February, 21, 2021
The first readings for the Sundays of Lent present various covenants. This Sunday our focus is on Abraham and the Covenant of Faith. Although we use the term “faith” in many ways, the most important use is our complete trust in God. This is the faith that Abraham had in God. He was told by God to sacrifice his son Isaac, yet he was also told that he would be the father of many nations. Logically, how could this happen? This Divine request was incomprehensible and an abomination because human sacrifice was not permitted.

This episode was truly a test of Abraham’s faith. Abraham’s decision to sacrifice his son, Isaac, prefigured the Father’s decision to sacrifice the Son, Jesus. Abraham trusted in God, and God made with him the covenant of faith. Abraham is the prototype of all believers.

Lent is the perfect time to realize that God takes care of you. The very fact that we were called into existence is no mistake. Yes, challenges appear insurmountable at times, when faith appears weak. It is then that we read a little further in today’s Gospel and repeat what the man says in Mark 9:24: “I do believe Lord. Help those parts of me that don’t believe.” And we trust in God to form with us, as He did with Abraham, a covenant of faith.

The Church recommends three basis disciplines during Lent. One of them is Fasting and another is Prayer.

Prayer is the communication we have between God and ourselves. Jesus, Himself, was a man of constant prayer. He meditated in the early hours of the morning, attended synagogue worship and fulfilled the prayerful gestures in the Temple.

We have the opportunity, with the pandemic restricting our social time, to pray more privately at home and elsewhere; instead of wasting time on less important things. Mass is the perfect prayer and attending daily Mass is rewarding. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place on Fridays after the 8:00 Mass to 10:00 a.m. Stations of the Cross on Fridays at 7 p.m. is also a strong prayerful way to join the Lord in His Passion. Devotional prayers, like the rosary, are disciplines that place us before the Lord. Private meditation on Sacred Scripture and spiritual readings are also highly recommended forms of prayer.

Pray, Pray, Pray... it is the exact way to keep the Covenant of love alive and vibrant between God and ourselves. More at SJBDE.org/Lent.

February, 21, 2021

This first Sunday of Lent, we hear of the Covenant God made with the people at the time of Noah, the Covenant of the Rainbow.  Next Sunday, we will hear about the Covenant of Faith between God and Abraham.  Then we will come upon the Covenant of the Law made with Moses.  They all lead to the Eternal Covenant of the Paschal Mystery that we celebrate at Easter.

This week’s focus is on a beautiful rainbow.  We all enjoy the spectacular sign in the sky and it makes us feel good.  A rainbow forecasts better weather.  God sealed His covenant with the human race with this beautiful gesture; assuring the human race that God sees the good in the world.  He will not give up on humankind in general or as individuals.

The word Lent is derived from a Teutonic word meaning Spring.  Lent is the time for a new beginning.  The rainbow is here and God’s love is pursuing us once again.  May we have the determination to begin again.  May we have the courage to allow God’s love to overtake us.

Lent is the perfect time to spring clean the soul for the approaching feast of Easter.  The Church has recommended three basis disciplines during Lent.  One of them is Fasting which is different than abstaining.  Fasting is the reduction of one's intake of food, while Abstaining normally refers to refraining from meat (or another type of food or enjoyment).  For Catholics, fasting on simple, less filling meals is obligatory on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday for those eighteen years old and not yet fifty-nine years old.  Abstaining from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and the Fridays of Lent are obligatory. 

Additional forms of abstinence are highly recommended, at this time, like less T.V. or computer for more scripture or spiritual reading.  Less foods that are enjoyable for acts of charity to others.  Less conversing, texting and more prayer with God are another form of abstinence.  These penitential practices are meant to empty ourselves of needless desires and create more room for virtue.

Offertory Envelopes....there has been a delay in parishioners receiving offertory envelopes these past weeks.  The problem is in the bulk mailing and recent delays in the postal system. Kindly put your contribution in an envelope with your name, address and envelope number when making your contribution to the parish.  This will suffice until you receive the envelopes.  Sorry for the inconvenience.  I just received a Christmas card on February 3rd...   Fr. Joe

February 14, 2021

Our readings, this Sunday, relate to healing. The Old Testament reading gives just a few of the horrible rules established by the Mosaic community to protect itself from leprosy. Lepers were ostracized by their families and community and considered “unclean.” Jesus stretched out his hand and touched the leper and said, “Be made clean.” Thus, the poor leper was healed physically and allowed back into the community.

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 17, 2021. Masses on Ash Wednesday are 8 and 9:30 a.m., 12:10 Noon and 6:30 p.m. This year, we approach Lent with extra caution because the pandemic is still underway and the new strain of Covid 19 is potentially worse. Following the recommendation of the Holy Father and our Diocese, we will simply “sprinkle” ashes on the top of the heads of the penitents, as they are dismissing Mass that day.

Ashes symbolize mourning, mortality, and penance ever since the Old Testament. In the Book of Esther 4:1, or Job 42:6, we hear of people who repented in sackcloth and ashes. Jonah’s preaching of conversion awakened the king to conversion who covered himself with sackcloth and sat in the ashes (Jonah 3:5-6). These examples give evidence of the common understanding of ashes and their symbolism. Jesus Himself also made reference to ashes in Matthew 11:21: Referring to towns that refused to repent of sin Our Lord said, “If the miracles worked in you had taken place in Tyre and Sidon, they would have reformed in sackcloth and ashes long ago”.

Eventually, the Church adapted this penitential rite to mark the beginning of Lent. In our present liturgy for Ash Wednesday, we use ashes made from the burned palm branches distributed on Palm Sunday of the previous year. The ashes are blessed and imposed on the faithful. It has been the custom in our culture to have them placed on the forehead making the sign of the cross. In other cultures, including Rome, the custom is to sprinkle ashes on the head of the penitent as was done in ancient times. When we begin the holy season of Lent, in preparation for Easter, we must remember the significance of the ashes we have received: We mourn and do penance for our sins. We again convert our hearts to the Lord.

Ash Wednesday is a day of abstinence from meat and also a day of fast, that is, limited to a single full meal. All Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence from meat. All those who are fourteen years old are bound to the law of abstinence. The law of fast binds all who are eighteen years old and not yet fifty-nine years old.

Weekday Masses during Lent:
Monday thru Saturday at 8:00 a.m.

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament:
Fridays after the 8 a.m. Mass to 10:00 a.m.

Reconciliation / Confessions during Lent:
Fridays of Lent 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Tuesday, March 23 Confessions only, 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Saturday afternoon 4 to 4:45 p.m.

More at SJBDE.org/Lent

February 7, 2021

“Life is not fair!” is a cry that everyone makes sooner or later. It is a hard lesson to learn but eventually we all have to learn it. There doesn’t seem to be a pattern in life to follow or some magical formula that prevents bad things from happening to anyone... even “good” people. Senseless accidents that mar or take innocent lives; diseases that cripple individuals and families; economic tensions that push people over the edge and psychological pressures that cause people to unwind are some of the more serious unfairness we know happening in life. The recent pandemic has heightened an awareness of these realities. Scores of people are suffering.

