"No one who looks back is fit for the kingdom of God"

In Sunday’s Gospel for June 30, 2013, Jesus is on the march and will not be turned back. He is fierce and sometimes the readings startle us. He “rebukes” the disciples. A man along the way wants to bury his father and then follow Jesus. But Jesus shouts, “Let the dead bury the dead.” He is moving fast, and his mood is intense. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

Facing resolutely towards Jerusalem

Scholars call the first portion of Luke’s Gospel the “Galilean Ministry,” (Luke 3:1-9:50) which has been the subject of our scripture readings until this Sunday (except for the insertion of Lent and Easter). Now a new section of Luke begins, called the “Journey to Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51-19:28).

In the opening words of today's Gospel, Luke clearly states where Jesus is headed. He is going up to Jerusalem where, as we heard predicted in last Sunday's Gospel, he will be put to death. Fr. Orly Sapuay, M.S. explains that going to Jerusalem for Jesus is, above all, the fulfillment of his mission as the one who brings peace to souls, beginning with his own.

"Follow Me"

Jesus calls to several people in the gospel story to follow Him. He is likewise calling us. At all costs, we must keep advancing. And, if we stumble and fall, we must like our Master pick ourselves up and move forward once again.

Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B. says the first lesson for those who would travel with Jesus is to put aside all initiatives prompted by anger and prejudice. Fr. James Gilhooley points out that Discipleship is a total commitment, and Jesus wants us to know from the beginning that following him will lead to the crucifixion. If we would truly follow Him, says Father Cusick, then we must embrace His humility, expressed outwardly in His humble earthly circumstances.

Without a doubt, explains Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB, Jesus speaks forcefully to us about the call to discipleship, of following him. Let us not mourn the impossibility of going back to the past, but eagerly move on to wherever Christ calls us. It is a challenge to be sure, suggests Dan Finucane, a student at Saint Louis University.

When Jesus speaks about those who are "fit" and those who are "not fit" for the kingdom of the God, Fr. Phil Bloom explains that our Lord will accept the tiniest step. But He will not rest until we have given Him all. Half-hearted discipleship simply will not be acceptable. Jesus is saying that Christianity (and Catholicism) are challenges, not just warm blankets. Jesus values God more than safe sleep, more than family funerals, even more than courtesy to family and friends, as Fr. John Foley reminds us.

And so as you walk the road of your life each day, Fr. Alex McAllister SDS asks us to be prepared. He says be ready for that day when Christ on that same road comes walking by and addresses you with those simple but deeply challenging words: 'Follow me!'

Second Reading: Paul to the Galatians

In this Sunday’s second reading, St. Paul says that the Flesh and the Spirit are directly opposed. Does that mean that he is squeamish about the fact that we have bodies? Are we to reject the physical dimension and try to live like angels? Dr. Marcellino d'Ambrosio explains.

And as the Fourth of July weekend approaches, Fr. Joseph Pellegrino saw in Paul's letter a reflection on our country and how we Americans give great weight to the law.

Understanding our Catholic Faith

Fr. John Bartunek, LC tackles the concept of indulgences and offers a most basic clarification: Salvation Is Not a Math Problem. It's one of the many Catholic beliefs that Protestants have had issues with. And Sacred Traditions is another one. Delving into the Protestant mindset, Mark Shea says that one basic rule of thumb to understand in Catholic/Protestant conversations is that it is not the case that Catholics rely on Sacred Tradition and Protestants don’t. Rather, Catholics rely on Sacred Tradition and know they do, while Protestants rely on (parts) of Sacred Tradition and (usually) don’t know they do.

Bringing Back our Fallen-away Young Adults

We also look into the generations-long exodus of our Catholic young adults away from our faith and how we can bring them back. A dissertation we encountered points out that most young adults who were raised Catholic don't experience choosing to practice the faith as "coming back" to something inherited from their parents at all. They experience it as a pioneer or convert does, discovering a new and amazing land for the first time. We'd be smarter to call these younger seekers "discovering" Catholics rather than "returning" Catholics. Because it is a difference that makes all the difference in how they approach the faith and what they ask of us.

Sweet Surprises

Arwen Mosher lost her iPod Touch while we on vacation with her family. Then a sweet surprise came to her when she found it inside a FexEx box she received a few days later. A total stranger found it and returned it to her - even paying for the shipping. There's still a lot of good in our cynical world. The kindness of strangers prove it everyday.

Another eventful week in our Catholic world. Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

BURNING QUESTION: Does God want you to be rich?
FEATURED STORY: "Discovering" or "Recovering" Catholics?
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"But who do you say that I am?"

