Year C

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
(January 25, 2004)
1st Reading - Nehemiah 8:2-10
2nd Reading - 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
Gospel - Luke 1:1-4 and 4:14-21

In today's first reading, Ezra the priest encourages the people of God with words of joy. He reminds them that God's law, while sometimes demanding, is intended to lift their spirits. They are reminded that "this is a day Holy to the Lord," and that they should not weep.

The Gospel tells us that Jesus was filled with the Spirit and sent to the town of Nazareth, where he entered the synagogue. There, Jesus takes up the same message of joy. We should not weep or lose heart because Jesus was sent to bring glad tidings to the poor, liberty to captives, sight to the blind, freedom for the oppressed, and to proclaim a year favorable to the Lord.

We are members of Christ's Body (as St. Paul reminds us in the Second Reading) and we are called to embrace the mission of Jesus. 2004 is still young. As members of His Body, are you prepared to proclaim this year favorable to the Lord? If so, you may want to try some of the following:

Bring glad tidings to the poor: From January 31-February 6, our parish will host the Interfaith Shelter Network. Some of our duties include preparing and serving meals. We are in particular need of teams of two who can provide overnight supervision. Please see the volunteer sign-up sheet at the rear exit of the church. Or, call Trudy Balestreri at 427-7637 for more information.

Proclaim Liberty to Captives: You may want to call Evangely Aliangan at 427-0230 and join our ministry to those in prison.

Bring Sight to the Blind: Join our Knights of Columbus as they continue to collect eye glasses for the poor in Lima, Peru (the home of St. Rose). You may drop off your used glasses in the bin marked "Lenses for Lima," located near the priest's sacristy and cry room.

Freedom for the Oppressed: This weekend a college exchange student from Africa will be here selling children’s books. Simba, a member of the Knights of da Gama (A Catholic Fraternal Organization) in South Africa, is raising money to help children orphaned by AIDS there. He will have a table set up for you to stop by after any of our Sunday Masses on the 24th & 25th.

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4th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(February 1, 2004)
1st Reading - Jer 1:4-5, 17-19
2nd Reading - 1 Cor 13:4-13
Gospel - Lk4:21-30

Last Sundays Gospel was encouraging. It suggested that the people were ready to follow Jesus. His words lifted the spirits of those in the synagogue as he spoke to them. However, today's Gospel tells a different story. Jesus is still in the synagogue and still speaking to the people. Unfortunately, they are not ready to accept his "radical" message. Jesus shares with them that he will be a prophet for the Gentiles as well. This makes the listeners angry and they lead him out of the synagogue with the intention of throwing him over a hill.

Jeremiah, in today's First reading, tells us that before he was born God had called him to be a prophet. Jeremiah did not have an easy task. Many people ridiculed him and wanted to banish him.

Often, people who do not like a certain message want to banish the messenger. Many times, before they even have a chance to speak, prophets are ridiculed. Even today's prophets or leaders are accused of being too liberal or conservative. Once we place people in certain camps (Too Catholic or Not Catholic Enough, Too Republican or Too Democrat), it is hard to hear their message - even if the message is valid and should be taken in to account. Christian stewards, with ears to listen, should be open to hear all points of view. For example, in this election year, we should open our ears to hear all political candidates before we vote. Our right to vote is a gift. As Christian stewards, how will we use this important gift properly?

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5th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(February 8, 2004)
1st Reading - Is 6:1-2a, 3-8
2nd Reading - 1 Cor 15:1-11
Gospel - Lk 5:1-11

The prophet Isaiah, in today's first reading, gives us the familiar proclamation, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts! All the earth is filled with his glory!" Our Church continues this praise, with all of the angels and saints; especially within our Eucharistic celebration. Like the angels, we are called to sing God's praise. What are we telling God if we do not sing out to Him? God gave us the gift of speech and song. As faithful stewards, how do we proclaim the glories of God; especially at Mass. St. Augustine reminds us that when we sing we pray twice. Therefore, make Mass a true prayer of thanksgiving to God by praying twice. Sing to the Lord! It's good for the heart and the soul.

In addition to glorifying God at Mass, we must go beyond the walls of our church and share the good news that the Lord is worthy of praise. As Christian stewards, we know that Christ has no voice but ours to spread his word. That is why we hear Jesus say to Simon in today's Gospel: "from now on you will be catching men." This week, ask the Lord to give you the courage and the strength to share Jesus with a family member, a friend, a co-worker or fellow student. Make the "Holy, Holy, Holy" you proclaim at Mass continue to reverberate during your week.

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6th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(February 15, 2004)
1st Reading - Jer 17:5-8
2nd Reading - 1 Cor 15:12, 16-20
Gospel - Lk 6:17, 20-26

This Sunday's readings are about hope and trust. Hoping in the Lord and trusting in the Lord has its rewards. The one who trust in his own efforts, apart from the Lord, is like a barren bush. How often do we attempt to run our own lives and run ourselves into the ground? Only in God can we find nourishment and living water to make ourselves grow. It is wonderful to want to do good for humanity, to be a generous giver, to be a good steward. But, without God, we are just social workers and not Christian disciples.

