Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
If not once, I have said it ten times this week, “It is hard.” I am tired, I feel over worked, and I feel out of touch with friends; I have forgotten birthdays of people I would otherwise never forget and when I pray I am thinking of the day ahead. Between meetings, faith formation, baptisms, weddings, funerals, hospital visits and spiritual direction I feel that I am getting out of touch with myself. In one sense, I am happy that all this is happening because the parish is growing. The staff feels the same way I do. And how many of you feel the same way? With school reopening there is strong chance that your feelings are not very different - life is hard.
Today's Mass Readings
If not once, I have said it ten times this week, “It is hard.” I am tired, I feel over worked, and I feel out of touch with friends; I have forgotten birthdays of people I would otherwise never forget and when I pray I am thinking of the day ahead. Between meetings, faith formation, baptisms, weddings, funerals, hospital visits and spiritual direction I feel that I am getting out of touch with myself. In one sense, I am happy that all this is happening because the parish is growing. The staff feels the same way I do. And how many of you feel the same way? With school reopening there is strong chance that your feelings are not very different - life is hard.
Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
Last week, as part of the series of talks on the Eucharist, we reflected on the “Bread of Life discourse and the OT.” And I had suggested three themes that connected the bread of life discourse with the OT: The murmuring of the Jews in the Gospel of John is linked to the murmuring of the Israelites against Moses; The manna that Moses gave is contrasted with the Manna that Jesus gave; and the question and answer format during the Jewish Passover meal is the structure in which John formats the bread of life discourse.
Today we move forward to examine the history of the controversy of the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The controversy as old as the gospels themselves. The crowds quarrelled, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” (Jn 6:52) Jesus’ answer to that question stresses two things: First, “The bread that I will give is my flesh,” (Jn 6:51) and second, “My (his) flesh is real food and my (his) blood is real drink” (Jn 6: 55). And the controversy continues today. In a survey done, only 30% of the Catholics believed that the bread and wine they received at Eucharist was indeed the body and blood of Jesus. I bet you the 70% who do not believe do not read the scriptures and have certainly not read the John’s bread of life discourse.
Today's Mass Readings
Last week, as part of the series of talks on the Eucharist, we reflected on the “Bread of Life discourse and the OT.” And I had suggested three themes that connected the bread of life discourse with the OT: The murmuring of the Jews in the Gospel of John is linked to the murmuring of the Israelites against Moses; The manna that Moses gave is contrasted with the Manna that Jesus gave; and the question and answer format during the Jewish Passover meal is the structure in which John formats the bread of life discourse.
Today we move forward to examine the history of the controversy of the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The controversy as old as the gospels themselves. The crowds quarrelled, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” (Jn 6:52) Jesus’ answer to that question stresses two things: First, “The bread that I will give is my flesh,” (Jn 6:51) and second, “My (his) flesh is real food and my (his) blood is real drink” (Jn 6: 55). And the controversy continues today. In a survey done, only 30% of the Catholics believed that the bread and wine they received at Eucharist was indeed the body and blood of Jesus. I bet you the 70% who do not believe do not read the scriptures and have certainly not read the John’s bread of life discourse.
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
(This homily is the first in a three part series called, "The Bread of Life Series.")
The passage that we have as the gospel reading for today’s Eucharist is part of a larger section called the “bread of life” discourse in the gospel of John. The discourse begins with John 6:25 and ends with 6:71. For the next three weeks the gospel reading will be taken from the bread of life discourse. I wish to make the sermons during the next three weeks a series on the Bread of Life discourse. Today we will deal with the “The OT and the bread of life.” Next Sunday we will deal with the “History of the controversy of the real presence of Christ in the bread and wine.” The third week we will deal with “The Eucharist and daily life.”
Today's Mass Readings
(This homily is the first in a three part series called, "The Bread of Life Series.")
The passage that we have as the gospel reading for today’s Eucharist is part of a larger section called the “bread of life” discourse in the gospel of John. The discourse begins with John 6:25 and ends with 6:71. For the next three weeks the gospel reading will be taken from the bread of life discourse. I wish to make the sermons during the next three weeks a series on the Bread of Life discourse. Today we will deal with the “The OT and the bread of life.” Next Sunday we will deal with the “History of the controversy of the real presence of Christ in the bread and wine.” The third week we will deal with “The Eucharist and daily life.”
