This weekend, as we gather for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, we also celebrate Word of God Sunday, a special call by Pope Francis to focus on the importance of Scripture in our lives. Our readings today beautifully emphasize the power of God’s Word to inspire, guide, and unite us.
In the first reading from Nehemiah, the people of Israel gather as Ezra reads from the Book of the Law, and they are deeply moved to tears as they rediscover their covenant with God. In the second reading from 1 Corinthians, St. Paul reminds us that we are one body in Christ, each member uniquely gifted but bound together in unity and love. Finally, in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus proclaims in the synagogue, “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.” His words remind us that God’s promises are alive and active in our world and we are called to bring these words alive in our community today.
This Sunday we are invited to listen to God’s Word with open hearts, to be transformed by its message, and to live it out in our daily lives. As the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, Mariann Budde, powerfully said in her sermon at the post-inauguration morning prayer service on Tuesday, true unity for our nation and our world must be rooted in the Word of God, the common dignity of all people, honesty, and humility. She called for mercy toward all, especially the most vulnerable among us. Her challenge mirrors this Sunday’s call to allow the Scriptures to shape us into a community founded on love, service, and compassion.
In this spirit, let us unite in prayer for our leaders and our nation, asking that they, and we, listen to God’s Word and serve with integrity and care for all, especially those most in need. We must be willing to collaborate in unity to serve when called by God and confront injustice when called to by God. We need to listen to the Word of God in our hearts and together in community serve the Lord.
This weekend also marks the beginning of Catholic Schools Week, a time to celebrate the transformative power of Catholic education. At each Mass, students from our parish school will speak about how their Catholic education has shaped their lives and their families. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear firsthand the impact of our Catholic elementary school on our community.
Our school is a vital part of the fabric of Saint Simon Parish, building community and strengthening our shared faith. As we continue to support the school, we are blessed in turn by the many ways the school supports and enriches our parish. I encourage everyone to join us for the school’s Open House on Sunday morning from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. Bring a friend to Mass and invite them to experience the joy and community of Saint Simon Catholic School!
This weekend, we are also hosting the annual Fr. Murray Basketball Tournament, a beloved tradition that brings together schools and communities for a celebration of sportsmanship, competition, and camaraderie. As you read this, teams are playing in the gym ad tomorrow we will have the final games of this exciting event. We warmly encourage you to come and watch the games and perhaps enjoy lunch or dinner at Snack Shack – the food is delicious!
The gift of sports has a unique way of uniting people, fostering teamwork, and creating lasting friendships. The Fr. Murray Tournament is a wonderful expression of the spirit of competition and cooperation, reminding us of the joy and connection we find in coming together as a community.
I also want to thank our Filipino community for their vibrant and generous presence in our parish at last Sunday’s celebration at the 11:15 am Mass, with the Santo Niño festivities. It was a beautiful reminder of the rich cultural and spiritual gifts our Filipino brothers and sisters bring to Saint Simon. Their joyful spirit, hospitality, and deep faith enrich us all.
I am particularly moved by the charism of the Filipino community in their care for others, especially in the healthcare industry. Many of you work tirelessly as nurses, doctors, and caregivers, embodying Christ’s love in your service to the sick and frail. Thank you for showing us what it means to love and serve others in their most vulnerable moments. I know you work in many industries but my experience of your compassion and care is within healthcare and education—thank you for sharing your gifts with us.
Finally, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended our recent Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on Saturday and to those who could not attend but continue to give so generously of their time and talents. Your dedication to serving our parish unites us in the mission of the Gospel and makes Saint Simon a true family of faith.
May we all be renewed this Word of God Sunday to listen deeply to Scripture and live it out in love and service to one another.
God Bless,
Fr. Brendan