In this Sunday's Gospel story, June 23, 2013, Jesus asks a simple question. “Who do the crowds say that I Am?” All volunteer an answer, because describing other people’s opinions requires no personal commitment whatsoever. But then Jesus asks them a tougher question: “Who do YOU say that I am?” Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

This story is clearly divided into three sections: the first, where Peter answers the question, "Who do you say that I am?" with the reply "The Christ of God." The second section is a prediction of the passion, "The Son of Man is destined to suffer grievously." And the third is the news that those who want to follow Christ must take up their own Cross. From this moment onward in the Gospel, Jesus is on his way to Golgotha and the cross.

"Who do you say I am?"

Jesus' question had as much relevancy down the centuries as it did when it was first asked in the northeast corner of Palestine. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB explains how the replies of the disciples are varied, as are those of each of us today when Jesus, through someone else's lips, asks us the same question, and with increasing frequency and intensity.

In fact, each Christian of every age must give an answer. As Fr. James Gilhooley suggests, we must decide whether we are His disciples or just His fans. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino agrees that it is indeed serious business being a Christian. The enemy is the egocentricity of a world that thinks it does not need God. We must determine who Jesus is for us is, This, according to Fr. Orly Sapuay, MS, is the question and the work of a lifetime. It is the only question that matters.

"The Son of Man is destined to suffer grievously."

Notice that this statement echoes the First Reading for Sunday, written five hundred years before Christ. It describes a day of mourning because of “him whom they have pierced.” Fr. John Foley, S. J. says this text portrays Jesus’ divinity perfectly, one who would descend straight into our suffering and would stay with us all the way, not turning back, not forgetting to love us. Jesus tells us he must suffer and die - he must give his blood for us. Today it is in the celebration of the Mass, Fr. Phil Bloom reminds us, that we enter that mystery and receive the remedy for our sins.

As this gospel story ends, Jesus throws the disciples a curve ball. He strictly forbade them to tell this to anyone.” Why? Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio explains in "The Messianic Secret and the Cross."

We must take up our own Cross

Fr. Alex McAllister SDS points out that many regard Christ as the only person who ever lived who is really worth following - that is except for this teaching on suffering and the Cross. Unfortunately the Cross is not only part of the central message of Christianity. Accepting the Cross is its central requirement.

The litmus-test for Christian orthodoxy, Fr. Ron Rolheiser tells us, is not the Creed. Can you take in bitterness, curses, hatred, and murder itself, and give back graciousness, blessing, love, understanding, and forgiveness? That is the root invitation inside of Christianity. Being Christian doesn’t cause our human differences to disappear and vanish. Fr. Charles Irvin says it is the sharing in all of Christ’s Sacraments that makes our differences irrelevant when it comes to living together in the life of God given us in Jesus Christ.

The Church now proclaims the good news that the Risen Son of Man and Messiah is present among us to create us anew in His own image. We learn what that means in the unique circumstances of our lives through the life and teaching of Jesus. By doing so, Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, O.S.B. preaches, we will be able to help fix the corruption and lawlessness that fills the earth, rather than adding to it. It is the very same message that Bretton DeLaria, a Junior at Saint Louis University, saw in the Readings. He was thirsting for Him, for that spiritual food that would reach the depths of his soul and fill that thirst for Christ Jesus.

Fathers Day was June 16

Sunday, June 16, was Fathers Day. And it invited us to ask a very important spiritual question – what does it mean to call God “Father?” Also, please do take a moment to share this special video message with the Godly Dads in your life as a reminder of what a blessing they are to us.

In another video, country music singer Kenny Rogers has a song called “Water and Bridges,” which highlights a father's pain after losing a child to abortion. Rogers said the song is not about him, but is "really about choices you make when you're young that you pay for when you're old." Plus, Fr. John Flynn, LC reflects on the growing number of children today are in the dark about the identity of their biological father. A recent report looked into Anonymous Parenthood - The Consequences of Sperm Donation.

This celebration of FAthers Day was quite timely specially when you read this report from a Catholic group that says popular primetime television shows engage audiences daily for an hour. This is longer than the average child gets to spend with his parents. On average, parents spend only 49 minutes with their children every day.

Bo Sanchez reflects fondly on his relationship with his father. "Hug Someone Today While There's Still Time" is his story and it is very timely for all of us today. And finally, we bring back "I Can Only Imagine," one of those truly remarkable stories. Make sure you watch the video at the end. This gripping story of love will remain in your consciousness for a very long time.

