What does Jesus’ crowd have in common with our refugees? Did they want to flee the oppressive Roman rule of Israel? Did they struggle to feed their families?
What does Jesus’ crowd have in common with our refugees? Did they want to flee the oppressive Roman rule of Israel? Did they struggle to feed their families?
We must preserve and pass on Mary Magdalene’s pivotal role in bringing the story of the Resurrection to us. If our bishops, cardinals, priests and pope cannot see her, can they see me, can they see you? Without her witness, where would we be?
We must preserve and pass on Mary Magdalene’s pivotal role in bringing the story of the Resurrection to us. If our bishops, cardinals, priests and pope cannot see her, can they see me, can they see you? Without her witness, where would we be?
Our authority is not in doctrine or canon or religious rule, it is in love. A transformative love that we embody and that we have the ability and responsibility to share.
Our authority is not in doctrine or canon or religious rule, it is in love. A transformative love that we embody and that we have the ability and responsibility to share.
So when you are misunderstood just like Jesus in his hometown of Nazareth, and when you are asked, where does your authority come from? What will be your response?
So when you are misunderstood just like Jesus in his hometown of Nazareth, and when you are asked, where does your authority come from? What will be your response?
Ultimately, however, they hope not only in the mercy and compassion of God Almighty but also in the mercy and compassion of their fellow human beings. It is this hope that propels them to go on those boats, to risk dying to live.
Ultimately, however, they hope not only in the mercy and compassion of God Almighty but also in the mercy and compassion of their fellow human beings. It is this hope that propels them to go on those boats, to risk dying to live.
So, people of God, keep building! All of our efforts mean something. Ultimately, God is the one who will grow life, ever so patiently, from tiny seeds and little branches. So, plant the seed. Welcome the green leaves.
So, people of God, keep building! All of our efforts mean something. Ultimately, God is the one who will grow life, ever so patiently, from tiny seeds and little branches. So, plant the seed. Welcome the green leaves.
To be followers of Jesus, to love our neighbour, involves embracing the joy of Christ in all of creation and walking more gently on this earth, to be guardians and protectors of God’s handiwork.
To be followers of Jesus, to love our neighbour, involves embracing the joy of Christ in all of creation and walking more gently on this earth, to be guardians and protectors of God’s handiwork.
Our life circumstances may persist, but our responses to these circumstances change when we know that we do not face life's challenges alone. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, will never abandon us, and that makes all the difference in the world!
Our life circumstances may persist, but our responses to these circumstances change when we know that we do not face life's challenges alone. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, will never abandon us, and that makes all the difference in the world!
Our sorrow and fear is not so different from the first disciples of Jesus. But notice what happens in the midst of their distress and confusion. Jesus appears. He eats with them, maybe he even dances with them. And they are filled with amazement, sheer joy, wonder, fullness.
Our sorrow and fear is not so different from the first disciples of Jesus. But notice what happens in the midst of their distress and confusion. Jesus appears. He eats with them, maybe he even dances with them. And they are filled with amazement, sheer joy, wonder, fullness.
We realize that identifying as a disciple of Jesus Christ is not simply a matter of whether you believe or you don’t. Rather, it is about what we do with our belief.
We realize that identifying as a disciple of Jesus Christ is not simply a matter of whether you believe or you don’t. Rather, it is about what we do with our belief.
The Easter story is our story! It is a story of light overcoming darkness. It is a story of truth overcoming lies. It is story of love overcoming hate. It is a story of hope overcoming despair.
The Easter story is our story! It is a story of light overcoming darkness. It is a story of truth overcoming lies. It is story of love overcoming hate. It is a story of hope overcoming despair.
On Good Friday our being brought to our knees for what seems like every day of our existence finally begins to make sense, as the one who reconciles all in all also dies our death and breaths his last. May the entire story of creation, and all of our unique stories be reconciled in Jesus the Christ, crucified and risen.
On Good Friday our being brought to our knees for what seems like every day of our existence finally begins to make sense, as the one who reconciles all in all also dies our death and breaths his last. May the entire story of creation, and all of our unique stories be reconciled in Jesus the Christ, crucified and risen.
If God loves us in this way, serving us, to the point of giving his life, in the same way we must love others...We must serve, not stand above or apart. Not pontificate but be there in the trenches with others.
If God loves us in this way, serving us, to the point of giving his life, in the same way we must love others...We must serve, not stand above or apart. Not pontificate but be there in the trenches with others.
This Lent, we are asked to take the long view with Jesus. Who would we become if we were at home in God’s generous and reckless love? How would we use our time? Our lives?
This Lent, we are asked to take the long view with Jesus. Who would we become if we were at home in God’s generous and reckless love? How would we use our time? Our lives?
As we reflect on this first Sunday of Lent and in the days and weeks to come, we must not forget the sacrifice and suffering we have borne and witnessed in the last year. Doing so would dishonor all of that pain and all of that loss.
As we reflect on this first Sunday of Lent and in the days and weeks to come, we must not forget the sacrifice and suffering we have borne and witnessed in the last year. Doing so would dishonor all of that pain and all of that loss.
Let us give alms not just by giving money to the poor but by working for economic security of all. Let us pray not just by reciting rote prayers but by opening our hearts to listen to the Spirit. Let us fast, not just from food and drink but from the privileges we have been given to stand in solidarity with the oppressed.
