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

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.