Another eventful week in our Catholic world. A blessed and happy Fathers Day to all dads.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

BURNING QUESTION: Is Jesus & God the same?
FEATURED BLOG: Awesome Dad Cheat Sheet
PASTORAL HISPANA: Quien dice la gente que soy yo? 
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“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

In this Sunday's Gospel story, June 16, 2013, Luke draws a sharp contrast between the smug and self-righteous Pharisee who keeps all the rules but does not have the sensitivity to perform the basic acts of kindness toward a guest and the woman who has a reputation for sinfulness but who receives Jesus with loving service. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

The Gospel of Forgiveness

Sunday’s Gospel passage comes to us from St. Luke’s gospel. None of the Evangelists speaks as frequently as he does about the forgiving spirit that motivates the Nazarene. That is why Fr. James Gilhooley call Luke's Gospel the Gospel of Forgiveness. It was by no accident that St. Luke in his gospel included Sunday’s episode about Jesus, the Pharisee, and the sinful woman with her tender affection.

Lauren Butler, a Junior at St. Louis University, talks about the many aspects of forgiveness that she finds revealed and spoken about in this Sunday’s readings. Love did not motivate the Pharisee. But it was love that motivated this sinful woman in the Gospel. Fr. Charles Irvin says it is so important for us to ask ourselves if we can capture some of the woman’s fervor, some of her love. If we think of the Pharisee’s house as representing the world around us as we find it in our day, can we see ourselves and see our Church as this woman – sinful and in need of healing and forgiveness?

Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. points out how Religion brings out the best and the worst in people. This is very clear to us nowadays. Many religious people are not worshipping God but themselves. He says there is no ego quite so poisonous as the religious one. It is indeed laudable to attend Mass and to take seriously all the rules of good Christian conduct. But, Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, OSB. reminds us, all of this careful observance can be spoiled if it is not accompanied by a genuine spirit of love and forgiveness.

Treasuring Forgiveness

These lessons of forgiveness are also repeated in the story of King David in the First Reading. He had committed adultery with a woman named Bathsheba, then had her husband killed so he could marry her. The prophet Nathan confronted David who had to face the consequences of his sins. But that is not the main point. David received a further word. Nathan said to him: "The Lord on his part has forgiven your sin; you shall not die."

Fr. Phil Bloom tells us that like David - and like the penitent woman in the Gospel - we also must acknowledge our wrongs and turn to the One who even forgives sins. Jesus forgave the sinful woman immediately, no matter how bad she had been. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says our Lord does the same for us. He does the same for those who have hurt us, and He does the same for those whom, in our arrogance, we would rather avoid.

But usually you and I have it backwards. Fr. John Foley, S. J. says we think we have to get rid of all our sins and turn into perfectly loving people in order for God to love us. But in reality we are already loved to perfection by the good Lord, and we begin to change as we slowly let that love in. Jesus makes clear that great love springs from a heart forgiven and cleansed. The reconciliation, peace and forgiveness that God wants are based on truth, justice and love, explains Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB.

Pondering the Great Reversal

Growing up, as part of their family prayer, Fr. Ron Rolheiser said they used to pray for a happy death - cradled in the loving arms of family, friends, and church, fully at peace with God and everyone around you. But not everyone gets to die that way. Too often we die with unfinished business, too much of it. As the old confiteor says: we need forgiveness for what we’ve done and left undone.

Msgr. Charles Pope adds that one of the strong traditions of Scripture is of the great reversal that will one day come for many. He ponders this great reversal with this thought: "Many Who are Last, Will Be First." This is the story being lived today by a dying Catholic businessman from San Diego, CA. "Life on earth is a test” for Shane FitzMaurice who is preparing for eternity as he battles the fatal Lou Gehrig's disease.

What Do you Expect From Holy Communion?

Msgr. Charles Pope tells of his observation that some people put more faith in Tylenol than they do in Holy Communion. That’s because when they take Tylenol they expect something to happen. But many people don’t really expect anything to happen when they receive Holy Communion.

He also talks about the consternation that more stress is not placed by many on receiving Holy Communion worthily. This issue needs to be approached carefully because two important goods are at stake that must be kept in balance. First, frequent reception of Holy Communion which is a great and necessary food for us as Jesus insists in John 6:50-55. And secondly, worthy reception which the Holy Spirit through Paul warns is also necessary in 1 Cor 11:27ff. He asks us to look at these texts briefly.

Prayer & Our Technological World

Like many Christians, we often struggle to discern God’s will in our lives. Faced with crucial decisions or worrying circumstances, we sometimes find the right relationship between action and trust, not merely difficult to attain but downright impossible to determine. When does resignation to God’s will become an excuse for laziness and passivity? At what point does careful planning morph into an anxiety-driven need to control outcomes and usurp God? Marion Fernandez-Cueto offers some answers in "Praying hard and trusting harder."