Let us give alms not just by giving money to the poor but by working for economic security of all. Let us pray not just by reciting rote prayers but by opening our hearts to listen to the Spirit. Let us fast, not just from food and drink but from the privileges we have been given to stand in solidarity with the oppressed.
We who preach the Gospel must not preach a watered-down Gospel to make people feel comfortable in their indifferences to those seen as the “least” of these in society or their hatred of people who are not like them.
We who preach the Gospel must not preach a watered-down Gospel to make people feel comfortable in their indifferences to those seen as the “least” of these in society or their hatred of people who are not like them.
Life is messy, yet that is exactly what we need: to be engaged in the stuff of this world - the sights, the tastes, the smells - distracted by all of it, because all of it is God!
Life is messy, yet that is exactly what we need: to be engaged in the stuff of this world - the sights, the tastes, the smells - distracted by all of it, because all of it is God!
So, let’s not forget the lessons of this year. Let’s raise our voices together on behalf of those whose voices are silenced, and say, with joy and courage: Here I am, Lord. I come to do your will.
So, let’s not forget the lessons of this year. Let’s raise our voices together on behalf of those whose voices are silenced, and say, with joy and courage: Here I am, Lord. I come to do your will.
The future envisioned by the Magi and promised to “all the nations” is a spectacular one by which to measure to the “new post-pandemic normal” that we now need to create.
The future envisioned by the Magi and promised to “all the nations” is a spectacular one by which to measure to the “new post-pandemic normal” that we now need to create.
When I think of Mary, Mother of God, bearing a child in a land occupied by Roman soldiers, I think of “the talk.” You know, “the talk” that modern day Black and brown mothers have to give to their children, before they leave the house each day, right here in the United States.
When I think of Mary, Mother of God, bearing a child in a land occupied by Roman soldiers, I think of “the talk.” You know, “the talk” that modern day Black and brown mothers have to give to their children, before they leave the house each day, right here in the United States.
This Christmas may need to be a simpler time than ones in the past, but let us not miss the miraculous in our midst. The small moment when the Glory of God is around us and we are awakened to the miraculous hidden in the ordinary
This Christmas may need to be a simpler time than ones in the past, but let us not miss the miraculous in our midst. The small moment when the Glory of God is around us and we are awakened to the miraculous hidden in the ordinary
It is sometimes hard to see how God is working in a world that is darkened by pandemic and civil unrest, and injustice toward the marginalized and vulnerable among us. Because of that, Advent is precisely the time to learn how God sees us.
It is sometimes hard to see how God is working in a world that is darkened by pandemic and civil unrest, and injustice toward the marginalized and vulnerable among us. Because of that, Advent is precisely the time to learn how God sees us.
It is this dangerous memory of La Virgen of Guadalupe that empowers nos/otrx to push against all that keeps us from recognizing the presence of God in ourselves, and each other.
It is this dangerous memory of La Virgen of Guadalupe that empowers nos/otrx to push against all that keeps us from recognizing the presence of God in ourselves, and each other.
What is clear is that to be a Catholic is to proclaim that bodies matter. We are not simply concerned for the state of a soul, but for the whole person, even as the world tells that women’s bodies in particular, are fragile and disposable.
What is clear is that to be a Catholic is to proclaim that bodies matter. We are not simply concerned for the state of a soul, but for the whole person, even as the world tells that women’s bodies in particular, are fragile and disposable.
This Advent, more than ever, we are called to be both listeners and proclaimers, to be contemplatives and prophets, to let the silence prepare us to speak truth to oppressive power and to speak tenderness to the oppressed.
This Advent, more than ever, we are called to be both listeners and proclaimers, to be contemplatives and prophets, to let the silence prepare us to speak truth to oppressive power and to speak tenderness to the oppressed.
As we enter Advent time, we lament with our eyes wide open, asking the God of hope to awaken us to the comings of God into our lives and into our suffering world.
As we enter Advent time, we lament with our eyes wide open, asking the God of hope to awaken us to the comings of God into our lives and into our suffering world.
God has no hands or feet but ours, so when we work together with people different from us, to make good laws and good policies happen, we are helping to build a reino de Dios, that place where we all belong to one another, no one left outside our circle of concern.
God has no hands or feet but ours, so when we work together with people different from us, to make good laws and good policies happen, we are helping to build a reino de Dios, that place where we all belong to one another, no one left outside our circle of concern.
How are we called to take care of the talents given to us? Certainly, we are to use them without fear. To claim what God has given us, to make use of it, and to live boldly in trust.
How are we called to take care of the talents given to us? Certainly, we are to use them without fear. To claim what God has given us, to make use of it, and to live boldly in trust.
And so, in each and every moment, we must be ever vigilant to continue to share the oil of justice, mercy, and all the blessings so critically needed in our world today.
And so, in each and every moment, we must be ever vigilant to continue to share the oil of justice, mercy, and all the blessings so critically needed in our world today.
Yes, let us walk with confidence in the path of Christ, supported by prayer and the example of the Saints, those the liturgy presents to us and those humanity offers us day after day.
Yes, let us walk with confidence in the path of Christ, supported by prayer and the example of the Saints, those the liturgy presents to us and those humanity offers us day after day.