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
I just read this amazing article in the Economist entitled, Glad to be godless. The article tells the story about Don Sutterfield, a fervent Christian turned militant atheist. Gone are the days he would organize Vacation Bible Camps for children. He now organizes summer camp for secular atheists at universities. Sutterfield is brilliant in his approach. Campers are not told that there is no God; only that they should weigh the evidence. In this camp there is no indoctrination about atheism but since the “scientific research” does not lead to hard evidence, campers are reassured that it is alright to be irreligious. They are led to believe that it is possible to be moral without believing in the supernatural - it is possible to be good without God.
Today's Mass Readings
I just read this amazing article in the Economist entitled, Glad to be godless. The article tells the story about Don Sutterfield, a fervent Christian turned militant atheist. Gone are the days he would organize Vacation Bible Camps for children. He now organizes summer camp for secular atheists at universities. Sutterfield is brilliant in his approach. Campers are not told that there is no God; only that they should weigh the evidence. In this camp there is no indoctrination about atheism but since the “scientific research” does not lead to hard evidence, campers are reassured that it is alright to be irreligious. They are led to believe that it is possible to be moral without believing in the supernatural - it is possible to be good without God.
Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
Week before last, I had the most self-revealing experience. The staff at Immaculate and I were driving back after lunch at the neighborhood tavern. When we reached the parking lot, I saw a woman walking toward the Church. Cigarette in one hand, a Taco Bell packet in another, funky hair, overweight, shabbily dressed and a handbag over her shoulder – this woman gave no impression of integrity. A number of thoughts crossed my mind – the most prominent was, “Goodness, gracious!” A minute later the rectory bell rang and for some reason, I opened the door. There stood the same woman. She asked for the priest and I said to myself, “I am not going to give any money.” Well, she did not need any money. She asked if I would pray with here because she was having some spiritual struggles. I took her in, heard her story, prayed with her, and she left in tears thanking me for taking the time to pray with her. Generally, I consider myself to be someone who is not prejudiced, not judgmental, and someone with immense compassion. But, that day I came to know how prejudiced, how judgmental and how unempathetic I was. Why couldn’t compassion have been my instinctive response?
Today's Mass Readings
Week before last, I had the most self-revealing experience. The staff at Immaculate and I were driving back after lunch at the neighborhood tavern. When we reached the parking lot, I saw a woman walking toward the Church. Cigarette in one hand, a Taco Bell packet in another, funky hair, overweight, shabbily dressed and a handbag over her shoulder – this woman gave no impression of integrity. A number of thoughts crossed my mind – the most prominent was, “Goodness, gracious!” A minute later the rectory bell rang and for some reason, I opened the door. There stood the same woman. She asked for the priest and I said to myself, “I am not going to give any money.” Well, she did not need any money. She asked if I would pray with here because she was having some spiritual struggles. I took her in, heard her story, prayed with her, and she left in tears thanking me for taking the time to pray with her. Generally, I consider myself to be someone who is not prejudiced, not judgmental, and someone with immense compassion. But, that day I came to know how prejudiced, how judgmental and how unempathetic I was. Why couldn’t compassion have been my instinctive response?
Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
To understand today’s readings we must understand the context within which Jeremiah prophesied. Jeremiah was called to be a prophet in the year 628 BC when Josiah was the King of Judah. Josiah began a process of reform that would rid the nation of idolatry, injustice and false religiosity. Jeremiah wholeheartedly supported Josiah’s reform. After Josiah, however, under King Zedekiah, the false prophet Hananiah began to counsel the King to revolt against the Babylonians. It was also at this time that the old idolatry and infidelity returned. On instruction from God Jeremiah opposed the King and the false prophet. As a result, Jeremiah was arrested, imprisoned, and publicly disgraced. Had Zedekiah listened to Jeremiah and stayed faithful to the covenant, perhaps, Judah would be spared. Tragically, the Babylonians pillaged Jerusalem, destroyed the temple, killed thousands of Israelites, took into exile all able bodied men, women, and children, and left behind to die, the aged and disabled.