Our readings, this Sunday, show us that from ancient times the question is: “Why do people suffer?” Our firstreading, from Job, gives us the breakdown of this man. He lost family, property and even his friends in that order. It was when suffering touched his body that Job cried and almost despaired.

Jesus knows that sickness and suffering are not part of the Father’s plan but are the consequences of the Genesis story where human nature pushed God aside in favor of having their own way. Left on its own, that which was intended to be good in creation was tainted by inclinations that were other than Godly and sadness, sickness, decay entered our existence. Yes, the innocent suffer from humanity’s guilt. Jesus’ hand went out to Peter’s mother-in-law who was lying sick and grasped her hand and helped her up. And immediately her fever left her. Christ’s heart continues to go out to all who need to be uplifted and healed. He is the Merciful One who shows us God’s compassion when we are really down and cry out: “Life is not fair.”

Thursday, February 11 is the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes and World Day of the Sick. Through Our Blessed Mother’s intercession let us uplift our sick to the healing hands of the Lord. During these past several months, the medical field has done a remarkable task in being the healing hands of God. We appreciate ALL that the men and women in the health field have done and continue to do for us under stressful and dangerous conditions. May Our Lord protect you and shower His healing graces to and through you. Thank You for your ministry!

Since the pandemic is still under way and in some cases rising, we will approach Lent with extra caution. The Holy Father asks us to be extra cautious with the Distribution of Ashes on Ash Wednesday, February 17. Following his recommendation, we will simply “Sprinkle” ashes on the top of the heads of the penitents, as they are dismissing Mass that day. This has been the custom since ancient times and is normal procedure in many countries throughout the world.
 

January 31, 2021

In today’s Gospel, Jesus joins in public worship in the synagogue as a practicing Jew. There, people immediately noticed that Jesus teaches with authority. When a man, possessed by an evil spirit enters the scene, the evil spirit recognizes and loudly declares Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus commands the evil spirit to come out of the man and it departs, obedient to His Divine authority.

It is a touching Gospel of the authority of Jesus. He did not use His Divine power to rule and control people, but to set them free. We need to approach Jesus for liberation and to approach Him with trusting faith so that He may free us from

A common feeling, among many, is the belief that God is a controlling Being who suppresses the individual’s freedom for what he/she desires. Of course, this is so often the reason why people abandon religion or their faith. The opposite is true. God does not force us to do anything but gives us the free will to choose good or evil.

Since God is the author of everything, God alone establishes what is good or evil. Jesus came to us to teach us what God’s plan is and what will most benefit us. We need to use our God’s authority to free us from all the “evil spirits” in our lives... hate, fear, jealousy, anger, envy, lust, addictions, compulsions, selfishness, resentment, hostility, etc.

May God free us from any false impression that Our Lord intends to control us or that His Church is designed to keep anyone down. His supreme authority desires to teach and heal us; to allow us to be the true person we know we should be.

Since the pandemic is still under way and in some cases rising, we will approach the next weeks with extra caution. The Blessing of Throats on Wednesday, February 3rd, will be a General Blessing, not individual, at the conclusion of the 8:00 a.m. Mass. This will prevent the contact of the blessed candles with the numbers of individuals.

Also, the Holy Father asks us to be extra cautious with the Distribution of Ashes on Ash Wednesday, February 17. Following his recommendation, we will simply “Sprinkle” ashes on the top of the heads of the penitents, as they are dismissing Mass that day. This has been the custom since ancient times and is normal procedure in many countries throughout the world.
 

January 24

All three of Sunday’s readings present an urgent call. Jonah first flees from his vocation but eventually follows God’s orders to tell the people of Ninevah to repent for their sins. St. Paul has the difficult task to tell the obstinate people of Corinth to embrace the Gospel because time is running out. Jesus begins His mission by proclaiming “the time of fulfillment is at hand. Repent and believe”. He then calls His first disciples.

A career is a job that you currently have, but a vocation is something that you are. The call of Faith, our vocation as Christians, identifies us for who we are. This call is one’s very fiber and must be addressed without delay, just as the call to

faith was urgent for the first disciples, for the people of Corinth, and for the people of Ninevah. People who are determined to live the truth of whom they are, people who are determined to live vocationally, are the most dynamic force in history. Their lives don’t just become history; they become His Story, the story of God at work in the world. And that is what Catholicism is about. We want to change the world into God’s world. We are willing to do what we need to do to be who we have been called to be.

Flowers at the Holy Family Shrine are in memory of Victoria & Joseph Piekarski

It is with saddened hearts that we share the loss of Pauline Anna Berlingieri, who passed away on January 11, 2021. Pauline has touched the lives of numerous parishioners at St. John the Beloved Parish organizations and eventually became the Parish Director of Religious Education, where, where she volunteered in various parish together with her team of selfless volunteers, she touched thousands of children’s lives through her administration of St. John’s CCD and sacramental programs, Vacation Bible School, and countless other religious formation programs.

Additionally, her devotion to the parish included being Eucharistic Minister as well as the parish wedding coordinator and serving in the seasonal decorating of the church. She truly dedicated her time, talent, and treasure in service to others.

Mrs. Berlingieri retired after 30 years of sharing the faith. Sympathy is extended to Pauline's husband, Dominic, and her daughter and son-in-law, Dina and Shawn Riley, and granddaughter Gianna. May she rest in peace.
 

January 17

The Lamb that Broke the Fall

Visiting a church in Werden Germany, a tourist noticed the carved figure of a lamb near the top of the church’s tower. He asked why it was there and was told that when the church was being built, a safety rope had broken and a workman had fallen from a great height and plummeted into the church yard below. His co-workers had rushed down, expecting to find him dead. But miraculously the man was alive and slightly injured. How had he survived the fall unscathed? Well a flock of sheep was passing beneath the tower at that time, and he landed on top of a lamb which broke his fall and undoubtedly saved his life. However in the process, the lamb itself died. In gratitude for the lambs sacrifice and his own deliverance, the workman carved a lamb on the church.

In the same way, we are like the workman plunging toward eternity with nothing to break our fall into sin and death, but God’s grace intervened and a perfect Lamb was sent to save us. John the Baptist gave testimony of Jesus when he pointed to the Lord and declared: “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” His audience was familiar with the animal sacrifices as prescribed for the atonement of sin in the Hebrew Testament. They understood the implications of John’s declaration. In order for a lamb to take away sin, it must die in the place of the transgressor. In this way Jesus was sent to us, the Lamb of God, to save us.


