St. Michael Parish
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The Gifts of the Holy Spirit Series: Part2; Understanding. May 11th, 2025 The second gift of the Holy Spirit is Understanding, a gift closely related to Wisdom and Knowledge, yet distinct in its own nature. St. Bernard of Clairvaux eloquently described Understanding as “the sure and clear knowledge of some invisible thing.” This divine gift allows us to delve into and truly grasp the profound truths of the Catholic faith. It goes beyond mere intellectual reasoning or academic learning. As St. Augustine beautifully stated, “Understanding is the reward of faith. Therefore, seek not to understand that you may believe, but believe that you may understand.” Faith opens our hearts to a deeper comprehension of God’s will and plan for us. We can seek this gift through prayer, asking God for wisdom and spiritual insight. Studying the Scriptures—the revealed word of God—also helps us reflect on His divine truth. Jesus Himself affirmed this in Matthew 11:25-26: “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what You were pleased to do.” Seeking guidance from spiritual leaders, meditating on God’s presence, and practicing humility by acknowledging our limitations all nurture our ability to receive this gift. This sacred gift helps us contemplate God’s unfailing love for each of us and discern how the Holy Spirit is actively working in our daily lives. It empowers us to serve the Lord by building His kingdom on earth. Through Understanding, we can better recognize our God-given talents and determine how best to use them in service to faith, justice, and evangelization. Understanding also strengthens our relationships: •With God – It deepens our faith, trust, and intimacy in our relationship with Him. •With our neighbors – It fosters empathy, compassion, and kindness, allowing for better communication. •Within our community – It promotes unity, cooperation, and a spirit of service. A beautiful example of Understanding in action was seen during last week’s First Communion ceremony. Various ministries in our parish graciously stepped aside to allow the young children from our school, guided by their dedicated teachers, to take an active role in worship. The children sang at Mass, acting as hospitality ministers, and touched each worshipper’s heart in a unique way. They also led the readings and organized a pew-to-pew collection of donations. This collaboration between the parish and school demonstrated the beauty of community and God’s love at work. By embracing the gift of Understanding, we cultivate deeper and more meaningful relationships—with God, our neighbors, and our community. Let us seek this gift with open hearts and trust in God’s wisdom. Prayer Come, Holy Spirit, pour upon us Your gift of Understanding. May we be blessed with an intimate knowledge of the Divine Will of the Father and the Son. Guide our thoughts, words, and deeds so that we may always align our lives with Your holy purpose. Amen
Gifts of the Holy Spirit series: Part1; May 4th, 2025 Over the next few weeks, we will be exploring the gifts of the Holy Spirit, beginning with the first and foundational gift—wisdom. The Holy Spirit is the divine love shared between God the Father and God the Son. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be with us always, serving as our guide and advocate. When we speak of wisdom in this context, we do not mean ordinary human wisdom, which comes from experience and learning. Rather, wisdom is a special gift from God—an ability to discern between good and evil, and the strength to choose what is right. It allows us to perceive the events of life not merely through our human senses but through God's perspective. A prominent biblical figure associated with wisdom is King Solomon. He provided us with two remarkable examples of wisdom. At the beginning of his reign over Israel, he received a dream in which God invited him to make a request. Solomon did not ask for riches, a long and happy life, success, fame, or victory over his enemies. Instead, he humbly prayed for wisdom to govern his people. In response, God praised him and made him the wisest man on earth, granting him additional blessings—riches, honor, and the promise of longevity, provided he remained obedient. Solomon’s wisdom was further demonstrated in his famous judgment between two women disputing the motherhood of a living child. His proposal to divide the infant in two, offering each woman half, revealed the true mother—who, out of love, was willing to surrender her child rather than see him harmed. Thus, Solomon’s wisdom led to justice. We must recognize that, as long as we live, we will face spiritual warfare. If we fail to prepare ourselves properly for battle, we should not be surprised to find ourselves vulnerable when challenges arise. Wisdom, as a divine gift, requires our cooperation. We must cultivate an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit, much like the bond between a loving father and his son. Through this closeness, the Spirit will lead us in the ways of wisdom, transforming our hearts and guiding us to live according to God’s will rather than our own preferences. The Holy Spirit does not grant wisdom as a means to answer every complex question or situation in life. Instead, wisdom allows us to discern what is of God—what pleases Him. This perspective brings peace, contentment, joy, and confidence in our identity as God’s children, strengthening our relationships with others. Can we truly serve God without the gift of wisdom? Is it possible to attain the perfection that Jesus asks of us without learning to think as He does? With God's wisdom, we can navigate life's joys and challenges in a way that fulfills His divine plan. Prayer: O God of my fathers and Lord of mercy, You created all things by Your word and formed humankind through Your wisdom. You have entrusted us with dominion over Your creation, calling us to rule in holiness and righteousness, and to judge with uprightness of soul. Grant me the wisdom that sits by Your throne, and do not cast me away from among Your servants. Amen.
