Church blog

On this Palm Sunday, we have just heard the story of the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ. The most holy days of our faith – Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday – are approaching. Think about the word “passion.” It comes from the Latin word patior, which means “to suffer.” When we really love something, we say we have a “passion” for it.

So even in our everyday speech, the notions of suffering and love are somehow connected. St. Paul brings this out in the Second Reading today, from the letter to the Philippians (2:6-11). Jesus was in the “form” of God – which means something unchangeable; he is saying that Jesus is really God. Then Paul tells us that Jesus emptied himself for us; the word “to empty” in Greek means “to pour out until nothing is left.” This is what Jesus did out of love for us. He is God, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. He became a man; and he lived the life we live; he experienced the joys we experience; he suffered the sufferings we suffer. Then, he died.

At some point, we all ask ourselves a big “life” question: Am I loved? We can run from that question; we can try to answer it in a thousand ways; but it keeps coming back. Is there someone who loves me enough to die for me? St. Paul assures us that the answer is yes; that someone is God himself! God holds nothing back in his love for each one of us. In Jesus, he pours himself out for you and for me.

Whether you’re a regular churchgoer or this is your first time in church in a while, you are invited to journey with us this week! Here are a few invitations. All are invited to the Chrism Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton this Tuesday March 31 at 4:00 pm, where all my brother priests of the Diocese of Scranton will gather with Bishop Bambera and renew the promises made at our ordination; then, the sacred oils will be blessed and brought back to every church. I will be available for confession this week this Monday night from 6 to 7 pm; Friday and Saturday morning (4/2 and 4/3) from 10 am to 12 pm; or by appointment. All Extraordinary Ministers and Altar Servers are invited to be part of our Holy Thursday Mass and procession – please come and vest in the church by 6:30 pm.

The Sacred Triduum is as follows: the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7:00 pm Thursday (4/2); the Good Friday Celebration of the Passion at 5:00 pm (4/3); and the Solemn Night of the Easter Vigil (4/4) at 8:00 pm. The Blessing of the Baskets will take place on Saturday 4/4 at 12:00 pm; and Easter Sunday Masses are 4/5 at 8:30 am and 11:00 am.

Happy Holy Week!

Love, Fr. Reichlen

“When God Doesn’t Make Sense”

Week 5

Unanswered Prayers

Most of us know what it feels like to pray and hear nothing in return, to hope for healing, direction, or restoration, only to be met with silence. We may never say it out loud, but deep down we wonder, “Is God listening? Did he forget about me? Is he late?” In the great story of the Raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-45), Martha and Mary faced that same pain. They had seen Jesus work miracles. They knew his heart and his power; so when their brother Lazarus fell seriously ill, they sent for him immediately. They believed he would come at once – but Jesus waited. Days passed, and then the news came: Lazarus was dead. Hope was gone. By the time Jesus arrived, it seemed far too late; the story was already over.

What looked like delay was actually divine timing. Jesus’ waiting wasn’t neglect; it was purpose. He told his disciples earlier, “This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God” (11:4). Jesus knew something greater was coming, something that would reveal the power and compassion of God in a way no simple healing could. When Martha met him on the road, she said words that many of us secretly carry in our hearts: “Lord, if you had been here ...” (11:21). It’s the cry of disappointment – a cry of love mixed with pain. Yet in that moment, Jesus gently lifted her eyes from what might have been to what still could be. He said, “I am the Resurrection and the Life” (11:25).

Then, with tears flowing down his face, Jesus went to the tomb. He wept, not because he didn’t know what would happen, but because he shared their grief; and then he spoke words that turned despair into glory: “Lazarus, come out!” (11:43). What they thought was too late became the very moment when God’s glory broke through. There’s a beautiful detail in this story that we often overlook; before raising Lazarus, Jesus asked the people to roll away the stone. He could have done that himself, but he invited them instead to act in faith, to remove what stood between life and miracle. In the same way, God sometimes invites us to take the first step, to roll away the stones of fear, doubt, or inaction, so he can reveal his power through our trust and obedience.

When your prayers seem unanswered, remember this: delays are not denials. God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t match ours. He’s never late; he’s preparing something deeper and more lasting than we can imagine. This Lent, let God turn your waiting into worship. Trust his timing. Roll away the stone. Step into service and faith. You never know how your small act of obedience might make way for a miracle that changes not just your life, but someone else’s too. Questions for Small Groups:

When have you felt like God was late in answering your prayer? What did that experience teach you?
What “stones” might you need to roll away, fears, doubts, or habits, for God to work more freely in your life?
How does Jesus’ delay in raising Lazarus challenge or encourage your faith in God’s timing?
How does knowing that Jesus wept with Martha and Mary change how you view his heart toward your pain?
What is one way you can step into service this week, creating space for someone else to encounter the living Christ?

When God Doesn’t Make Sense”

Week 4

Injustice

Few things trouble the human heart more deeply than injustice. We look around and see unfairness everywhere. Innocent people suffer; wrongdoing goes unpunished; and the powerful often misuse authority. We ask, “Where is God in all this? If he is just and loving, how can he allow these things?” The disciples asked a similar question when they encountered a man who was born blind (see John chapter 9). They assumed someone had to be at fault, either the man himself or his parents. It was common in Jewish thought to connect suffering directly with sin; but Jesus corrected them: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned; it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him” (John 9:3). In that moment, Jesus shifted their entire way of seeing. He revealed that what seemed unjust or meaningless could actually become the very place where God’s power and glory would shine.

This passage reminds us that not all hardship is punishment. Sometimes suffering, even injustice, is the stage upon which God displays his redemptive love. The man born blind would not only receive sight but become a witness, a living testimony to the mercy and glory of God. His struggle and healing became a story of hope for others.

Jesus, too, knows the pain of injustice firsthand. He faced false accusations, betrayal, humiliation, and death on a cross, all while being completely innocent. Yet out of that deepest injustice came the greatest act of love the world has ever known. The cross teaches us that God can take what is unjust and transform it into something life-giving, eternal, and good.

When we face injustice ourselves, whether in personal relationships, at work, or in the world, our first instinct may be anger. Yet as followers of Christ, we are invited into a different response: to show mercy and grace, just as he did. Evil and injustice remind us of how much the world needs God’s redemption, and these things call us to be part of that healing through our compassion, forgiveness, and prayer.

God’s ways are far above ours, and it’s natural that we won’t always understand them. God sees the injustice that hurts us, and his heart breaks with ours; but he never abandons us in those moments. He walks beside us – turning pain into purpose, and inviting us to trust his plan even when life doesn’t make sense. When you witness or experience injustice, bring it to God honestly. Ask him to open your eyes, not just to what’s wrong, but to how his mercy might be revealed through it. In doing so, you’ll begin to see that what looks like loss in the eyes of the world can become light in the hands of God. Discussion Questions:

When have you experienced or witnessed injustice that made you question God’s fairness or presence?
How does Jesus’ response in John 9 reshape the way you view suffering and hardship?
In what ways can you reflect God’s mercy and grace when life feels unfair?
How does remembering Jesus’ own unjust suffering give you courage in your struggles?
What is one way you can trust God’s higher plan this week, even when something still feels unfair?