No wonder just before Communion, we call upon Jesus under the gentle, innocent and submissive title ... Lamb of God. That workman in Werden, carved a grateful memorial to the Lamb that unwittingly saved his life. How much more grateful we should be as we offer our Sunday Mass, the living memorial to the Lamb who willingly and lovingly gave His all for you and me.

January 10

Today, we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord; the closing of the Christmas Season. It is the feast of the Second Epiphany. Last week we celebrated the first Epiphany, the Arrival of the Magi. The third Epiphany is the Wedding of Cana. All three episodes in the Gospel point to Jesus being God. Epiphany is a manifestation of Jesus being the Christ, of Divine Being.

The Arrival of the Three Magi initiates this revelation when people from around the world realize that the light from heaven has shown upon earth; they seek and find in Jesus the Divine presence foretold in scripture. At the Baptism of the Lord, a voice from heaven points to Jesus saying “You are My Beloved Son. On You My favor rests.” At the Wedding of Cana, Jesus reveals His divinity by changing water into wine. Thus, we are enlightened with grace to acknowledge Jesus Christ as God among us.

Jesus entered humanity fully in the waters of the Jordan. Sinless, He makes the waters holy and unites Himself with us. We, who are baptized, are purified by the waters that Christ makes holy. We enter the realm of divinity and become One with Christ. This is the beginning of our journey as Disciples of Christ; a lifelong process that promises resurrection in Christ after our earthly journey is complete.

The Christmas decorations will be taken down this coming week.

 

January 3, 2021

In the early Church, what we know as Christmas was not celebrated. Easter was, and still is, the pivotal celebration of the Liturgical Year. Before, the traditional date of December 25th was designated by the Pope as the Nativity of the Lord, the Eastern Church had the custom of the Arrival of the Magi and popularized the tradition of Christ’s Incarnation. The Western Church meshed this beautiful tradition into what we now celebrate as the Christmas Season.

Many cultures, to this day, regard the Epiphany as “Little Christmas” by exchanging gifts on January 6th. Matthew’s Gospel states that three gifts were given to Jesus by the Magi...Gold, symbolizing Christ’s Kingly status; Frankincense, symbolic of his Priestly dignity; and Myrrh, foretelling his suffering and

Talking about gifts, I want to take this opportunity to extend my appreciation to you, as a parish, who are a gift to St. John the Beloved Parish. During the holidays, in the midst of a pandemic, you met the challenges of our Outreach Programs with contributions, food, supplies, gifts, energy. Many families were gifted this Christmas through your generosity. Thank You. To those who volunteered in this capacity...may you be richly rewarded.

Preparing for the holidays, these present inordinate days require much more dedication and effort on the part of our limited parish staff. Planning, scheduling and serving required dedication and we had it. Our environmental volunteers did a fantastic job again. Whatever you contributed in time, talent and treasure publicly or quietly...Thank You. God sees everything and knows the goodness you radiate. For the contributions you make to our parish, now and throughout the year, we are appreciative always. God reward you in His limitless benevolence. From all of us to all of you... Thank You for being the gift you are to us.
 

December 27, 2020

At the end of 2020 we can only hope and pray that the New Year will unfold with remedies to end the pandemic and get ourselves back into a somewhat normal routine. These past nine months have been a struggle, complicated and unpredictable. With a vaccine now available, we anxiously await a positive relief.



We celebrate the Holy Family this weekend. It is a good time to reflect on this family nucleus as we recall our recent challenges. Saint Joseph was a working man who was devoted to God and opened himself to carrying out God’s plan for salvation in an unfamiliar turn of events. He must have truly been a man of faith and loved Mary and her Child because he carried out his duties throughout impossible and dangerous episodes.



The Blessed Virgin questioned the possibilities of what God asked of her, but she courageously took on the massive responsibilities at the threshold of her life. The Angel Gabriel acclaimed her “full of grace” and indeed this had to be the case in her determination to fulfill God’s plan. Her love for Joseph had to be solid because she depended on him to lead the way.
 


Of course The Christ Child entered this couple’s loving household, and rightfully so because He Himself departed the glory of heaven and humbly took on our existence as God’s greatest act of love to the world. The bonding force of This Holy Family was love; an unconditional love that faced the impossible lived in uncertainty, journeying through precarious lands while balancing political and religious polarization. And yet, through these struggles, forged in love as one, Jesus, Mary and Joseph created the foundation of a Christian home.


As a parish family, we must acknowledge the faithful who have kept our parish going during these historical months: The people who prayed with us and those who kept connected via video Masses. The people who continued to support us financially as well as those who kept the supplies stocked for our charitable outreach. The folks who routinely helped sanitize our church, every day every week. The understanding and cooperative people who followed the necessary protocol for the safety of us all.


These months, we have strictly followed the government and diocesan guidelines which have limited the ministries at Mass. We acknowledge our clergy, our music director, hosts, hostesses, ushers and environment committee because they have been present daily to follow ever changing directives, ensuring the safety of our people, and creating uplifting liturgies with less volunteers and more needs. This includes those who video and lector at our weekly Masses on line, including the expertise of our coordinator who edits and produces the videos and website of our parish. Our parish staff has especially worked extra hard to keep the finances afloat, offices open, buildings maintained and meet the needs of our parishioners and friends.


Also, our parish school principal, faculty, staff and families are doing a stellar ministry. Both in class and virtually, the school has met the needs of our students in a safe and continuous manner. The teachers have often had to do double duty and excel in their techniques. This is also reflected in our Religious Education program headed by our Director of Religious Education. Both learning programs can be proud of their achievements during this unprecedented time.


You have endured and worked through this pandemic. Love is the motivation for all that has kept our parish family together. Love is no easy task. It is a virtue that takes our will and energy...but it accomplishes greatness. May the Holy Family continue to be our example in 2021. May the grace that filled their hearts continue within our own in the days to come. A Blessed New Year!

Father Joe

December 20, 2020

On this fourth Sunday of Advent, today’s Gospel makes me aware of the fear that Mary of Nazareth must have had in her encounter with Gabriel. We know that Mary was a young virgin, probably in her early teens and suitable for marriage at that time in her culture. She was engaged to marry Joseph but where the phenomena with an archangel took place is unknown. Maybe it was in her home or out in the fields, but we are pretty sure it was startling and the message troubled her in what it meant and how it could be carried out.

Mary questioned the laws of nature but the archangel assured her that she was highly favored by God and indeed, God would do magnificent things for her, her kinswoman Elizabeth and the world. Obedient to God’s summons, Mary took on the privilege of being the mother of our Savior. That shocking encounter with a heavenly being and impossible implications could only be satisfied by an innocent daughter of God who was full of grace.

We are not that innocent or totally open to Divine Providence like Mary but we know fear and feel the need for a Savior. The miracle of Christmas changed the course of history, allowed humanity to be saved from sin and death, and opened the Kingdom of God to humanity. God took the most devout heart of Mary, and through her “Fiat” which means “Let it be done,” gifted His Son to us to conquer our fears and overcome our challenges.

