the heart of the tradition, that is, the heart itself leading us to God. Isaiah is not pleased with our manner of fasting of engaging in fighting and quarreling over petty things and nitty gritty. Real fasting is about liberating the oppressed, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, spending time with the mentally challenged, and helping the troubled in whatever way we can. I happened to ask a parishioner how come he devoted so much of his time building homes for the homeless. He replied, I was once homeless, Father. I lived in the streets for a long time and ate garbage. I know exactly what it means to be in that distressing circumstance. Amen.

CHOOSE LIFE

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 13:23:00 GMT

Every day, we make choices from the simple to the most complicated and complex which involve life, prosperity, death and doom issues (putting us in difficult spot) resulting in blessings and curses. We may not be aware but that holds true. Many of them we don’t spend as much time as others as they have become habits. They’re second nature to us. We don’t think much about them anymore. They go automatic. They’re part of us.

Choose life (Deut. 30: 19). Start small and build from there. Avoid a troubling company. Make friends with people who want nothing but the best for you. Hang out with individuals whose lives inspire you. Listen only to people who nourish your souls. Go to bed early and get up early. Say a little prayer in the morning as soon as you wake up and before settling down at night. While this is not a life and death situation, they help out in building habits which will eventually pay off especially for the younger generation endlessly seeking guidance and direction. As you know, who we are and where we are is the result of the easy and tough decisions made in the past. Maybe, some, a matter of luck.

This lovely quote from today’s (collect) opening prayer, “Prompt our actions with your inspiration, we pray, O Lord, and further them with your constant help, that all we do may always begin from you…” is golden.

ASH WEDNESDAY

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 03:40:00 GMT

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the forty days of lent staged in a solemn ritual of the imposition of ashes, an ancient practice of penance symbolizing our humble return to God. Back then, putting on sackcloth and ashes were originally reserved and required for penitents as (outward) signs of public repentance (punitive measures) but down the centuries, it shifted and since then, have been open to all the faithful (and unfaithful) on the belief that every soul is wounded and therefore, needed reparation with God’s mercy and the support of the community. Such a custom provides a profound reminder of our belongingness to God (by default) and deep awareness of our sense of mortality. The sanctuary is obviously bare and stripped of its grandiosity (colorful, fancy flowers), glitz and glamour. Gloria and Alleluia are both dropped. Songs are preferably on low- key. Preface chanted. High-pitched and upbeat music will go on hibernation as the season summons us to devote more time in introspection.

Our trip to the church to be marked with ashes on our forehead is a response to the One who’s been waiting for us all-year round to come back, to drop by even for a moment. The real mark of Ash Wednesday is not so much about the ashes smeared on our foreheads as we exit from our seats to the aisle and join the line of fellow sinners but our mere presence in the church which God deeply appreciates. What matters most, though, is what happens to us following this powerful encounter of the holiness of God. And I bet you it’s the overwhelming sense of unworthiness met with fear.

Lent is a golden opportunity to practice self-denial, a bold attempt to get out of the prison of the self which humanly speaking, is the primary business of religion. It is a sacred time to forego things that make and convince us how different we are from others. We share much in common than we realize. We walk on the same ground. We breath the same air. We eat the same kind of food most of the time. A friend who travelled all over the world once told me that cultures may vary and pride in their uniqueness but in the end, human beings have lots of similarities. During lent, w e’re going to strip ourselves of the many things that tell us we’re over and above others. Today, in a dramatic way, we suspend that thinking and admit that we are but dust and unto dust we shall return.

These forty days are an interruption in the daily grind, in the exhausting and enjoyable affairs of the world. But in spite of our busy, tight and packed schedule, we’ll do as best we can to spend a great deal of time in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Prayer, as always, is on top of the list. I want to invite the community then to join me both in personal (you, your faith, your life) and community prayer (God, the Universal church along with the local parish). Prayer doesn’t come easy for many of us with the exception of the mystics. In fact, it seems boring because it takes us into a void that prompts us that to do so is fruitless. We would much rather do something productive. In prayer, we enter into the world of emptiness and into the realm of nothingness.

By personal prayer, it’s the time spent between you and your God in silence, meditation and reading the scriptures (over a cup of coffee) daily. Let’s start small: baby steps. But even 5 minutes can be too long for someone too busy in the worldly life. If ever you decide to join me, the absolute requirement is that nothing should stand between you and your God, unless it’s an emergency. If you want this to work out, you have to deliberately avoid any distractions by not checking your phone in between times (put it on airplane mode, anyway, you’ll be wondering in divine space). You may do it in any part of the day but the recommended time is 6am or 6pm. If, however, you already have a regular prayer life, then, do a little bit more, double it. Community Public Prayer (Sunday Mass) is different because it’s about the church which means that your own personal preference and inclination, among others, don’t matter. The emphasis lies on the people of God as a whole gathered in worship, the beating heart of the church. There really is no particular aim nor specific goal except to be with the Lord, our God.

Please take advantage too of the many devotions: way of the cross on Fridays, Community penance service as well as your own devotions. Amen.

