In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges the disciples’ assumptions about greatness, turning their ideas upside down by teaching that the first must be the last and the servant of all (Mark 9:30-37). At first glance, the disciples’ reaction seems almost automatic, driven by their desire for prestige and status. This instinctual response—seeking power and recognition—is part of how our brains naturally operate. But Jesus offers a different path, one that invites us to go beyond our initial reactions.
This call to balance our natural responses is echoed in modern psychology, as discussed in Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke. Duke refers to two types of thinking: System 1 and System 2. System 1 is fast, instinctual, and emotional—much like the disciples’ immediate desire for greatness. It helps us make quick decisions but can be flawed because it relies on biases and assumptions. System 2, on the other hand, is slower, more deliberate, and analytical. It requires effort and reflection, and it’s what allows us to step back, evaluate, and make wiser decisions.
In our daily lives, we often find ourselves operating in System 1 mode—reacting quickly to situations, relying on habits and gut feelings. But the Gospel challenges us to engage System 2 thinking, especially in matters of faith and discipleship. When we slow down, reflect, and open ourselves to God’s guidance, we begin to align more closely with Christ’s example of humility and service.
Yet, as Annie Duke points out, we can’t entirely change the way our brains operate. We need both systems: the quick instincts that keep us moving and the deeper reflection that guides us toward wisdom. The good news is that we’re not left to navigate this balance alone. The Holy Spirit is our guide, offering the grace we need to discern wisely and follow Jesus’ call to be “servant of all.”
As we reflect on today’s Gospel, let’s acknowledge our natural tendencies to seek greatness and make snap decisions. But let’s also invite the Holy Spirit into our hearts, asking for the wisdom and humility to pause, reflect, and serve others. In doing so, we open ourselves to the path of true discipleship, where greatness is found not in power, but in service.
Speaking of service, I want to take a moment to express our deep gratitude to everyone who participated in last weekend’s Stewardship Ministry Fair. In a special way, I want to thank Rachel Haydon, Clare D’Agostino, Donna Mohammadi , Joan Mibach and so many others who organized and volunteered to make this event such a success. Your presence, commitment, and enthusiasm are a true reflection of our parish’s dedication to serving one another.
Stewardship is a vital part of our Christian journey, reminding us that we are all called to contribute something—whether it’s our time, talents, or treasure—for the greater good of all. If you haven’t yet, we encourage you to consider signing up for a ministry. By offering our gifts in service to others, we not only grow closer to one another but also answer Christ’s call to be His hands and feet in the world. The link to our sign-up form is here.
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new Youth Ministry Program for the coming year, and we’re excited to reintroduce the Life Teen program! We had a great launch with our opening BBQ. Having personally experienced the power of this Life Teen program, I can attest to the impact it has on deepening faith and creating a vibrant, welcoming community for our youth. This year, we aim to engage youth across all age groups, helping them grow in their relationship with Christ.
For our junior high students, we’re offering Edge, a dynamic program designed to engage middle schoolers with interactive, fun, and faith-filled activities that address their unique questions and challenges. For our high school students, Life Teen will continue to inspire and empower teens to live their Catholic faith boldly. We encourage you to invite any youth you know to join us in these programs, and together, let’s help form the next generation of disciples.
A few weeks ago, I introduced to you a prayer of silent reflection about being still with God. It was very well received by many. It is a constant struggle for many of us to slow down and be still with God. There is something profound of this prayer as it slows me down and enables me to see and hear as God hears. I love to pray it outside in nature or pray it inside at my prayer desk. It does not matter where but only matters that I put myself before the Lord.
Over the next year, we will return to this theme and ask you to join us on this journey. For now, I ask you to mark your calendar for our second Annual St. Simon Parish Retreat on Friday and Saturday, October 25-26, 2024. It is called “Seeds of Contemplation: Be Still and Know that I am God” and we will practice several different ways to pray and learn to be still in our chaotic world. We will learn how to cultivate the garden of our lives and plant the seeds of contemplation.
As we did last year, we will be providing dinner on Friday evening, followed by breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturday. I’m thrilled to announce that we’ll be joined by nationally renowned Catholic musician and composer Trevor Thomson, whose songs we sing each week. Meredith Augustin, our Music & Liturgy consultant, will also be with us for the weekend. I’ll be leading the teaching sessions, while they will guide us through music and prayer, making it a truly special experience.
Our entire campus will once again transform into a retreat center, offering numerous spaces for prayer and reflection throughout the weekend. It’s going to be an incredible retreat—so mark your calendars for October 25-26, 2024, and invite your friends to join us! You can register here.
God bless
Fr. Brendan