This Sunday, we celebrate the Ascension of the Lord—Jesus’ return to the Father—marking the moment when the Risen Christ moves from the visible world back into the invisible realm of the Spirit. In many ways, this mirrors the circle of life that John O’Donohue, the Irish poet, philosopher and theologian, so beautifully described through the lens of Celtic spirituality. He often spoke of life not as a straight line with a beginning and an end, but as a sacred circle—a rhythm that pulses through birth, growth, love, loss, and renewal. In the Celtic tradition, and in our Catholic faith, we hold that we come from the invisible into the visible at birth, live our lives embodied in this world, and at death, return to the invisible mystery of God. But that return is not an ending—it is a transformation. While we might die to this world our connection is not lost. We believe in the communion of saints, that those who have gone before us remain with us, surrounding us in a great cloud of witnesses. We can feel their presence in a special way at our liturgies, but we can also experience their presence everywhere if we are tuned into them.
This week also marked a personal milestone: the 25th anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood. I am deeply moved by the outpouring of love and kindness so many of you have shared with me. Over the past 25 years—and especially in these last five here at St. Simon—I have been blessed beyond measure. From over 10,000 Masses to 1,000 school liturgies, more than 1,000 First Communions, hundreds of baptisms and weddings, and countless anointings, each has been a precious moment of grace. These sacramental encounters have shaped my soul and deepened my love for God’s people. I hope to continue serving many more years, walking with you in prayer, and drawing each other ever closer to Christ.
In the spirit of Celtic spirituality, I pause in deep gratitude for these years of ministry. Like the widening ripple in a still pond, every act of love and sacrament shared does not end in itself but expands ever outward—love shared is love multiplied. This ever-increasing circle of grace surrounds and enfolds us in God’s own presence. Ministry, like life itself, is not a solitary journey, but a dance of hearts joined in communion. I have found in this community a sacred rhythm of love and generosity, and I cherish the many circles of care, faith, and support that make St. Simon Parish a place of profound belonging. I love this community deeply—for the way it welcomes, heals, and sends forth with joy.
Last Saturday, I had the great joy of witnessing the ordination of a new priest by Bishop Oscar Cantú—Fr. Thanh Ho, the nephew of our very own Fr. Thuc Si Ho. What a grace it was to be present at that moment of holy beginning! I am thrilled to announce that Fr. Thanh will be assigned here to St. Simon as his first appointment. Let us welcome him warmly. At the same time, we will soon be saying farewell to Fr. Chris, who will be heading to St. Mary’s in Los Gatos as he discerns his future—whether to remain in the U.S. or return to Nigeria. We will hold a farewell for him in June to thank him for his joyful ministry among us.
This coming week also marks the last week of school for our 8th graders. Graduation will be celebrated next Saturday morning. Please keep these wonderful young men and women in your prayers, along with our dedicated teachers and staff. What a blessed year it has been to witness their growth in wisdom and character!
As we celebrate Ascension, I’m reminded once more of O’Donohue’s insight: that the rhythm of life is not about holding on, but about letting go into love. The visible and invisible dance together in God’s eternal circle. Let us live this rhythm fully grounded in the grace of today and the hope of eternity.
God Bless,
Fr. Brendan