Who does this? Who gives half of what they have to a stranger? Or one-third of what they’ve earned when they don’t even know when they will next receive any income? Who does this? Imitators of Christ.
Who does this? Who gives half of what they have to a stranger? Or one-third of what they’ve earned when they don’t even know when they will next receive any income? Who does this? Imitators of Christ.
We aren’t chosen by the authority figures of empires, no matter what religious or political guises they moralize with or campaign in or what certainties they claim to offer or platitudes they attempt to ply us with. We are chosen by God. And the God who chooses us has a dream for us—the individual us and the collective us—that surpasses the imagination of empire.
We aren’t chosen by the authority figures of empires, no matter what religious or political guises they moralize with or campaign in or what certainties they claim to offer or platitudes they attempt to ply us with. We are chosen by God. And the God who chooses us has a dream for us—the individual us and the collective us—that surpasses the imagination of empire.
As we desire to develop a vineyard that pleases God and deepens our inner peace we come to realize that there can be no fences around the perfect vineyard. We are being called to be in relationship with all of creation and all peoples and creatures.
As we desire to develop a vineyard that pleases God and deepens our inner peace we come to realize that there can be no fences around the perfect vineyard. We are being called to be in relationship with all of creation and all peoples and creatures.
Down through the centuries, week after week, the good news of the Gospel has been proclaimed and received. God’s grace enters into human hearts. It transforms. It shapes us into a beloved people capable of putting God’s love and forgiveness into action.
Down through the centuries, week after week, the good news of the Gospel has been proclaimed and received. God’s grace enters into human hearts. It transforms. It shapes us into a beloved people capable of putting God’s love and forgiveness into action.
When we engender these kind of healthy relationships; when we sharpen others and allow others to sharpen us, in the end we become better people, and position ourselves to be available to represent and serve God.
When we engender these kind of healthy relationships; when we sharpen others and allow others to sharpen us, in the end we become better people, and position ourselves to be available to represent and serve God.
We owe it to ourselves to be mindful of our own wisdom as to what our “needs” are as a community. We need to have the courage of the early Hellenists to put our needs out there for those in authority to understand “what” and “whom” we need in ministry.
We owe it to ourselves to be mindful of our own wisdom as to what our “needs” are as a community. We need to have the courage of the early Hellenists to put our needs out there for those in authority to understand “what” and “whom” we need in ministry.
Let us challenge ourselves to keep learning and growing, allowing God to transform us by the renewal of our minds, so we might act with courage in spite of the obstacles and struggles to bring about a time acceptable to the Lord.
Let us challenge ourselves to keep learning and growing, allowing God to transform us by the renewal of our minds, so we might act with courage in spite of the obstacles and struggles to bring about a time acceptable to the Lord.
This is the kind of lived authority, the kind of witness and testimony, that opens the doors to the kingdom of heaven. This is the authority that makes Christianity credible. It is the kind of authority that we so desperately need from our church leaders who are in positions of authority.
This is the kind of lived authority, the kind of witness and testimony, that opens the doors to the kingdom of heaven. This is the authority that makes Christianity credible. It is the kind of authority that we so desperately need from our church leaders who are in positions of authority.
Resting in the love of God not only changes us but also invites us to take on the injustices and systematic oppression in the world. It gives us the spirit and courage to Show Up.
Resting in the love of God not only changes us but also invites us to take on the injustices and systematic oppression in the world. It gives us the spirit and courage to Show Up.
We should find joy simply in sharing the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ and in building up the reign of God by loving others – as in everyone – not a select few, not just the ones we like or could benefit us, not just the ones whom we think are like us – but loving everyone.
We should find joy simply in sharing the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ and in building up the reign of God by loving others – as in everyone – not a select few, not just the ones we like or could benefit us, not just the ones whom we think are like us – but loving everyone.
As we celebrate Mary Magdalene, we rise up as women and we say we have a tradition that can be traced to a direct commandment from Jesus to speak. And we shall speak: we shall speak with authority; we shall speak with intelligence; we shall speak for ourselves...
As we celebrate Mary Magdalene, we rise up as women and we say we have a tradition that can be traced to a direct commandment from Jesus to speak. And we shall speak: we shall speak with authority; we shall speak with intelligence; we shall speak for ourselves...
And so I cling to this unlikely hope: the hope that many small people in many small places who take many small steps will eventually change the face of the earth.
And so I cling to this unlikely hope: the hope that many small people in many small places who take many small steps will eventually change the face of the earth.
The weeds and thorns of racial superiority have set excruciatingly deep roots in the institutions of the United States of America as well as in the hearts of Americans. Any skilled gardener will tell you, uprooting entrenched weeds takes persistence and focus.
The weeds and thorns of racial superiority have set excruciatingly deep roots in the institutions of the United States of America as well as in the hearts of Americans. Any skilled gardener will tell you, uprooting entrenched weeds takes persistence and focus.
Can we have the humility to come as “little ones”, asking Wisdom to help us to understand, to change, to live in a new way? Can we let go of some good things to a allow a greater good to emerge?
Can we have the humility to come as “little ones”, asking Wisdom to help us to understand, to change, to live in a new way? Can we let go of some good things to a allow a greater good to emerge?