Finding Hope and New Life in Christ: Reflections on Easter: April 18th, 2025 Today, we celebrate Easter Sunday—the day our Lord Jesus rose from the dead. This feast is the cornerstone of our liturgical year, surpassing even Christmas and Good Friday. Jesus’ resurrection not only confirms His divine nature but also promises our own future resurrection. The true significance of Easter lies in the dramatic breakthrough from death to life it represents. Without this miracle, our faith would falter, and our message would ring hollow. As St. Paul reminds us, Christ’s victory over death guarantees our resurrection and eternal hope. Easter is, at its heart, a celebration of hope. It offers a fresh start to the hopeless and reaffirms that the final word has not yet been written in our world—even when skeptics dismiss our optimism as mere fantasy or foolishness. Easter is the foundation of our resilience, the explanation behind what might seem like madness. No matter how insurmountable the obstacles, the grave could never hold Jesus permanently. This sacred message reassures us that even the darkest and most challenging times are only temporary. For every believer, victory is promised—even if it comes gradually. If you are facing adversity, let Easter be a reminder that your triumph is on the horizon. Just as Jesus emerged victorious over death, God is ever ready to illuminate our darkest moments, guiding us through life’s hardships with unwavering faith and hope. Moreover, Easter heralds a rebirth in Christ, inviting us to leave behind the burdens of sin through baptism and renewed faith. Jesus’ resurrection calls us to transform our lives by embracing His love and living in accordance with His teachings. To truly live out the hope of Easter, we must weave its values into the fabric of our daily lives. This means reflecting on our actions and ensuring they mirror Christ’s teachings. By sharing simple acts of kindness, truly listening to one another, and offering genuine support, we embody the transformative power of the resurrection. Practical expressions of this hope include volunteering, engaging deeply with our communities, and bravely sharing our personal faith stories. In doing so, we become living testaments to the resurrection’s power, inspiring others to discover the new life that comes through Christ. As pilgrims of hope in this Jubilee Year, may the joy and promise of Easter remain with us always—guiding us to live a life filled with faith, love, and optimism. Let us cast the radiant light of Christ’s resurrection into every dark corner of the world, proving that our lives are a continual celebration of God’s immeasurable love. Alleluia! Blessings to you and your family.
Holy Week: A Week That Revolutionized the World Holy Week, the most sacred and significant week in the Christian calendar, commemorates the events that led to the suffering, crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This week, which spans from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, has inspired, transformed, and revolutionized countless lives, communities, and societies. On Palm Sunday, we celebrate the full cycle of Jesus mission; on one hand Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where he was greeted by crowds waving palm branches and shouting "Hosanna." And on the other hand his passion in which the same people who sang his praise now chorused his condemnation. This great mystery we celebrate is better understood through silence and prayer rather than through words, so as to enter into it with our heart. The triumphal entry into Jerusalem and his passion narrative sets the stage for the events that will unfold during Holy Week and serves as a reminder of the significance of Jesus' mission and message. Pope Benedict commenting on Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem said “He is a king who destroys the weapons of war, a king of peace and a king of simplicity, a king of the poor.… Jesus is not building on violence; he is not instigating a military revolt against Rome” As we move into Holy Thursday, we are reminded of the significance of the Eucharist and the new commandment of love. St. Augustine notes, "The Lord's Supper, which we celebrate on this day, reminds us of the institution of the Eucharist and the new commandment of love." This event is a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, as he institutes the Eucharist and the priesthood and gives his disciples a new commandment to love one another as he has loved them. Pope Francis reflects, "The Eucharist is a gift of love, a sacrament of unity, and a source of strength for our journey of faith." Further, St. Thomas Aquinas noted, "The washing of feet is a sacrament of humility, by which we are cleansed from the stains of sin." This act of humility and service is a powerful reminder of the importance of living a life of service and compassion. On Good Friday, we reflect on the Passion of Christ and the depth of God's love for us. St. Ignatius of Antioch writes, "I long for the day of my passion, that I may be united with my Lord and Saviour." This desire to be united with Christ is a powerful reminder of the significance of the Passion, and the impact it has on our lives. St. Teresa of Calcutta notes, "The Passion of Christ is a reminder of the depth of God's love for us, and the price He paid for our salvation." The Passion is a powerful reminder of God's love and mercy and serves as a call to us to live a life of love and service. Martin Luther reflects, "The cross of Christ is the greatest sermon ever preached, for it shows us the extent of God's love and mercy." As we move into Holy Saturday, we eagerly look forward to the Resurrection. St. Ambrose writes, "On this day, we wait in hope and expectation for the Resurrection, just as the disciples waited in sorrow and fear." This day is a time of quiet reflection and anticipation, as we wait for the joy of the Resurrection. St. John Chrysostom notes, "The silence of Holy Saturday is a reminder of the stillness of the tomb, where Christ's body lay in repose." This silence is a powerful reminder of the significance of the Resurrection, and the impact it has on our lives. Pope Benedict XVI reflects, "The darkness of Holy Saturday is a prelude to the light of Easter, when Christ's resurrection brings new life and hope to the world." As we journey through this sacred week, we are reminded of the power of love, forgiveness, and redemption that Jesus embodied, and which continue to inspire and transform lives today. The significance of Holy Week extends far beyond the events themselves and serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that Jesus' life, death, and resurrection has on our lives and our world, but this revolution begins in each of our hearts.