May this most blessed event, that changed the world, continue to bless you and yours in a Grace-filled way. You and your loved ones will be remembered in all the Masses of Christmas.

Fathers Piekarski & Szczur; Deacons Wuebbels, Fontana & Bailey and the staff of St. John the Beloved Parish

Attention...Christmas Masses: 

To allow convenience and safe distancing for our Christmas Masses this year, we have scheduled the following Masses. No reservations will be required but careful consideration should be made in who should attend and the limited seating. Local cases of the pandemic are sharply rising. The faithful are reminded that they are still dispensed from the Sunday and holy day Mass obligation until further notice.

Everyone is asked to consider their own health and all vulnerable individuals should continue to stay at home. People who have symptoms of possible COVID-19 must remain at home.

Doors will open 45 minutes before the scheduled Mass to allow sanitizing and the government procedures to prevent COVID-19 are still being followed with masks, sanitizing hands and distancing. Six feet distancing will be followed, reducing seating space, however same households may sit closer together.

Please consider fulfilling your spiritual needs with our parish virtual Christmas Mass or watch the 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Mass that will be shared via Livestream... both may be found on online at SJBDE.org/worship-at-home. 

Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24

2 p.m. in church and hall
4 p.m. in church and hall
7 p.m. in church and livestream 11 p.m. in church

Christmas Day, Friday, December 25
7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m. in church

December 13, 2020

This Sunday is Gaudete Sunday, Rejoice Sunday.  St. Paul in the second reading tells us:  “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”

Without hesitation, most of us would say that 2020 has taken the joy of living out of us.  Our health and economy have been jeopardized while the daily routine of life has been altered.  For many, those things that we normally relish like vacations, sporting events and family receptions have been cancelled or postponed.  These months seem to have passed by rapidly and …empty.  Zoom and Skype meetings, emails and texting are no match to personal encounters.  Some of us have been touched by the pandemic itself with the illness of oneself or relative or friend…and too many have succumbed to it.  I personally knew seven.  So how can St. Paul tell us to “Rejoice?” 

The color of rose evokes feelings of peace, compassion, nurturing, love and joy.  We often say a person “is in the pink” when he/she is getting well.  We know a flower is ready to bloom or the dawn is ready to open…when we see pink.  The Church uses this color to remind us that Advent is a time of great expectations. We have every reason to be full of joy.  Rejoice, Christmas is almost here.  Rejoice, salvation is on the horizon.  With this awareness, the whole focus of our lives has changed. With Jesus approaching into our lives, the blues of our human lives are ultimately illuminated by the One who saves us.

Everything that robs us of complete joy these days is temporary and the fullness of life has been given to us in Jesus.  We are reminded at this time of year how a Child was born to us to set us free and His return will open for us His abundant Kingdom.  The arrival of Jesus must not be weighed down in sadness because He heals our wounds, He lifts our lowliness, He offers us mercy, He pardons our sins, He raises the dead and He gives us eternal Life.  How can we be anything other than positive? Rejoice in the Lord !

Oplatki Christmas Wafers are available at the Parish Office.

Reconciliation is available after the 8 a.m. Masses on the Fridays of Advent from 8:30 to 9:30 while Adoration is also available.

Reconciliation will also take place in our church on Wednesday, December 16 from noon to 1 p.m. and that evening from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in addition to the normal confession times on Saturday afternoon.

To allow convenience and safe distancing for our Christmas Masses this year, we have scheduled the following Masses.  No reservations will be required but careful consideration should be made not to overcrowd the normally popular Masses.  The attendance at all Masses is limited and the procedures to prevent COVID-19 are still being followed.

 

Christmas Eve, Dec. 24          2:00 p.m. in church and hall

                                                 4:00 p.m. in church and hall

                                                 7:00 p.m. in church

                                               11:00 p.m. in church

Christmas Day, Dec. 25         7:30 a.m.,  9:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. in church

 

Due to the pandemic, we remind our faithful that they are still dispensed from the Sunday and holy day Mass obligation until further notice.  Before deciding to attend Mass, everyone is asked to consider their own health condition carefully.  All vulnerable individuals should continue to stay at home.  People who have symptoms of possible COVID-19 must remain at home.  Our Christmas Mass will be available on our website (SJBDE.org).  

December, 6, 2020

John the Baptist didn’t dress like the Scribes, Pharisees and Temple priests. He wore camel’s hair and a leather belt. John did not promote the status quo like them. He talked about change that was certainly coming. John was not a political or religious person who held power; but the people listened and followed him.

The heart of John the Baptist’s message is that if we want change, if we really want the One who will reform the world and return it to God’s original plan, then we need to change. This is tough because it is easier to expect the world, government and people to change. But if we truly want change we can believe in, then we need to change.

The Gospel is reminding us of John the Baptist’s challenging call to look within ourselves, change what is not conducive within us to prepare for the coming of the Lord.

Attention: Please note that due to the increase of cases in the pandemic, the faithful are still dispensed from Sunday and Holy Day Masses obligation until further notice. Before deciding to attend Mass, everyone is asked to consider their own health condition carefully. All vulnerable individuals should continue to stay at home and people with COVID-19 symptoms must remain home. All precautions with masks, distancing and sanitizing hands must continue.

The state government has enforced stricter regulations at this time concerning the gatherings of people. Our parish is presently negotiating with the proper levels of government to ensure safety for our parish community and still allowing the numbers we can handle within our church. Hopefully next weekend, we can announce the finalizedschedule of Masses for Christmas Masses here at St. John the Beloved.

Daily Liturgical Schedule during Advent:

Monday - Saturday 8:00 a.m. Mass.

Friday - Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. and 
Reconciliation (Confessions) 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. 

Saturday - Reconciliation (Confessions) 4:00 to 4:45 p.m. 

Parish Confessions, Wednesday, December 16, 2020 
12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (guest, Priests and no Penance Service)

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is Tuesday, December 8, 2020. It is a Holy Day of Obligation that commemorates the sinless condition of the Blessed Virgin Mary from the very moment of her conception in the womb of her mother, Saint Ann. Pondering the life of the Immaculate Mary, it is appropriate that we pray especially for our Nation. The United States is dedicated to Mary under the title of the Immaculate Conception. Masses for our patronal feast are Monday, December 7, at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, December 8, at 8:00 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Flowers at the Holy Family Shrine are in thanksgiving for the Golden Wedding Anniversary of Richard and Dorothy Piekarski.

Oplatki Christmas Wafers are available at the Parish Office.
 

November, 29, 2020

Watch your step. Watch your money. Watch who you hang around with. Watch your distance. Watch yourself! Seems like that is all we are doing, especially now with a pandemic. Alert and cautious we have to be. As we enter a new liturgical year, Jesus tells us: “Be constantly on the watch!” The Gospel is telling us to be vigilant for the final coming of Christ because above our other carefulness is the deeper need and anticipation of a Savior.