If we want to be a true contributor to society and to live a life of beatitudes - as Jesus explains in the Gospel - we must dwell in Christ's love. Jesus is the source and summit of all our endeavors. Without him, especially in our Eucharist on Sundays, our work is in vain. As Christian stewards, listen to the words of Jeremiah and trust in the Lord. Let yourself be like a tree near the stream of God and you will bear fruit.

This week, spend some time with God. Reflect on the Scriptures, meditate in your garden, walk by a stream, visit our chapel and pray, etc.

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7th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(February 22, 2004)
1st Reading - 1 Sm 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23
2nd Reading - 1 Cor 15:45-49
Gospel - Lk 6:27-38

There is nothing more powerful than a person's ability to forgive. This generous act of kindness is made possible by the outpouring grace of Christ Jesus who empowers us to be a forgiving people.

The readings today are about this very message of forgiveness. In the First Reading, when David was in battle with Saul, David had an opportunity to kill his brother when he was asleep. However, David knew that his brother was anointed by God and so he spared his Saul's life. He could not kill God's anointed.

It is clear that some people can annoy us, get under our skin, violate our rights and even physically harm us. But, they can never destroy our power to forgive. That power belongs to us and Jesus invites us to use this power generously.

Jesus came to anoint the world - saints and sinners alike. Those who harm us or make us mad are anointed by God. As long as they are breathing, God has hope for them. If God has hope for them, then how should we act? Forgiveness is a gift from God. As Christian stewards how are we willing to share the gift of forgiveness generously?

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Year C: 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(June 20, 2004)
1st Reading - Zech:10-11; 13:1
2nd Reading - Gal 3:26-29
Gospel -Lk 9:18-24

The readings for this Sunday are filled with images of baptism. Zechariah (1st Reading) talks about a Spirit of grace and petition will be poured out on us to purify us from sin and uncleanness. We know that Baptism is a grace filled an merciful gesture of God who desires to wash us clean from original sin and all impurity.

The psalm is our response to God's merciful gift of baptism: "My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God."

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul reminds us that we have been baptized and clothed in the garment of Christ.

For those of us who are Christians, we know that we must die and rise with Christ. In the celebration, we die with Christ as we go into the waters and rise with him as we come out. But, baptism is not simply a one shot deal. Baptism is a continual dying and rising with Christ. That is why Jesus says in today's Gospel, "You must take up your cross each day and follow me."

As Christian stewards of God's gifts, we know that we must also accept the gift of the cross. The cost of discipleship includes more than the resurrection. It also our participation in his death. It includes joys and sorrows. The cross and resurrection, death and new life, go hand in hand.

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Year C: 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(June 27, 2004)
1st Reading - 1 Kgs 19:16b, 19-21
2nd Reading - Gal 5: 1, 13-18
Gospel -Lk 9:51-62

Our Gospel today is a challenging one. Last week, we heard that we must take up our cross daily and follow Jesus. A daily task of carrying a cross would make anyone shrink from becoming a Christian. This week, we hear a similar message. Jesus said, "No one who sets a hand to the plow
and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God."

In a few short days, (July 1st), we celebrate the Feast of Blessed Junipero Serra. Father Serra was the founder of the missions in California, including Mission San Diego de Alcala' (located in Mission Valley). Blessed Serra's motto was, "Always go forward, never turn back." His message fits well with Jesus' words in today's Gospel.

As Christian Stewards, we know that we can't ever say, "I've given all of my time, talent, and treasure. I've done my share. Let others do their part." As long as we are living and breathing, we continue to receive gifts from God. Therefore, we must "Always go forward" and share the gifts that have been handed to us.
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14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(July 4th, 2004)
1st Reading: Is 66:10-14
2nd Reading: Gal 6:14-18
Gospel: Lk 10:1-20

The first reading tells us how Jerusalem is blessed by God. On this American Independence Day, we remember that we are blessed by the same Lord. It is worth remembering that we are a nation “Under God,” but that we are not the only nation or people to be blessed.

The words from the Song of Peace (This is my Song) are appropriate for these readings and for this National Holiday:

This is my song, O God of all the nations,
A song of peace for lands afar and mine.
This is my home, the country where my heart is;
Here are my hopes, my dreams, my holy shrine;
But other hearts in other lands are beating
With hopes and dreams as true and high as mine.
My country's skies are bluer than the ocean,
And sunlight beams on clover-leaf and pine.
But other lands have sunlight too and clover,
And skies are everywhere as blue as mine.
Oh, hear my song, O God of all the nations,
A song of peace for their land and for mine.

As Stewards of God’s earth, we must continue to pray for peace and for liberty. Let us ask the God of our nation and of the world for peace!

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15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(July 11, 2004)
1st Reading: Dt 30:10-14
2nd Reading: Col:15-20
Gospel: Lk 10:25-37

The readings today challenge us to love our God with our whole heart, soul, and strength and to love our neighbor and self. Jesus tells us about the Good Samaritan who went out of his way to be charitable. As Christian Stewards, we know that charity is an expression of our love for God. If we know that we are loved by God and if we have a desire to love God with all that we have, we know that we are called to charity. Loving God with all that we have and all of the time means sharing our gifts and talents with others all of the time. We can’t ever take a break from loving. It must be constant … As constant as God’s love is for us.