Our prayer life is even more challenging now with today's Internet, e-mail, and other digital innovations. Our increasing reliance on them is not just changing the way we relate to our families and friends, Rev. James Martin, S.J. says. It is even rewiring our relationship to God. In "Does E-Mail Make It Harder to Pray?" he explores how the Digital Age is changing our spiritual lives.

Even priests are not exempted from the challenges posed by technology. Fr. Robert Barron s one of the leading Catholic evangelical priests today and he uses technology to its fullest extent to bring God's word to the world. He offers words of wisdom and support to those struggling to understand the role of the priest amidst today's hardship and controversy.

Finally to round up this section on technology, we offer you "Five Tips to Purify Your Home From Inappropriate Content." Learn how you can protect your family from impure images, movies, and even predators.

Stories of Hope

And just what do you think the world would have been like without Andrea Bocelli, Italian pop, opera, and classical singer? With millions of infants having been victim to abortion, the blind international music sensation has revealed that he too could have been one more abortion statistic.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

BURNING QUESTION: What commandments require restitution?
FEATURED BLOG: Seeking a Sign
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"They all ate and were satisfied."

This Sunday, June 2, 2013, is Corpus Christi Sunday and our Sunday Readings celebrate the great gift of Communion. The Church seeks to reconfirm our belief in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in our liturgy. Let's humbly ask the Lord that we may receive him in a way that will lead to salvation. Our Discussion Questions this week will guide your bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

The Real Presence of Jesus Christ

If there is any one Catholic doctrine that people have choked on over the centuries, it has to be transubstantiation – the teaching that, during the Mass, bread and wine become the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Have you ever met anyone who finds this a bit hard to take? If so, you shouldn’t be surprised. When Jesus spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood in John 6, the response was less than enthusiastic.

Marcellino D'Ambrosio explains further that in addition to the Eucharist, during Mass Christ is also present  in the priest and in the congregation. People may arrive distracted and pre-occupied, but as they enter that church they’re members of Christ’s body. Second, Christ is present in the person of the priest. It’s not a question of whether the ordained minister is an exciting preacher or a particularly holy person. Christ’s presence doesn’t depend on the priest’s personal virtue.

Deacon Greg Kandra makes it very clear: "Look at the host, and you look at Christ." Fr. James Gilhooley points to the Bible as proof of this Real presence. There one finds a verbatim dialogue of what is called the longest running play in history. The play's title is Promise of the Eucharist. The playwright is John. The manuscript is the sixth chapter of his Gospel.

Our Burning Questions challenges you to offer a response from your deepest core: Do you REALLY believe in the Real presence of Jesus in Holy Communion? Reflect upon this and give an honest - albeit anonymous - answer.

The Sacramental Banquet

You might think it a bit strange that on this Feast of Corpus Christi the Church gives us not an account of the Last Supper for our Gospel text but focuses instead on the Feeding of the Five Thousand. But if you examine the text closely you will see that this miracle has strong Eucharistic overtones. The language used is the same as that used at the Last Supper: ‘took, blessed, broke, gave.’ These are words we are very familiar with and summarise the four movements within the Mass.

We are now the hungry multitude and we are reminded that Jesus offers us a nourishment that fully satisfies our needs. The point is there is a continuity between a family supper and the Eucharist. Fr. Andrew M. Greeley says both tell us something about each other. The Eucharist invades our home and sanctifies our regular meals. And our regular meals illumine the Eucharist as a family and community feast.

This is the significance of the feast today. In the sacramental banquet of Christ’s body and blood, Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. points out, we are joined to Him and to one another – in a bond of love that makes selfishness, greed, and complacency in the world’s afflictions unthinkable. And so explains, Fr. Charles Irvin, we should never simply “get” or “receive” Holy Communion. We "enter" into Holy Communion; we enter into the totality of Christ’s incarnate life among us. In this sense, “receiving Holy Communion” is a dynamic reality: we receive Christ and in so doing, Christ receives us, and by the power of the Holy Spirit presents us to the Father.

Feeding and Healing

The Church is stressing two important elements that are brought out in the feeding of the five thousand; namely feeding and healing. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS explains the two-fold feeding that takes place in the Eucharist. First the obvious feeding of our bodies with bread and wine, but secondly there is the sustenance of our souls that only this food from heaven can provide.

Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB also points out the two important lessons Luke teaches in Sunday's Gospel. First Jesus welcomes this vast crowd of common folk, even though "the Twelve" wanted to send them away. And second, Jesus teaches that the disciples are to share whatever they have. In the sharing there will be more than enough. Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B. says the lesson is very clear. Jesus tells us to take what little we have and to do what we can with it. God will take care of the rest and with an abundance left over!