How do we overcome fear? It’s more complicated than someone saying: don’t be afraid. Taming this emotion requires more than a command or suggestion, even from a trusted source.
How do we overcome fear? It’s more complicated than someone saying: don’t be afraid. Taming this emotion requires more than a command or suggestion, even from a trusted source.
Living into a Eucharistic reality means participating in it. It means saying yes to that relationship again and again and again. It means trying to model the Eucharistic relationship that God offers us to everyone around us
Living into a Eucharistic reality means participating in it. It means saying yes to that relationship again and again and again. It means trying to model the Eucharistic relationship that God offers us to everyone around us
We are being saved, and we are being called to save others in every possible way we can. Keep dancing my sisters and brothers. Follow the hesed steps of the Creator and Redeemer, and may the music, the rhythm, the kiss and the love of the Holy Spirit Be with you!
We are being saved, and we are being called to save others in every possible way we can. Keep dancing my sisters and brothers. Follow the hesed steps of the Creator and Redeemer, and may the music, the rhythm, the kiss and the love of the Holy Spirit Be with you!
Like those first disciples in the Upper Room, may we be open to the coming of the Holy Spirit during this time of pandemic to use us and transform us for the good of all.
Like those first disciples in the Upper Room, may we be open to the coming of the Holy Spirit during this time of pandemic to use us and transform us for the good of all.
This feast speaks so directly to each one of us amid these uncertain and frightening times - WE are called like the Apostles, WE are being sent, to open our hearts to Jesus; to stand, serve and be with the poor among us; to welcome the marginalized, to help the sick, to forgive one another – simply put, to LOVE as Jesus; to make our World a dwelling as envisioned by Jesus – united with one another, in love.
This feast speaks so directly to each one of us amid these uncertain and frightening times - WE are called like the Apostles, WE are being sent, to open our hearts to Jesus; to stand, serve and be with the poor among us; to welcome the marginalized, to help the sick, to forgive one another – simply put, to LOVE as Jesus; to make our World a dwelling as envisioned by Jesus – united with one another, in love.
At best, we may feel resigned; at worst, we simply feel paralyzed. And yet, for me, the Gospel reading offers us some “good news,” – and a reason for our hope, even though we are living with painful situations.
At best, we may feel resigned; at worst, we simply feel paralyzed. And yet, for me, the Gospel reading offers us some “good news,” – and a reason for our hope, even though we are living with painful situations.
Jesus’ initiative to heal and restore is absolutely central to his ministry in the Gospels. Jesus invites us to be recipients and agents of this same healing in the world.
Jesus’ initiative to heal and restore is absolutely central to his ministry in the Gospels. Jesus invites us to be recipients and agents of this same healing in the world.
Jesus shows us how to love, to love like God. Jesus' whole life, ministry, and death show us how to love. The question is, what do we do with so great a love?
Jesus shows us how to love, to love like God. Jesus' whole life, ministry, and death show us how to love. The question is, what do we do with so great a love?
If we can bring light to others, shouldn’t we do that without delay? If we can bring lifeand help each other flourish and live in fullness, shouldn’t we do that without hesitation? We can be light for one another now. God is light for us now. Live now. Walk in the light
If we can bring light to others, shouldn’t we do that without delay? If we can bring lifeand help each other flourish and live in fullness, shouldn’t we do that without hesitation? We can be light for one another now. God is light for us now. Live now. Walk in the light
May we seek to live our belovedness, relax with knowing we cannot control it, and seek to deepen a genuine relationship of response with the God that loved us into existence.
May we seek to live our belovedness, relax with knowing we cannot control it, and seek to deepen a genuine relationship of response with the God that loved us into existence.
Jesus is calling us to a higher level of justice--one that goes deeper than reason, one that lights our hearts on fire with a love that allows us to look at an enemy and see instead a brother or sister.
Jesus is calling us to a higher level of justice--one that goes deeper than reason, one that lights our hearts on fire with a love that allows us to look at an enemy and see instead a brother or sister.
Can we develop a willingness to see the infancy of God’s promises being incarnated into the world, a world awaiting and needing restoration, reconciliation, redemption, and peace?
Can we develop a willingness to see the infancy of God’s promises being incarnated into the world, a world awaiting and needing restoration, reconciliation, redemption, and peace?
We have a choice to remain the same or to open our hearts, to open our eyes to see the light of Christ in others, to walk with those who are searching, and, to purify our motives and intentions...
We have a choice to remain the same or to open our hearts, to open our eyes to see the light of Christ in others, to walk with those who are searching, and, to purify our motives and intentions...
Indeed, where anyone is absent or excluded from our assemblies, it is there that our joy will be incomplete... joy in the world as a whole that may only be realized when inclusion prevails.
Indeed, where anyone is absent or excluded from our assemblies, it is there that our joy will be incomplete... joy in the world as a whole that may only be realized when inclusion prevails.
Under the shelter of the Guadalupana, Latin Americans and Mexicans have become stronger in our fights and we have sympathized with those most in need because we have accepted the mystery of God in our lives.
Under the shelter of the Guadalupana, Latin Americans and Mexicans have become stronger in our fights and we have sympathized with those most in need because we have accepted the mystery of God in our lives.