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16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(July 18, 2004)
1 st Reading: Gn 18:1-10
2 nd Reading: 1:24-28
Gospel: Lk 10:38-42

The Readings today help us to see the importance of hospitality. Abraham and Sarah welcomed the three visitors (Artists and scholars later suggest these visitors are the three persons of the Trinity). Jesus is welcomed in the home of Martha and Mary. Hospitality comes in many forms. Martha is spending a great deal of time making things ready for Jesus who is already with her. She is busy about many things, while Mary is at the feet of Jesus. Mary stops what she is doing and simply spends time with the Lord.

As Christian Stewards, we should use the time that God has given to us, and rest in the presence of God. Before share started her day serving the poor, Mother Teresa of Calcutta would spend hours before the Blessed Sacrament. It is good to be charitable and share our gifts with others, but we must also use our time to rest before the Lord who is our inspiration to be servants and ministers of hospitality.

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18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(August 1, 2004)
1 st Reading: Ec 1:2; 2:21-23
2 nd Reading: 3:1-5, 9-11
Gospel: Lk 12:13-21

Vanity! All things are Vanity! We read these words in Ecclesiastes. Indeed, these words are important for all of us to hear. Having possessions, as important as they are, can lead us to a false sense of power. "If I have these things, then I am secure". Vanity! A house, a car, clothes on my back, an education, are all good and necessary for basic living. However, there is an even greater life in the Lord. If I don't have a house, I still have the Lord. If I don't have food, I still have the Lord. If I don't have education, I still have the Lord.

In this weekend's Gospel, Jesus tells us about the rich man who set out to do what would be considered wise. Save! Save his grain. Not a bad idea. Saving isn't a bad thing. In fact it is wise. However, it is unwise to think that my savings are my sole security. The fullness of my security rests in the Lord. All of the stored grain for the man in this story, or the stored riches for us in our personal stories, cannot replace the Lord who must be stored in our hearts.

Christian stewards know that it is responsible to save. But, it is even more important to be saved. To be saved means to store up in our hearts the riches of heaven. There are some in life who choose a vow of poverty in order to witness to the world the importance of trusting in God alone. Needing God and trusting in Jesus is far greater than trusting in our own feeble securities. Money, riches, and things of this world will pass away. So will we. But God, and those who place their trust in him, will last forever.

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19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(August 8, 2004)
1 st Reading: Wis 18:6-9
2 nd Reading: Heb 11:1-2,8-19
Gospel: Lk 12:32-48

The Gospel for this Sunday is particularly meaningful for Christian Stewards. It gets to the heart of who we are. We are people blessed with the grace and salvation from Christ Jesus. With this wonderful gift, comes the obligation to share. We are called to share our riches and talents; especially when we know that our true riches are from heaven. Our heavenly riches must be celebrated and shared, "For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be."

Over the year, we have been encouraged to make a personal retreat or a retreat with other parishioners. A special guide for making a retreat was provided. This guide, "Treasures of the Heart," is available on our web site. Simply return to the home page and visit the e-PRAY section and download the booklet.

I pray that all parishioners will have the opportunity to make a retreat and spend some quality time with the Lord.

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21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
(August 22, 2004)
1st Reading - Is 66:18-21
2nd Reading - Heb 12:5-7, 11-13
Gospel -Lk 13:22-30

The question of who can be saved is a challenging one. This challenge is brought to us in this weeks readings. Indeed, the Church proclaims - "Outside of the Church, there is no salvation." As the Catechism states:

846 How are we to understand this affirmation, often repeated by the Church Fathers?[335] Re-formulated positively, it means that all salvation comes from Christ the Head through the Church which is his Body:
Basing itself on Scripture and Tradition, the Council teaches that the Church, a pilgrim now on earth, is necessary for salvation: the one Christ is the mediator and the way of salvation; he is present to us in his body which is the Church. He himself explicitly asserted the necessity of faith and Baptism, and thereby affirmed at the same time the necessity of the Church which men enter through Baptism as through a door. Hence they could not be saved who, knowing that the Catholic Church was founded as necessary by God through Christ, would refuse either to enter it or to remain in it.[336]

Thus, all who belong to Christ are saved and all who belong to the whole Christ (Jesus the head and we the Church his body) enjoy the benefits of salvation. However, this is not to say that those who aren't Roman Catholic cannot be saved. Indeed, the Church also proclaims:

847 ... Those who, through no fault of their own, do not know the Gospel of Christ or his Church, but who nevertheless seek God with a sincere heart, and, moved by grace, try in their actions to do his will as they know it through the dictates of their conscience - those too may achieve eternal salvation.[337]

About other Christians, the Church says:

838 ...Those "who believe in Christ and have been properly baptized are put in a certain, although imperfect, communion with the Catholic Church."[323] With the Orthodox Churches, this communion is so profound "that it lacks little to attain the fullness that would permit a common celebration of the Lord's Eucharist."[324]

About the Jews, the Church says:

839 ...To the Jews "belong the sonship, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises; to them belong the patriarchs, and of their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ",[328] "for the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable."[329]

About Muslims, the Church says:

841 ... "The plan of salvation also includes those who acknowledge the Creator, in the first place amongst whom are the Muslims; these profess to hold the faith of Abraham, and together with us they adore the one, merciful God, mankind's judge on the last day."[330]

About other religions, the Church says:

843 The Catholic Church recognizes in other religions that search, among shadows and images, for the God who is unknown yet near since he gives life and breath and all things and wants all men to be saved. Thus, the Church considers all goodness and truth found in these religions as "a preparation for the Gospel and given by him who enlightens all men that they may at length have life."[332]

In all of this, the Church (Christ's Body) is the beacon and the means toward salvation. It is through he whole Christ (body and head) that we are saved. Think of this as a sort of funnel. Whether we know it or not, we will all stand before the seat of Christ - Jews, Muslims, Catholics, etc. And, it is through Christ - the narrow door - that we will enter heaven. There is only one door. Like a funnel, we must all pass through. We pass through he whole Christ (head and members).