TUESDAY LETTER 2/26

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 01:01:00 GMT

This week, we get the chance to hear from the profoundly inspirational book of Sirach, an ancient writing that’s filled with divine wisdom: instructions that as expected are out of this world. On Monday, it says that wisdom is more than simply knowing things, the accumulation of facts along with the power of an informed decision. It is primarily a gift from God. Wisdom brings life. We can share and reap its rewards and blessings but only after going through tough trials orchestrated by our very own, Lady Sophia. Oh I love it! Remember the good- old saying learned back in grade school posted in walls of classrooms and preached constantly by our dear teachers, “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter. He who finds one finds a treasure. A faithful friend is beyond price, no sum can balance his worth. A faithful friend is a life-saving remedy, such as he who fears God finds. For he who fears God behaves accordingly, and his friend will be like himself (Sir 6: 15-17).”

Friendship is priceless. It’s a precious gem. It's everywhere but hard to find. You almost have to chase it. If you ever find one, grab it and never let it go. A loyal and faithful friend is someone who will stay with you forever and never desert or abandon you especially in difficult times. A false friend is with you only to take advantage of you. At the Loretto School Mass, one of the senior students shared that a fake friend wants you to do bad things. Before closing the homily, one of them at the back said us that we should get rid of them. After the Mass, Sr. Mary Aloysius, OCD, the school principal, nailed it in saying that Jesus is the real friend.

When I was younger, someone gave me an unsolicited advice that in life apart from your many friends, you should at least have two kinds of true friends: someone who’s willing to listen and go the extra mile, wholeheartedly accept you and never pass judgement on you regardless of who you are and what you’ve done and someone who’s not afraid to tell you the truth (tough love) even if the consequences will hurt you. If we love and trust God which we all do, we will find a true and loyal friend. Let’s take it to heart and value friendship.

Lent is coming up shortly. Please check the Lenten season schedule of activities and take advantage of the many opportunities for spiritual and religious growth: way of the Cross on Fridays, weekend retreats/recollections (adults, youth and young adults), communal penance service including support for our Lenten fund raising.

This is an updated version of the weekly (Tuesday) letter…

7TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 13:12:00 GMT

Pope Francis’ pontificate is marked by his relentless call to be merciful. In fact, a book entitled the face of God is mercy came out a few years back. When I typed the word Mercy in the search bar, on top of the list was a website telling me that the word Mercy has its roots in medieval French merci/gratitude/kindness and is translated in two blended Spanish words, miseri and cordia, that is, someone who has a heart to troubled and miserable lives.

To be merciful in Luke 6:27-38 presumably addressed to the victims in all sorts of stuff is fully expressed in the profoundly challenging task and nearly-impossible command of Jesus to love your enemies: do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you. Love those who strike, bully and beat you up. Turn the other cheek if you can. Love those who steal from you. A story is told about a monk who caught his robbers. Many of us, if not all, would immediately get help from law enforcement agents as the case maybe to seek reparation from the damages inflicted. But surprisingly, the monk did an entirely different thing (perhaps, he didn’t have much in his place by virtue of his vows). He told them that if they needed more than what they had stolen, feel free to come back and get anything they wanted without fear of bringing them to justice and suffer consequences. There’s life and happiness underneath the sacred text. At this point of the reflection, I’m inclined to say that loving your enemy would mean not following or imitating what they’re doing (presumably, evil), unless the opposite is true. We’re asked to distance ourselves and refrain from any association with them. Leave them alone, if you can. Avoid them. Don’t join them in the mud as it is a waste of your time and not worth your energy. The other side to the equation is to keep your enemies closer and at bay like the living examples of the spiritual giants.

By the same token, David, in the first reading taken from the book of Samuel, demonstrated the depths of his beliefs in letting go of his enemy. Upon seeing Saul and his company out in the field in deep slumber (literally defenseless with weapons down and could have easily been defeated with the pull of the trigger), David firmly believed that to spare his enemy was the right thing to do at that crucial moment in the confrontation. He made this tough decision under intense scrutiny and pressure from Abishai who promised "to nail him to the ground with one thrust of the spear. “Don’t harm Saul”, he told him. I hope war movies produced these days end up this way to serve as inspiration in a troubled and war-torn world. Look at the kind of video games kids play these days. I don’t remember exactly what it is (possibly either counter strike or fortnite) but it's the game that you start in a parachute, land in an island (no man’s land) and conquer it by shooting people. If it’s just a game for fun and past time, it's fine but if the young ones are heavily saturated and influenced by it, that's alarming. If such things swallow you and eat you alive, that’s a different story. I will not hurt Saul for he is God’s anointed and will let God take care of his fate as I’m afraid of divine retribution, David said.

The golden rule, ‘do to others what you would have them do unto you’ is best lived in kindness towards the other. This difficult demand asks us not to settle on the receiving end but to lead the movement, to set the example and trend, to be the key players in the quest to bring the house down. To kill our enemies with our kindness is the ultimate game plan in love of neighbor. This is what the other-worldly kingdom of God values of forgiveness, mercy and love bring to the world. There are many good people here in Douglas-Pirtleville-McNeal-Double Adobe and the entire boundary of my pastoral responsibility. We have community food bank. There are various non-profit organizations offering services for the troubled people. St. Vincent de Paul Society assumes has a huge responsibility in feeding the hungry and providing clothing for the naked all- year round.

