Two years ago, we took a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and on our visit to Galilee we stayed at a hotel run by a religious order at Magdala. They were excavating the temple area at the time, at the site which they believed was the home of Jairus. This is the scene depicted in this Sunday’s Gospel, which highlights two remarkable acts of faith and humility. The stories of Jairus and the woman with a hemorrhage teach us valuable lessons about trusting in God’s healing power and the courage to seek His grace.
In the first part of the Gospel, we meet Jairus, a synagogue leader whose daughter is gravely ill. Despite his position and status, Jairus humbles himself before Jesus, falling at His feet and earnestly pleading for his daughter’s life. His faith is unwavering, and he believes that just a touch from Jesus can restore her health.
Meanwhile, amidst the crowd following Jesus, there is a woman who has suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years. Her condition has left her isolated and destitute. Yet, her faith drives her to approach Jesus, believing that even touching His cloak will heal her. Her humility and determination are rewarded as Jesus acknowledges her act of faith, and she is instantly cured. This is depicted in an amazing piece of art showing only the feet of Jesus. It is an amazing scene and adorns the entire back of the altar in the chapel at Magdala. See the photos attached. They are stunning.
Both Jairus and the woman demonstrate that true faith often requires humility and the courage to seek Jesus, no matter our circumstances. We do not even see the face of the woman with the hemorrhage but only her action of touching his garment. But these stories remind us that Jesus is always ready to respond to our needs, bringing healing and hope; all we have to do is go to him and reach out to him. We can do that every day in our own lives, and we can do it with others. We reach out to touch others and enable them to be healed by bringing the message of Christ.
I witnessed that this week with the over 50 youth volunteers who gave their time and energy at the Vacation Bible School (VBS) along with the CORE Team and their leaders, Karen Moreira and Kalena Moreira. Their dedication and hard work made this year’s VBS a joyous and enriching experience for all the children. Through their efforts, the kids not only had fun but also deepened their understanding of God’s love and the teachings of our faith. I saw over and over again how these young leaders cared for and loved the little children. Beautiful!
We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and love the VBS leaders, the CORE team, and adult volunteers have poured into this program. Their commitment to nurturing the faith of our youngest members is truly inspiring. Thank you to adult volunteers: Laura Ruelas, Angela Schaufler, & Elle LaRussa for fueling the campers, Deanne Bligh for photography and donating all the printed photos for the frames, Tori Reynaga for coordinating decor & decorating, and to Erika & Ryan for games support.
Next week, over 60 parishioners from throughout the diocese (25 parishioners from St. Simon) will travel to Tijuana, Mexico where we will build homes and serve those in need. This mission is a profound opportunity to put our faith into action by reaching out to others and touching them by offering our time, skills, and compassion to improve their lives. Let us pray for the success of this mission and for the safety and well-being of all participants. May our efforts bring hope to our brothers and sisters in Christ and demonstrate the love of God to all we serve.
Finally, on Monday, July 1st, we welcome our new parochial vicar, Fr. Dat Luong. While we all miss Fr. Thuc and grieve that loss, now we turn to welcome Fr. Dat. I will introduce him at all Masses next weekend and he will celebrate Daily Mass starting on Monday. I ask everyone to make every effort to welcome him and shake his hand at next weekend’s Mass. It is important we all show him what a wonderful community we are here. He is energetic and eager to be here and we are very excited to have him join our staff.
Let us all strive to emulate the faith and humility of Jairus and the woman with the hemorrhage and continue to support one another in our journey of faith.
God bless,
Fr. Brendan