As Christian stewards, we must always do our part to celebrate the communion that we share with all people on earth. As Pope John Paul II once said; This communion, though imperfect, must be celebrated. Thus, reaching out to in ecumenical and interreligious circles, we must strive toward unity and, at the same time, promote the gospel of Christ, our salvation.

You are invited to take a look at our Ecumenical and Interreligious page. Go here

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22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
(August 29, 2004)
1st Reading - Sirach 3:17-18,20, 28-29
2nd Reading - Heb 12:18-19, 22-24
Gospel -Lk 14:1, 7-14

The word "Havdalah" in Hebrew means, Set Apart. This word is appropriate for this Sunday's readings because it reminds us that we have all been set apart, like Moses and Aaron (See Second Reading) to enter into the Lord's presence.

As a priestly people, chosen and set apart from the rest of God's world, we are called to approach the Holy Mountain who is God. Jesus tells us in today's Gospel that when we humble ourselves, taking the last seat at the banquet, he will then invite us to the first seat. Only when we recognize that we are not God and that we are not in charge - only then can we be invited to sit at God's right hand and go deeper.

Before the priest (Aaron and his sons), could enter the Tent of the Almighty, he had to be made clean. He had to humble himself. Humility is the answer to entering into a deeper relationship with our God, and entering into a deeper relationship with God is what priestly people (meaning us) are called to do. As priestly people, set apart, we humble ourselves, to grow deeper in the Lord, to approach his holy throne, and to abide in his love.

As our parish celebrates the Feast of St. Rose of Lima, we certainly recognize what this great Saint did to humble herself. St. Rose revealed the words to her by our Lord, who said: "Let all men know that grace comes after tribulation. Let them know that without the burden of afflictions it is impossible to reach the height of grace. Let them know that the gifts of grace increase as the struggles increase. Let men take care not to stray and be deceived. This is the only true stairway to paradise, and without the cross they can find no road to climb to heaven."

Humility, for St. Rose, was the only way to grow in the grace of Christ.

As Christian Stewards, we know what it means to be humble. We know that all of our gifts of time, talent, and treasure come from God. As stewards, we share these gifts freely and humbly. In this way, we grow deeper in the Lord who invites us to sit with him at his table.

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23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
(September 5, 2004)
1st Reading - Wisdom 9:13-18b
2nd Reading - Philemon 9-10, 12-17
Gospel -Lk 14:25-33

The readings this weekend are about being wise. In the Gospel, Jesus tells us that if we want to address life's challenges, or simply walk down life's road, we should calculate where we are going and how we plan to get there. Wisdom requires a plan. Thankfully, we already know the plan necessary to gain peace and happiness in life. Jesus is the plan! He is the way, the truth, and the life. He is the foundation to all our life's developments. Trusting in Christ is wise way to go.

Of course, we are encouraged to inform our conscience and study the ways of Christ as we live and breath in this world. Simply praying in solitude to Jesus won't take care of our world problems, or put food on the table. We must discover Christ in all of our daily endeavors. We must seek his wisdom in all things and in all places.

In the same way, we must do our part to share his wisdom with others. As Christian Stewards, we must always go to the source first before we act. Going to Christ - the Wise One - and then speaking, or acting, is the way of the Christian.

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24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(September 12, 2004)
1st Reading - Exodus 32:7-11, 13-14
2nd Reading - 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Gospel -Lk 15:1-32

In today's Gospel, we are struck by the three images of God's desire to save us. Jesus' first parable is about the shepherd leaving his 99 sheep to find the one lost sheep. His second parable is about the woman who loses just one coin and searches all over the house until she finds it. The third is about the familiar prodigal son. In all of these stories, we can't help but thank our God who does everything to find us when we are lost.

As Christian Stewards, we know that we must use our time and talent to reach out to the lost and lonely. Many feel abandoned by the Church. Others have simply drifted away. Still others haven't ever known what is is like to be a part of the Body of Christ - the Church. We must be the heart of Jesus who longs to bring all of His people to himself.

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25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(September 19, 2004)
1st Reading - Amos 8:4-7
2nd Reading - 1 Timothy 2:1-8
Gospel -Lk 16:1-13

This Gospel gets to the heart of stewardship. We have all been called to be Christian Stewards. The Gospel tells us that we cannot serve two Masters. We cannot serve both God and Money. The Prophet Amos is even stronger in his words about those who serve the God of money. He lets them know that they are greedy and reminds them of God's words, "Never will I forget what they have done." Aware of this fact, that God does not forget what we have done, what memory of us do we want God to have? Do we want God to remember our moments of greed? Do we want God to remember our moments of charity? What shall it be?

