In the Gospel this Sunday, we hear Jesus’ powerful Sermon on the Plain, where He proclaims four blessings—blessed are the poor, the hungry, those who weep, and those who are hated for His sake. These words challenge us because they turn the world’s values upside down. In a culture that often seeks comfort and security, Jesus reminds us that suffering is not meaningless. Instead, it is a path where we can encounter God’s grace in unexpected ways.
The Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, in The Book of Joy, explore the paradox of suffering, reflecting that while suffering is inevitable, it does not have to be the end of the story. In their chapter on suffering, they remind us that true joy is not found in avoiding pain but in allowing it to transform us. Suffering, when embraced with faith, can open us to a deeper experience of God’s presence. This echoes the wisdom of our Christian tradition: through suffering, we come to know the Lord more intimately. Jesus Himself chose the cross, not to glorify suffering but to redeem it. In our own struggles—whether personal losses, illness, or the turmoil in our world—we can discover that suffering, when united with Christ, can become a place of grace.
Pope Francis has declared 2025 a Jubilee Year of Hope, a timely reminder that even in the face of immense suffering in our world, we are not abandoned—Jesus always accompanies us and most especially in our times of suffering. The cross stands at the center of our faith, not as a symbol of defeat, but as a sign of ultimate hope. As we look ahead to this Jubilee, we are called to be people of hope, witnessing to God’s love in a world that is weary and in need of healing.
To deepen this journey, we invite you to our Annual Lenten Mission Retreat, “Living the Hope of the Cross,” led by author and speaker Julianne Stanz, on March 15, 16, and 17. Julianne, author of Braving the Thin Places, will guide us in seeing how suffering can be one of those “thin places” where heaven and earth meet—where, even in our deepest struggles, grace abounds. This retreat will be a time to reflect, pray, and discover how the hope of the cross can sustain us through life’s difficulties.
Pilgrimage to Ireland, September 15 – 26, 2025
I am excited to announce a very special pilgrimage this year as I travel to Ireland from September 15th to 26th and celebrate the 25th anniversary of my ordination! More information is on the Nativity Travel Pilgrimage website and the link to register for this incredible trip is here.
A Heartfelt Thank You!
I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who made our parish auction last weekend such a wonderful success. It was truly a special evening, made possible by the hard work and dedication of so many. A special thank you to our incredible co-chairs, Kelly, Jelena, and Marie, whose leadership and tireless efforts, along with a large team of volunteers, created a beautiful and memorable night for our parish community. Thank you to all who served on the auction committee, our generous donors, those who helped decorate, set up and clean up, and of course, everyone who attended and participated. Your support and generosity are a blessing to our parish, and I am so grateful for each and every one of you!
Mark your calendars and join us as we prepare our hearts for Lent, walking together in the hope Christ offers us through His cross!
God bless,
Fr. Brendan