Thus in this Sunday's Gospel, we meet Christ the physician. But as Father Cusick points out, there are questions we must answer. Do we seek him as physician of our bodies only? Or has he become for us a mere earthly Messiah?

The True Center of Our Celebration

Even today, some Christian denominations never celebrate the Eucharist, some others only once a month or once a week. But in the Catholic Church we see the Eucharist in all its aspects and understand that it is the gate to heaven and therefore the central act of our worship. It is indeed therefore something for all days and for every day.

So think of the many times in the past when you've asked yourself, "Why Do I Have To Go To Mass?" Fr. Phil Bloom says the answer is simple - To worship and to receive Jesus - as Lord and Savior. Also as you attend Mass at different places, know that none of them will be exactly the same. But the heart of every Mass will be the same: Jesus Christ will be present at the Last Supper, on the Cross, and within each person who receives His Body and Blood. All the liturgical enhancements to our celebrations are wonderful, but none of them surpass the wonder of Jesus Christ, present in every Eucharist.

Now here's a most important question: Who May Receive Communion? While we cannot judge another person's soul, still we recognize that those involved in certain actions should not come forward for Communion. And in "Miracles Still Happen," Lenora Grimaud shares her account of an actual Eucharistic miracle she witnessed during a Mass she happened to be attending.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Eucharist

On the Thursday (or the Sunday) following Holy Trinity Sunday, many Catholics also celebrate the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. With this devotion, we recall that Christ's heart of flaming love finds its truest and most profound expression in the Blessed Sacrament of His love, the Eucharist, God's giving of Himself, whose feast, Corpus Christi, we celebrate this Sunday.

How appropriate this is, for devotion to the Eucharist and to the Sacred Heart are in fact one thing, inseparable — devotion to the mystery of Christ's human and divine love. Thus St. Peter Julian Eymard instructs us, "Let us learn to honor the Sacred Heart in the Eucharist. Let us never separate them."

Living a Catholic Life Today

"Spirituality Without Spirits" is a great reflection by David Mills. He calls it a great and self-serving mess, this claim to be “spiritual but not religious.” And he cites Lady Gaga, the pornographic songstress, as a great example when she tells a reporter that she has a new spirituality just before going out for a night at a Berlin sex club.

And we bring our attention to the Our Father. It is the best known of all prayers but it also bespeaks a challenge. For when something is so well known we can say it mindlessly and miss its message. Msgr. Charles Pope says Our Father should give us more than words to say. It should also gives us a structure for our prayer life, a basic plan for our spiritual life.

Priests, St. John Vianney and the Internet

Speaking of priests in our New Evangelization, a new study about the use of digital technology by priests worldwide shows that the Internet has become a frequently utilized tool in homily preparation, evangelization and pastoral support. Some 42% of priests expressed the belief that the use of digital technology has improved their performance in their mission. And 53% of priests affirmed that the Internet is useful in presenting and spreading the Christian message.

And on another technology front, author Mary Eberstadt talks about "Apologetics for the Facebook Generation." She points out the many challenges the cyberworld discussions poses and highlights that Christianity has a lot more to offer the world than atheists give it credit for.

Finally, we close with a couple of articles, one for married couples and another for busy bodies. "The Seven Habits of a Happy Marriage" looks to the matrimonial lessons to be learned from the water jars in the Gospel story of the Wedding at Cana. And if you're too busy and your exercise program amounts to nothing, "Getting Moving, How to make time for exercise" is for you.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

BURNING QUESTION: Do you REALLY believe in the Real Presence?
FEATURED BLOG: Spirituality without Spirits
PASTORAL HISPANA: Cuerpo y Sangre de Cristo, fiesta de adoracion
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"I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now."

This Sunday, May 26, 2013, we celebrate the revelation that He is three persons in one God — Father, Son and Spirit. This wasn’t handed down from the mountain in tablets of stone like the Ten Commandments but it was revealed directly to us by God himself in the person of Jesus his Son. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

The inner mystery of God himself

The Trinity has always been a difficult doctrine to swallow. Some charge that we call this doctrine a mystery because we want to cover up how illogical and preposterous it is. The Triune God is not some kind of brainy speculation by scholars. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio postulates the thinking that three equal but distinct persons in one divine being strains the brain too much to have been concocted by a bunch of theologians or politicians.

As Jesus tells the disciples, “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now,” Saint Louis University student Caroline Seroka reflects on how difficult it was for her to hear that said to the disciples and how much she herself does not know. Fr. John Foley, S. J. explains that it is simply the way we experience God in this world. Christian living is the Trinity in action. The Blessed Trinity is the highest model for our Christian life —three distinct persons, yet one God; each living in harmony and perfect unity with each other. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS tells us that the three persons of the Trinity have their own roles and function but there is no disunity only perfect harmony.