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26th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(September 26, 2004)
1st Reading - Amos 6:1,4-7
2nd Reading - 1 Timothy 6:11-16
Gospel -Lk 16:19-31

Like last Sunday's Readings, the Gospel for this Sunday beautifully describes the importance of being true Christian Stewards. The Rich Man in Jesus' parable, refrains from his duty to care for the poor, even when the poor are directly outside his door. When we consider that we live in the richest nation on earth and that there are poor just across our border, what is our response? This parable is for us. God has made us his instruments to give to those in need. If we should ever wonder what our purpose is in life, we should look at the money and food we have and consider those who don't. Then, start feeding the poor around us. We will soon have the answer to our question.

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27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(October 3, 2004)
1st Reading - Hebrews 1:2-3, 2:2-4
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14
Gospel -Luke 17:5-10

Our Readings are about taking ownership and realizing the gifts we have received. We can all be like the man in our first reading who tells God, “I cry for help but you do not listen.” We all know that God helps those who help themselves. We know of those who clearly cannot help themselves and we must do our part to care for them (Children, mentally disabled, sick, starving people, etc.). As for the rest of us we are called to have faith and not fear. St. Paul reminds us in the Second reading that “God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” In addition, Jesus tells us that if we had faith the size of a mustard seed, we could do wonders. God has given us a power to be stewards over all creation. With faith in this tremendous gift, we should take charge of our lives and help steer the world around us. This week, for example, you are invited to register to vote for the up-coming elections (Nov 2). Is your faith strong enough to share your voice? Do you believe that your one vote counts?

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28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(October 10, 2004)
1st Reading - 2 Kings 5:14-17
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Gospel -Luke 17:11-19

As Naaman came out of the Jordon, he was cured of his leprosy. Because of this mighty act, Naaman said, "Now I know there is no other God in all the earth, except in Israel." Likewise, the ten lepors in today's Gospel were cured by the Lord, yet only one came back to praise and thank Jesus. The one who came back was a Samaritan, a foreigner. Naaman was also a foreigner. These readings focus on healing and thanksgiving. It is also about those who come to know the Lord and celebrate his goodness in their lives, while those who should know the Lord often take God for granted. I think of those who are in the RCIA process and are preparing to celebrate Baptis, Communion, and Confirmation. Often, these men and women walking toward the Easter Sacraments have more to show those of us who have already been initiated in the Church what it means to truly thank the Lord. As Christian Stewards, we should always be grateful to God for his power to heal, forgive, and sustain us. We should never take God for granted.

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29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(October 17, 2004)
1st Reading - Exodus 17:8-13
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2
Gospel -Luke 18:1-8

This Sunday, we are challenged to pray without ceasing. In the early church, people would practice perpetual prayers by uttering short phrases. In the Eastern Church, the Jesus Prayer, was very common: "Jesus Christ, Son of God, Have mercy on me a sinner." Our Rosary, with the repetitive prayer of the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be continues to be a valuable spiritual tool for ceaseless prayer. These short forms of prayer, whatever they may be for you, can be said all of the time - at work, in the home, etc. For example, try saying these words over and over again for a few minutes: "Jesus, I thank you." One of Bishop Brom's favorite prayers is, "Come Lord Jesus! Live in my mind. Dwell in my heart. Be my companion on the journey of life." Repeating these, or other short prayers throughout the day will heighten your spiritual journey with the Lord. Christian Stewardship always requires a conversation with God. Perhaps this form of prayer will help in your dialogue with the Lord.

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30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
(October 24, 2004)
1st Reading - Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 4:6-8,16-18
Gospel -Luke 18:9-14

This Sunday, we are challenged we are challenge by the Lord with these words, "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted." We can think of the obvious world figures who once demanded praise and attention but were later humbled (Adolph Hitler, Edi Amine, Saddam Hussein). We can also remember spiritual leaders who were humble but later exalted (Mother Teresa, Archbishop Romero, Ghandi). However, Jesus wants us to look at ourselves. Where are we in relation to humility? Ask yourself, "Am I the type of person who must win every argument? Must I be in charge of everything and control every situation? Are my ideas the only reasonable ideas?" To suggest that I have all of the right answers means that I am not able to grow. Humility is about listening to the voice of others and, after carefull deliberation, sharing one's own voice as well. We weren't meant to be door-mats upon which people should wipe their feet. On the other hand, we weren't meant to be dictators either. Christian Stewards recognize the gifts they have received from God and, at the same time, recognize the giftedenss of others. Sharing and combining our gifts allow us to humbly work toward the same goal and abide by the greatest commandment: To love God, neighbor, and self.

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31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
(October 31, 2004)
1st Reading - Wisdom 1:22-12:2
2nd Reading - 2 Thessalonians 1:11-2:2
Gospel -Luke 19:1-10

In today's Gospel we read about Zachaeus, who is short in stature and a sinful "tax collector." Jesus chooses to stay at his house anyway. Our Lord is so great! God wants to be with the sinners, the people who aren't "big" in this world, the people who are often forgotten.

As Christian Stewards, we know that Christ is with us and he chooses to use us to be visible in the world. When we help the poor, Christ is helping the poor. When we forgive those who hurt us, it is Christ who is forgiving.