“When God Doesn’t Make Sense”

Week 3

Is God with Us or Not?

There are moments in life when God seems distant, when prayers echo back in silence and hope feels like a dry well. In those moments, we quietly start to wonder the same thing the Israelites once cried out in the wilderness: “Is the Lord in our midst or not?” (Exodus 17:3). The Israelites’ journey through the desert was marked by God’s faithfulness, manna from heaven, water from a rock, and guidance by cloud and fire. Yet when the water ran out, they quickly forgot all that God had done. Their fear took over, and they began to grumble against Moses, questioning whether God had ever really been with them. Their hearts, overwhelmed by thirst and uncertainty, doubted his goodness.

We can relate to that so easily, can’t we? When life grows hard, when prayers go unanswered, or when everything feels uncertain, we ask the same question: If God is truly with me, why is this happening? – but Scripture reminds us that God often allows obstacles not to punish us, but to shape us. He uses challenges not to break our faith, but to strengthen it. God’s goal is not our comfort; it’s our growth.

In Romans 5, St. Paul draws this connection beautifully: our suffering produces endurance, endurance builds character, and character gives us hope – a hope that will never disappoint us because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:3-5). In other words, God meets us in our pain. He doesn’t remove every hardship, but he transforms it from the inside out. God’s presence isn’t proven by comfort. It’s proven by his love, a love so deep that Christ died for us even while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8). That means even when we can’t feel God, he’s still moving, still providing, still faithful. Feelings come and go; his presence does not.

You might be walking through a spiritual desert right now – feeling unseen, unheard, or unsure of what God is doing – but know this: he is closer than you think! When you can’t feel his presence, you can still trust his promise. The Israelites had to learn that lesson by thirst, but we can learn it by faith. So when the sense of God’s nearness fades, resist the urge to complain or despair. Instead, turn that complaint into a prayer. Speak to him honestly. Tell him your frustration and your longing. Then, make the choice to trust that he’s working – in the silence, in the struggle, and even in the waiting – because our God has never left his people, and he won’t start with you. Discussion Questions:

When have you asked, “Is God really with me?” How did that experience shape your faith?
Why do you think God allows seasons when his presence feels hidden?
How can Romans 5:3–5 help you see suffering as an opportunity for growth rather than punishment?
In difficult times, what helps you turn complaint into prayer?
Where might God be inviting you to trust him more deeply, even when you can’t feel him near?

“When God Doesn’t Make Sense”

Week 2

Suffering, Pain, and Justice

Sometimes life feels overwhelmingly unfair. We watch good people suffer, see injustice go unpunished, and feel pain that seems far greater than what we can carry. In those moments, it’s easy to ask, “Where is God in this? Why doesn’t he stop it?” These are questions that the People of God have been asking for centuries. When we look at Scripture, we see that suffering was never part of God’s original design. In the beginning, the world was good and whole. There was harmony between God, humanity, and creation; but when sin entered the story, so did suffering, pain, and separation. God doesn’t cause suffering – it happens – but his love breaks through the pain. Nothing is wasted in his hands. What feels senseless to us often becomes sacred in his plan.

In this week’s Second Reading (2 Timothy 1:8b-10), Paul writes to Timothy from a place of great hardship. He’s in prison – facing rejection, persecution, and the reality of death. Yet his words are filled with courage and hope: “Bear your share of suffering for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God.” Paul doesn’t minimize any pain; he simply looks at it through the lens of Christ’s victory. He reminds Timothy and us that Jesus has “conquered death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” Our suffering may be real, but it’s not the end of the story. That same truth is beautifully revealed in this week’s Gospel reading, the story of the Transfiguration. Just after Peter declared Jesus as the Messiah and then heard the shocking news that Jesus would suffer and die, the disciples were taken up to a mountain where they saw him in dazzling glory. It was a glimpse of what was to come – a reminder that suffering would give way to Resurrection, and the Cross would become a doorway to eternal life.

In our lives, God often allows us to see small glimpses of his glory too – moments of peace in the middle of pain, unexpected kindness, or quiet reassurance that he is still near. These moments remind us that even when life doesn’t make sense, God’s heart is steady and good. We don’t have to pretend that suffering is easy. It’s okay to grieve, to question, to cry out; but in doing so, we hold on to the faith that suffering and death are never the final word. The Resurrection reminds us that love always wins.

This week, take time to sit with God in honesty. Bring him your pain, your questions, your confusion. Ask him to meet you there – not with all the answers, but with his presence. Trust that just like Jesus, your own suffering can be transformed into a path that leads to new life and deeper faith. Questions for Small Groups:

When have you felt God’s presence most strongly in a season of suffering or uncertainty?
How does the Transfiguration help you see your suffering in light of God’s promise of resurrection?
What lies do you find yourself believing about God when life feels unfair or painful?
How might you draw closer to God through prayer, Scripture, or community when you’re hurting?
What hope does 2 Timothy 1:8b–10 offer you today as you carry your own cross for Christ?

“When God Doesn’t Make Sense”

Week One

God Did Not Want Us to Know Evil

There are moments in life when God’s ways simply don’t make sense; when prayers go unanswered; when suffering touches those who least deserve it; or when good things happen to people who seem undeserving. In those moments our hearts ache, and we find ourselves asking, “Where is God? Why doesn’t he stop the pain? Why does he seem silent?”

You’re not alone in asking those questions. God never asked us to silence our doubts or hide our confusion. In fact, Scripture shows us that even the people closest to him were troubled with the same feelings; but from the very beginning, God’s heart has always been for our good. He created us out of love, forming us from the dust, and breathing his very life into us. He placed us in a garden full of beauty, safety, and peace. His only “no” was meant to protect us from the knowledge of evil, from suffering, shame, and death. In the garden of Eden, we see that God didn’t want us to know evil at all! He wanted us to live in perfect love with him forever. Yet the serpent planted a lie, the same one in our world today, that God is holding back, that his “no” means he’s keeping something from us; and when Adam and Eve believed that lie, pain and brokenness entered the story.

Our world still struggles with the weight of that choice. When life doesn’t make sense, it isn’t proof that God has turned away. It’s a reminder that our world is broken, but not beyond his reach. God has proven again and again that he is faithful! Even in our stubbornness, he never abandoned us. His plan of redemption began the moment sin entered the world, and it continues in each of our lives today. Sometimes, God’s “no” is really his way of saying, “I love you too much to give you less than my best.” He withholds certain things not to punish us, but to protect us. We may not always understand his ways, but we can always trust his heart.