Faith in the Holy Trinity is revealed not to baffle us with mysterious doctrines but to show us a God who is loving and ever close to us. Fr. Orly Sapuay, M.S. says the mystery of God is His outrageous love, a love that covers all our sins and offenses. And Jesus - who has always existed as the Wisdom at the Father's side - has much more to tell us, says Fr. Phil Bloom. He alone can satisfy our desire to know - by bestowing the Spirit of truth that makes possible an eternal relation with the Trinity.

Where is the Holy Trinity in the Bible?

How about during the Baptism of the Son of God. A close reading of the Scriptures shows that the Trinity was revealed when Jesus met his cousin John the Baptist in the wilderness. While John baptizes his superior, the voice of the Father resounds over the waters: “This is my beloved Son on whom my favor rests.” At that very moment, the Holy Spirit descends upon him in the form of a dove.

Thus, Fr. James Gilhooley adds, our own Sacrament of Baptism drops us not only into water but also into the Trinity. The Trinity in turn is delighted to take up residence in us. So, just as the triune God is in us, so too are we in the triune God.

The Way We Begin and End Our Prayers

Though we may struggle with the Holy Trinity, Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB reminds us that we nevertheless take it into our very hands each time that we mark ourselves with the sign of the cross. We begin our prayers in the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. We begin our prayers in the name of the Father who loves us unconditionally, and of the Son who made this love concrete by becoming one of us and dying for us and bringing God’s forgiveness to us, and the name of the Holy Spirit, who is God dwelling within us, empowering us.

The sign of the cross is an affirmation of our faith, explains Fr. Joseph Pellegrino. It is a declaration of whom we are: people God loves, forgives and empowers. Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, OSB, asks us to pay special attention to what we do and pray every Sunday at Mass so that we may realize more deeply that every Sunday is Trinity Sunday. Let us reflect in the church, in our families, and in our world the communion of love, which is the true nature of God. This is the glory and the joy for which we are created.

Appropriately, Fr. Ron Rolheiser offers a timely and challenging question for us to ponder. How do we speak of God inside a culture that’s pathologically distracted, distrusts religious language and church institutions, and yet carries its own moral energy and virtue? And here's an interesting discussion. How about we consider the topic of how both men and women should dress when going into God’s house? Let's explore some background issues and enunciate some principles.

Stories of Hope

It was a beautiful day and Susie Lloyd was out and about among the "Rocks, Leaves, Flowers, Treasure." As she paused to play in nature's playground, nature was missionary, in her violets, in her leafy boats, in her muddy rocks. God’s in his heaven. All’s right with the world.

Rebecca Teti reflects on the recent spate of celebrity infidelity cases and asks what causes marriages to fail. She rejects most pop psychology explanations in favor of something much simpler. Couples just don’t spend enough time together.

And Jerome Placido talks to the young. He asks you to take a moment and imagine all the planning that had to be done to bring you into this world and understand it was not by chance that you were created.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief






BURNING QUESTION: Should Christians perform the sign of the cross?
FEATURED BLOG: On Proper Dress for Mass
PASTORAL HISPANA: La Trinidad nos ayuda a entender nuestra experiencia con Dios
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"As the Father has sent me, so I send you."

This Sunday, May 19, 2013, our Readings celebrate Pentecost Sunday - the culmination of the fifty days of Easter, the day when Jesus sent the Holy Spirit upon the disciples. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

A Contradiction in Sunday's Gospel?

There seems to be a contradiction between the coming of the Spirit as recorded in this gospel and in the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles. In the gospel of John, the Spirit is given by Jesus himself on Easter day, whereas in Acts the Spirit comes upon the disciples at the Jewish feast of Pentecost which occurred fifty days after Passover.

Fr. Alex McAllister SDS tells out that the essentials of the two accounts are the same, but the emphases different. Luke and John provide us with distinct but equally rich theological perspectives on the birth of the Church. They point up the significance for the world of the birth of the Church and the task given to us to enable all mankind to experience the Good News of salvation. What matters most, says Fr. Demetrius Dumm, is to understand the implications of this out-pouring of God's Spirit. This is clearly presented in Sunday's gospel where the new presence of Jesus in the Spirit is expressed in terms of peace, mission and forgiveness.

The Birth of the Church

Do you know what the largest Pentecostal Church in the world is? If you are Catholic, you belong to it. Pentecost is sometimes called the "birthday of the Church." On that first Pentecost, the party was smaller, only 120, but the attendees themselves became the birthday candles when the Spirit crowned each of them with fiery tongues.