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32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
(November 7, 2004)
1st Reading - 2 Macc 7:1-2, 9-14
2nd Reading - 2 Thess 2:16-3:5
Gospel -Luke 20:27-38

This week, we are reminded in today's Gospel not to live as if this is our only life. There is a life to come - a life with God in heaven. If we live in this life alone, we become fearful of death. Death is not the end for those who believe.

As Christian Stewards, we recognize our gifts and share them with others. We must share the joy of knowing that eternal life is our most precious gift. By doing this, we give hope to those who live in fear. So many people live without hope.

I invite you to give hope in a particular way by assisting the homeless in our neighborhoods and just across the border. I strongly encourage you to participate in our Second Annual Mama Dee Charity Dinner. This promises to be a great event! All funds from this dinner (November 21) will go toward our parish Emergency Assistance program. Please consider buying a table or a plate dinner and help us help our friends in need.

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Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
(January 23, 2005)
Isaiah 8:23-9:3
1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17
Matthew 4:12-23

The Second Reading for this weekend's Mass is most fitting for promoting Christian Unity; especially as we are in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and this is Ecumenical Sunday. In his letter to the Corinthians, Saint Paul reminds the assembly and us that there should not be divisions among us. Reminding us that we are all members of One Body, Paul asks, "Is Christ divided?" The answer, of course, is "NO!" Unfortunately, the divisions that remain between Catholics, Protestants, Anglicans, and Orthodox make it hard for us to see just how united we are. As Christian Stewards, we must allways use our gift of prayer to offer intercessions on behalf of Christian Unity. If Christians will not pray for unity, to whom will the world look for an example of peace? For information on Ecumenism, visit our Ecumenical Page

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Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
(January 30, 2005)
Zephaniah 2:3, 3:12-13
1 Corinthians 1:26-31
Matthew 5:1-12

Today's Gospel offers us the famous "Sermon on the mount," where Jesus presented the Beatitudes. In each case, point by point, Jesus blesses those who are not exhalted, but those who are humble. Paul repeats this in his letter to the Corinthians: "Not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise... Whoever boasts, should boast in the Lord."

Consider Mother Teresa, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Rose of Lima, and other holy men and women who lived lives of humility. They were humble, but these were able to change the hearts of thousands and millions of people.

Christian Stewards do not look for greatness in the world. Stewards for Christ seek humility first and, in humility, they are richly blessed.

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Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 58:7-10
1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Matthew 5:13-16

Salt of the earth, light of the world: These are the images Jesus uses to describe us as his disciples, those who follow him faithfully in the community of the Church. It is the Church which shines with the glory of God in a world of darkness. We whom Jesus has declared "blessed" are to imitate him by "Sharing the Mission" of being salt and light for others.

This week, you have an opportunity to share in the Mission of Christ by participating in the Annual Catholic Appeal. Your gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal funds many educational, spiritual and charitable services in the diocese of San Diego. On-going support for the Annual Catholic Appeal has enabled the Diocese of San Diego to assist literally hundreds of thousands of people over the years. Our parish assessment this year is $70,000 for the ACA. Your participation, regardless of the amount, does make a difference.

You are encouraged to take home an envelope this weekend and pray about your gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal. Please read the brochure to see where your gift is going. As we prayerfully consider our response to the Annual Catholic Appeal, may it be an expression of our desire to follow and imitate Jesus by "Sharing the Mission" in being salt and light for others.

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Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Hosea 6:3-6
Romans 4:18-25
Matthew 9:9-13

The Easter Season has been over for three weeks now. The excitement of the Resurrection begins to diminish and we find ourselves in the liturgical season known as Ordinary Time. We take down the white and return to the color green - a color which will be with us for the next six months. Thankfully, we have the weekly exchange of beautiful flowers in the sanctuary (provided by the altar society) to help add some variety to this season.

After the Easter joys of the early church, there was a great temptation to fall back or return to the old way of life. Many Christians were returning to sin and failing to follow the Lord with their whole hearts. The readings this weekend help us as Christians to stay with the Lord in our trials. Even when we sin, the Lord is there to show us his kindness. In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus says, "I did not come to call the righteous but sinners."

We should never give up on the Lord. But, if we do, we should trust that the Lord will never give up on us. In his own words, Jesus says, "It is mercy I desire."

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Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Exodus 19:2-6a
Romans 5:6-11
Matthew 9:36-10:8

In today's Gospel, Jesus tells us, "The Harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few." This is often used by the Church as a vocations message to inspire men and women to consider priesthood, sisterhood, brotherhood, or the diaconate.

Thankfully, our diocese was blessed to have the ordination of five priests last weekend. Two of those priests served here as seminarians (Joe Freeman and David Leon). Fr. Leon will be pastor at Pala Mission in North County and Fr. Freeman will be the associate pastor at Holy Family Parish in Linda Vista. We congratulate the two of them and wish them well in their parishes. Our parish is pleased to have Fr. Luke Jauregui (another newly ordained priest) to serve as the associate pastor for our parish beginning on July 1st. We will welcome Luke at that time and offer him our prayers and support in his ministry as a priest.

Our parish is also priveleged to gain two new permanent deacons. Deacon Charlie Frice and Deacon Miguel Casabausch were both ordained by the bishop last Friday for the Diocese of San Diego. We are overjoyed and blessed to have these deacons and their wives, Suzie Frice and Adela Casabausch, serve in our parish community.