Redemption and Salvation: April 6th, 2025. A Loving Dance between God and Humanity In a beautiful illustration of God's love and redemption, a story is told of a man who had a dream in which he saw flashes of different events in his life. He noticed that when he was not facing problems, he saw two pairs of footsteps, but when he was in trouble, he saw only one pair. He asked Jesus, "Why is it that when I'm okay, I see two pairs of footsteps, but when I'm in trouble, I see only one?" Jesus replied, "The two pairs of footsteps represent you and me walking side by side on your journey of life. But when things get tough, that one pair of footsteps is mine, because I carry you to protect you." The concept of redemption is rooted in the Latin word "redimere," meaning "repurchase" or "buyback." In the Christian perspective, redemption refers to Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, which paid the debt humanity owed due to sin. Through His suffering, death, and resurrection, Jesus restored humanity to its original state of grace. Our salvation is dependent on our cooperation with Jesus. As one writer puts it, "God who created us without our cooperation cannot save us without our cooperation." While our redemption occurred once, our salvation is a process that unfolds past, present, and future. As the Apostle Paul writes, "By His grace we have been saved" (Ephesians 2:8), "by the gospel we are being saved" (1 Corinthians 15:2), and "for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed" (Romans 13:11). Hence this holy season of lent offers us rich opportunity to grow in our salvation. The story of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) in this weekend’s gospel, illustrates the tension between law and mercy. The Scribes and Pharisees came to Jesus with the question “do you approve that we stone her according to the law” this was a trap for Jesus. If Jesus answers no then he will be in trouble for disobeying Moses law, also if he says yes then he will be contradicting his teaching on mercy. Jesus response was bending down to write on the ground. His action is full of symbolism; shifting attention from the tensed situation to buy time, He chose humility, silence and reflection to arrive at grace. Some commentators hold that Jesus action shows how God can rewrite our broken life; finances, relationships or situations and give us a second chance. Each mark on the ground shows forgiveness awaiting those blindfolded by their self-righteousness. Jesus' response to the accusers, "Let him who has not sinned be the first to throw stones at her," This highlights the importance of self-examination and the danger of self-righteousness. This wisdom is echoed in the timeless proverb “He who lives in a glass house should not throw stones” both reminds us that we should be careful not to judge others lest we would be judged ourselves. Jesus' words to the woman, "Neither do I condemn you, go and do not sin again," demonstrate the transforming power of grace and mercy. Forgiveness is not a license to continue sinning, but a call to reform our lives. Jesus opens a new path for the woman, one created by mercy and requiring her commitment to change.
The prodigal son and the prodigal father March 30th, 2025 When we hear the word "prodigal," we often think of someone who is wayward or rebellious. But did you know that it also means extravagant or lavish? This paradox is at the heart of Jesus' parable of the Prodigal Son, a story that teaches us about God's extravagant love and mercy. In the parable, the second son demands his inheritance while his father is still alive, a request that is both shocking and culturally wrong. By doing so, the son is essentially wishing his father dead. This is a powerful metaphor for sin, which is a form of wilful rebellion against God. As the second son journeys away from home, he experiences a downward spiral of immorality, poverty, and disgrace. But when he reaches the lowest point of his life, he comes to his senses and returns to his father. As St. Ambrose notes, "He rightly returns to himself, because he departed from himself. For he who returns to God restores himself to himself and he who departs from Christ rejects himself from himself." The father's response to his son's return is a powerful example of God's extravagant love. He was eagerly looking out for his return. On sighting him from a distance, despite his son's ritual uncleanness, the father runs towards him, embracing and kissing him in front of everyone. Further he clothed him not with any garment but with the best robe and with the family’s signet ring symbolizing his full restoration as a son. More still he showed his prodigality towards him by declaring a banquet celebrating the reconciliation of the son with his father, his family, his community and his God. In addition, the father noticing that the elder son out of jealousy and anger refused to join the party went out and met him admonishing him on the need to treasure who he is (son of the kingdom) and what he has (loving relationship with the father) encouraging him to enter the party. We were not told the elder brother’s response. The parable also highlights the importance of confession and forgiveness. The four conditions for a valid confession are contrition, confession, sincere promise to avoid occasions of sin, and absolution. As we reflect on our own lives, we may realize that we have been away from our church and the sacraments, especially reconciliation. But it's never too late to return to God, once we make a step towards Him, He will run towards us and lavish His unconditional love and forgiveness on us. Dear friends, the parable of the Prodigal Son is unfinished, leaving us to complete the story in our own lives. Will we respond to God's extravagant love with gratitude and obedience, or will we remain stuck in our sin and rebellion? The choice is ours. As we journey through Lent, let us imitate the prodigality of God by living compassionate lives. Compassion is the art of recognizing the other person's needs and getting involved to help. We can show compassion in practical ways, such as giving attentive listening ears to the hurting, meeting physical needs, practising forgiveness and praying for others. Blessings.