The deaths of martyrs can feel like total loss. But we are a people of unreasonable hope…that beyond the violence and chaos in this world is the reign of God.
The deaths of martyrs can feel like total loss. But we are a people of unreasonable hope…that beyond the violence and chaos in this world is the reign of God.
We are faced with the task of undoing all that which binds us to the ways and means of Empire and severs us from covenant with the divine, with creation, and with our fellow human beings.
We are faced with the task of undoing all that which binds us to the ways and means of Empire and severs us from covenant with the divine, with creation, and with our fellow human beings.
[Today's readings] invite us to do more than see and judge; they require us to act, to make connections and to put into practice what we say we believe...
[Today's readings] invite us to do more than see and judge; they require us to act, to make connections and to put into practice what we say we believe...
For there is no difference between Jews and Samaritans, disabilities and abilities, men, women, and children, black, brown, and white bodies. Yes, we are all one in Christ Jesus.
For there is no difference between Jews and Samaritans, disabilities and abilities, men, women, and children, black, brown, and white bodies. Yes, we are all one in Christ Jesus.
When we focus too much on consumption and material wealth, we harm ourselves, we harm others, and we harm creation. We focus on the wrong things, letting it pull us away from our relationship with God, and forgetting to step back and set aside time for prayer and for God.
When we focus too much on consumption and material wealth, we harm ourselves, we harm others, and we harm creation. We focus on the wrong things, letting it pull us away from our relationship with God, and forgetting to step back and set aside time for prayer and for God.
Restorative justice respects the dignity of every person, including those who have suffered harm AND those who have caused the harm--isn’t that something God asks of each of us?
Restorative justice respects the dignity of every person, including those who have suffered harm AND those who have caused the harm--isn’t that something God asks of each of us?
…being 'all in' is rare - it is challenging and a great risk that many of us are not willing to take…what we can do is wake up every morning and acknowledge our position in the world, our abilities to contribute to positive social change, and do our best to make that happen. We are not always going to be successful; but it is our intention that matters.
…being 'all in' is rare - it is challenging and a great risk that many of us are not willing to take…what we can do is wake up every morning and acknowledge our position in the world, our abilities to contribute to positive social change, and do our best to make that happen. We are not always going to be successful; but it is our intention that matters.
If we are to be humble after the pattern of Jesus, then, like Him, we must lay aside the garments that social status and worldly privilege dress us in and wash the feet of those who are like us, equal to us, made in the image and likeness of God.
If we are to be humble after the pattern of Jesus, then, like Him, we must lay aside the garments that social status and worldly privilege dress us in and wash the feet of those who are like us, equal to us, made in the image and likeness of God.
Being a Christian is not simply a state of mind. It requires a decision – how we want to live as Christians...Whatever we are waiting for, will not happen by itself.
Being a Christian is not simply a state of mind. It requires a decision – how we want to live as Christians...Whatever we are waiting for, will not happen by itself.
Mary too is caught up in this great process of realizing the effects of the resurrection. It’s not a promise of peace during the course of the process; rather, it’s a promise of tension and struggle. We live in time and we touch eternity.
Mary too is caught up in this great process of realizing the effects of the resurrection. It’s not a promise of peace during the course of the process; rather, it’s a promise of tension and struggle. We live in time and we touch eternity.
As I continue to grapple with missionary discipleship and servant leadership in my every day tasks and duties... I'm going to remeber "still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more."
As I continue to grapple with missionary discipleship and servant leadership in my every day tasks and duties... I'm going to remeber "still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more."
My message of good news today is that you are it. We are it. We’ve got a lot of choices to make. We’ve got a lot of building to do. The Feast of Mary Magdalene is a great day to start.
My message of good news today is that you are it. We are it. We’ve got a lot of choices to make. We’ve got a lot of building to do. The Feast of Mary Magdalene is a great day to start.
I invite you to be hospitable by embracing immigrants, embracing those with no voice, embracing our neighbors, and embracing our families and ourselves.
I invite you to be hospitable by embracing immigrants, embracing those with no voice, embracing our neighbors, and embracing our families and ourselves.
I rejoice in God as Mother, whose love is always there for the taking, arms open wide to receive and comfort and then send us back out, together, to do Her work in the world.
I rejoice in God as Mother, whose love is always there for the taking, arms open wide to receive and comfort and then send us back out, together, to do Her work in the world.
But the marvelous thing about God, this all-forgiving, all-patient Universal Love, is that even when we don’t answer “correctly,” she finds a way of repeating herself; and she will continue asking until we’re ready.
But the marvelous thing about God, this all-forgiving, all-patient Universal Love, is that even when we don’t answer “correctly,” she finds a way of repeating herself; and she will continue asking until we’re ready.
a Eucharistic piety that discerns the Body of the Lord in the consecrated species, but not in the body of our brothers and sisters in need is not a genuine Eucharistic piety.
a Eucharistic piety that discerns the Body of the Lord in the consecrated species, but not in the body of our brothers and sisters in need is not a genuine Eucharistic piety.
They are in cahoots, co-conspirators, bringing one another into greater fullness, by being in relationship. Joyous, creative, inter-dependent, time-insensitive relationship.
They are in cahoots, co-conspirators, bringing one another into greater fullness, by being in relationship. Joyous, creative, inter-dependent, time-insensitive relationship.