As we begin this Lenten season, let’s open our hearts to that trust again. Where in your life might God be inviting you to hear his loving “no”, not as rejection, but as redirection toward something better? Perhaps this week, take time in prayer or Scripture, asking him to reveal where he is at work, even in things you don’t understand. Remember: God’s love hasn’t failed you. His “no” isn’t the end of your story; it’s the beginning of something deeper, something eternal. Discussion questions:

When have you struggled to understand God’s “no” or his silence? How did that shape your faith journey?
What does the story of Adam and Eve reveal about God’s protective love for us?
In what ways are you tempted to doubt God’s goodness when life feels unfair or painful?
How might trusting God’s heart, even without knowing his plan, bring peace to your current struggles?

What step will you take this week to draw closer to God and trust his loving “no” more fully?

“Life With Family”

Week 3

Spiritual Conversations

Spiritual conversations are one of the simplest and most powerful ways God grows faith in our families; yet they are often the very thing we avoid. We worry we will say the wrong thing, come across as pushy, or stir up conflict. Week Three of “Life With Family” invites us to see these conversations not as formal speeches or theological debates, but as natural, grace-filled moments in everyday life.

One of the readings for this Sunday is 1 Corinthians 2:6–10. St. Paul writes about “God’s wisdom, mysterious, hidden,” a wisdom “that none of the rulers of this age knew,” but which “God prepared for those who love him.” He goes on to say, “What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him.” Paul reminds us that God’s wisdom is different from the world’s wisdom, and it is often missed if no one ever speaks about it. Spiritual and faith filled conversations are one key way that God’s hidden wisdom becomes visible in our homes.

Think of the voices that constantly shape your family: social media, news, sports, entertainment, friends, school, work. None of these are all bad, but they rarely point us toward the deeper things of God. If we never talk about what God is doing, what we hear in Scripture, or how prayer is affecting us, then our families will only hear the loudest societal voices. When we gently and consistently bring up faith, even in small ways, we give the Holy Spirit something to work with. We create space for God’s wisdom to surface in the middle of ordinary life. These conversations do not have to be long or complicated. They can begin with a simple question at dinner: “What stood out to you at Mass today?” or “Where did you see God at work this week?” You might share a line from the Sunday reading that struck you and connect it to a situation your family is facing. When someone in the family is struggling, you might say, “Can we pray about this together?” or “How do you think God is inviting us to respond?” The goal is not to have all the answers but to invite God into the conversation.

Small groups themselves help us practice this. In a circle of trust, we learn to put words to our faith journey, to name where we see God’s hand, and to listen to others’ stories. As we grow more comfortable doing that here, it becomes more natural to do the same at home; and as Ash Wednesday approaches, inviting a family member to come with you can be a simple way of saying, “Your relationship with God matters to me.” You may feel nervous, awkward, or inexperienced, but God is always guiding us during those challenging attempts. Spiritual conversations do not have to be perfect to be powerful. When you honestly share how God is working in your life, you are offering your family a glimpse of the “hidden wisdom” Paul speaks about, a wisdom that can heal, guide, and transform. Questions for Small Groups:

When you hear 1 Corinthians 2:6–10, especially “what eye has not seen, and ear has not heard …” what does that say to you about God’s plans for you and your family?
What makes spiritual or faith filled conversations with your family feel difficult, awkward, or risky?
Can you share a time when a simple conversation about God (at home, at church, or with a friend) helped you grow in faith?
What is one practical way you could start or deepen a spiritual conversation at home this week (for example, after Mass, at dinner, or in the car)?

Who is one family member you could invite to Ash Wednesday, and how might you start a gentle conversation about why it matters to you?

“Life With Family”

Week 2

Salt and Light

In this second week of “Life With Family,” we turn to one of Jesus’ most powerful identity statements in Matthew 5:13–16. After teaching the Beatitudes, Jesus looks at his disciples and declares, “You are the salt of the earth ... You are the light of the world.” Notice he does not say, “You should try to be …” or “You might become …”. He says, “You are ...” This is not an aspiration; it is a declaration! If you follow Christ, you already carry value and purpose, especially within your own family.

Salt in the ancient world was precious. It preserved food, enhanced flavor, and was used in covenant ceremonies. Light, of course, makes it possible to see clearly. Jesus is saying that your presence in your family matters. Your faith, your choices, your love – they have the power to preserve relationships, bring out the best in others, and reveal the goodness of God; but here is the challenge: salt must make contact to have effect, and light must be visible to illuminate. We cannot reach our families from a distance or by being invisible.

Every family has someone who feels far from God. Maybe they walked away from the Church after a painful experience. Maybe they were never introduced to faith. Maybe they are angry, indifferent, or just distracted by the noise of life. It can feel overwhelming to think about how to reach them, especially when past attempts at “talking about God” have been met with resistance or eye rolls. This is where Jesus' teaching becomes practical: let your light shine through good deeds. “You can be the hope that shines a light in the darkness” (Sarah Hart).

Notice what Jesus says in verse 16: Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father. He does not say they will see your arguments, your Bible knowledge, or your perfect theology. They will see your good deeds. Actions speak – a kind word when someone expects criticism, help offered without being asked, forgiveness extended when bitterness would be easier, showing up when it is inconvenient. These small acts of love are not manipulation; they are incarnational. They show, rather than tell, what God is like.

This week, think of one family member who seems the furthest from faith. What is one concrete, kind thing you could do for them? Offer to babysit so they can have a break. Text them something encouraging. Bring them coffee. Help with a task they have been dreading. Listen without trying to fix or preach. Your act of service may not result in an immediate conversion, but it plants a seed. It shows them that faith is not about judgment or obligation – it is about love – and love always points beyond itself to the One who is love: Jesus.

You may feel unqualified. You may think, “How can I be salt and light when my own life feels flavorless and dim?” – but God does not need perfection; he needs willingness. Your past does not disqualify you. Your struggles do not diminish your calling. The very fact that you are here, reflecting on this, means God is at work in you. Let your light shine this week, even if it feels small. One good deed might be the beginning of someone’s journey home. Questions for Small Groups:

When you read “You are the salt of the earth” and “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13–16), what emotions or doubts come up for you?
Who in your family feels furthest from faith right now, and what makes it hard for you to reach out to them?
Can you share a time when someone's act of kindness influenced your view of God or drew you closer to him?
What is one specific good deed you could do this week for a family member who is far from faith?
What fears or obstacles keep you from stepping into your identity as salt and light in your family, and how can we pray for you?

“Life With Family”

Week 1

Introduction

This weekend we begin a brief 3-week series that’s all about family life. “Life With Family” is more than a nice idea; it is God’s design. From the very beginning, God chose to reveal himself not only to individuals, but through families and within families. Our homes, our daily routines, our ordinary interactions in families – these are meant to be places where we learn to know, love, and trust him. Yet many of us feel the tension: we want a Christ-centered family, but we are not always sure how to start, or what to do when things feel messy, complicated, or resistant.