It appears as though the Lord is listening to our prayers for an increase in vocations. However, I ask you to continue to beg the Harvest Master for more laborers - more vocations - for our diocese.

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Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jeremiah 20:10-13
Romans 5:12-15
Matthew 10:26-33

The dominant theme of today’s readings is fear and how to overcome it. Certainly, as we celebrate Father’s Day, we can see around us a number of fathers who abandon their children or homes for fear that they may have to be responsible.

In other cases, fathers are afraid to show compassion, because “men don’t express feelings.” We are also aware of the many fathers who are afraid to talk about God or lead prayers at the dinner table. Fear must be overcome. Jesus once said, “fear is useless.” I pray that all fathers, mothers, and children will embrace the Gospel of hope and flee from the darkness of fear.

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13th Sunday of Ordinary Time
(June 26, 2005)
1st Reading: 2nd Kings 4:8-11, 14-16a (97A)
2nd Reading: Romans 6:3-4, 8-11
Gospel: Matthew 10:37-42

Today’s first reading is a wonderful story of hospitality. We do not know the name of the married couple but we do know that they offer Elisha a place to stay without asking for anything in return. God working through Elisha promises the unexpected, a baby son. This revelation can easily stir up questions like, “How is this possible?” Elisha does not state how this would be possible because he is a man of great faith and knows that God will be present to this couple. Therefore everything will work out fine for them.

This theme of hospitality is carried over into the Gospel reading today. Eight times we see a form of the word “receive” used and in the end, just like in the first reading, there is a reward because for the person doing the “receiving” for being a righteous person. We are invited not just today but throughout our Christian life to offer that same spirit of hospitality.

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16th Sunday of Ordinary Time
1st Reading: Wisdom 12:13, 16-19
2nd Reading: Romans 8:26-27
Gospel: Matthew 13:24-43

How many of us have every asked somebody a question and not received a straight answer? Critics of Jesus often asked him questions only to receive the answer in the form of a parable. In today's Gospel reading, we once again see references to seeds. Notice how Jesus gives attention to the smallest of all seeds, the mustard seed. What for us may seem insignificant, Jesus makes the mustard seed sound significant. For us, it is an invitation to look at our surroundings and remind ourselves that God makes all things and all are important in the eyes of God.

The Gospel passage today is quite appropriate for our summer season. Given our location, we are blessed to be the recipients of sunny (most of the time) weather. In the Gospel's closing paragraph, we read, "the righteous will shine like the sun." Let's add more sunshine to our summer by embracing God's blessings and being a blessing to all around us.

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17th Sunday of Ordinary Time
1st Reading: 1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
2nd Reading: Romans 8:28-30
Gospel: Matthew 13:44-52

In today’s first reading Solomon asks God for an understanding heart to distinguish between right and wrong. A distinction is also seen in the Gospel reading when Jesus tells his disciples “the angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous.”

We might say that Solomon had it easy because God was right there with him and Solomon took advantage of that opportunity. We do not need to wait to meet God face to face in order to ask God to give us that same understanding heart. We can ask God now with our prayers. In doing so we are in a better position to receive the same understanding heart Solomon wished for and thus, we are able to seek first to understand before being understood.

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18th Sunday of Ordinary Time
1st Reading: Isaiah 55:1-3
2nd Reading: Rom 8:35,37-39
Gospel: Matthew 14:13-21

The readings are an invitation to feed those less fortunate. Isaiah makes it clear to us in the first reading by saying, “You who have no money, come and eat.” Assuming that “they” come, who then will feed them? Us of course! And how will we do this? With the love of Christ Paul tells us about in the second reading.

Today’s Gospel reading culminates with the feeding of five thousand men. What is important to remember here is not so much the number of people that were fed but THAT they were fed and after that, there was even more food. This shows that nothing is impossible with God. Seeing the people hungry was a moving experience for Jesus because “his heart was moved with pity.” Jesus is inviting us not only to feed the hungry but also to do so in a manner that is consistent with having and living out our faith.

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19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
1 Kings 19:9a, 11-13a
Rom. 9:1-5
Matt. 14: 22-33

When a child is asked to do something, many times their response will be “why?” Some children, as well as some adults, need the explanation as to why. When the Lord speaks to Elijah in today’s first reading, there are no explanations necessary. The Lord simply says, “Go outside and stand before the Lord; the Lord will be passing by.” Because of Elijah’s faith, he does as he is told. In the second reading, Paul speaks “the truth” as he joins the Holy Spirit in bearing witness. Since Paul speaks the truth, there is no mention of people asking “why?”

Perhaps a little explanation was necessary when the Lord called Peter in today’s Gospel reading. Here is a man of faith whose first words to Jesus are, “If it is you, command me to come to the water.” Does Peter then really have faith? Jesus did His part by inviting Peter to join him, but Peter did not have his feet firmly planted in faith. This caused him to start sinking. For us, this reading is a reminder, to have our feet firmly in our faith. In this way, we will avoid sinking when the world around us seems too much for us to handle.