Lent: A Time of Transformation and Growth -March 22nd, 2025 How do you make sense of life? Could it be through common sense e.g. dressing warm in the cold weather? Or family sense like, children born to this family or spouses married to this family are expected to learn the family ways of making sense. Also could it be ethnic or cultural background as source of making sense example Irish wake or Italian wedding etc. secularity: Do we make sense of life from what is in there for me, personal profit and loss stand point. Making faith sense: Do you make sense of life from the prism of faith values, believes and ideas that have been handed on from previous generations? For we at St Michael and Gabriel we life sense making is faith based. As the Greek philosopher Socrates once said, "The unexamined life is not worth living" (cf. Plato's Apology, 38a). Making Faith Sense: The forty days of lent reminds us of the forty days of Jesus fasting and praying in preparation for his mission of human redemption. As Catholics, we believe that making sense of life comes from the prism of faith values, beliefs, and ideas handed down from previous generations. For us at St Michael and Gabriel, our life sense making is faith based. During Lent, we re-examine our lifestyle and ask ourselves: "Am I living a life that shows I know, love, and serve God?" As Jesus teaches us, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength" (Mark 12:30). Transformation and Growth: Transformation is a central concept in Christian theology, bringing about outstanding change in a believer's life through the power of the Holy Spirit. As St. Paul writes, "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). This process is both immediate and ongoing, rooted in the hope of becoming more like Christ. As Jesus says, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly" (John 10:10). Embracing Uncertainty and Finding Guidance: This weekend we are presented with the experience of Moses and the burning bush that was not consumed. This strange event triggered off the desire to make sense of it and thus he got his mission to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. We all face challenges and uncertainties in life. Our "burning bush" may be financial struggles, health issues, or relationship problems. But we can find guidance in Scripture, the teachings of Catholic theologians, and lived experiences of saints. As Moses did, we can ask God, "What shall I do?" and trust that He will provide guidance (Exodus 3:11-12). We can develop the habit of being comfortable with uncertainty, trusting that God's plan is for our good. As St. Paul writes, "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God," (Romans 8:28). Faith Community and Spiritual Growth: As social beings, we need companions on our spiritual journey. We grow in community, supporting one another, sharing our successes and failures, and praying for each other. As the Psalmist writes, "Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!" (Psalm 133:1). Belonging to a small group and also having a spiritual director goes a long way to enrich our spiritual growth. As Jesus says, "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" (Matthew 18:20). Bearing spiritual fruits: As we strive for spiritual growth, we must remember that bearing spiritual fruits like love joy peace patience kindness goodness faithfulness gentleness and self-control does not happen overnight but requires the right conditions. Just like a garden we need fertile ground, nourishment and good tending. Through constant meditation on God’s word we can change and grow, for example someone who is hot tempered can develop outstanding patience. Dear Friends, spiritual growth is a lifetime journey which requires intentional effort, discipline and a hunger for God’s ways. May we strive to bear these spiritual fruits to be like Christ and by so doing we bring glory to God.