This first week introduces the whole series by reminding us that God is already present in our family story and that he wants to draw us closer to himself through it. Our Gospel reading for today, Matthew 5:1–12a, the Beatitudes, comes as Jesus sits on the mountain and begins to teach his disciples: “Blessed are the poor in spirit … Blessed are the peacemakers … Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness …” These are not just “nice sayings” for holy people far away; they are a picture of what love can look like in our own homes.

Think about how the Beatitudes could shape family life. “Blessed are the meek” invites us to gentleness when tempers flare. “Blessed are the merciful” speaks directly into moments when old wounds and grudges want to resurface. “Blessed are the peacemakers” challenges us to be the ones who take the first step toward reconciliation after an argument. When we hear this Gospel at Mass, we might imagine crowds on a hillside, but Jesus also speaks these words into our kitchens, living rooms, and text threads with relatives.

At the same time, many of us did not grow up in families where faith was lived or prayed together. Maybe church felt like an obligation. Maybe prayer never happened at home. Maybe, sadly, our experience of family was marked more by hurt than by blessing. That can make it hard to imagine something different. Yet the very heart of this series is hope: God can write a new story. Family has shaped how we see God, for better or worse, but God is not finished. He can use us, right now, to build a new spiritual foundation in our homes.

A key step is worship and prayer together. Making weekly Mass a non-negotiable priority is one of the simplest and most powerful choices we can make. It says, “As a family, we need God.” From there, we can start small with prayer at home. A short prayer before meals, a Hail Mary before bed, a moment to share one thing you are grateful for: these simple practices begin to weave God into ordinary life. You do not need the perfect words. You do not need a perfect family. You only need a willing heart.

As we begin “Life With Family,” remember: your influence matters. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, sibling, spouse, or young person, God can use you to bring light, healing, and faith into your family. The Beatitudes show us the kind of heart God blesses. This series will help us take small, concrete steps to live that heart at home. Small Group Questions:

When you hear the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12a), which “blessed” line feels most connected to your current family situation, and why?
How has your family of origin influenced the way you think about God, church, or prayer positively or negatively?
What feels most intimidating or awkward about bringing prayer or faith conversations into your home?
What is one small, realistic step you could take this week to make Mass and/or prayer more central in your family life?

Where do you most want to see God’s blessing and transformation in your family during this “Life With Family” series?

“Habits” Week 4

Habits and Community

When Jesus began his ministry, his first act wasn’t to preach a grand sermon or perform a miracle. It was to invite others into community. “Come after me,” he said to the fishermen by the sea (Matthew 4:19). Their decision to follow, an act that would transform their lives, was rooted in relationships and a shared purpose. Jesus knew that faith and transformation have better results in community, not in isolation. Habits work the same way. We can start new habits on our own, but lasting change usually requires support, accountability, and encouragement of others. In the Gospel accounts, the disciples walked with Jesus together. They prayed together, asked questions together, served together, and learned from both successes and mistakes. That shared journey strengthened their faith and shaped their identity as followers of Christ.

When it comes to habits, especially spiritual habits, community makes all the difference. Think about your own life: when have you grown most consistently in faith or personal discipline? Chances are, it happened when someone walked with you: a mentor, friend, family member, or small group. We were never meant to do this alone. God designed the Church as a body so that each part could strengthen and sustain the others. Building habits in community doesn’t mean losing individuality; it means amplifying our growth through shared grace. When one person falters, another helps them stand. When one person celebrates progress, the whole community rejoices. Together, we remind each other that change is possible because God is at work among us.

In these final days of the Habits series, take a moment to think about how community shapes your walk with God. Are there practices – like praying together, reading Scripture in a group, serving, or worshipping regularly – that you can strengthen by doing them with others? What might happen if we stopped trying to grow alone and chose instead to start habits that connect us more deeply with one another? The Church has always been a community built around shared practices, like gathering, breaking bread, praying, and caring for one another’s needs. These aren’t just rituals; they’re relational habits that open our hearts to God and to each other. When we commit to showing up week after week in faith and fellowship, God forms something lasting.

Transformation doesn’t come only through grand resolutions; it comes through small, consistent acts of faith practiced together. As you continue this journey, consider what one communal habit you can start or renew. Maybe it’s joining a small group, volunteering in a ministry, or simply checking in weekly with a friend who encourages your faith. In fact, God often meets us through others. The people around you are not just companions; they are instruments of grace, helping you become who you were created to be. When we walk together, our habits become holy ground where God’s presence is made known. Small Group Discussion Questions:

Why do you think Jesus began his ministry by forming a community rather than working alone?
Jesus formed his disciples through shared routines (prayer, meals, faith, and mission), forming a community. How has my community (family, friends, church, or small group) help shape my faith and spiritual routines?
What makes it easier or harder for you to build habits when others are involved?
How do shared habits become a witness to the wider community, and could your Small Group strengthen these shared habits by practicing them together?
How can your group continue supporting one another beyond this series so that lasting growth continues?

“Habits”

Week 3

Belief and the Power to Change

Every habit begins with belief. Long before action comes conviction, the deep, quiet faith that says, “Change is possible.” Without belief, even the best intentions eventually fade. We might want to pray more, serve more, or think differently; but if we don’t believe we can, we won’t follow through.

This week’s Gospel reminds us that real transformation begins with recognizing who God is and what He’s able to do in us. When John the Baptist saw Jesus, he proclaimed, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” That declaration was more than an observation; it was a statement of belief. John recognized that Jesus had the power to forgive, to heal, and to make all things new.

Belief is the foundation that supports every good habit. It tells us that with God’s help, we can begin again. It reminds us that no failure is final and no change is beyond reach. Too often, we fall into the trap of relying solely on willpower; but Christian transformation doesn’t begin with effort; it begins with grace. God doesn’t say, “Try harder.” He says, “Trust Me.” When we truly believe that God is present and active in our lives, our habits become more than self-improvement projects. They become spiritual acts of hope. Each time we choose a healthy, faith-filled pattern, we are living out our belief that God’s power is working through us. Our faith fuels perseverance. Even when we don’t see results right away, belief reminds us that God is forming something good within us.

Think about it this way: habits shape who we are becoming, and belief gives us the courage to keep practicing them. The more we trust that God is at work in us, the more our actions align with that faith. Belief is the soil in which habit takes root and blossoms into transformation.