The meeting with the risen Lord in John's account is the humble yet powerful beginning of a new age. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB explains how fear was transformed into joy; pain was changed to peace and trust; flight and hiding become courage and mission. Division and hatred are vanquished by the gift of the Holy Spirit. For Christians, the 2000th year after Christ's birth marks the renewal of life in the fullness of the Holy Spirit and renewed commitment to the true faith bestowed in Jesus Christ. Father Cusick tells us that both are gifts of God the Father to the Church in these "last days" before Christ comes again.

"As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”

The mission and the power of Jesus are entrusted into the poor, limited and fragile hands of his apostles. And just like the apostles, we also are sent by the Lord to go outside, out to the people made in the image and likeness of God. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says we are called to be who we are - committed Christians, dedicated Catholics - and then to simply let His Spirit, the Holy Spirit of the Father and Son, work the wonders of God in the hearts of His people.

And you and I wonder, rightly so, how it is that we can lead others to Christ. How can we train our children, our Teens, our grandchildren, our neighbors and co-workers to treasure the Lord? What should we say? Fr. Phil Bloom says this Sunday God wants you and me to tap into the power of the Holy Spirit. How our world would change if we allowed Jesus to enter our hearts! The Holy Spirit can energize us, give us a new life.

The Holy Spirit in the Upper Room

What should we be doing in the face of declining church attendance, the emptying and greying of our seminaries and convents, the growing agnosticism of our world, and the ecclesial indifference of so many of our own children? Fr. Ron Rolheiser offers our biblical answer: Return to the city and remain in the upper room! If we stay united to God, God will work His wonders through us.

We are called and empowered to be signs of the presence of God. Fr. Orly Sapuay, M.S. says answering that call can be as simple as looking in the eyes of the man who is asking for money on the street and taking the time to learn his name. When we think we don’t have the energy to listen to someone else’s problems, we might find out that it only takes just a few minutes to let someone know that he or she matters.

This is the Holy Spirit’s holiday. Fr. John Foley, S. J. tells us to call out to God and tell him where your heart is. Maybe God will give you a sense of who the Holy Spirit is in your personal daily life, in your progress from day to day. Do remember, as somebody has put it, we do not need more of the Holy Spirit. Rather, Fr. James Gilhooley reminds us, the Holy Spirit needs more of us.

So do stand out like a sore thumb this Pentecost season. Pope Benedict shares this very same message from Rome with the world's youth. Noting the Novena of Pentecost that began last Friday, he encouraged young people to be docile to the Holy Spirit's work. And as one who is a graduating senior, college student Sarah Waninger talks about how this message of peace and accompaniment means so much more now than ever before in her life.

Pentecost & the Charisms of the Holy Spirit

Alfred McBride, O.Praem. offers a literary interpretation of the the Story of the First Pentecost. He presents it from the point of view of a Greek traveler who stood bewildered in the Jerusalem crowd. What was happening? All about him Jews from many nations milled excitedly and pointed to a group in the center of the square - the apostles preaaching about jesus and speaking in tongues.

Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio offers a timely reflection on the meaning of the Feast of Pentecost and the person, gifts and charisms of the Holy Spirit. He also offers a second reflection on the "The Charisms Of The Holy Spirit For Service." While this second article is helpful for all Christians at all stages of development, it is especially valuable for those preparing for or teaching about the sacrament of confirmation.

And from a parish in Palmyra, MO - Saint Joseph's Catholic Church - we share with you a simple, powerfully effective method for families and parishes to recognize the gifts of the Holy Spirit within their children. "Making Pentecost Come Alive for Kids and Parents" is worth a look.

Quotes from the Saints & More

Venerable John Henry Cardinal Newman (1801-1890) was a convert to Catholicism from the Church of England, and one of the great minds of the 19th century. As a Roman Catholic priest he became one of the greatest Catholic apologists in the history of the Church. Cardinal Newman will be beatified by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on September 19, 2010. We bring you "41 Famous Quotes from Cardinal Newman."

Plus here's a list of the top 50 Saints' quotes, in an arbitrary ranking. St. Jerome starts things off with "Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ." There are many others that not on the list that are great. So feel free to add your other favorites in the comments section.

And here's another list to ponder. Traditionally, there are 4 "Marks" of the Church that tell us about the character and nature of what the Church is - One, Holy Catholic and Apostolic. Yet, there are more "marks" that St. Robert Bellarmine came up with. He lived from 1542 - 1621 during the time of many of the Protestant Reformers. Thus, he was battling against some of the false understandings of the Church by coming up with these additional " 15 marks".