Nothing is predictable. The year 2020 is an example of this. Our fears, anxiety, uncertainty, vulnerability and doubts have allowed us to recognize our need for Redemption. Advent has a two-fold character, for it is a time of preparation for the Solemnity of Christmas, in which the First Coming of the Son of God to humanity is remembered, and likewise a time when, by remembrance of this, minds and hearts are led to look forward to Christ’s Second Coming at the end of time.

Needless to say, this watchfulness also requires preparation. Prayer and penance are encouraged at this time to sharpen our souls for the proper disposition needed for the Lord’s arrival. When He comes, we surely will hope to be free of sin and filled with grace. That is why it is important that we focus now on where our souls are heading; clearing the obstacles that makes it difficult for the Savior to enter our lives. It is a time to prayerfully prepare for His arrival. Let us do it together...WATCH!

Oplatki Christmas Wafers are available at the Parish Office.

Reconciliation is available after the 8 a.m. Masses on Fridays during Advent: December 4, 11, & 18, from 8:30 to 9:30 while Adoration is also available.

Reconciliation will also take place in our church on Wednesday, December 16, from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. and again that evening from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in addition to the normal confession times on Saturday afternoon.

Due to the pandemic, we remind our faithful that they are still dispensed from the Sunday and holy day Mass obligation until further notice. Before deciding to attend Mass, everyone is asked to consider their own health condition carefully. All vulnerable individuals should continue to stay at home. People who have symptoms of possible COVID-19 must remain at home. Our Sunday mass will continue to be available on our website, SJBDE.org.
 

November 22, 2020

One thing is for sure; all things come to an end. This is the final Sunday of Ordinary Time. Next Sunday, we begin a new liturgical year with the beginning of Advent. Mostly everyone is anxious to see this calendar year, 2020, leave. It has been a great struggle. The routine has changed and the future will remain much different. People have kept a distance while many left this world. Within the past year, our parish buried nearly 117 people (none related to the pandemic). So why is this Solemnity of Christ the King so important?

Today’s celebration reflects on the fundamental truths of Christianity that Jesus Christ came to restore spiritual life to our world and form humankind into a Kingdom for God the Father. This is made explicit in today’s second reading, where St. Paul

writes that the resurrection of Jesus has restored the life that was lost by mankind. All who belong to Christ will be handed over to God the Father at the end of time.

This act of faith ultimately gives meaning to everything in our lives. If we do not have God in our lives, then our lives are futile, meaningless and dead. Without God we go through the motions secretly asking ourselves, “Why bother? Why bother with raising children? Why bother with caring for others? Why bother with being good? Why bother living?” Without God in our lives, we will easily overlook His Presence reaching out to us in our daily episodes and encounters.

Without God, Thanksgiving is just a day for a holiday meal. Without God, Christmas is merely a day of empty sentiments. But with the presence of God in our lives, each moment is an opportunity to grow closer to Him and steer our lives toward our ultimate goal, what may seem like THE END.

Every sovereignty, every authority and every power in the world will eventually be destroyed. There will be no royalty, presidents or prime ministers, not ayatollahs nor any form of prince. The only King who is eternal is Jesus Christ. The only kingdom that will remain is that of God the Father. And we are members of that Kingdom. Christ is our King. May we be true members of His Kingdom.

The holidays are starting. This year, we will offer two Masses to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Eve Mass: Wednesday, November 25 at 6:30 p.m. in Saint John the Beloved Church. Thanksgiving Day Mass: Thursday, November 26 at 9:00 a.m. in our church.

The collection, at both Masses, of food and/or monetary donations will go to our Parish Outreach Program for the needy.

A safe and God filled Thanksgiving Day to everyone!
Fathers Piekarski & Szczur, Deacons Wuebbels, Fontana and Bailey and the staff of St. John the Beloved Parish

Thanksgiving Table Prayer

Father in Heaven, Creator of all and source of all goodness and love,
please look kindly upon us and receive our heartfelt gratitude in this time of thanksgiving. Thank You for all the graces and blessings You have bestowed upon us, spiritual and temporal: our faith, religious heritage and natural freedoms. Our food and shelter, our health, the loves we have for one another, our family and friends.

Dear Father, in Your infinite generosity, please grant us continued graces and blessings throughout the coming year. Keep all of us safe from illness and despair.

Bless us, O Lord, and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

And may the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.

November 15, 2020

Should we be frightened? Should we be afraid of the end of time, afraid of death? This is what we hear addressed in our second reading today, where St. Paul tells the Thessalonians, and us, that we know we should be ready for the end, but we shouldn’t be afraid that it will catch us off guard. Some of the people in Thessalonica were convinced that the end was soon, that they stopped working. Paul convinces them to continue living as children of the light and be ready for when the Lord returns.

Our Gospel, today, tells us to be faithful to the

Lord and to develop the talents that we have been given, fulfilling our responsibilities in our families and community, as exemplified by the worthy wife in

the first reading. Do not worry that the end is near but live each day to the best of your ability in preparation for whatever comes.

Next Sunday is the Final Sunday of this Liturgical Year... we will celebrate the culmination of everything in the Kingship of Jesus Christ. In the end when Our Lord returns, He brings His Kingdom that has no end. We must keep busy doing good, being light in an often darkened world, and not be caught off guard.

Christmas music is already being played. The holidays are starting. This year, we will offer two Masses to celebrate Thanksgiving:

Thanksgiving Eve Mass: Wednesday, November 25 at 6:30 p.m. in Saint John the Beloved Church.

Thanksgiving Day Mass: Thursday November 26 at 9 a.m. in our church. The collection, at both Masses, of food and/or monetary donations will go to our Parish Outreach Program for the needy.

November 8, 2020

There were ten bridesmaids; five who were foolish and squandered their time and five who were wise by making the best use of every moment. The wise bridesmaids entered into the banquet of the Master’s love.  The foolish bridesmaids were too busy wasting time to be ready for their Master’s return.  Wisdom is a way of life as we hear in today’s first reading.  The wise are always ready for the Lord because they are always united to Him.  Our lesson is simple; be wise by being always ready to celebrate the banquet of the Lord’s love.

It is in the present moment that we have the opportunity to be charitable, forgiving, just, patient and virtuous.  These are the attributes that lighten our path into the banquet of heaven and they are necessary because that is what heaven is all about.  Jesus repeatedly speaks of heaven being like a banquet or a wedding feast that is beyond earthly description.  It is the coming together of good people, we call saints, in the oneness of God where you enjoy perfect peace, justice and love forever.  

St. Paul says: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.” (1 Cor. 2:9).  Saint Pope John Paul II said:  “We know that the “heaven” or “happiness” in which we will find ourselves is neither an abstraction nor a physical place in the clouds, but a living, personal relationship with the Holy Trinity. It is our meeting with the Father which takes place in the risen Christ through the communion of the Holy Spirit.”