Christianity is not an idea. It’s a story of the ultimate love of the other (either a fellow or a stranger). One can be a voracious reader and can devour tons of books. While serious study and reading is highly encouraged, in my experience, no amount of reading materials, let alone a civil and ecclesiastical degree will ever surpass and replace the goodness and kindness done to a neighbor. The incredibly rapid spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire was due to the kindness extended by our unknown fellow believers (under threats of persecution) to each other and beyond without counting the cost, who at that time celebrated the Eucharist underground. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Pagans, possibly ignored them at first but eventually, got attracted to the golden rule (not the slogan or the billboard) but the concrete gesture of love: “do to others what you would have them do to you.”

If you want to do something for God and be a better Catholic in spite of who you are, look no further: serve the poor, the homeless and share clothing to the needy. You can never go wrong. This is the most effective way to bring people to God and bring God to people. Let’s do a simple act of kindness this week. It doesn’t take a lot from us. Goodness is in our DNA. Understandably, with the tremendous need in our midst along with the complexities of problems brought before us and the obvious lack of resources, kindness seems overwhelming. It looks like our precious little time and possessions will be robbed from us. Kindness is just like tacos. At first, you don’t know if you’re liking it but once you start the bite, the next thing you know you had a dozen. This is my funny observation last night when I grabbed the left-over tacos from the fridge. I thought I was only to get a couple but it was gone in no time. You start small but it uncontrollably goes out of proportion. Kindness is attractive and contagious. Amen.

TUESDAY LETTER 2/19

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 03:23:00 GMT

Since my arrival in the Catholic Community, I’ve thought of putting something together weekly and post it here in the newly-designed website to keep my parishioners abreast on what’s happening in the neck of the woods (en la frontera, so to speak). I’d like to begin with a heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome and reception given me.

One of the many surprises was my first Spanish mass at St. Bernard. I've tried to speak el idioma aunque sea incorecto porque aqui, no tenia otra opcion. Yo les digo siempre, no se lo que dije. This is not an exaggeration. Tenia miedo in just about anything. En la tienda, about 90% mas o menos habla espanol. Para ayudarme, I downloaded an app. But as you know, translation (traduccion) is betrayal (traicion). It’s just an approximation. It doesn’t capture the exact the meaning/thought of a word and/or expression. Since ordination, preaching in Spanish has become the longest 10- minute of my life. (Back to St. Bernard), about halfway in the homily (my struggle was noticeable), a handful politely interrupted me, se puede decirle in Ingles, Padre. Podemos aprender…Yo les dije, Ay chihuahua! Porque no me dijeron antes! En San Lucas, antes de la misa, una persona me dijo, Padre, no se preocupe…todo bien…the Spanish community here is not very critical…they are down- to- earth. If you make mistakes which you will, just smile and they’ll love you even more. Gracias a Dios! That’s a huge relief, compadre!

Douglas Consortium is a very established community. I’m extremely pleased to serve the people down here in Southern Arizona. The spirituality and religiosity of the people humbled me. Loretto School run by the OCD Sacred Heart of Los Angeles along with the dedicated teachers and staff is a pillar in town. They have a tremendous influence in the upbringing of the children and the young. The sisters of Notre Dame is a different story. They're the invisible and the unknown. I was told no one invited them. They volunteered to work for peace and justice whose ministries are mostly across the line. I have the utmost respect for these two religious order of nuns, the spiritual powerhouse which embody both the active and contemplative aspects of life. Amen.

6TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 13:40:00 GMT

Blessed are you homeless for you will find a place to stay in frigid temperatures. Blessed are you who are evicted for you will have one of your own. Blessed are you unemployed for you will land secured jobs. Blessed are you who work by the sweat of your brow to save cash and feed your family. Blessed are you who shop local to help our economy. Blessed are you who shed tears for you will be consoled in the arms of our compassionate Lord. Blessed are you who go hungry for a soup kitchen in town will feed you. Blessed are you who put your lives on the line. Blessed are you who would rather suffer than sell your soul. Blessed are you who are marginalized due to your allegiance to Christ. Blessed are you who are laughed at and mocked for your strong commitment to Catholicism. Blessed are you who are looked down upon for being religious. Blessed are you when you’re isolated and singled- out because of your fidelity to the gospel. Blessed are you who work for peace and justice but remain true and unaffected in spite of the dehumanizing attacks and painful criticisms leveled against you. Blessed are you who dedicate your lives to alleviate poverty, to end drug trafficking and abuse, to reduce unemployment, to help the youth and the juvenile and take care of the elderly. Blessed are you who generously support the needy. Blessed are you who spend your robust resources to the least among us. Blessed are you for your financial support and contribution your local catholic community. Jeremiah says, you’re like a tree planted in streams of living water: well-grounded, nourished, solid and unbreakable. You’re like a well-oiled machine and battle-tested.

