Stewards of the Mystery

The world is busy. We hear it all the time. We are distracted, worn out, and distressed. People are critical of others and even of the Church. Sometimes it isn’t progressive enough; sometimes it is too progressive. We get caught up in what is happening around us, what has been done to us, and what…

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The Eucharist

So Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave the bread from heaven; my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” So they said to him, “Sir, give…

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The Restoration of the Kingdom

Stained glass Jesus surrounded by children

Today’s readings fill me with a spirit of joy, promise, peace, and restoration. They remind us of the need to pause and integrate what salvation actually means, for me, for us, for this world now. Jesus came and has restored His Kingdom and given us the gift of Faith to be a part of it.…

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O Come Holy Spirit, Fill the Hearts of the Faithful

Mosaic of Virgin Mary and apostles under dove

Today’s readings bring to mind a recent workshop at my parish that I attended on the charisms of the Holy Spirit. We reflected on how God has given each of us unique gifts, along with ways to discern which charisms are especially ours. One insight that stayed with me is this: our particular charisms bring…

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Choosing Charity and Communion in a Divided World

Stained glass scene of crowned figures

In today’s readings we hear clear words of people ganging up to try to get Jeremiah. It is awfully reminiscent of how the Pharisees ganged up on Jesus, do you not think? “Let us destroy him by our tongue. Let us carefully note every word.” Is this not what happened to Jesus? They tried to…

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Forgiveness and the Path to Freedom

Crucifix above altar during church service

The readings for today provoke us to reflect on forgiveness. Have I forgiven those who have harmed me? Have I asked forgiveness of those I have harmed? Yet more importantly, lost at times in our focus on woundedness and hurt is a deeper truth: Forgiveness is the place where we find freedom. Freedom is what…

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Unity in Christ

Stained-glass Magi traveling to Bethlehem under star

“Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.” Today is a day of rejoicing in unity with one another throughout the world. Since Christmas we have been with the Christ Child with our families in our homes and local communities. Today we get to experience an even deeper joy as we are united with our…

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The House That Will Last Forever

Advent wreath with lit purple and pink candles

O LORD, grant salvation! O LORD, grant prosperity! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD; We bless you from the house of the LORD. The LORD is God, and he has given us light.. The Alleluia refrain today gives the best synopsis of the readings and what they place on our…

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