Put simply, you won’t want to miss it.  Perhaps the real sadness, in the afterlife, is not having the life that “I could have had and that God wanted to give me.”  Instead I wasted the opportunity and am not prepared to enter the feast.  Ever reminding ourselves that I was given 86,400 seconds each day of my life to lighten my path but I was foolish.  God forbid.  

November 1, 2020

All baptized Christians who have died and are now with God in glory are considered saints. All Saints Day is intended to honor the memory of countless unknown and uncanonized saints who have no feast days. I am sure that you can recall some people from your life who were genuinely holy people on earth and who are among the Communion of Saints.

I recall the dreams I have had where my deceased aunt is joyfully doing house chores arrayed in a blinding room of light. Perhaps a message from heaven because she was a typical housewife, mom, grandmother who loved Dollar Day at the Dry and was fervent in prayer. My great nephew passed at seven and in that short time was uncommonly compassionate in playing with his peers who nobody would play with. The grocer down the street from my house charitably gave food to those who could not pay him saying: “The more I give...the more God repays me.” These, too, are the saints we celebrate today...Ordinary people practicing extraordinary virtue.

Today we thank God for giving men, women and children a share in His holiness and Heavenly glory as a reward for their Faith. This feast reminds us today that God’s call for holiness is universal; that all of us are called to live in His love and to make His love real in the lives of those around us. Holiness is related to the word wholesomeness. We grow in holiness when we live wholesome lives of integrity, truth, justice, charity, mercy, and compassion, sharing our blessings with others.

Many saints have been captured for us in their stories and many are artistically depicted in stained glass windows and holy cards, but there are numerous ones that also are exemplary. More than likely, we knew some personally and must realize that holiness is possible even today. In other words...Yes, you and I are called to be saints. This is something to celebrate.

Monday. November 2nd is dedicated to all the dead; those who need our prayerful support to reach the ultimate destiny of heaven. God alone knows what is in each soul. Thus we pray that our beloved dead, especially those in most need of God’s mercy, will enter into heaven. It is a wholesome thing to pray for the dead. Masses on this day are 8:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. (with the special remembrance of those who passed away this year at both Masses).

Pre-Election Prayer Opportunity: This Tuesday, November 2nd is Election Day. In preparation for this important time, The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for prayerful meditation in our church on Monday, November 2nd, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Please pray for God’s intervention and Will to be accomplished for Our Nation.

October 25, 2020

A Note From Most Reverend W. Francis Malooly, Bishop of Wilmington 

Dear Friends in Christ,

Each of us are called as Catholics and as citizens to active participation in the political process. This means that we must learn about the issues and where each candidate and party stand on them and vote for those candidates we believe will advance our common good. It is one very important way for us to answer Christ’s call to be salt of the earth and light of the world and to let our light shine before others. (Matt 5: 13-16) It is a requirement of our faith that is protected by our country’s Constitution.

It is incumbent on each of us to research the candidates for national, statewide, and local offices to see if their stance on issues are in keeping with our values and the teachings of our Church. Do they, in word and policy, uphold the dignity of every human person? As Catholics, our preeminent priority is to protect the right to life. Do they support the restriction of, and ultimately bringing to an end, the destruction of unborn children through abortion; and strongly oppose euthanasia and the death penalty? Do they show care for the poor, sick, and marginalized that reflect Gospel values? Are they

open to choice in education to help underprivileged children break the cycle of poverty? Do they attack racial bias, hatred, and injustice? Do they support religious freedom in all matters, especially in health care?

I urge you to read: Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility, the U.S. Bishops’ teaching document on the political responsibilities of Catholics found on the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops website: www.usccb.org It offers excellent guidance as we exercise our rights and duties as participants in democracy.

During this contentious election season, it would be easy for us to throw our hands up in exasperation and retreat to the sidelines. However, that would be in direct contradiction to our responsibilities. If we don’t bring civility and Christian values into the public arena, who will?

I ask that you join me and Catholics from across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore in praying the Litany of St. Thomas More, Martyr, and Patron Saint of Statesmen, Politicians and Lawyers, after ALL Masses in the Diocese the weekend of October 31 and November 1. May God bless you and God bless America.

Most Reverend W. Francis Malooly, Bishop of Wilmington

 

LITANY OF ST. THOMAS MORE, Martyr and Patron Saint of Statesmen, Politicians, and Lawyers

V. Lord, have mercy
V. Christ, have mercy
V. Lord, have mercy
V. Christ hear us
V. St. Thomas More, Saint, and Martyr,

R. Lord have mercy
R. Christ have mercy
R. Lord have mercy
R. Christ, graciously hear us
R. Pray for us (Repeat after each invocation)

St. Thomas More, Patron of Statesmen, Politicians, and Lawyers
St. Thomas More, Patron of Justices, Judges, and Magistrates
St. Thomas More, Model of Integrity and Virtue in Public and Private Life
St. Thomas More, Servant of the Word of God and the Body and Blood of Christ St. Thomas More, Model of Holiness in the Sacrament of Marriage
St. Thomas More, Teacher of his Children in the Catholic Faith
St. Thomas More, Defender of the Weak and the Poor
St. Thomas More, Promoter of Human Life and Dignity

V. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world R. Spare us O Lord
V. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world R. Graciously hear us O Lord V. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world R. Have mercy on us

Let us pray: O Glorious St. Thomas More, Patron of Statesmen, Politicians, Judges and Lawyers, your life of prayer and penance and your zeal for justice, integrity, and firm principle in public and family life led you to the path of martyrdom and sainthood. Intercede for our Statesmen, Politicians, Judges, and Lawyers, that they may be courageous and effective in their defense and promotion of the sanctity of human life - the foundation of all other human rights. We ask this through Christ our Lord. 
R. Amen.

October 18, 2020

These days, there is a polarization about patriotism, standing for the Pledge of Allegiance, desecrating monuments, etc. Without getting political, personally, I know our Nation is not perfect; neither is the Church, you or I. Jesus alone was perfect and He ministered in an imperfect government and with imperfect followers...including the Apostles. Look at today’s Gospel, how He was being trapped into an answer that would make Him the villain as a Roman sympathizer or a traitor. Jesus settled the question with a simple, but profound answer: "Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God's."

This passage leads us to consider how we carry out our responsibilities to our Country and to our God. The logical answer is this: Render to God what is God’s. Well... everything is God’s. He created everything from nothing. We are His creation. We are first...citizens of the Kingdom of God. Our responsibility to God is absolute.

We are also citizens of the United States. Many people worked at; fought and died for the liberties we enjoy...and continue to do so. The Freedom of Religion is just one of the many benefits we share. We have to take our citizenship in our Country extremely seriously and care for it. We need to work hard to direct our Country's paths to morality. We need to do all in our power to help our Nation make good, moral laws so that we might always be "one nation under God."