The same Spirit that urged Jesus to pray and fast in the desert for forty days, the same Spirit that enabled him to heal the sick, the same Spirit that forgave his executioners is present in you.
The same Spirit that urged Jesus to pray and fast in the desert for forty days, the same Spirit that enabled him to heal the sick, the same Spirit that forgave his executioners is present in you.
As receivers of that redemptive love, we are called to embody the love of Christ: to become a community of healing mercy, kindness, inclusion, compassion, and forgiveness.
As receivers of that redemptive love, we are called to embody the love of Christ: to become a community of healing mercy, kindness, inclusion, compassion, and forgiveness.
God has a vision for our world. It is a vision of a world in which every nation, race, people, and tongue are united. It is a vision looking for a home in our hearts...
God has a vision for our world. It is a vision of a world in which every nation, race, people, and tongue are united. It is a vision looking for a home in our hearts...
When we touch the Resurrected in today’s crucified, touch the wounds of those whom our system tries to make invisible, we admit like Thomas: "My Master! My God!"
When we touch the Resurrected in today’s crucified, touch the wounds of those whom our system tries to make invisible, we admit like Thomas: "My Master! My God!"
if we are able to move forward with mercy, grace, compassion, and camaraderie, with sincerity and truth, then the fear and despair, pain, and confusion of this moment will not last. And while we cannot guess where the Spirit may lead us, we can trust that the Spirit remains with us. We can trust that this moment, these burial shrouds, this empty tomb, are not the end of the story.
if we are able to move forward with mercy, grace, compassion, and camaraderie, with sincerity and truth, then the fear and despair, pain, and confusion of this moment will not last. And while we cannot guess where the Spirit may lead us, we can trust that the Spirit remains with us. We can trust that this moment, these burial shrouds, this empty tomb, are not the end of the story.
[Jesus] invites us to be his hands and heart by staying close to those in pain and darkness, by enduring with them their agony, anger and anxiety, by giving voice to their cry for justice and by fighting side by side with them against evil and crime, abuse and oppression.
[Jesus] invites us to be his hands and heart by staying close to those in pain and darkness, by enduring with them their agony, anger and anxiety, by giving voice to their cry for justice and by fighting side by side with them against evil and crime, abuse and oppression.
Can we choose to love to the utmost? To engage humbly with one person at a time, to offer refreshment and tenderness to the weary soul, to look with extraordinary love into the eyes of the person in front of us, and convey that they are of infinite value?
Can we choose to love to the utmost? To engage humbly with one person at a time, to offer refreshment and tenderness to the weary soul, to look with extraordinary love into the eyes of the person in front of us, and convey that they are of infinite value?
Celebrating the Passion of Jesus Christ means to continue our struggle to transform our world into a more human world. This has a political dimension. But it also means to be open, sensitive and touchable for the person who lives next to me.
Celebrating the Passion of Jesus Christ means to continue our struggle to transform our world into a more human world. This has a political dimension. But it also means to be open, sensitive and touchable for the person who lives next to me.
Our newness might look like this: that we might speak, and be believed, instead of being dismissed...That we might get, for the first time, to tell our own stories, instead of having them told.
Our newness might look like this: that we might speak, and be believed, instead of being dismissed...That we might get, for the first time, to tell our own stories, instead of having them told.
Responding to God’s prophetic call in Exodus often requires the mercy and patience God shows in Luke’s gospel—we are called not only to resist empire and release the captives, but also to bridge-build and forgive.
Responding to God’s prophetic call in Exodus often requires the mercy and patience God shows in Luke’s gospel—we are called not only to resist empire and release the captives, but also to bridge-build and forgive.
God meets us right where we are, and in the ordinariness of our own lives, but we too have a responsibility to pause, to listen, and to open our eyes to see what God is asking of us
God meets us right where we are, and in the ordinariness of our own lives, but we too have a responsibility to pause, to listen, and to open our eyes to see what God is asking of us
As I enter my forty day journey of Lent I am praying to discern a grace-led and grace-filled pathway forward. Discernment does not mean slow or passive acting; it means deliberately prayerful, and Spirit-led listening and action…
As I enter my forty day journey of Lent I am praying to discern a grace-led and grace-filled pathway forward. Discernment does not mean slow or passive acting; it means deliberately prayerful, and Spirit-led listening and action…
We need to image God as a vine grower and gardener admiring us, proud of us. If we really believe that we are worthy of God delighting in us and rejoicing in us, then we have to delight and rejoice in ourselves - and each other.
We need to image God as a vine grower and gardener admiring us, proud of us. If we really believe that we are worthy of God delighting in us and rejoicing in us, then we have to delight and rejoice in ourselves - and each other.
Let us become a people of radical Christian hope. Let us place our faith in the Kin-dom that is to come. Let us embrace our charge to partner with God in bringing that Kin-dom about, in the here and now.
Let us become a people of radical Christian hope. Let us place our faith in the Kin-dom that is to come. Let us embrace our charge to partner with God in bringing that Kin-dom about, in the here and now.
How do we say “yes” to the unknown; to the possibility; to the struggle, to the pain, to the suffering, to listening, like Jesus, to the calls and the cries from our communities both near and far?