Today's Mass Readings
To understand today’s readings we must understand the context within which Jeremiah prophesied. Jeremiah was called to be a prophet in the year 628 BC when Josiah was the King of Judah. Josiah began a process of reform that would rid the nation of idolatry, injustice and false religiosity. Jeremiah wholeheartedly supported Josiah’s reform. After Josiah, however, under King Zedekiah, the false prophet Hananiah began to counsel the King to revolt against the Babylonians. It was also at this time that the old idolatry and infidelity returned. On instruction from God Jeremiah opposed the King and the false prophet. As a result, Jeremiah was arrested, imprisoned, and publicly disgraced. Had Zedekiah listened to Jeremiah and stayed faithful to the covenant, perhaps, Judah would be spared. Tragically, the Babylonians pillaged Jerusalem, destroyed the temple, killed thousands of Israelites, took into exile all able bodied men, women, and children, and left behind to die, the aged and disabled.
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
I saw a movie at the Neon last week. It is called Whatever Works. It is a Woody Allen film and the central character is Boris Yelnikoff, an eccentric in his seventies who believes that life happens by chance. I mean, what are the chances that one would jump out of the window of a New York high rise and still survive? What are the chances that a pretty twenty-two year old runaway from Mississippi would land up at his door and finally end up marrying him? What are the chances that the mother of this girl would land up at the same apartment and make it big in New York even though it meant happily sleeping between two men? What are the chances that the girl’s father would land up at the same apartment in search of his daughter and wife and finally meet the man of his dreams to live happily ever after. The girl finally realizes that marrying a younger man would make her happier and what are the chances that a hopeless Boris would jump out of the window a second time, only to land on his future wife. The movie ends with all the characters happily sharing a drink. Boris’ lesson to the audience at the end of it all is simple. Life is a game of chance. Take any happiness you get along the way in whatever way it comes. “Whatever works.”
Today's Mass Readings
I saw a movie at the Neon last week. It is called Whatever Works. It is a Woody Allen film and the central character is Boris Yelnikoff, an eccentric in his seventies who believes that life happens by chance. I mean, what are the chances that one would jump out of the window of a New York high rise and still survive? What are the chances that a pretty twenty-two year old runaway from Mississippi would land up at his door and finally end up marrying him? What are the chances that the mother of this girl would land up at the same apartment and make it big in New York even though it meant happily sleeping between two men? What are the chances that the girl’s father would land up at the same apartment in search of his daughter and wife and finally meet the man of his dreams to live happily ever after. The girl finally realizes that marrying a younger man would make her happier and what are the chances that a hopeless Boris would jump out of the window a second time, only to land on his future wife. The movie ends with all the characters happily sharing a drink. Boris’ lesson to the audience at the end of it all is simple. Life is a game of chance. Take any happiness you get along the way in whatever way it comes. “Whatever works.”
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
My homily this week is very similar to my homily last week. I decided to use the same ideas because last week’s readings and this week’s readings seem to be seamless. These stories seem to convey the same message even though they use opposing stories. In last week’s reading from Mark 5, we heard two stories of healing that were instigated by the faith of the people who were healed. The synagogue official’s faith saw Jesus raise his daughter to life and the woman with the hemorrhage was healed by merely touching Jesus’ clothes. At the end of the miracle Jesus commended her faith and said, "Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction." (Mk 5:34) The story before these two stories in the same chapter is the story of a demoniac who was possessed by Legion (a multitude of evil spirits). Even these demons acknowledged Jesus’ power and identity.
Today's Mass Readings
My homily this week is very similar to my homily last week. I decided to use the same ideas because last week’s readings and this week’s readings seem to be seamless. These stories seem to convey the same message even though they use opposing stories. In last week’s reading from Mark 5, we heard two stories of healing that were instigated by the faith of the people who were healed. The synagogue official’s faith saw Jesus raise his daughter to life and the woman with the hemorrhage was healed by merely touching Jesus’ clothes. At the end of the miracle Jesus commended her faith and said, "Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction." (Mk 5:34) The story before these two stories in the same chapter is the story of a demoniac who was possessed by Legion (a multitude of evil spirits). Even these demons acknowledged Jesus’ power and identity.