Stories of Hope

Allison, a blogger from "Why I am Catholic," writes about this boy, let's call him Michael, who lives with his mother and brother in a small apartment in their neighborhood. When she picks up her son from school. he usually gives him a lift home, too. Recently, she had a conversation with a schoolmate of the fifth grader, a conversation that reminded her how blessed we are that God is always with us.

And Heidi Bratton talks about this thing she calls the “Economy of Prayer Heresy.” In a nutshell, it proposes that we really shouldn’t “bother” God by praying about the small details of our everyday lives. We should, instead, wait until we have a need that is big enough or special enough for God to get involved. Here’s the problem. Where does that leave us and our relationship with God in the meantime? Pretty powerful stuff.

Another eventful week in our Catholic world. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief 

BURNING QUESTION: Can non-Catholic people go to heaven?
FEATURED BLOG: Because we might be entertaining angels
PASTORAL HISPANA: La fiesta del Espiritu Santo

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"You are witnesses of these things."

Some dioceses will be celebrating the Feast of the Ascension, on Thursday and therefore on Sunday, May 12, 2013 will use the Readings from the Seventh Sunday of Easter. Others have the Readings for the Ascension feast on Sunday. We provide both set of homiletics for you in this week's edition. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible study sessions with your family, friends and church groups.

The Lord Ascends--His Power Descends

This Sunday, we commemorate a crucial point in the story of our salvation. Christ having done all that he came to do now ascends to the Father. This gospel story is the last of the Resurrection appearances.

Fr. James Gilhooley says that among the deeper mysteries in life, perhaps the one we struggle with the most is the mystery of the Ascension. It's not so much that we misunderstand it, we simply don't understand it. The Resurrection of Christ is not about a dead body getting up and walking about. Fr. Orlando Sapuay, MS explains that it was an appearance of the risen transcendent Body of Christ as he is in heaven.

Sometimes only someone's absence can deepen and cleanse his presence. Fr. Ron Rolheiser says that is part of the mystery, the theology, and the psychology of the Ascension. Although Jesus has disappeared from our sight, Fr. Phil Bloom points out that our Lord did not leave us. Fr. John Foley, S. J. adds that that Jesus would now be within us. Our lives are now a quiet immersion in the Trinitarian reality of Christ. His great work is now handed on to his disciples to bring to completion in His Spirit and with His Spirit.

"You will be my witnesses."

Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB highlights the the meaning of the Resurrection and the Ascension of our Lord. It is not one of divine abandonment of the human cause, but divine empowerment of the Gospel dream!

And He tells us, "You will be my witnesses." The role we undertake as members of the Church is to spread the Good News throughout the earth and to live our lives in such a way that they give glory to God. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS says our ultimate goal is that all nations and people will come to worship the one true God and Jesus Christ whom he has sent.

That All May Be One

In Jesus, the Future Has Already Begun! He continues to pray that all may be one just as the Father and he are one in order that the world may come to believe. Father Cusick explains that this radical unity of the Church, "one, holy, Catholic and apostolic" is not incidental to the Church but is rather constitutive, of absolute necessity for the identity of the one true Church of Christ.

Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, OSB adds that in Jesus' mind, the unity and love among his followers will draw all people to believe in him. He believes that the separation and hostility among Christians surely is a scandal in the strictest sense -- an obstacle to belief. And so Fr. James Gilhooley poses a challenge to all of us. Is not today a good time to begin our self-reformation? In a world full of bad news, should we not be good news?

Jesus' Priestly Prayer

As an added note, we point out the priestly prayer found in the Readings for the Seventh Sunday from John's Gospel. This is the longest prayer that we have from the lips of Jesus. No doubt there were others. But unhappily they were never recorded. It is only John who took the pains to leave it to us. We all owe him a serious debt. The only other prayer that we have of the Nazarene is of course the Our Father. And we have two versions of that.

Why Evangelize?

The answer to this question, according to Mark Shea, is severalfold. But the primary reason is because Jesus Christ commands it and our business is to do his will. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio says we are to forget about the idea that just the witness of our lives is enough. It is not. You may not called to preach on street corners, but Vatican II and subsequent popes, echoing 1 Peter 3:15, say that we all must be ready to articulate what Jesus has done for us, what he means to us, and why he is the answer to the world’s problems.

Msgr. Charles Pope observes how many if not most Catholics are more passionate about their politics than their faith. Instead of being the light by which we see all things, the Faith tends to get “tucked under” our worldview and political view, our careers and preferences. He says Faith ought to trump Politics. The world should be on trial by the Word of God and the teachings of the Church.

Another eventful week in our Catholic world. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

BURNING QUESTION: "Are you a Christian?"
FEATURED BLOG: Why Evangelize?
PASTORAL HISPANA: Jesus sube al cielo poder enviarnos 
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