How do we say “yes” to the unknown; to the possibility; to the struggle, to the pain, to the suffering, to listening, like Jesus, to the calls and the cries from our communities both near and far?
Jesus was doing just what he was anointed to do. He was opening the eyes of those before him to their racism and nationalism. He was trying to set them free of their captivity, reminding them that God’s love extends to everyone – and so should theirs.
Jesus was doing just what he was anointed to do. He was opening the eyes of those before him to their racism and nationalism. He was trying to set them free of their captivity, reminding them that God’s love extends to everyone – and so should theirs.
As we move into the second week in ordinary time, may we be those who intentionally reflect God’s glory through a sense of gratitude, through actions of kindness, and by nurturing within one another the voices that preach the Gospel in word and action.
As we move into the second week in ordinary time, may we be those who intentionally reflect God’s glory through a sense of gratitude, through actions of kindness, and by nurturing within one another the voices that preach the Gospel in word and action.
As you ponder your life, tasks, and responsibilities, let yourself doubt (kinda like John the Baptist), be confident that God accompanies us with love and mercy, and then let yourself stay TRUE to your vocation – whatever it is.
As you ponder your life, tasks, and responsibilities, let yourself doubt (kinda like John the Baptist), be confident that God accompanies us with love and mercy, and then let yourself stay TRUE to your vocation – whatever it is.
When the light of the Epiphany star sears our souls, it also casts a beam of light across and beyond any horizon we have imagined before, calling us to a new vision.
When the light of the Epiphany star sears our souls, it also casts a beam of light across and beyond any horizon we have imagined before, calling us to a new vision.
How do I receive those that I consider irrelevant, a nuisance, those that are different from me, the refugees, the migrants, the poor and marginalized? The Marys and Shepherds of our world today.
How do I receive those that I consider irrelevant, a nuisance, those that are different from me, the refugees, the migrants, the poor and marginalized? The Marys and Shepherds of our world today.
We’re simply asked to do what families do, which is sacrifice for each other. We work late nights to support each other; we give up jobs to be with each other; we look away from our screens; we clean up after each other, we laugh, we sit in silence, in sorrow, in solidarity with each other. And we do this with the aim of modeling the love of Christ, who sacrificed his life for all of us.
We’re simply asked to do what families do, which is sacrifice for each other. We work late nights to support each other; we give up jobs to be with each other; we look away from our screens; we clean up after each other, we laugh, we sit in silence, in sorrow, in solidarity with each other. And we do this with the aim of modeling the love of Christ, who sacrificed his life for all of us.
We must remember, however, that receiving this child is a decision. If we do not accept and embrace the presence of Jesus in our daily lives, of what use is his peaceful dominion?
We must remember, however, that receiving this child is a decision. If we do not accept and embrace the presence of Jesus in our daily lives, of what use is his peaceful dominion?
How will we labor with God, who brings down the powerful and lifts up the lowly so that as sisters and brothers we may live in dignity and equality as the one family of God?
How will we labor with God, who brings down the powerful and lifts up the lowly so that as sisters and brothers we may live in dignity and equality as the one family of God?
But with God, happiness has absolutely nothing to do with circumstances. Circumstances are temporary, while our relationship and life with God is eternal. We are to lean into this perspective, master it.
But with God, happiness has absolutely nothing to do with circumstances. Circumstances are temporary, while our relationship and life with God is eternal. We are to lean into this perspective, master it.
Guadalupe is still a locus of solidarity for women in travail, and as the patroness of the Americas she reminds us not to be afraid, even though our situations seem hopeless, and that she is here—accompanying us, rejoicing with us, hearing us into speech, encouraging our confrontations with the powerful, preparing a place where we might rest and rejoice in one another.
Guadalupe is still a locus of solidarity for women in travail, and as the patroness of the Americas she reminds us not to be afraid, even though our situations seem hopeless, and that she is here—accompanying us, rejoicing with us, hearing us into speech, encouraging our confrontations with the powerful, preparing a place where we might rest and rejoice in one another.
God isn’t interested in perfect. She is interested in our willingness to try. And, as we try, we are called to remember that we are being joyfully accompanied, in good times and bad.
God isn’t interested in perfect. She is interested in our willingness to try. And, as we try, we are called to remember that we are being joyfully accompanied, in good times and bad.
We are called to recognise Jesus, the Emmanuel, God-with-us, God never without us, not in the spectacular but in every person we meet, especially those we would normally exclude and in the small details and gestures, we often fail to notice.
We are called to recognise Jesus, the Emmanuel, God-with-us, God never without us, not in the spectacular but in every person we meet, especially those we would normally exclude and in the small details and gestures, we often fail to notice.
The crucifixion of Jesus and the death of many other martyrs for faith and justice shows that the promotion of God’s reign is not easy and entails sacrifice. The powers that be will not readily give up their dominion. But our faith provides us with the basis of hope that in the end, it is God’s reign that will last forever.
The crucifixion of Jesus and the death of many other martyrs for faith and justice shows that the promotion of God’s reign is not easy and entails sacrifice. The powers that be will not readily give up their dominion. But our faith provides us with the basis of hope that in the end, it is God’s reign that will last forever.
Today’s readings are a call to us to reflect and question where we are relying on social norms and structures rather than moving closer to the kingdom by loving our neighbor.