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
I read the gospel passage many times over in preparation for this homily. I am intrigued with the fact that the healing of the woman with hemorrhage is not one of Jesus’ intentional healings recorded in the gospel. In other words, this healing is unlike the raising of the dead girl to life or other healing where Jesus performs an intentional action for the healing to occur. This woman, on the other hand, is somehow able to tap into the power that Jesus had. In fact, the gospel reading suggests, Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, asked “Who touched my clothes?” (Mk 5:30). As the disciples tried to reason it out with Jesus, there were many people touching him. But there was only one person who was able to tap into Jesus’ power. Moreover, she did this not by touching him but merely touching his clothes.
Today's Mass Readings
I read the gospel passage many times over in preparation for this homily. I am intrigued with the fact that the healing of the woman with hemorrhage is not one of Jesus’ intentional healings recorded in the gospel. In other words, this healing is unlike the raising of the dead girl to life or other healing where Jesus performs an intentional action for the healing to occur. This woman, on the other hand, is somehow able to tap into the power that Jesus had. In fact, the gospel reading suggests, Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, asked “Who touched my clothes?” (Mk 5:30). As the disciples tried to reason it out with Jesus, there were many people touching him. But there was only one person who was able to tap into Jesus’ power. Moreover, she did this not by touching him but merely touching his clothes.
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today's Mass Readings
How interesting that Jesus says to the disciples, “Let us cross over to the other side” (Mk 4:35). I wonder if this was an innocent proposal. By the end of the storm, Jesus had something very significant to say to the disciples. He said, "Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?" It seems to me that Jesus was not merely proposing that they cross over to the other side of the lake but cross over to the other side in following Jesus. I call it the other side of faith. Jesus was really calling his disciples to follow him more closely, more radically, and more faithfully. It is not that the disciples were not serious followers already. In fact, they had left their families, their livelihood, and their past to follow Jesus. But, in my opinion, Jesus was calling them to deeper commitment and faith.
Today's Mass Readings
How interesting that Jesus says to the disciples, “Let us cross over to the other side” (Mk 4:35). I wonder if this was an innocent proposal. By the end of the storm, Jesus had something very significant to say to the disciples. He said, "Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?" It seems to me that Jesus was not merely proposing that they cross over to the other side of the lake but cross over to the other side in following Jesus. I call it the other side of faith. Jesus was really calling his disciples to follow him more closely, more radically, and more faithfully. It is not that the disciples were not serious followers already. In fact, they had left their families, their livelihood, and their past to follow Jesus. But, in my opinion, Jesus was calling them to deeper commitment and faith.
The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Today's Mass Readings
It is about two weeks since my parents returned to India. They left two months ahead of their original schedule because my grandmother’s health began to deteriorate rapidly. There is no one in the world that my mother loves more than me. But she wanted to be present to her mother in a real, close and intimate way. In fact, that she left within a week of getting the news. It hurt to see them leave. I could not get myself to go into their rooms for days. I have collectibles now, like this nail trimmer they used. Somehow, this nail trimmer communicates their presence to me. And then there are the phone calls. I call home every day. I long for that real presence. I want to hear the real voice. The voice tells me everything, if they feel well, if grand ma is well, and if they are hurting. But as we all pray for grand mother, my mind is also on what life will mean for me after my parents. There must be something that is deeper than the things I keep in their memory and deeper than touching them in real life. I have not been able to describe this as yet, but perhaps those of you who know what I am talking about can help me.