Transformative Power of Forgiveness: A Journey of Faith. February 23rd, 2025 Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness. It is rather a testament to our strength as Christians. It is the key to unlocking a life free from the burden of past grievances. The Liturgical readings this weekend have many other themes; however, the most outstanding theme is forgiveness. Amongst all the teachings of Jesus Christ, forgiving and loving our enemies are the most difficult to practice. In Luke 6:27-28, Jesus says, "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." This is the radical love that Jesus demands from His followers like us in this Parish But why should we forgive? What do we gain from loving our enemies? These are questions that we may ask ourselves when faced with the challenge of forgiving those who have wronged us. The answer lies in the fact that forgiveness is not just about the other person, but about ourselves. When we forgive, we free ourselves from the burden of anger and resentment. We create space for healing and growth. As the saying goes, "To err is human, but to forgive is divine." Forgiveness is a divine act that allows us to participate in God's own nature. It is an act of mercy and compassion that reflects God's own love for us. We know that forgiveness is not something natural to humans or something we learn spontaneously, it is a decision. Then the question arises how can we acquire the skill of self control to guide against lashing out those who hurt our feelings? St Philip Neri suggests that we practise control of our emotions through our conscious practise of transformative actions especially in the midst of pain and suffering. Hence, we ought to see ourselves following the example of our Lord, Jesus Christ who bore the pain and pang of death with great patience and resilience. Now, with this at heart, we can see our sacrifices as purifying love that over time it becomes second nature with us. This may sound unreal but come to think of it when we set our minds in changing the course of life through heroic means miracles happen. Here the focus is on Jesus not on what we suffer or complain about, why it is us that is suffering. Thus such pious habit could be nurtured through Eucharistic adoration, meditation or reflective reading of the word of God and spiritual readings especially the life of the saints and saying ejaculatory prayers like “Jesus be with me” “Jesus I love you” or repeating short sentences or phrases in the bible like "I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me". St Augustine noted that there are diverse arms through which we receive pardon for our sins but the greatest of them all is forgiving from our heart the sin committed against us. Jesus practiced what he preached, even in the most difficult circumstances. As he hung on the cross, he prayed, "Father, forgive them, they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). David also practiced this noble law of non-retaliation. In our first reading (1 Samuel 26: 2, 7-9,12-13,22-25) , we see how David spared the life of King Saul, who was trying to kill him. The golden rule, as Jesus taught us, is to "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." This teaching is not unique to Christianity. Many other religions and philosophers have also taught the importance of loving one's enemies. For example, Buddhism teaches, "Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful." Confucius said, "Do unto others what you would have them do unto you." Hinduism teaches, "Do not unto others which would cause you pain if done to you." Islam teaches, "No one of you is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desired for himself." As St. John Chrysostom said, "Nothing makes us like unto God so much as being always ready to forgive." When we forgive our enemies, we tame them, subdue them, and make them our friends. As the saying goes, "The best revenge is none. Heal, move on, and don't become like those who hurt you." May we be guided by the words of Jesus and inspired by the examples of David and other saints. This weekend we receive in great joy our candidates for confirmation. As a parish we support their faith formation by our good exemplary lives; gracious words of encouragement and especially our prayers that they and we may learn to practice forgiveness as taught by Jesus. As we embrace this divine mandate, I pray, may we embark on a transformative journey into the heart of God, where forgiveness becomes a beacon of light and faith, guiding us back to His everlasting enfold. Amen. Blessings from Fr. Anthony.
2025 Jubilee Year: A Celebration of Hope and Renewal The year 2025 marks a significant milestone in the Church’s calendar - the Jubilee Year. This special year is a time of great joy, forgiveness, and celebration, and is rooted in the Hebrew tradition. The word "Jubilee" comes from the Hebrew word yobel, which means horn. In the Hebrew tradition, every 50th year was set aside for the return of absent members to their households, the restoration of land to its owners, the release of Hebrew slaves, and the forgiveness of debts (Leviticus 25:10). This tradition continued in Christianity, with Pope Boniface VIII proclaiming the first Christian jubilee in 1300. He declared that the jubilee will grant the full remission of sin for those who confessed their sins and made a pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Initially the Church celebrated jubilee years every 100 years. This was eventually shortened to every 50 years and then every 25 years. 2025 jubilee year began in Rome on 24th December 2024 and local dioceses on Holy family 29th December 2024 and will end at local dioceses on 28th December 2025 and in Rome January 6th 2026. As Pope Francis so eloquently puts it, "In the heart of each person, hope dwells as the desire and expectation of good things to come, despite our not knowing what the future may bring." (Spes Non Confundit) The Jubilee Year is a powerful reminder of the importance of hope in our lives and offers us a unique opportunity to renew our hope, to forgive and be forgiven, and to grow closer to God and to one another. During this Jubilee Year, we are called to action. We are called to be signs of hope in the world, to work towards peace, to care for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. We are called to be patient, to trust in God's goodness, and to wait with hope for the fulfillment of his promises. One of the unique opportunities of the Jubilee Year is the chance to gain plenary indulgences for the forgiveness of sins. This can be done by making a pilgrimage to Rome or the Holy Land, participating in Eucharistic adoration and meditation, performing spiritual and corporal works of mercy, and praying for the Pope, the Church, and all those participating in the jubilee celebration. As we celebrate the 2025 Jubilee Year, let us arise and shine, for God's favours are upon us. As the prophet Isaiah reminds us, "Arise and shine for God's favours are upon you" (Isaiah 60:1). May this Jubilee Year be a time of great joy, forgiveness, and celebration for all of us. Blessings. Fr. Anthony
Dec 22nd, 2024; The True Meaning of Love A Reflection on Sacrifice This Sunday, we light the fourth candle of Advent, symbolizing love. As we reflect on the true meaning of love, we are reminded that love is not just a feeling but a choice and a commitment. There are different forms of love, each with its own unique characteristics. Eros love is characterized by exciting and intoxicating emotions, often associated with the initial stages of a romantic relationship. However, this type of love, built on passion or attraction to satisfy selfish ends, does not last. In contrast, Philia love is a more enduring bond. Philia love is an affectionate and lasting bond that develops after a deep and long-lasting relationship. This type of love is built on mutual respect, trust, and affection, often seen in relationships between children and parents, and among siblings. Philia love lays the foundation for the highest form of love. Agape love is the highest form of love, characterized by selflessness, generosity, and unconditional acceptance. It is a love given without expecting anything in return. As we recall, God is love, and He expressed His nature of love by giving us Jesus. This ultimate act of love is what we celebrate at Christmas. Love requires sacrifice. It involves putting the needs of others before our own and being willing to make difficult choices for the sake of those we love. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we are reminded of the ultimate sacrifice He made for our sake. Born in a humble manger, surrounded by animals, and cared for by Mary and Joseph, Jesus' birth restored God's eternal plan for humanity to share in His divinity. In our daily lives, we can show love by making sacrifices for the sake of others. We can prioritize their needs, listen to them, and be present for them. As Mother Teresa once said, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Examples of love and sacrifice can be seen in the daily acts of kindness and generosity that we often overlook. They can also be seen in the sacrifices made by soldiers, firefighters, and teachers, as well as in the simple acts of prioritizing family time. As Saint Augustine wisely said, "What does love look like? It has the hands to help others. It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy. It has eyes to see misery and want. It has the ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men. That is what love looks like." In summary, love is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses Eros, Philia, and Agape. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we are reminded of the importance of Agape love, which is characterized by selflessness, generosity, and unconditional acceptance. May we strive to show this type of love to others, making sacrifices for their sake and doing small things with great love. Merry Xmas and prosperous New Year in advance Blessings.