So this week, reflect on what you truly believe about God’s power in your life. Do you believe that grace is stronger than weakness? That forgiveness is deeper than failure? That God delights in helping you grow? When you begin forming or renewing a habit, remind yourself: This isn’t about my strength, it’s about God’s faithfulness. Your next step doesn’t have to be dramatic. Simply start with one act of trust. Pray before you begin your day. Offer gratitude at each meal. Spend five quiet minutes with Scripture. Each small act, done in faith, becomes a testimony of belief, a declaration that God is still shaping your story.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

Do you agree that belief is such an important foundation for habit formation and personal change? Why/Why not?
Was there a time when you experienced God’s grace giving you strength beyond your own effort?
What habits in your life are grounded in belief, and which ones are driven mostly by willpower?
How does believing in Jesus as “the Lamb of God” give you courage to begin again after setbacks?

Can you identify one small step of faith you can take this week to live out your belief in God’s transforming power?

“Habits”

Week Two

Habits and Identity

At the heart of spiritual growth lies a simple but life-changing truth: who we believe we are shapes what we do. Our habits are not only actions; they are reflections of identity. Before we can change what we do, we must understand who we are.

When Jesus came to the Jordan River to be baptized, he hadn’t yet preached a sermon, healed the sick, or performed a miracle. Yet before he began his ministry, God declared from heaven, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Jesus’ identity wasn’t earned through success or performance; it was bestowed by his Father. That same truth applies to us. Before we try to form better habits or change our behavior, we must begin by hearing and believing God’s word over us: “You are my beloved.” This is where true transformation begins. When we start a new habit from a place of self-doubt, guilt, or striving, it quickly becomes exhausting and it doesn’t bear fruit; but when we anchor our efforts in our identity as God’s beloved children, every step becomes an act of living out that truth. We no longer try to become worthy; we live as ones who already are.

Think about it: a person who sees themselves as healthy naturally makes choices that align with health. A person who sees themselves as generous doesn’t struggle to give; they act out of who they already believe they are. The same is true for our faith. When we truly believe we are loved, chosen, and forgiven, we begin to live in ways that reflect God’s love without forcing it. Our habits flow naturally from our identity.

So, as we continue this journey, reflect on what messages you believe about yourself. Are they rooted in what the world says or what God says? When God calls you “beloved,” “redeemed,” “child,” and “new creation,” that identity isn’t just simple words; it’s the deepest truth about you. Let this truth shape the habits you form. If you start a routine of prayer, service, or gratitude, do it not to earn God’s favor but because you are already close to his heart. Each small, faithful act becomes a way of saying, “This is who I am, and this is who I’m becoming.”

This week, take time in prayer to listen for God’s voice declaring your identity. Receive it deeply and let it reshape how you act, speak, and live. You may find that as you root your habits in identity rather than effort, the change you’ve wanted won’t just last; it will feel lighter, freer, and guided by grace.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

Why do you think God affirmed Jesus’ identity before his ministry began?
How does your view of yourself influence the habits you build or struggle to maintain?
What false identities or messages do you sometimes believe about yourself?
How can rooting your habits in your identity as God’s beloved change your motivation for growth?

Is there one habit you want to begin this year that reflects who you are in Christ? And how can this group encourage one other during this journey of starting new habits?

Feast of the Epiphany.

“Habits” Week One

The Power of Habits

When we think about change, many of us start with big goals: lose weight, spend less, pray more, worry less; but often, those grand resolutions fade with time. Real transformation doesn’t usually come from one grand decision; it comes from the small, consistent choices we repeat daily. These choices, our habits, quietly guide our lives in one direction or another. Experts say that up to half of what we do every day flows from habits, not conscious decisions; but Scripture shows that habits aren’t just psychological, but spiritual routines. God designed us with the capacity for habits because he knew that repetition shapes who we become. Our habits can lead us toward being more like Christ or away from him.

In Matthew 2, we read about the Magi, wise men who had a habit of studying the stars. Because of their consistent curiosity and attention to God’s creation, they recognized a unique sign in the heavens and followed it. That simple, faithful habit led them on a journey that ended at the feet of Jesus. Imagine that: a habit, not ambition or coincidence, brought them face to face with the Savior. Like the Magi, we are also on a journey of discovery. God can use even one small, intentional habit to guide us closer to him. Maybe that’s a habit of daily prayer, gratitude before meals, attending church regularly, or being intentional with loved ones. Small habits can open our hearts to big encounters with God.

Forming habits aligned with God’s will is a deeply spiritual act. It’s not about self-improvement for its own sake; it’s about formation. Every repeated choice writes a small line in the story of who we’re becoming. The habits we cultivate reveal who we trust and what we value most. This week, take time to identify one area of your life where God might be calling you to grow. Don’t start with something huge. Begin with one small, meaningful step, something you can commit to doing daily or weekly. Write it down, pray over it, place it where you can see it, and ask God to bless the process. Remember, God doesn’t expect perfection; he desires persistence and commitment. It’s in the steady rhythm of small, faithful actions that grace grows strongest. The Magi didn’t find Jesus in one day; it took a committed habit of steadily following the star. In the same way, your one habit can become the pathway to deeper peace, purpose, and connection with God. So what habit will you begin today? You never know how far one simple practice might carry you, maybe even to worship at the feet of Jesus. Small Group discussion questions:

The Magi’s habit of watching the stars led them to Jesus. What spiritual or personal habits in your life have drawn you closer to God? What’s a habit that has shaped your life for better or worse?
Why do you think small habits often make a bigger difference than big resolutions? How does the story of the Magi challenge our understanding of what God can do through simple routines?
What tends to get in the way of developing good, consistent habits?
What’s one small habit you sense God calling you to start this week?

How can this group help one another stay encouraged and accountable in building new habits that honor God?

“Grace and Truth”

Week 4

Grace for Our Burdens

Merry Christmas! ¡Feliz Navidad! Wesołych Świąt! Maligayang Pasko! Jwaye Nwel! Joyeux Noël! Feliz Natal! Frohe Weihnachten! Щасливого Різдва! С Рождеством! Καλά Χριστούγεννα! Krismasi Njema! Mutlu Noeller! Ikini ọdun keresimesi! क्रिसमस की बधाई! క్రిస్మస్ శుభాకాంక్షలు! عيد ميلاد مجيد! חג מולד שמח! 聖誕節快樂! 메리 크리스마스!

As we celebrate the final week of Advent, we remember that from the very beginning, Jesus arrived in the middle of real burden. His birth complicated the lives of Mary and Joseph, troubled the innkeepers, and unsettled the powers of the world. Yet God’s message to Joseph — “Do not be afraid” (Matthew 1:20) — reminds us that grace and truth are more powerful than life’s burdens.

Christ is born precisely where life feels heavy. Grace has a way of transforming what first feels like fear or inconvenience into joy, blessing, and healing. This Christmas, invite Jesus into the places that weigh you down — and as he lifts your heart, be a grace for someone else’s burden.

May the grace and truth of Christ bring peace to your heart, your home, and to all those you love!

Many Thanks

Thank you to all staff and volunteers who have helped make this season beautiful — especially our Staff, Light the Night Team, our Parish Decoration Committee, musicians, liturgical ministers, and all who give so generously of time, talent, and treasure. Your kindness supports our parish family and brings Christ’s love to our neighbors in need through your generosity and service.