Today’s readings are a call to us to reflect and question where we are relying on social norms and structures rather than moving closer to the kingdom by loving our neighbor.
Are church leaders trying to protect or portray an image of the church that is more about how we hope to appear and less about the truth, that we are sinners, loved by God?
Are church leaders trying to protect or portray an image of the church that is more about how we hope to appear and less about the truth, that we are sinners, loved by God?
without riches and money, we are able to enter love and life in a very different way. We are able to see clearly what is most important, because the material things don’t clutter our view of what matters.
without riches and money, we are able to enter love and life in a very different way. We are able to see clearly what is most important, because the material things don’t clutter our view of what matters.
I for one see the combination of these readings as an affirmation of our need to be loved and to love -- and as a rejection of the tendency to try and find exceptions or loopholes to the love of God which, as St. Paul reminds us, surpasses all understanding.
I for one see the combination of these readings as an affirmation of our need to be loved and to love -- and as a rejection of the tendency to try and find exceptions or loopholes to the love of God which, as St. Paul reminds us, surpasses all understanding.
In our church and in our world today there are many people and places where the Spirit is blowing. Even over the past weeks, as the scandal and negativity swirls around, green shoots have been appearing on the tree. They have been growing from the grassroots up in the most surprising places during this Season of Creation.
In our church and in our world today there are many people and places where the Spirit is blowing. Even over the past weeks, as the scandal and negativity swirls around, green shoots have been appearing on the tree. They have been growing from the grassroots up in the most surprising places during this Season of Creation.
The Lord invites us today to listen more attentively, to talk to Him especially when we don’t understand, and to identify and get rid of those things, actions and attitudes that distract us from truly listening to the Word of God and living like a true disciple.
The Lord invites us today to listen more attentively, to talk to Him especially when we don’t understand, and to identify and get rid of those things, actions and attitudes that distract us from truly listening to the Word of God and living like a true disciple.
Today, as we face political regimes at home and abroad that assail human rights, attack the vulnerable, and deny our common humanity, we must, each of us, discern prayerfully what following Jesus will mean in our context. Our faith will become deeper and more real, by the same measure that our works communicate the reign of God.
Today, as we face political regimes at home and abroad that assail human rights, attack the vulnerable, and deny our common humanity, we must, each of us, discern prayerfully what following Jesus will mean in our context. Our faith will become deeper and more real, by the same measure that our works communicate the reign of God.
When you spend time with people, you begin to see as they do, act as they do, feel as they do. Peter’s words, “You have the words of eternal life,” speak beyond a knowledge of the intellect, and move to felt experience, lived experience with Jesus.
When you spend time with people, you begin to see as they do, act as they do, feel as they do. Peter’s words, “You have the words of eternal life,” speak beyond a knowledge of the intellect, and move to felt experience, lived experience with Jesus.
We’re all called to do serious work in our own evil age. But we can’t let the times make us hold so tightly to ourselves that our hands aren’t free to partake in and share the banquet.
We’re all called to do serious work in our own evil age. But we can’t let the times make us hold so tightly to ourselves that our hands aren’t free to partake in and share the banquet.
The Feast of the Assumption invites us then, to birth a new vision like the apocalyptic woman and like Mary, by becoming persons, a community, a Church who can intervene prophetically in this world.
The Feast of the Assumption invites us then, to birth a new vision like the apocalyptic woman and like Mary, by becoming persons, a community, a Church who can intervene prophetically in this world.
May our hearts and eyes remain open to the daily bread set before us, and may we be brave enough to keep walking, and keep sharing our bread with others along the way.
May our hearts and eyes remain open to the daily bread set before us, and may we be brave enough to keep walking, and keep sharing our bread with others along the way.
Jesus calls us to be relational: just as bread is broken and shared among friends and family, we are most nourished when we are living out Jesus’ message to care for one another and build just relationships in society.
Jesus calls us to be relational: just as bread is broken and shared among friends and family, we are most nourished when we are living out Jesus’ message to care for one another and build just relationships in society.
It is too easy to lament the condition of the world and, like the disciples, feel overwhelmed. Jesus says, ‘just bring me what you have and let’s get started.’ The conversion of the whole world will begin with me, with meager loaves and fishes. Jesus will surely multiply them; He will not fail.
It is too easy to lament the condition of the world and, like the disciples, feel overwhelmed. Jesus says, ‘just bring me what you have and let’s get started.’ The conversion of the whole world will begin with me, with meager loaves and fishes. Jesus will surely multiply them; He will not fail.
Mary of Magdala, stay present, that the blessing of your life will continue in us, women and men alike, who long to love and lead in ways both wide and deep, and yes true, utterly true.
Mary of Magdala, stay present, that the blessing of your life will continue in us, women and men alike, who long to love and lead in ways both wide and deep, and yes true, utterly true.
So as we go forth, let our own hearts imitate that of a weary, hungry, Jesus. What would the world look like if, instead of defining ourselves in contrast to others, we let ourselves be moved by pity, as Jesus was?
So as we go forth, let our own hearts imitate that of a weary, hungry, Jesus. What would the world look like if, instead of defining ourselves in contrast to others, we let ourselves be moved by pity, as Jesus was?