Celebrating Authentic Love February 16, 2025 The month of February is associated with Love, popularly known as lover’s month. The 14th of the month which falls this weekend, feast of St Valentine gives February its prominence in the life of humans. As we celebrate Valentine's Day, we are reminded that love is at the heart of our humanity. We are created in love, redeemed in love, and commissioned to live our lives in love. St. Valentine, a priest who lived in the third century, embodied this love. He defied Emperor Claudius II's ban on marriage for soldiers, secretly performing weddings for young couples. His actions were motivated by his passion for true love and his commitment to upholding God's plan for marriage. As we reflect on St. Valentine's story, we are reminded that love involves sacrifice. Valentine's actions ultimately led to his imprisonment and death, yet he remained committed to his values. Similarly, the soldiers who sought to marry despite the emperor's ban demonstrated their willingness to sacrifice for the sake of love. In today's world, Valentine's Day has become commercialized, with businesses encouraging us to spend money on gifts for our loved ones. However, the true meaning of love and sacrifice that St. Valentine embodied is often lost in the noise. Pope Francis reminds us that love is not just an emotion, but a relationship that requires effort and commitment to build. "We build a house together, not alone!" he exclaimed. "Let us build our family, church, community, friendship together all to the glory of God." Saint John Paul II in his apostolic exhortation Familiaris Consortio also reminds us that God loved us from the beginning. "God created man in His own image and likeness: calling him to existence through love, He called him at the same time for love. God is love and in Himself He lives a mystery of personal loving communion… Love is therefore the fundamental and innate vocation of every human being.” Love is inscribed in our very being, and our only possible response is to love God in return and participate in his ongoing mission of love and mercy. As we celebrate Valentine's Day, let us put ourselves at the service of the Church and prepare ourselves to be sent out to make God's compassionate love present in the world. Let us remember that true love is not just a feeling, but a choice. It is a choice to put others before ourselves, to sacrifice for one another, and to trust in God's plan for our lives. Blessings. Fr. Anthony
Dec 15th, 2024; Rejoice in the Lord always: Today, on this third Sunday of Advent, we're offered a special olive branch of life and renewal. The Latin phrase "Gaudete in Domino semper" reminds us to "Rejoice in the Lord always." Our focus is on the joy that comes from being aware of Jesus' presence within us, even in difficult times. Let's reflect on the acronym "JOY." The "J" stands for Jesus, encouraging us to prioritize Him in our lives. The "O" stands for others meaning that in whatever we do others will come second in priority reminding us to consider their needs. Finally, the "Y" symbolizes "you," meaning in the hierarchy of priority you come last. This emphasizes the importance of humility. Alternatively, "JOY" can also mean "Jesus Oriented Youth" or "Jesus Only You." These interpretations inspire us to focus on Jesus and see Him in every situation. Pope Francis once said that “the closer the Lord is to us, the more joy we feel; the farther away he is, the more sadness we feel”. In this Advent season, let's remember the gifts Jesus offers us: hope, peace, joy, and love. The desire for joy and happiness is universal, but it often seems elusive. As Fr. Anthony de Mello said, "We have everything we need here and now to be happy. The problem is that we identify our happiness with people or things we don’t have and often can’t have.” The coming of Jesus at Christmas offers us total transformation for our holistic wellbeing. God's presence in our world gives us a reason to rejoice and relate kindly to those around us. A joy shared is a joy well possessed. The journey of joy requires discipline, persistence, and hard work. The first condition necessary for Christian joy is to focus less on one's self and to put Jesus at the center of everything. John the Baptist is a good example in this regard. He left everything, from a young age, to put God first, to listen to his Word with all his heart and all his strength. He withdrew into the desert depriving himself of everything superfluous, to be freer to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit. He derived great joy not in drawing others to himself but by always pointing to "the One who was to come." Similarly our Blessed lady derived great joy in pointing the disciples to the Lord when she said “Do whatever He tells you”. Dear friends this rejoicing Sunday offers us great opportunity to get our priorities right following the example of John the Baptist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. This Rejoicing Sunday offers us an opportunity to get our priorities right. Rejoice now, because God's love is perfect, even when our lives aren't. Whether you're navigating life's struggles or celebrating Christmas, God is near, saying, "I've got this, and I've got you." In conclusion, let us remember the true meaning of JOY: J- Jesus is the reason for our joy. O - Others are the recipients of our joy. Y - You are called to share joy with others. May we carry this JOY with us throughout the Advent season and beyond. Blessings