If I don’t see you, I wish you and your family a blessed and joyful New Year!

With love and gratitude,

Fr. Reichlen

“Grace & Truth”

Instruments of Grace

The third week of Advent is represented by joy. Joy not as an escape from reality but found precisely in meeting the truth of the world with grace. The Scriptures for this week recount the miracles and acts of compassion in Jesus’ ministry: “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them” (Mt 11:4-5).

Jesus does not deny the brokenness, hurt, or injustice that exist in the world. Instead, he acknowledges them and then responds with transforming love and hands-on mercy. The truth asks us to see others as they are, not as we wish them to be. It calls us to notice the needs around us: physical, emotional, and spiritual. This truth is the first step in love, and it keeps us grounded.

But truth alone can stop us in our tracks. It can feel overwhelming to witness suffering, division, poverty, or isolation in our communities. This is where grace then gives us the strength to keep going or persevere to keep the image of moving forward and pushing through despite the circumstances. Grace enables us to move from observing to action, from passive concern to active help. It looks like sharing what we have, advocating for those without a voice, and being present where others feel forgotten. When grace and truth work together, our faith is not just sentiment but lived practice, reaching out to others as Christ did. Joy emerges not from comfort or avoidance, but from participating in God’s ongoing story of healing, hope, and justice.

Advent’s invitation is both personal and communal. As church members, we are called to be instruments of grace: using our gifts, resources, and compassion to become part of the good news for others. That could mean supporting a mission, volunteering, or doing something simple but real, offering a listening ear, encouraging someone, or helping someone in need. As we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, we remember that he came not to those who had everything together, but to a world longing for mercy and renewal.

This week, consider how God might be asking you to see the truth about needs around you, and to offer your hands and heart as signs of grace. Advent joy is not passive. In serving, advocating, or simply being present, you not only bring comfort and hope to others, but also encounter Christ himself in ways both beautiful and unexpected. As a community, may you be known for reflecting God’s truth with compassion, and for being a living, active instrument of his amazing grace. Small Group Reflection Questions:

When you look around your community, what are some truths, real needs or hurts that stand out to you? How does seeing these needs make you feel? Are you ever tempted to ignore them, or do you feel called to respond in some way?
What do you think it means to be an “instrument of grace” in practical, everyday life?
Recall a time when you received or witnessed unexpected grace, a kindness or help you didn’t anticipate. How did it affect you?

What is one small step you (or your group) could take this week to embody grace and truth for someone else in need?

“Grace & Truth” Week 2

Faith in Times of Crisis

As Advent continues, John the Baptist takes center stage. Clad in camel’s hair, eating locusts and honey, he stands in the wilderness as a living contradiction to the easy way, a prophet calling out to those ready for spiritual renewal. His message is blunt and urgent: “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). John’s words are not simply a demand for shame or sorrow. Repentance, in the biblical sense, is a transformation.

In times of crisis or uncertainty, we often become aware of our need for change, for something new and solid. Advent asks us not to avoid truth or brush over shortcomings, but to face them honestly. That is John the Baptist’s example, calling the people to acknowledge their sins and make concrete changes. Yet this is not a message of despair. Repentance always comes paired with the promise of grace. Notice how crowds are drawn to John the Baptist in the desert, confessing their sins and being baptized. The hope of Advent is not in our perfection, but in the God who responds to humble hearts with mercy.

Many people wrestle with imbalance: it can feel easy to hide behind God’s grace without honestly facing our failings, or to be so weighed down by guilt that we cannot receive forgiveness. John shows a better way: repentance is not about earning God’s love but receiving and cooperating with it. Authentic spiritual growth always means naming the truth about our lives and then trusting that God’s grace is bigger than our weakness.

In this season of waiting, Advent invites us to see repentance as a hopeful act, not a negative one. It is about making space for Christ to enter and renew us. John’s repentance isn’t a one-time event. It is a daily willingness to change, to clear out what keeps us away from our relationship with God, so that the Holy Spirit may guide us. When we are honest before God and others, we are freed from pride. When we accept God’s grace, we are empowered to extend grace and forgiveness to others.

Despite the seriousness of John’s call, he also points forward to the One who will baptize “with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Matthew 3:11). It is not our repentance that saves us, but Jesus, who brings both truth and grace. The Advent journey asks: what do you need to clear out? Where do you need to trust God’s mercy, and to cooperate with the work of the Spirit in your heart and habits? In faith’s crises, when you lose security, face trials, or recognize weakness, remember that your willingness to change is always met by God’s greater invitation: come, be renewed, for the Kingdom is near.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

What does repentance mean to you? How is it different from simply feeling sorry or guilty about something?
In what areas of your life do you sense God calling you to acknowledge the truth and seek change during this Advent season?
How do you experience the tension between relying on God’s grace and facing the need for real repentance?
Can you share an example of a time when admitting a weakness or sin led to new freedom or spiritual growth in your life?
What practical steps could you take, individually or as a group, to “prepare the way” for Christ by clearing out distractions or unhelpful habits this season?

“Grace & Truth” Week 2

Faith in Times of Crisis

As Advent continues, John the Baptist takes center stage. Clad in camel’s hair, eating locusts and honey, he stands in the wilderness as a living contradiction to the easy way, a prophet calling out to those ready for spiritual renewal. His message is blunt and urgent: “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). John’s words are not simply a demand for shame or sorrow. Repentance, in the biblical sense, is a transformation.

In times of crisis or uncertainty, we often become aware of our need for change, for something new and solid. Advent asks us not to avoid truth or brush over shortcomings, but to face them honestly. That is John the Baptist’s example, calling the people to acknowledge their sins and make concrete changes. Yet this is not a message of despair. Repentance always comes paired with the promise of grace. Notice how crowds are drawn to John the Baptist in the desert, confessing their sins and being baptized. The hope of Advent is not in our perfection, but in the God who responds to humble hearts with mercy.

Many people wrestle with imbalance: it can feel easy to hide behind God’s grace without honestly facing our failings, or to be so weighed down by guilt that we cannot receive forgiveness. John shows a better way: repentance is not about earning God’s love but receiving and cooperating with it. Authentic spiritual growth always means naming the truth about our lives and then trusting that God’s grace is bigger than our weakness.

In this season of waiting, Advent invites us to see repentance as a hopeful act, not a negative one. It is about making space for Christ to enter and renew us. John’s repentance isn’t a one-time event. It is a daily willingness to change, to clear out what keeps us away from our relationship with God, so that the Holy Spirit may guide us. When we are honest before God and others, we are freed from pride. When we accept God’s grace, we are empowered to extend grace and forgiveness to others.

