There are 3 stages of discipleship. Curiosity includes fascination and interest in person of Jesus. The second is a decision to join his company, to listen and learn from the Master. The third stage is our friendship and intimacy with Jesus through prayer and meditation. ~ Fr. Matt
Jesus’ baptism by John in the Jordan River was a turning point in his relationship to the world. In their inaugural messages Abe Lincoln promoted malice toward none, with charity for all. Roosevelt encouraged the policy of the good neighbor. Kennedy said to rejoice in hope and be patient in tribulation. May the new administration be a turning point in our country. ~ Fr. Matt
The Epiphany is not just about the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Disbelief, rejection, and persecution of the future ministry of Jesus are foreshadowed in this event. ~ Fr. Matt
We are called to focus not just on Jesus, Mary and Joseph but on all families that comprise the universal family of humankind. Let us develop new respect for ourselves and conduct ourselves with greater dignity. ~ Fr. Matt
God’s presence is ever in search of a dwelling place. The unconfineable divine presence has chosen to dwell among us. ~ Fr. Matt
All of God’s communications with us is personal. The Ten Commandments are not a set of rules but rather words to live by. On this Gaudete Sunday may the dialogue we have with the Divine impact every facet of our human experience. ~ Fr. Matt
A few facts about Mark’s gospel. As the people who personally knew the Lord Jesus were dying. The oral tradition became a written entity. Mark was the first to write down the stories of the Lord. He used a geographical and Christological approach to the story of Jesus. Marks it he most brief of all Gospels yet he gives many details at a quick pace. Let’s enjoy this ride into the life of Jesus with St. Mark. ~ Fr. Matt
Advent is a time of waiting. The prayers of Advent ask us to yield to God, to surrender to his will, to wait for God. We are the clay, God is the potter. We have no claim for the design of our life or to ask for a peculiar specification. Let us acquiesce to God’s gentle mercy and forgiveness. ~ Fr. Matt
“What is expected and demanded of me?” is the crucial question of this Feast. Someone calls us, makes demands, and waits for us. Who are they? Where do we find them? How long must they wait for us? ~ Fr. Matt
“Live each day to the fullest.” What does that mean? We develop and use our abilities for the moment of grace. We have to be ready for the inevitable and unpredictable each day. ~ Fr. Matt