Luke’s version of the Beatitudes is called the Sermon on the Plain best described as reversal of fortunes. It is addressed to a large number of people using the second person ‘you’ to be direct and personal. It is shorter than Matthew’s but thematically arranged and highly organized in such a way as to illustrate the various situations, conditions and the hard realities in life with four blessings and curses: poor-rich, hungry-satisfied, weep-joyful, persecuted-respected. God provides blessings and also pass judgments. God is the voice and the defender of the lowly that’s why he unequivocally favors the poor, the hungry and the suffering. It is true that your life now is the result of your decisions (good or bad, big or small). We can speculate and rationalize the many causes of poverty (either because they’re destined by the choices made or simply victims of social inequality and injustices, among others) but at this juncture, we’re told that this social class (the disinherited, the dispossessed and the disenfranchised) has a special place in God’s heart.

Woe to you who turned godless in prosperity. I don’t mean materialism per se leads to spiritual emptiness. Instead, arrogance/over self-confidence kills faith. Woe to you who do nothing to your beat- up neighbor. Woe to you who lost moral compass in the comfort of life. As you know, a loose life (with no sense of morality) slowly takes you down the drain. Woe to you who put absolute trust in human power and riches, without regard to anything spiritual and religious. Woe to you who disowned your childhood religion. If you have doubts about your faith, don’t switch! Instead, talk to your parish priest and he’ll advise you to search the depths and richness of your tradition. In the words of Jeremiah, you’re like a tree planted in barren bush, baseless and groundless, a life that will easily put anyone in deep trouble.

Ultimately, blessed are you who got out of your bed early on Sunday to join the community in the solemn offering and worship of our God. Blessed are you who come to Mass and later run errands and perform household chores. Blessed are you who consider the one-hour or so Sunday Mass as the most important one-hour of the entire week. Blessed are you who take Sunday Mass, a non-negotiable aspect of life for it will punctuate and set the tone for the week. Blessed are you who religiously devote yourselves to the church and recognize the primary role of God in your lives. Amen.

WORLD DAY OF THE SICK

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 23:47:00 GMT

Today, World Day of the Sick, let's offer prayers for healing and recovery to all the sick in our Catholic Community. Let's pray for the terminally ill. Let's pray for the homebound and the hospitalized.

5TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 10 Feb 2019 13:13:00 GMT

Luke didn’t mince words in his description of the radicality of the disciples’ response to Jesus’ invitation to join him in the quest to draw people to God. It was straightforward. There were no details mentioned but I’m certain they left their father, their source of livelihood, and things that provided them comfort and security by the standards of their time. I don’t think it’s practical for spouses deeply in-love with each other to part ways nor anyone for that matter tender a letter of resignation, first thing Monday morning, to follow him. We’re already followers and are called once again to leave anything that hinders us and keep the ones that carry us to God. In this trajectory, leaving things behind is an essential component.

Renewal programs are life-changing opportunities. They are transformative. Daily spiritual exercises like silence, meditation and weekday mass attendance sustain both body and soul. But none of these surpass the experience of the Sunday Eucharist, an act of worship that takes the community face to face (in the here and now) with the divine.

After powerful weekend experiences, I bet prayer becomes the centerpiece of our lives. We win and gain new friends and acquaintances. Because of our newly- found loyalty with God, there are times we find ourselves at odds even with our most cherished relationships. We begin to develop new values incompatible with the world around us. And in some instances, we would rather be alone than with people with whom we no longer share values with.

We’re told they were called to be fishers of men which gave their former line of work a depth of meaning. Jesus wanted to establish partnership with them and yet, God will perform the work. He will run his business. We're merely instruments. Jesus’ invitation to the first disciples in their workplaces, took place in a group setting and not in the privacy of their lives. That said, what we do must be a concerted and collaborative effort and never as isolated individuals. We are all in the same boat aiming at catching not one, not two not even ten but hundreds, even thousands.

Fishing for survival is a risky business. As fishermen with mouths to feed and fishing as their only source of income, the worst case scenario is to head back to the shoreline with nothing but empty nets while eager consumers and traders waited for fresh catch. We have no idea how the disciples felt after pulling an all-nighter to no avail. It was rare but true. In this business, no catch, no food and the whole village go hungry. Imagine that. You never know what to expect in the middle of the sea. You can check the forecast and head straight to your favorite spot but you’re not sure what’s in store for you at any given time.

The art and craft of catching people take a great deal of time. It can’t be rushed. You have to immerse with the culture, engage with people and form relationships before the stuff of Evangelization takes effect. However, fishing is not about waiting. You make things happen. You can’t be on the receiving end. You must outsmart your target. You have to figure out and device a plan that is extremely capable of hauling the intended numbers. This is not my own creation. This is the original mission of the church laid down to the first disciples inscribed by Luke. If the mission got twisted some time ago, then, it would be a betrayal of Christianity.

The encounter between the holiness of God and human sinfulness is never devoid of drama. Immediately after seeing the astonishing catch of fish, Simon was struck in amazement by the extraordinary power. Down on his knees, he said, “Depart from me for I am a sinful man!” We’re always overcome anything outside of the ordinary.