There are genuine ways that we can guide our Country to being one that serves God in its care for all our citizens. Here, we have the possibility to change a system that fails the respect and dignity of each individual. We have a responsibility to fight against laws that depreciate and destroy life. We are privileged citizens in being active in helping our Nation make moral choices, support noble ideals.

We are reminded, today, that we have to be active, courageous, and moral citizens of this great Nation. That is how we can render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s and unto God what is God’s.

Today is World Mission Sunday. It is a central moment each year to provide for the building up of over one thousand local churches in Asia and Africa, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe, an area that covers more than half the territory of the globe. Through the work of these churches, and their witness to Christ, the poor receive practical help and experience God’s love and mercy, His hope, and peace. Extra envelopes are available at the entrance of the church.

October 11, 2020

You are cordially invited to the Heavenly Banquet. Today’s Scripture readings offer us a standing invitation. The first reading describes the Messianic banquet on God’s holy mountain. The great feast of “rich food and choice wines” will be served to all who enter. In today’s Gospel, Jesus accuses the Jewish religious and civil leaders of rejecting God’s invitation to the Heavenly Banquet given to them through Himself, God’s own Son. They just would not reform their lives. Hence, God is inviting Gentiles, non-Jews, along with reformed sinners for His banquet.

The one requirement for entrance into the feast is the wedding garment which is being in the state of grace at all times by avoiding sin and remaining holy and righteous. The wedding garment is the sanctifying grace we put on at Baptism. The other sacraments provide the additional graces we need to retain the sacred identity worthy of entrance into the banquet provided by God.

Our participation in the Eucharistic celebration, the Holy Mass, is the foretaste of this banquet in heaven. Jesus nourishes us in the Church through the proclamation of The Word of God and through His Body and Blood offered to us as spiritual Food and Drink in Holy Communion. We need to participate in the Eucharistic banquet with proper preparation by repenting of our sins and by actively participating in the prayers and song during the Holy Mass. Participating in Holy Mass is the best preparation and greatest Source of power for our future participation in the Heavenly banquet.

Today’s readings are a good reminder to us that the Lord wants us in the eternal, bountiful feast of heaven. We are assured that those who enter are well satisfied. We are invited by Jesus but each of us needs to give this invitation priority over every other good and important thing in life. Also, it is not enough just to show up. We must be properly dressed with our grace-assisted works of justice, charity and holiness in response to the Divine love that invites us. Jesus warns us to be ready to wear the wedding garment.

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in our church will begin on Friday, October 16, 2020, after the 8:00 a.m. Mass, through 10:00 a.m. We will continue this devotion on Fridays when most mornings are available. We ask that the faithful keep a vigil at this time. It is a wonderful opportunity for private prayer for our many needs.
 

October 4, 2020

The Bible is not always about “feeling good.” Today’s readings are not necessarily uplifting and we tend to shy away from these darker chapters by wanting to turn the page. The prophet Isaiah is frank in addressing ancient Israel. Paraphrasing, he states: “Israel, you are God’s chosen people and much is expected from you. God is our friend and created us like a fertile vineyard with planted vines to yield choice grapes.” As the prophecy concludes, this vineyard yielded wild grapes because of Israel’s infidelity and the Lord allowed the vineyard to be overgrown with great disappointment.

This is Respect Life Sunday, and today’s readings are appropriate; opening our eyes to the darker chapters of our society. This year’s theme, ‘Live the Gospel of Life,’ was inspired by the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Saint Pope John Paul II’s encyclical, The Gospel of Life. Pope John Paul masterfully articulated defense of the right to life for children in their mothers’ wombs, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and the marginalized.

More relevant today than ever before, we have to ask ourselves: How are we, the “New Israel” tending the Lord’s vineyard? How are we receptive to God’s Covenant, God’s Law, God’s Incarnate Son, His Church? They are given to us to nurture and sustain life and should be evident in our daily response to one another.

Instead, there is an increasing relativism throughout society that is rejecting God, deafening the Fruits of the Spirit to grow among us. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5) are overtaken by hate, sadness, turmoil, rage, intolerance, indecency, faithlessness, and indulgence. The wild grapes of our times are the effects of infidelity to the Lord. Saint Pope John Paul termed it best: “We have become a Culture of Death.”

Last November, the U.S. bishops reaffirmed that “the threat of abortion remains their preeminent priority because it directly attacks life itself, because it takes place within the sanctuary of the family, and because of the number of lives destroyed.” While they noted not to ‘dismiss or ignore other serious threats to human life and dignity such as racism, the environmental crisis, poverty, and the death penalty,’ the U.S. bishops renewed their commitment to protect the most fundamental of all human rights – the right to live. Pope Francis extols the Church’s firm stand that if we fail to protect life, no other rights matter. Pope Francis also said that abortion is not primarily a Catholic or even a religious issue; it is first and foremost a human rights issue.

The Gospel of Life provides a blueprint for building a fruitful vineyard, a culture of life and a civilization of love. The important work of transforming our culture begins by allowing the Gospel of Christ to touch and transform our own hearts and the decisions we make. May we strive to imitate Christ and follow in His footsteps, caring for the most vulnerable among us as we courageously and faithfully cultivate The Gospel of Life.

September 27, 2020

In today’s parable, one son tells his father he will not work and then does. The other son tells his father he will work, and then does not. Jesus teaches that the son who had a change of heart did the right thing. Like the two different sons, this parable has two different angles.

The reversal of the first son’s inclination addresses the smug attitude of the self-righteous and their condescending attitude toward the less righteous. All those who are “sinners” and change their mind, repent, and follow the Lord will share in the Kingdom of God. Sometimes,

people know what is right but self-serving decisions and perhaps immoral choices get in the way when all of a sudden the better angels of the conscience take over. The Lord shows, in His parable, how the Will of the Father can still be accomplished by sinners with a change of heart.

The second son simply offers lips service that gives credence to the proverb “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” Individuals may have the intention to undertake good actions but never the less fail to take action due to procrastination, laziness or other subversive vices. Thus, a good intention is meaningless unless followed through.

St. Paul tells us today that we must have the same attitude that is also in Jesus. Why? Because when we encounter Christ who “did not regard equality with God something to be grasped,” we find happiness and that makes it the wiser choice to leave behind our grasping ways and obey the One who Himself became obedient to the point of death.

Share in the Spirit --- Today’s second collection envelope is taken in support of the diocesan tuition assistance program. Money raised through this collection coupled with the diocese’s tuition assistance endowment provides financial assistance to hundreds of deserving families who seek a Catholic education for their children but who cannot afford the full cost of tuition.

If you are not prepared to contribute today, you may drop your contribution off at the parish office or place it in next week’s collection basket. For further information and on-line giving options, visit the Share in the Spirit website at www.cdow.org/sharespirit.html.