Despite the seriousness of John’s call, he also points forward to the One who will baptize “with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Matthew 3:11). It is not our repentance that saves us, but Jesus, who brings both truth and grace. The Advent journey asks: what do you need to clear out? Where do you need to trust God’s mercy, and to cooperate with the work of the Spirit in your heart and habits? In faith’s crises, when you lose security, face trials, or recognize weakness, remember that your willingness to change is always met by God’s greater invitation: come, be renewed, for the Kingdom is near.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

What does repentance mean to you? How is it different from simply feeling sorry or guilty about something?
In what areas of your life do you sense God calling you to acknowledge the truth and seek change during this Advent season?
How do you experience the tension between relying on God’s grace and facing the need for real repentance?
Can you share an example of a time when admitting a weakness or sin led to new freedom or spiritual growth in your life?
What practical steps could you take, individually or as a group, to “prepare the way” for Christ by clearing out distractions or unhelpful habits this season?

“Grace & Truth”

Week 1

Staying Awake

Advent begins not with noise and fanfare but with an urgent wake-up call: “Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come” (Mt 24:42). These words can sound a bit unsettling, especially in a culture that prizes busyness and exhaustion. Yet in the Gospel, “staying awake” is not about physical sleep deprivation; it is a spiritual invitation to open our eyes, hearts, and minds to the presence and work of God all around us. Advent calls each of us to be alert, present, and expectant and to approach each day as a gift in which God can break through in surprising ways.

It is tempting to fall into autopilot during these weeks, rushing through our routines, and distracted by obligations. Jesus warns against this, reminding us that important and holy moments happen when we least expect them. The truth is that our world is full of distractions, anxieties, and noise that can lead us into spiritual disconnect. Sometimes we think staying awake means being constantly busy or anxious, but real attentiveness is something quieter and deeper: it is about being present, awake to God’s grace and truth in each moment, ready for the unexpected.

To “stay awake” in Advent means to cultivate spiritual presence. Throughout Scripture, God’s most significant gifts come to those who are watchful, just like Mary in the night, Joseph in his dreams, and shepherds in the fields. Present and attentive, they recognized the signs of God’s presence. Their hearts were open, not trapped in the past or future, but in the present. For us, it starts with small practices: pausing for prayer in the morning, noticing the needs around us, reflecting on how God might be prompting us toward generosity or action right now.

It also means a willingness to accept that we cannot control God’s timing. The truth is that we do not know when or how Christ will come to us, whether in prayer, in a person in need, or in our deepest struggles. Grace meets us in this “not-knowing.” To stay awake is not just vigilance but readiness to receive whatever God desires to give us. In each encounter, in each interruption, there is the possibility of Christ’s presence.

This Advent, consider: what does “staying awake” look like for you? Is it a renewed commitment to prayer, a conscious effort to step away from distractions, or simply being more present with the people God has placed in your life? Ask God to open your eyes and your heart. Pray for the courage to notice and respond to moments of grace. The surprise of Advent is that in staying awake, you are not just preparing for Christ’s coming, you begin to see Him present among us. Questions for Small Groups:

What does Jesus mean when he says, “stay awake” in Matthew 24:42? How do you interpret this call in your own life?
In what ways can we become spiritually “asleep” or distracted during Advent? What are some common distractions or routines that pull your attention away from God?
How does the tension between wanting to control life’s timing and embracing the unexpected reflect your personal faith journey?
What are practical ways you can “stay awake” spiritually this Advent season in your daily life and relationships?

Can you share a time when being alert and present helped you recognize God’s unexpected grace or presence? How did that moment impact you?

Stewardship Sunday! “Pilgrims of Hope”

Week 7

Hope in Christ the King

As we close the Pilgrims of Hope series, we stand at the foot of the cross with Jesus Christ, the King of the universe. The Gospel tells the story of Jesus forgiving the good thief who, in the final moments of life, places his hope in Christ’s mercy. This moment is the ultimate proclamation of hope, that even in the shadow of death, forgiveness, grace, and new life are possible.

Christ’s kingship is unlike any worldly power. His reign is one of mercy, love, and reconciliation. From the cross, Jesus offers hope to the repentant sinner. This deep truth challenges the way we see power and authority. True power, the power of Christ the King, is shown in self-giving love and hope extended to all, regardless of past mistakes or present struggles.

For us today, hope in Christ the King is a source assurance and belonging. No matter where we find ourselves, whether we are struggling with faith, burdened by sin, or feeling excluded, we are invited into the kingdom of mercy. Christ’s forgiveness is never out of reach, even at our last breath. This hope calls us to trust deeply in His mercy and to extend that mercy to others in our community and beyond.

As part of this hope, stewardship and commitment become acts of faith. When we dedicate our lives to Christ, as stewards of his gifts, we are part with his Kingdom’s growth. The invitation to fill out Commitment Cards is not simply administrative; it is a spiritual response to the hope we have received. By committing ourselves in faith, we become co-workers in the Kingdom, offering hope to those around us through our lives of service and love.

The testimonies from members in our Next Gen ministry who went to the Steubenville retreat this past summer remind us that hope is lived in community and in action. Christ’s Kingship is not distant or abstract; it is present and active in the lives of his followers. Through service, witness, and daily discipleship, we join the King in building a kingdom grounded in compassion and truth.

This week, as we reflect on Christ the King, may we feel included and embraced by his love. May we be filled with courage to witness this hope boldly; and may our commitments be signs of a hope that is alive and transforming, not just for eternity, but for today. Small Group Questions:

When I proclaim “Christ is King” what does that mean in my daily life, in my decisions, my priorities and my treatment of others?
How can I bear witness to Christ's reign through hope-filled acts of mercy, truth, and justice?
In what ways does hope in Christ’s forgiveness bring freedom in your daily life?
How can our parish community extend Christ’s mercy and hope to those who feel excluded or unworthy?
What is one way you can live out your commitment to Christ the King this week?

“Pilgrims of Hope”

Week 6

Hope in Uncertain Times

All around us, uncertainty seems to have become the norm, whether in our country, communities, or even our own lives. At times, everything familiar can feel shaken. In his Second Letter to the Thessalonians, St. Paul addresses a church worried about the future, confused about God’s timing, and distracted by rumors of coming disaster. He urges the community to remain steadfast: “You yourselves know how you ought to imitate us … we were not idle … but worked night and day … so that we might give you an example” (2 Thessalonians 3:7-9). His advice is simple yet radical: in times of uncertainty, keep working for the kingdom, living faithfully, and putting faith into action.

This is not the hope of denial or waiting for better circumstances. Rather, it is a call to perseverance. In the Gospel, Jesus speaks candidly of the real hardships his followers will face conflict, persecution, and crisis. Yet his words conclude with a promise: “By your perseverance you will secure your lives” (Luke 21:19). Hope is less about avoiding difficulty and more about moving forward with conviction, trusting that God is present and at work no matter the outcome.