Similarly, Isaiah shared his deep sense of awe about the majesty of God as any religious figure had. This vision of the glory of God, along with the Seraphim at a temple service, happened at the reign of King Uzziah. Overwhelmed by this intense experience, he felt, as expected of sacred calling, he was unworthy to serve him. “ Woe is me,” he said, “ I am doomed! For I am a man of unclean lips living among people of unclean lips!” He realized he was not morally fit for the job. He continued, “ Yet my eyes have seen the king, the Lord of hosts! Here Am I! Send me!” He volunteered. In spite of his inadequacies, he stepped up to the plate. If nobody else wanted to go and serve the most high God, Isaiah said, take me! I’m with you!

After the Loretto School Mass last Friday, I was asked to bless the 6 ^th graders and their bible which I gladly did and shared for a moment my favorite bible verse. Yo les dije, it’s Luke 5:4 that is, part of this Sunday’s gospel calling of the first disciples. It’s about Jesus’ command to Simon and his fellows following a really disappointing night in fishing, " to put out into deep water and lower the nets." You can imagine the disciple’s reaction to Jesus’ words. I encountered this passage once again early last year in the mundane and it just hit me to the core of my priestly life and ministry that I changed my personal blog’s title from virgilthegreat.wordpress.com to https://outintothedeep40.wordpress.com , a strong indication that regardless of the circumstances, faith, obedience and trust in God is a non-negotiable element in carrying out his work, coupled with every ounce of our energies. Amen

3RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 13:54:00 GMT

In a one- sentence prologue, we get a sense of Luke’s intent to present a quite different version of the good news of Jesus in an exquisite and orderly way. Other gospels existed before him which he used as a resource but a break from the past. He drew his writings from eyewitnesses and ministers of the word. This year, Luke, the evangelist, our beloved patron saint will be our guide. He was a medical physician by profession and described as a companion of Paul in his missionary journeys. He dedicated this writing to most excellent Theophilus: lover of God and the beloved of God. If you fall into this category, this is for you. The purpose of writing is to help us get closer to God, carry us to God and achieve our goal of emulating Jesus. Luke puts strong emphasis on the forgotten and the invisible in society: the homeless, the unemployed, the sick, the troubled, and those we ignore.

Today, this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing. He said, today, right now, at this moment and not yesterday and tomorrow and even centuries back, God’s word is fresh like a newly- baked bread dipped in a simmering brewed coffee. Every day around 6am, someone blows his horn while passing by the church. Before I thought the person tried to wake me up but it probably an act of reverence signaling a new day…

The scripture is a piece of literature not simply about God but God himself. It’s God’s word, pure and simple, although human authors like Luke put them together meant to inspire lives. So, unless the sacred text transforms us inside out, then it’s just words on a page. Luke admits that his gospel is not a history nor a biography but a narrative of the important events in the life of Jesus. It’s not an attempt to capture and record the minutest details of his life but only, a crystallization of what happened in the past. The book of Nehemiah recalls that the people stood to listen to the word of God and wept in tears when they heard it proclaimed to them.

The word proclaimed and heard demands action. It calls us to do something with our experience. Let’s allow the breathtaking encounter with the divine to sink and penetrate in our hearts and souls even there in the pew. Dance with it. Play with it. Wrestle with it. If it is indeed fulfilled in your hearing, it asks us to commit ourselves.

As a preacher, a messenger of God and an unworthy representative of the church, my job can be likened to a middleman between God and the people. Aware of my own weaknesses and limitations, I have no choice on Sunday morning but to climb the pulpit and address the assembly gathered in God’s name. As a bearer of God’s mysteries, preaching represents my soul to the congregation. If I don’t do well, my community suffers. Knowing it’s not about me, I can’t apologize afterwards for what I said. Amen.

2ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 13:23:00 GMT

The first miracle wrought by Jesus took place in the context of a very special occasion, a wedding banquet. A wedding is one of the most solemn events in the life of two people declaring their consent to spend the rest of their lives together. In a small town such as Cana, wedding is lavish and wine is overflowing. Even now, wine is sold all over the place.

In the story, a problem arose, the wine ran short. This is the worst thing that can happen in a wedding reception. This was a huge humiliation and embarrassment not only to the host, the newly- married couple whose names had not been mentioned but also to the wedding planner and everyone involved in the preparation. It is highly unimaginable that wine could run out in a well- organized occasion such as this. As a curious preacher, it bids me to ask, at what part did the wine give out? If this occured in the beginning of the week-long celebration, I bet the town’s heavy drinkers must have consumed them all. And if toward the end, the wine wasn’t enough. Anyway, in a wedding, there’s no excuse for the wine to run out.

This is an odd story, a one- in- a -million episode. It’s hard to believe that of all the things (food, cake, dessert) that could have gone wrong, wine/beverage was the least expected. It's alright if some guests fail to show up but if it’s the wine (the stuff that keeps the party going) runs out of supply, it will end the party earlier than expected. I’ve never seen anything like this but I can imagine the panic and anxiety when glasses of wine are going nearly empty and no waiter in sight. People start to wonder and point fingers and blame the ones in-charge. Gossip spreads out about parties perhaps operated on small budget. Things begin to fall apart. When that happens, party’s over. Everyone takes off. Everybody leaves. Guests make graceful early exits either in front or through the backdoor without notifying the disgraced host. If the night is young, people may bar hop. Another option is to chip in to save the host from shame. In this instance, the most awaited and celebrated human event in a small town such as Cana was coming to an end in a disappointing fashion with the hired laborers ready to take down the decorations. I’m sure many of us have come across this scenario: as a disgraced host, a guest about to give up or the Mother of Jesus whose request was snubbed.