September 20, 2020

Today’s Gospel reading is one of the most confounding. Many people struggle with this parable about the landowner and the workers as being unfair, but as the old saying goes, where you stumble, that’s where you should dig for treasure. The parable offers a powerful reminder to focus on the mission of God’s kingdom, not who gets credit for it.

Mission focuses the mind. The present pandemic has made each individual, globally, decide what his /her priority in life is. For the majority of us, it is health, wellbeing, and safety. Job security and economic stability are also a priority. The needed quarantine has favorably allowed many folks to rediscover the value of family, friends ... faith. COVID 19 has made us prioritize what is important to us.

Hopefully, we have recognized the numerous efforts of those around us that have worked hard to heal the sick, assist the needy, and create a safe environment for all of us. Yes, some have greatly risked their own lives to ensure the general good and wellbeing of total strangers. Most have cooperated at various levels to end the plight. To that end...we ALL equally benefit. We need to be grateful to each other. All trivia falls by the side.

That is the point of the Gospel. Keep an eye on the Kingdom of God. Do your part at your level to enhance the Mission of the Church. Distraction from what really matters is the work of the devil. Recognition, awards, titles, increase in benefits are not what matters. Rather we are given the privilege of doing our part for the Kingdom. That we should do.

This parable, like so many, is meant to bug us. Instead of comparing, contrasting, and calculating each individual input in the Kingdom, do your part well and encourage each other to achieve the noble goal set for all of us. It is a privilege to have been summoned at various times, in various ways by the Lord and equally share in His generous reward.

With the close of summer, we are continuing to follow the guidelines of the government and diocese in what we can make available to the faithful. Still, at this time, the future is uncertain and therefore affecting what was before public activities within our parish. For example this fall, close contact sports have been canceled. Safe distancing between our school children has altered classroom size. Parish committees are still only meeting virtually or on hold.

Since the opening of our Masses in June, the format we followed was recommended by our diocese to keep social distance, sanitize the environment, and limit the congregating of groups. Wherever there may be the possibility of air-bound contamination, precautions still have to be enforced. This explains our lack of choir or congregational music.

The present cooperation and comfort level of our parishioners and friends have ensured us to begin having some music reintroduced into our Masses. Also, beginning in October, the recessional after Communion will discontinue. Keeping a safe distance, people can return to their pews after receiving Holy Communion and then dismiss after the final blessing. Please know that we are seeing the safety and health of everyone while keeping within our limitations of time and space; and any fears and anxiety of our parishioners. Thank you to everyone who is making this possible. 

September 13, 2020

 

What do you do when someone continually hurts you deeply? Through habit or mean intention, some people create an atmosphere of pain that makes living the Christian life almost impossible. As much as we try, forgiveness seems to slip away. At these times, we want to cry out, "Lord! I have really tried. Enough!"

Peter asked Jesus the same question and thought that “seven,” the biblical number for completeness, would be satisfactory. Jesus responded with a wordplay representing an uncountable number of times that explains how forgiveness was not a matter of social grace but integral to the Christian lifestyle.

To make that point, Jesus told a parable about one official who owed his king an immeasurable amount, equal to the gross national product. Begging for mercy when the official could not repay, the king graciously forgives the debt. Then the official left the court only to throttle a co-worker over a mere amount of one hundred days wages. When the king heard of the official's lack of mercy, he condemned the official to an unending torture since the debt was immeasurable. The symbolism is clear. The king is God the Father. The comparison of debt is obvious. God forgives the huge debt we owe Him while we become petty in forgiving much smaller debts. The official sinned by squandering the money, but he committed a greater sin when he abused the trust the king placed in him.

What wealth has the Lord bestowed on us? He gave us the Good News that Christ died for our sins and shares His Divine Life with us. How great is His trust in us! Yet, we squander this gift so easily when our selfish hearts shut Him out and our pettiness stops us from forgiving our neighbor. If we refuse to forgive others, even their smallest transgressions, will we be any better than the unrepentant? On the last day, would we be surprised if the Lord treated us like we treated others? The moral of the story is clear. As the Lord always forgives us from the inner depths of His heart, we, too, must forgive others. It is necessary for conversion.

When have we forgiven enough times? Imagine God asking us that question from His perspective! As we forever receive pardon for our shortcomings, we should always forgive others for theirs. The next time someone hurts us and challenges our patience; let us remember the source of forgiveness.
 

Sunday, September 6, 2020

Modern Christians are aligning with conventional thinking whereby they avoid interfering in the lives of others. While some people may feel overly confident standing on the moral high ground, most have misgivings in getting involved or correcting the moral faults of others. Evading the issue, we often say, “As a sinner, I don’t have the courage to admonish anyone.” But Jesus emphatically affirms that we are our brothers’ keepers, and we have the serious obligation to correct others.

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we take on a painful, triple responsibility. We must lovingly and prudently correct each other when we err, forgive those who offend us, and ask forgiveness from those we have offended. We need to heed to loving correction, in

private, for a personal offense where that is possible and offer advice and encouragement when it is needed. Jesus makes it clear how important we are, one to another. One in Christ, our community can draw on God’s power to make His healing, life-giving love, more effective among His people.

A shouting voice and a condescending attitude in an embarrassing situation do not rectify an error without bitterness and resentment. Stubbornness in being corrected or blocking solid counsel are obstacles to repair. It seems that fraternal correction is accepted and possible when carried out in a gentle, charitable manner. Recall the episodes in life when you were open to listening and changing a negative behavior. Most likely it resulted after a one-on-one, wise conversation that could only benefit you if you altered what you were doing. The same goes for those who may have challenged someone to be better. A kind approach makes all the difference in acceptance or rejection.

At times, we all need to be corrected and this is most important when our spiritual good is involved. That is why we have to be meaningfully present to and take responsibility for, each other. Inhuman, unchristian behavior is something about which we need to be really concerned. This individual responsibility in a Christian society includes, as today’s readings remind us, our responsibility for each other. Perhaps the most painful obligations of watchful love are fraternal correction and generosity in forgiving and forgetting injuries.

Flowers at the Holy Family Shrine are in memory of Julia A. Delikat.

Labor Day is Monday, September 7, 2020. The one Mass, that day, will be at 9 a.m. As we celebrate Labor Day Weekend, we state that human labor is honorable and celebrate the contributions of workers that make up the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our Country. And this is achieved through the sacrifices, toil and sweat of countless people. Remember that all that we do is for the betterment of our brothers and sisters in the world and our goal is to build Christ’s Kingdom. May God Bless the work of our hands. Happy Labor Day!

School is opening on Tuesday, September 8. With new directives, our parish school will hold full-day sessions for the beginning levels while the upper grades will rotate their days between virtual classes at home and classes in school. The “new” system is following diocesan guidelines for the safety of everyone. A word of appreciation to our school principal, Richard Hart, and parish and school staff that worked diligently to create a healthy environment. God Bless our new school year.