Dec 8th, 2024; Advent: A Time of Blessings and Reflection As we celebrate Advent, the Advent wreath serves as a poignant reminder of God's eternal love. The circular garland of evergreen branches represents growth and new beginnings. Four candles, three purple and one rose, symbolize the four weeks of Advent, each marking 1,000 years from humanity's fall to Jesus' birth. At the centre of the wreath is the fifth candle which is white. This candle represents Christ who is light to the world and is lit on Christmas Eve. Violet, a liturgical colour representing penance, sacrifice and prayer, is prominently displayed during the first, second and fourth Sundays of Advent. We light violet candles to symbolize spiritual preparation, echoing the tradition of "Little Lent." Each week explores a distinct theme: Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. Last Sunday's theme was Hope. Israelites awaited the Messiah, prophesied to restore harmony. The prophets spoke glowing of what the world will be like when humans return to their God. We look forward to the gifts of the coming saviour joy, peace and love. St Teresa of Avilla gives us a beautiful prayer of hope thus “Hope, O my soul, hope. You know neither the day nor the hour. Watch carefully, for everything passes quickly, even though your impatience makes doubtful what is certain, and turns a very short time into a long one. Dream that the more you struggle, the more you prove the love that you bear your God, and the more you will rejoice one day with your Beloved, in a happiness and rapture that can never end.” The second candle of the Advent wreath, lit on the Second Sunday of Advent, symbolizes Peace, emphasizing Jesus' birth as a harbinger of peace between God and humanity (Luke 2:14). This theme holds profound significance, representing forgiveness, reconciliation, inner tranquillity and social harmony. By reflecting on peace, we're reminded to let go of grudges, mend relationships, cultivate inner calm and advocate for justice. Concrete expressions include hosting peace themed prayer services, writing letters of forgiveness, volunteering for peace-related causes, creating peace-inspired art. Similarly, on Tuesday, there will be confession at All Saints high school Kanata for our young people. Also on Thursday 6pm there will be confession at St Michaels for parishioners. Through peace, we embody Jesus' teachings (Matthew 5:9) and prepare our hearts for the coming Savoir. More still the prayer of St Francis is an outstanding way of letting peace reign in our world let us be part of it. Lord, make us instruments of your peace. Where there is hatred, let us sow love; where there is injury, pardon, where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is sadness, joy; and where there is darkness, light. Grant that we may not seek so much to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, in pardoning that we are pardoned, and in dying that we are born to eternal life. Blessings
Dec 1st, 2024; Advent: A Grace-Filled Period of Preparation As we begin the season of Advent, we are reminded that this is a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ. The word "Advent" comes from the Latin word "adventus," meaning "coming" or "arrival." Traditionally, Advent is a period of prayer, penance, and fasting, as we prepare to celebrate the feast of Christmas. While Advent is often regarded as a joyful season, it is also a time for self-reflection and preparation. The purple color associated with Advent is a reminder of the need for penance and reconciliation. As Pope Francis reminds us, Advent invites us to a commitment to vigilance, looking beyond ourselves, and expanding our minds and hearts to open ourselves up to the needs of others. There are three senses of Advent that we can reflect on during this season. The first is the historical coming of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate at Christmas. The second is the final coming of Jesus as judge at the end of time. The third is the ongoing coming of Jesus in our daily lives, through the Eucharist, the word of God, and our encounters with others. So, how can we prepare for Jesus' coming in these three areas of our lives? As you prepare to give your friends and family gifts think of what you can offer to Jesus. A writer proposed these few ideas. One way is to set aside time for prayer and adoration. Here in our parish, we do adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament every Wednesday from 8am to 9am. The psalmist gives us the awesome blessing received as adorers of Jesus when he said, “In his presence there is fullness of Joy.” Psalm 16:11. We can also look for opportunities to serve others, particularly those in need. Like the elderly and the homeless. Additionally, we can take time to reflect on our relationships with God and our neighbors. Take your time to discern where you have offended God or your family and friends. Seek for forgiveness through the sacrament of reconciliation. As you prepare for Jesus' coming, remember that it's not just about what you do, but also about what He wants to do for you. He wants to give you peace as you adore Him, encounter you in the poor as you serve them, enrich your life with mercy and joy as you confess your sins, and heal your relationships as you forgive others. Slow down and let Jesus give you the gift of a willing heart to follow Him always. Blessings:
Nov. 24, 2024; Jesus Christ: The Authentic King with a Unique Kingdom As the Catholic Church concludes the liturgical year, we celebrate the solemnity of Christ the King. When we hear the word "King," we often think of power, authority, leadership, and influence. However, Jesus' kingship is rooted in a different set of values that challenge our core assumptions about power, authority, and leadership. In 1925, Pope Pius XI instituted this solemnity amidst a world in turmoil. The rise of Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin threatened global peace and relegated religion to the background. Pope Pius XI reminded us that true peace can only be found in the kingdom of Christ. The scriptures foretell the birth of a wise, powerful, and loving ruler (Isaiah). In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills this prophecy, with the angel Gabriel announcing His eternal reign (Luke 1:32-33). Jesus confirms that His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36) and affirms His kingship stating: that all authority in heaven and on earth has been entrusted to Him (Matthew 28:18). In a world where the influence of Jesus is being suppressed, we must rise up and publicly profess our faith in Him. Pope Pius XI reminds us that Christ's faithful and leaders of nations have a mission to fulfill: "The faithful, moreover, by meditating upon these truths, will gain much strength and courage, enabling them to form their lives after the true Christian ideal." Jesus' kingdom is characterized by humble service, love, and a willingness to lay down His life for humanity. The preface for the solemnity of Christ the King defines His kingdom as eternal and universal, where truth, life, holiness, grace, justice, love, and peace reign. As citizens of this kingdom, we are called to embrace a spirit of detachment from riches and earthly things, as well as a spirit of gentleness. We must hunger and thirst for justice, deny ourselves, and carry the cross, following in the footsteps of our Master, Jesus. We need to give Jesus permission to reign in our minds, wills, hearts, and bodies. We are required to allow Him to be at the centre of our lives, guiding our thoughts, actions, and decisions. As we celebrate the solemnity of Christ the King, let us renew our commitment to Him and strive to build a kingdom that is eternal and universal, where truth, life, holiness, grace, justice, love, and peace reign. Blessings.
Nov. 17, 2024; Confiteor (I confess): A biblical walk through the Mass: As we begin the Mass, we recite the Confiteor, a prayer that acknowledges our sinfulness and our need for forgiveness. We say, "I confess to Almighty God and to you my brothers and sisters that I have sinned through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. I ask blessed Mary ever virgin, all you angels and saints and you my brothers and sisters to pray for me to the Lord our God." This prayer sets the tone for our celebration of the Mass, reminding us that we are all sinners in need of God's mercy. Sin is acting contrary to God's will, and our sins alienate us from God and each other. The Confiteor is a rich preparation to encounter God, as seen in instances of surprise encounters with the divine in the Bible, such as the call of Moses (Ex 3:6) and Peter, James, and John at the transfiguration (Mtt 17:6). We take bearing from the advance preparation of Israel before meeting Yahweh, where they were instructed to wash their garments. Likewise, at Mass, we are called to prepare for this holy encounter, which is more profound than that of Israel of old, where God manifested Himself in the clouds. For at mass we encounter the body and blood of Jesus in the Eucharist and also we receive him at communion. This confession was done in a formal public repentance. We see examples of public and personal confession in Nehemiah 9:2 and Psalm 32:5. John the Baptist also emphasized the importance of confession before baptism. Similarly, the Didache a 2nd century Christian text instructs us to confess our faults before receiving the Eucharist. The Confiteor follows the pattern laid down by St. James, which sees sin not simply as private but social in nature, seeking to repair our relationship with God and each other (James 5:16). It outlines four areas we need to guide against to avoid sin: thoughts, words, what we have done, and what we fail to do. Through our thoughts, we sin when we look at someone lustfully or brood anger and plan revenge in our hearts. Through our words, we sin when we gossip, insult, or lie. Also what we have done which hurt others and offend God. Finally “what we have failed to do” refers to good actions that could have benefited others which we knowingly avoided doing. c.f. James 4:17. An example is the sin of the rich young man Matt 19:16-26. Note that he had an A+ in the first three parts of the Confiteor but fail woefully in the fourth because he failed to pursue the highest good which Jesus calls him. Thus the Confiteor is not simply what we avoid but challenges us to live a positive life of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness and patience. Finally, we powerfully acknowledge our sorrow for sins through three ways: we don't simply say "I have sinned" but that "I have greatly sinned," indicating the gravity of our sins. We take responsibility for our actions by saying "through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault," repeating it three times, and striking our chest three times, a strong indication of deep repentance. May this reflection inspire us to seek forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Blessings.