Only, it didn’t happen that way of course according to the story. Just when the invited guests were about to head out, the headwaiter suddenly showed up, flanked by two other servers carrying jars and began pouring wine in empty glasses. It turned out, there was no need to go and grab some at a nearest convenience store. Imagine the surprise of the guests at the miraculous work. Imagine the sight of seeing water turning into wine. Who did it?

Jesus took care of it by asking the headwaiter to fill six stone jars with water to the brim and draw wine. That easy. He came to the rescue by coming to us in our brokenness, emptiness and helplessness. He turned what could have been a disastrous event into an opportunity to sanctify others by changing water into wine welling up and overflowing with joy.

He could have asked them to go home after a week- long party. But he didn’t do that. He could have asked them to settle for water instead and chit- chat but no, he wanted them to enjoy while it lasts. We don’t know when and how the wedding ended but we do know that because of this, the disciples began to believe in him. This miracle of joy engendered and germinated faith and bring new life. Amen.

THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD Jan 13

Sun, 13 Jan 2019 13:29:00 GMT

In America, sports, politics and religion are the three major areas of conversation to die for. Normally, to be a fan or super fan or just a bandwagon depends on one's residency, roots, and school attended. I was told that Douglas and Bisbee High Schools are fierce rivals. Politics, on another hand, is a little different because affiliation is deeply rooted in social and political principles a person holds mostly based on his/her experience. When it comes to religion, baptism makes us members of Christ's body, the church. Fidelity flows from being baptized into Christ. Ideally, once you get baptized in his name, nothing else should matter but him and the mission. Other than that, everything else is essentially footnote and subordinated the moment we encounter the persona and teachings of Jesus. But it doesn't always work that way. More often, we're more involved and loyal in sports and politics than in our religious commitment. We're ready to die for our sports team and political party than for Christ and his church. We're dedicated and passionate about others than our identities as Catholics.

The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord is a special time to contemplate on Jesus' baptism for the sanctifying the waters of Jordan. But also, it is an intimate moment to recall and renew our baptismal promises. As you know, baptism is the beginning of the Christian life. It is the start of a new way of life. In baptism, we make a choice, a decision that alters our lives forever. It is a choice that all will go well as intended ready for the journey of a lifetime whatever it takes. One of the most powerful part of the ritual is the renunciation of sin and the profession of faith. The rejection of the power of sin and the dominance of evil is like letting Satan know that we are completely giving up our membership, totally out of his company, absolutely never coming back and in their worship of Christ, turned around and faced east to symbolize a new loyalty. Doing this has a deep impact in one’s life. There are things we can’t do and places we don’t go. We’re tied for all eternity. But this is not how we see our faith these days. Our sense of commitment overlaps and usually, faith takes a lot of beating.

At a celebration of baptism, I was thought I was going through the motions when I asked the crowd, do you reject sin and Satan? I was appalled when a lady raised her voice and yelled, heck yeah! Yes, I hate him Father. Her response is a little off but very inspiring in a world where the glamour and the seduction of evil is irresistible and so much alive. Wickedness, doing evil, immorality is more fun, attractive and entertaining than doing good. Satan was often described as the greatest showman of all time because he had done nothing but ruined people’s lives. And yet, he’s still more popular than the prophets. The only reason they’re dominant is because we’re hiding in plain sight. We’re nowhere to be found. Whenever there’s chaos in society, we should count on the saints.

The feast of the Baptism of the Lord brings to a close the Christmas season and the Monday following begins the Ordinary Time. Amen.

THE FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 13:15:00 GMT

The feast of the epiphany of the Lord is identified with the visit of the Magi in Mt 2:12 as part of the entire mystery of incarnation (God- in- flesh) that the Messiah came for all people, for the entire world and not just for a privileged few. Epiphany without the three kings is closely similar to a Mexican Christmas party without tamales. It is a feast that started in the eastern tradition and rich in history but hard to trace the details as there are limited resources prior to the 4 ^th century.

The journey of the magi is filled with mystery. That’s why the story has been used in many cultures as a model that reflects social realities and thereby, challenge the status quo. They are foreigners, pagans, outsiders, and weird-looking people wearing elaborate garb almost similar to the outfit worn by the pirates of the Caribbean. Given their background, I bet they are the last people to follow the guidance of the star, a symbol of divinity in the ancients and even now. In today’s world, they are the people with no religious affiliation from a completely different background who found their way to Catholicism and surely, such a conversion story goes viral in the faith world and beyond.

With the reduction of masses from 10 to 7 as the new normal taking effect this weekend, there’s mixed emotion. Many, of course, are terribly disappointed by the changes especially leaving only two Spanish masses in a heavily populated Spanish-speaking community. It’s the most practical option but not perfect. I relied heavily on the inputs of the parish council leaders who spent a great deal of time weighing the best course. I hope nobody feels a stranger in this closely knit community. We may feel a deep sense of ownership but no person or group of people owns or has the sole monopoly of any parish. We’re all parishioners, on- the- go (never reach our destination until the beatific vision), trying to discover, adore and tender gifts to the Christ-child. Amen.