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20th Sunday in Ordinary Time
1st Reading: Isaiah 56: 1, 6-7
2nd Reading: Romans 11:13-15, 29-32
Gospel: Matthew 15:21-28

In today’s first reading Isaiah foresees foreigners coming to the Temple to “join themselves to the Lord.” In doing so, they will “make joyful” God’s house. It was a joyful event because foreigners were not allowed in the Temple. Paul’s message to the Gentiles in today’s second reading is also a joyful event for Paul tells them they have received mercy for their disobedience.

The theme of mercy is also present in today’s Gospel passage. The Canaanite woman pleads with Jesus to have pity on her daughter. As usual, the disciples end up complicating things by advising Jesus to send this woman away. Bad advice. Jesus recognizes the woman’s faith and the disciple’s lack of faith and is thus able to heal the daughter. Thus, today’s readings invite us to increase our faith in God and to allow God to heal the areas of our life that are in desperate need of healing.

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21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 22:19-23
Romans 11:33-36
Matthew 16:13-20

The Keys to the Kingdom of God are handed to Peter in today’s Gospel. Peter is the first pope of the Church, and through the laying on of hands, his authority has been handed down from one pope to the next. Pope Benedict XVI is the successor of Peter.

Handing the keys to Peter is like a king handing the keys to a chancellor until the king returns. When Jesus returns in Glory he will bring all things together in himself. Peter and his successors act as caretakers and guardians of the Church. Receiving authority from Jesus to care for the flock of the Church is an awesome responsibility. In Peter’s case, it cost him his life. Let’s not forget that John Paul II was almost martyred as well.

Some ask why the Pope is called the Vicar, or representative, of Christ in the world. Pope John Paul II has an answer for that:

“Jesus, though invisible, is personally present in His Church. He is likewise present in each Christian, by virtue of baptism and the other sacraments. . . Furthermore, Christ brings out a special presence in every priest, who, when celebrating the Eucharist or administering the sacraments, does so in persona Christi (in the person of Christ). From this perspective, the expression ‘Vicar of Christ’ assumes its true meaning.” (Crossing the Threshold of Hope, John Paul II).

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22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jeremiah 20:7-9
Romans 12:1-2
Matthew 16:21-27

We all have crosses in life and we can’t hide from them. They may be addictions. They may be problems at work. They may even be our loved ones.

In today’s readings, Jesus does not invite us to carry our cross; he commands us to carry it. In his words, “we must take up our cross and follow him.”

St. Rose of Lima, who’s Feast we celebrate today, said, “Apart from the cross there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven.” St. Rose knew this better than most. Her mother was often very harsh with her, her family was poor, and she was tormented by sickness and died a young woman. But, she would have it no other way. She wanted the cross. She embraced the cross. She followed the command of Jesus to her death.

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23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Ezekiel 33:7-9
Romans 13:8-10
Matthew 18:15-20
At baptism, parents are asked if they will bring their child up in the faith. Similarly, the godparents are asked if they will help the parents. It is not possible to respond affirmatively to these questions if the parents and/or godparents are not practicing their faith.

The scripture readings today suggest what we must all do as Christians. The Old Testament prophet Ezekiel was one of those people who told people what they needed to hear, whether they wanted to hear it or not. He quotes the LORD saying, “You I have appointed watchman” — “Warn the wicked” — “I will hold you responsible.”

And Matthew reinforces this statement in the gospel today. If your brother does something wrong, have it out with him privately, then with a witness, then with the community. Do all you can to warn him and help him change his ways. You have the responsibility to convert “your brother,” your family, friend, or acquaintance.

We Catholics, I think, are a little uncomfortable with this view. Could it be that we have become a little insular?

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24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Sirach 27:30-28:7
Romans 14:7-9
Matthew 18:21-35

The Gospel this Sunday is about forgiveness.

If God wants to pour out grace and kindness on us despite the fact that we are sinners, shouldn’t we generously open our hearts to forgiveness and invite our brothers and sisters to participate in the same kindness that God has wanted to share with us?

We should not make room in our hearts for resentment and hatred. If we do, we will hurt ourselves much more than we will hurt others. As Christian stewards of God’s kindness, let us be generous and forgive one another.

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25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isa., 55:6-9
Phil. 1:20-24, 27
Matt 20:1-16

Dear friends:

The main point of today’s parable is: in God’s reign, the criteria for action are those of a generosity that is far superior to the one that normally rules human relationships. God gives us an example. God calls everyone: great and small, rich and poor, educated and illiterate, old and young. God gives generously to all, not according to our works.

Let us go to the vineyard. When the time for payment comes, you will see that your retribution will be far greater than what you could have ever hoped for.

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31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
1st Reading: Malachi 1:14-2:2b,8-10
2nd Reading: 1 Thess 2:7b-9,13
Gospel: Matthew 23:1-12

Dear Friends:

This weekend, prior to the Feasts of All Saints and All Souls, we will honor all friends, relatives, and Christians who have gone before us. You are invited to remember your deceased loved ones by writing their names on the envelope provided in the pew and placing the envelope in the collection basket. These envelopes will remain at the altar for a Novena of Masses (9 days).

Let us ask our God to hold our friends, relatives, and all men and women who have gone before us in the palm of His hand.

This Tuesday is the Feast of All Saints. It is a Holy Obligation. Masses will be at 6:15 am, 8 am, 11 am and 7:30 pm. Wednesday is the Feast of All Souls. Masses will be at 6:15 am, 8 am, and 7:30 pm.

Have a good week!

Father John

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