I am deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and injury caused by the military attack on the Holy Family Catholic Church in #Gaza. I assure the parish community of my spiritual closeness. I commend the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, and pray for

We celebrate today St. Camillus, patron of the sick and nurses. In his honor, pray specifically for those who assist with your medical care and ask the Lord to keep them as instruments of his healing love. Also, take time today to call or visit someone you know who is suffering.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever” (Psalm 136). When we express contrition and the desire to begin anew, no sin is greater than God’s mercy. Maybe the Lord is inviting you to celebrate this precious gift today in the Sacrament of Penance.

Like Martha we are often “anxious and worried about many things.” So, we must imitate Mary who knew the importance of simply “being” and sitting at the feet of Jesus. Try to find a few moments to be still and quiet with the Lord today. It will relieve anxiety and bring serenity.

We can often go through a day without noticing the countless signs of God’s presence in our midst nor listening to his voice speaking to our hearts. Let’s slow down today mindful of the words of Jesus: “Blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.”

Mary Magdalene recognized our Risen Lord when he called her name. Jesus also knows us by name and accompanies us at every moment of our lives. He is calling us to an intimate friendship with him. So in your prayer, speak with him as One who loves and knows you by name.

St. Bridget of Sweden: “The source of justice is not vengeance but charity.” With God’s grace, may we do our part to bring charity into our homes, workplaces, and communities by the kind way we treat others and the respectful manner in which we speak to them.

Many enjoy the beach in the summer and find refreshment. Jesus also calls us to go to the “desert” each day and in every season. In Scripture, the “desert” is a reference to a place of solitude and time alone with Lord. There is no better place for refreshment and renewal!

St. James learned from Jesus the true meaning of greatness. It is not found in worldly honors or titles but rather in our daily commitments to follow Jesus no matter the cost; to share in his sufferings and “to serve and not to be served.” Have a “great” day.

Today we honor Saints Joachim and Anne, the parents of Mary and grandparents of Jesus. What a perfect day for us to pray for our parents and grandparents, living and deceased, and to thank God for them. With his grace, may we live as members of his holy family.

In teaching us the Our Father, Jesus assures us there is no such thing as an unanswered prayer. The answer may not be what we desire nor expect. Yet, it is always a response from a loving God who knows best how and when to help us. So, never stop “asking, seeking, and knocking.”

Jesus uses the image of a mustard seed (the tiniest of seeds) to teach us that the smallest acts of faith and charity will, with God’s grace, multiply in ways we cannot imagine. With that faith and confidence, there is nothing “too small” or insignificant you will do today.

Jesus honored St. Martha by coming to her home as a guest. He also knocks at our door seeking to enter our home. Maybe we are too busy and distracted that we don’t even hear his knock? Try to “slow down” today and focus on what truly matters and welcome the Lord as your guest.

The way we spend our time and energy reflects what we are searching for in life. Often it may be worldly comforts, wealth, and popularity. Yet, they quickly fade. If, however, our focus is on Christ and the joy and serenity he offers, we have found the “pearl of great price.”

May we imitate the generosity and trust of St. Ignatius of Loyola: “You have given all to me. To you Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace. That is enough for me.”

The announcement that Pope Leo XIV will declare Saint John Henry Newman a Doctor of the Church is truly joyful news. St. John Henry Newman’s courageous pursuit of truth led him to enter the Catholic Church and helped deepen the Church’s understanding of how doctrine develops

The wisdom of St. Alphonsus Liguori helps us not to worry: “The past is no longer yours; the future is not yet in your power. You have only the present wherein to do good.” Let go of the need to fix the past and control the future and live this new day as God’s precious gift.

When you face ridicule or encounter rejection for following Christ and his Gospel, remember his promise: “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.” Stay strong and never be afraid to live proudly the faith you profess.

The most precious possessions are not the “things” of this world. Thus, Jesus instructs us “to grow rich in what matters to God.” Spend this day renewing your love for the Lord; helping those in need; and conveying to those you love how much you “treasure” them.

On the Memorial of St. John Vianney, patron of parish priests, pause and pray by name for the priests - living and deceased- who have served and inspired you throughout the years. May they be faithful to what St. John Vianney says is our glorious duty: “to pray and to love.”