THE FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY

Sun, 30 Dec 2018 13:20:00 GMT

The Feast of the Holy Family draws its inspiration from the life of Joseph, Mary and Jesus. The sacred writings didn't provide much details how he was raised. However, towards the end of the gospel mentions the fruit of his upbringing, not to mention, his dying on the cross sealed his commitment and erased any doubt.

Our family is God's gift to us and our efforts to anchor our lives to him is our humble response. It starts with God and ends with him. Amen.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 12:20:00 GMT

Due to the close proximity between the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas which looks like a double-header again (but it's not), we hear the announcement of the nature of the birth of Christ.

Micah, in particular, presents a vivid description of the magnitude of the divine promise that the savior will be born from a small and insignificant town called Bethlehem-Ephratha and not in the capital city. I’m not surprised if this prophecy didn’t get much attention back then as this wasn’t the normal expectation. And so, by choosing an unlikely and lowly place that is, Bethlehem (house of bread) and Ephratha (field of fruit) to be the fount of salvation and source of the eternal bread, God surely wants a reversal of world order. What and where is our version of Bethlehem?

The savior will not only spring from a little-known village but will also come from simple, unassuming and ordinary people whose humble beginnings take us back in the ancient of times and in fact, even before time began. He will not come from the royalty nor the power brokers as many thought he was. As he takes the lead, the strength of the Lord will be his guide. Gentleness (and not ruling by the iron fist) will be his pastoral style. The hand of God will be his moral compass. He will not rely solely in his own capacity which can be very tempting to anyone in a leadership position. He will rule in the name of the Lord and not use God and religion to make a name for himself. His decisions will be based on what God has intended for his people so that his greatness will extend across the globe. He will bring peace.

For the two past weeks, we’ve been hearing about the Blessed Mother and John the Baptist. To borrow a secular phrase, their examples have gone viral and been trending for the duration of advent and in fact, beyond. If you wonder why it’s because their lives help us prepare to and for Christ.

In a similar fashion, Luke tells the enormity of the fulfillment of the prophecy through the visit of the blessed Mother to her cousin Elizabeth which in turn is an encounter of two unlikely expectant mothers: one was old (seasoned) and barren while the other young and virgin. Pure and simple, this was divine intervention. We were not fortunate enough to witness this extraordinary event in our time but it happened in human history and the details are unimportant. More than anything else, God has surely visited his people and done wonders to them. Elizabeth called her cousin Blessed and highly favored. In other words, she congratulated her for being chosen as the bearer of our savior. She responded with great astonishment. While not specifically about the announcement of the birth of Jesus, this scenario shows the fulfillment of the prophecy. Blessed are those who believe in the fulfillment of the prophecy, that the word would be fulfilled.

The circumstances surrounding this prophecy melt our hearts, warm our souls, bring tears to our eyes, energize our overly stressed bodies and help us recognize the face of God in the invisible among us. The manifestation of the Son of God in the flesh, the incarnation of God-man took place in the trenches and this Christmas, God wants to meet us there in the face of a homeless pregnant woman, in the evicted family with no roof above their heads and asylum seekers who left home to escape violence and wanted nothing but refuge so that God’s reign and our lives will blossom anew. Amen.

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Sun, 16 Dec 2018 12:04:00 GMT

Noticeably, there’s a sudden shift from a somber mood to a festive atmosphere marked by the decorations in the worship environment as well as the overall tone of the season. The altar is draped with pink cloth and now adorned with poinsettias. In our Catholic Community, flowers will arrive next week. The presider should have worn rose- colored vestment but instead settled with purple as there’s none available. We’ve reached the midpoint of advent.

We just had two great Marian celebrations that is, the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Guadalupe. The blessed mother occupies a prominent role on advent along with John the Baptist. Their examples point to Christ and help us prepare for the already and not yet. I don’t think there’s a need to put into words why and how should we celebrate with joy and gladness. When I pulled my car out of the open garage in St Luke close to midnight on Dec. 11, I thought the road would be quiet and yet, as I drove in the alley, I heard drums and loud songs and I bet you, the celebration across the border had just started. Following the Mass, someone whispered to me, Father, it’s the native culture Manañita that waits for the sunrise.

The 3 ^rd Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete Sunday and joy is the overriding theme. Zephaniah’s invitation to shout for joy, sing on top of our voices, be glad and exult with all your heart might be a little overbearing to many of us who still have to hang our decorations and complete errands including shopping. And yet, finished or not with our laundry list, St. Paul tells us to “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again, rejoice!