Paul’s warning against idleness speaks to the temptation that comes up when the future feels unknown: to wait passively, worry, or focus on other people’s business. True Christian hope is found not in idleness, but in doing our part to love, and serve, no matter how uncertain things seem. When fear, anxiety, or confusion take hold, hope leads us to take the next faithful step, no matter how small, believing that God is the one who provides direction and security.

The Eucharist, described as the “source and summit of the Christian life,” (CCC 1324) anchors our hope even when daily routines are disrupted or gatherings are difficult. In Jesus, we see a God who is faithful; he walks with us through uncertainty – strengthening us in our trials and reminding us that our work is never wasted when it is done in love. The Church has faced countless seasons with many challenges, yet the witness of saints, martyrs, and everyday believers confirms that hope endures when it is rooted in Christ.

This week, our parish is called to live hope actively, reaching out to those in need while partnering with our local partners, and persevering in prayer and service. Each act done for love of Christ becomes a testimony: the world may be uncertain, but our Lord is faithful. Together, we are challenged to embrace the present moment with courage, to avoid the trap of idleness, and to keep our eyes fixed on the God who promises never to abandon us.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

How do you typically respond to uncertainty or fear? Does it draw you closer to God or distract you from him?
What is the difference between hope and wishful thinking during difficult times?
Why do you think Paul warns against idleness during times of uncertainty?
How does participating in the Mass and parish life anchor your hope, especially when things feel unstable?
What concrete step can you take this week to “work for the kingdom” and be a sign of hope for others?

“Pilgrims of Hope”

Week 5

Hope in the Resurrection

This week, the Church invites us to reflect not simply on a historic building, but on the deepest foundation of Christian hope: the Resurrection of Jesus and our share in his Risen Life. The St. John Lateran Basilica, known as the “Mother and Head” of all churches in the West, stands as a symbol of faith’s endurance and victory over fear and death. St. John Lateran is the Cathedral Church where the Bishop of Rome (the Pope) presides. For early Christians, the dedication of such a church marked a new chapter – public witness, freedom to worship, and unity in Christ.

Yet Jesus, upon entering the temple in Jerusalem, directs our attention beyond any structure of stone. When he drives out the merchants and foretells the Temple’s destruction and his own Resurrection: “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up,” he reveals that our ultimate hope is not in buildings, but in the living Presence of God. The true Temple is Christ himself; and through Baptism and the Eucharist, we too are made temples of the Holy Spirit. This reality challenges us to focus less on externals and more on our relationship with the Risen Lord.

Hope in the Resurrection is at the heart of our journey as Christians. Christ’s Resurrection is not a myth; it is the cornerstone of faith. If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile, St. Paul proclaims (1 Corinthians 15:17). Because Jesus lives, hope is not wishful thinking but an unshakable promise that death will never have the final word. The Resurrection is God’s answer to suffering, loss, and even the end of life itself. Those who believe in him are invited to a new way of living – a life marked by courage, freedom, and joy.

The Lateran Basilica’s feast reminds us that the Church is built not of marble, but of living stones – each believer who contributes to the community’s faith and witness. Our lives, shaped by the hope of Christ’s Resurrection, become signs for those who struggle or feel lost. When we forgive, encourage, or serve others out of faith, we make the risen Christ present in the world. In a culture often marked by cynicism or despair, the resurrection calls us to be people of unwavering hope.

This week, consider how resurrection hope can reshape fear, habits, relationships, and even our experience of suffering. Every Mass is an encounter with the risen Christ; each Eucharist is a pledge that the living Jesus is with us and will fulfill every promise He has made. As we celebrate the dedication of the Lateran Basilica, let us renew our own dedication: to be people who worship without fear, who share hope with others, and who carry the confidence of resurrection into all the world. We do not place our faith in buildings or people alone, but in the Lord who has risen, who is among us, and who promises that one day, we too will rise. Small Group Discussion Questions:

How does the St. John Lateran Basilica remind me that the Church is both a visible structure and a living body united in Christ?
In what ways does my life reflect hope in the Resurrection, especially in times of loss, discouragement or suffering?
The St. John Lateran Basilica is a symbol of unity under the successor of Peter. How does hope in the Resurrection call me to work for unity and peace within the church?
When I enter a church building, do I see it as a reminder of the heavenly home we are called to share through Christ's Resurrection?
Where in your life do you most need resurrection hope right now?

“Pilgrims of Hope”

Week 4

Hope in the Midst of Grief

Grief is a human journey that we all must travel at certain times in life, whether through the loss of loved ones, disappointment, or unwelcome change. Scripture speaks into our sorrow not with hollow reassurances, but with the deep promise of hope, hope that is rooted in God’s presence, faithfulness, and eternity.

The Book of Wisdom offers words of comfort that have echoed through centuries of Christian mourning: The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them … they are at peace (Wisdom 3:1-3). Even though loss may feel devastating, the Scriptures remind us that death is not the end; in God, there is peace beyond our understanding, and those who have died in faith are secure in his loving hands.

Paul, in his letter to the Romans, reminds believers that hope does not disappoint – because – God’s love has been poured into our hearts (Romans 5:5). In suffering, we are invited to discover an endurance and character that produces an even greater hope. Christian hope is not the denial of pain or loss, but the assurance that God’s love and Christ’s resurrection have conquered even death itself. Psalm 23 echoes this reality, painting a picture of God’s gentle guidance through the valley of the shadow of death promising comfort and rest for our weary souls.

The Gospel story of the widow of Nain is striking: as she joins a funeral procession for her only son, Jesus sees her pain, is moved with compassion, and restores her son to life (Luke 7:11-17). Jesus draws near in our moments of greatest vulnerability. He promises a life that is not swallowed by grief but transformed by the hope of resurrection. His response to sorrow is not distance, but renewed presence and compassion.

In our parish, this week is dedicated to remembering the dead, to supporting the grieving, and to prayer. The feast of All Souls calls us to pray for our beloved departed, entrusting them into God’s mercy, and praying the St. Gertrude Prayer for the souls in purgatory. As a faith community, reaching out to those who mourn through our Grief Support Group, a compassionate word, or our prayers, becomes both a work of mercy and a sign of our hope.

Hope in the midst of grief does not mean forgetting those we have lost or pretending all is well. It means daring to believe that love is stronger than death, that Christ has gone before us, and that we remain connected in the Communion of Saints. As we bring our prayers and sorrows to God, we are invited to keep alive the flame of hope, a hope that looks for the resurrection, trusts God’s promise, and brings comfort to ourselves and one another. Small Group Discussion Questions:

Which Scripture from this week’s readings most speaks to your experience of grief or loss? Why?
How have you experienced God’s presence or comfort during times of mourning?
What does it mean to say Christian hope “does not disappoint” (Romans 5:5) in practical terms?
How can our parish more actively support those who are experiencing grief or who have lost loved ones?
Who or what are you praying for this week as a sign of hope, and how might you invite others to do the same?