As we gather on this First Sunday of Advent, we enter a season of profound anticipation and hope. Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year, inviting us into a period of active waiting for the arrival of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This waiting is not passive or resigned but filled with purpose…
As we gather this weekend to celebrate Christ the King Sunday, we find ourselves amidst the joyous atmosphere of Thanksgiving. In the spirit of this special occasion, may we reflect on the importance of valuing and cherishing the incredible gifts that surround us—our families, friends, the precious gift of faith, and the often-overlooked gift of…
As we gather together this Thanksgiving, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the countless blessings bestowed upon us by our loving and merciful God. We are reminded to cultivate a spirit of gratitude not only for the bountiful harvest on our tables but also for the abundant love, grace, and companionship that surround us…
It is hard to believe that it is already Thanksgiving time of year but here we are again! It seems that it came around faster this year and maybe that it is true this year as the date is a little earlier than usual. I love this season of gratitude and the change of seasons…
I love this time of year as fall arrives and the days get shorter and become cooler, and the nights become longer and colder. The darkness brings its own rewards and the earth starts the process of renewal for another growing season in the spring. At the same time the liturgical year comes to an…
Last weekend, we had over 250 people join us for our first annual St. Simon Parish Retreat, “Rekindle Your Spirit.” It was a wonderful weekend of energizing music, enriching sessions, and nourishing spaces for prayer throughout the campus. We were joined by Catholic composers and musicians, Francesca LaRosa, and Meredith Augustin. While we have not…
In Sunday’s gospel we hear the Jewish leaders, the Pharisees, and Sadducees, who are trying yet again to catch Jesus at something to prosecute him. While their question, “What is the greatest command?” was meant to be a trick question, Jesus answered the way any good Jew would have answered. It is called Shema law,…
Over 20 years ago when I was first ordained my brother Paul took early retirement and moved his family to Sacramento. I promised him I would visit often, and I did. I went once a week for a few months but then I became too busy, and I reduced my visits to twice a month,…
My heart is heavy as I write this. What a terrible week of news to hear and read! The Hamas horrific attack on Israel has unnerved us all. It was traumatizing to watch the evening news each day and to see the slaughter of innocent children and women. It is so hard to understand why…
As I continue to read this latest book “Learning How to See” by Brian McLaren, I am shocked about how it resonates with me and hits a nerve so readily. As I mentioned in last weekend’s homily (that I only published via email and podcast as I was not here in person—link here), McLaren lists…