The joy of advent doesn’t simply come from the enjoyment, pleasures and comfort of life but naturally arises from the inner experience of God’s love in successes as well as in failures. It emerges from acts of kindness and generosity rendered particularly to the neediest among us. It emanates from forgiveness and reconciliation. It happens whenever we decide not to seek vengeance and retaliation in any sort of falling out in relationships. Genuine joy is rooted from the lived experience with the holy one. It is not taught in classrooms. It’s in our Catholic DNA and therefore deeply embedded. Don’t let anyone take this joy in you. Halfway in the season, let’s bring out this deep sense of joy! Amen

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 20:55:00 GMT

Days after thanksgiving are usually marked by get- together and shopping, too. We’re heavily preoccupied with clothes to wear, gifts to bring and food to share. I bet you by now your schedule is inundated with school, office and staff get-togethers along with family gatherings plus the last-minute addition of the Douglas Consortium welcome potluck for their new pastor, yours truly on Dec. 22, Sat, the 13 ^th anniversary of my priesthood ordination. It’s too much. I don’t think we can squeeze anything more in our packed schedule until next year. On my end, I don’t worry about what to wear on parties because I wear my uniform all the time. I don’t have much choice and the luxury of time. It’s my habit. I grab my garb without thinking about it. Others spend a great deal of time figuring out which dress to put on at a specific occasion. Clothes may not define us but what we wear and how we wear it reflects our personalities.

The prophet Baruch, Jeremiah’s disciple, exhorts us to take off that robe of stress and regret and don the diadem of the glory of God and the splendor of the beauty of the Lord. He urges us to replace the garment of sorrow and affliction with a new wardrobe of joy and peace. Instead of dwelling in past hurts and sadness, he says, do yourself a favor, get a new set of outfit of mercy and justice. I’m sure we have everything in our closet folded or hung that marks the brand of the Lord. What I mean is, the tailored velvet of joy and peace along with cashmere scarf and wrap of mercy and the coat of justice. We just have to look for it, pick it up and put it on. Well, if you don’t have it, get one. It’s freely given. Take advantage of it. Don’t miss the opportunity. This winter layer of virtues will make you look absolutely stunning.

Luke names the political and religious leaders of the time with a touch of the historical circumstances to present the exact precious and sacred time when the word of God came to John in the desert (call narrative). His designation is the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, a place of chaos (perfect platform for God’s work) with a quotation from the timeless words of the Prophet Isaiah, “Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight his paths. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight and the rough ways smooth; and all mankind shall see the salvation of God.” Isaiah, the prophet of those who wait, remains hopeful that in spite of all the struggles, brighter future lies ahead as a result of God’s handiwork.

To make this vision a reality, let’s take God’s fashion suggestion seriously and don’t forget to bring the outfit of divine virtues wherever we end up. Let’s wear the garment of nascent joy, peace, mercy and justice matched with what we already have everywhere we go and let our inner lives make a statement. Amen.

33RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B18

Sun, 18 Nov 2018 13:24:00 GMT

As the liturgical year slowly winds down and Thanksgiving Day just days ahead, our minds are filled with so much excitement about travel and dinner plans, seeing friends and loved ones and possibly, humongous spending the following day to officially kick off Christmas season. We make sure that our jobs are secured enough and familial relationships in check. Not very many of us probably think about the end of history, you know the time when the entire world comes to an end and the Son of Man appears with great power and glory. I hear you. We share the same sentiments. We’re aware that signs of the end-times (endless wars, senseless violence and terrible disasters) have already taken place. But since it (end-times) has not occurred when this text was inscribed even centuries thereafter, we suppose it won’t happen in our generation, too. Our notion of the end of the world is possibly losing our jobs, possessions and loved ones, getting in trouble with the law and breakdown of relationships. And so, we ignore the vision and easily dismiss the claims of the end-times.

Is there such a thing as the end of human history? Yes, and this is good news and an electrifying message. History will indeed come to a halt as predicted over millennia ago. What will happen then? There will be great tribulations. Mark 13 also known as the little apocalypse delineates the cosmic portents that is, the destruction of the heavenly realm. But contrary to the popular doom and gloom movies normally released at this time of the year, the real end-times happens with the coming of the Son of Man with great power and glory to vindicate the righteous for enduring suffering and punish the wicked. Accordingly, those who remain faithful under threats of persecution will end up triumphant. It’s a little odd bringing this up because this is not how we live our faith nowadays. We’re relaxed. We’re quicker in heading to the parking lot than in getting to the church. We’re loyal to the institution than to God. Faith is something we do for one hour in church on Sunday. Other than that, it’s business as usual. There’s not much to talk about faith and religion. If there is, it’s reserved for the experts. How many of us can say that we’re all in and locked in our faith? This weekend is a perfect time to wrap up, a debriefing session as how did we live our faith during the year.

Perhaps, I’m way behind as a hermeneut but I find it interesting that Mark 13 as an eschatological discourse is also called to borrow the phrase “the literature of the dispossessed.” It is said that the Book of Daniel proclaimed in the first reading was profoundly influenced by the lives of the oppressed and depressing experiences of the alienated people. Such texts arose from the daily lives of the powerless whose life was defined by faith in God and the voiceless who held on to God as their only source of hope and refuge. This message is timely and can’t be overemphasized.

Although there is no fixed date and timetable for the Parousia, let’s not worry about it since it’s beyond our control and the limits of our thinking. Not even the Son of Man and Mother church in her wisdom know but only the father. For the time being, we’re asked to remain steadfast in our faith under any threat against religion because eventually, we will be victorious in a dramatic fashion.

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