Today's Mass Readings
It is about two weeks since my parents returned to India. They left two months ahead of their original schedule because my grandmother’s health began to deteriorate rapidly. There is no one in the world that my mother loves more than me. But she wanted to be present to her mother in a real, close and intimate way. In fact, that she left within a week of getting the news. It hurt to see them leave. I could not get myself to go into their rooms for days. I have collectibles now, like this nail trimmer they used. Somehow, this nail trimmer communicates their presence to me. And then there are the phone calls. I call home every day. I long for that real presence. I want to hear the real voice. The voice tells me everything, if they feel well, if grand ma is well, and if they are hurting. But as we all pray for grand mother, my mind is also on what life will mean for me after my parents. There must be something that is deeper than the things I keep in their memory and deeper than touching them in real life. I have not been able to describe this as yet, but perhaps those of you who know what I am talking about can help me.
Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Today's Mass Readings
Here is a letter that I received recently from Anne Albright. She writes:"I recently received a card from someone regarding my attendance at the healing mass in October, 2008, and would like to express my gratitude.
I have attended two healing masses on behalf of my son at Immaculate Conception Church. A year ago he was diagnosed with an incurable cancer. The doctors said that they could treat him, but did not hold out much hope. Chemo was started and in November he had a surgery and the doctors removed what they could from his abdomen. Steve began to surprise the medical people with better-than-expected blood work and other tests. The protocol for this type of cancer is to do a second surgery six months later after the first, with more scraping and cutting. (At the first surgery they found that the cancer had not invaded any of his organs- it was all on the outside). All the test scars currently show no sign of cancer, and the doctors hope to just “have a look around” laparascopically instead of opening his abdomen again. My heartfelt thanks to you for our prayers because I know that prayer is what has created a better prognosis. Steve has three year old and 19 month old children and his wish is for them to know him. Please continue to remember him in your prayers. My thanks to all,” - Anne Albright
Today's Mass Readings
Here is a letter that I received recently from Anne Albright. She writes:"I recently received a card from someone regarding my attendance at the healing mass in October, 2008, and would like to express my gratitude.
I have attended two healing masses on behalf of my son at Immaculate Conception Church. A year ago he was diagnosed with an incurable cancer. The doctors said that they could treat him, but did not hold out much hope. Chemo was started and in November he had a surgery and the doctors removed what they could from his abdomen. Steve began to surprise the medical people with better-than-expected blood work and other tests. The protocol for this type of cancer is to do a second surgery six months later after the first, with more scraping and cutting. (At the first surgery they found that the cancer had not invaded any of his organs- it was all on the outside). All the test scars currently show no sign of cancer, and the doctors hope to just “have a look around” laparascopically instead of opening his abdomen again. My heartfelt thanks to you for our prayers because I know that prayer is what has created a better prognosis. Steve has three year old and 19 month old children and his wish is for them to know him. Please continue to remember him in your prayers. My thanks to all,” - Anne Albright
Pentecost Sunday
Today's Mass Readings
“Receive the Holy Spirit!” They are the most revolutionary words in the history of the world. From the creation of the world, whenever these words have been uttered in the history of the world, it has resulted in dramatic results. At creation, God breathed into the nostrils of the first man and woman and human life emerged. At the annunciation, Mary received the Holy Spirit and the Word became flesh. At the baptism of Jesus, He received the Holy Spirit and sanctified the waters of the Jordan. At the baptism Jesus was revealed to the world as the Son of God. At Pentecost the early Christian Church received Holy Spirit and it changed the history of the world. Before the II Vatican Council, Pope John XXIII opened the windows of St. Peters and prayed for the power of the Holy Spirit to sweep over the Church – and the rest is history. “Receive the Holy Spirit!” These are the most revolutionary words in the history of the world.
But it is not merely from scripture that I know that the Holy Spirit can revolutionize the world. I know this from my own life. I would like to share three areas of my life that are related to today’s scripture where the Holy Spirit changed my life.
Today's Mass Readings
“Receive the Holy Spirit!” They are the most revolutionary words in the history of the world. From the creation of the world, whenever these words have been uttered in the history of the world, it has resulted in dramatic results. At creation, God breathed into the nostrils of the first man and woman and human life emerged. At the annunciation, Mary received the Holy Spirit and the Word became flesh. At the baptism of Jesus, He received the Holy Spirit and sanctified the waters of the Jordan. At the baptism Jesus was revealed to the world as the Son of God. At Pentecost the early Christian Church received Holy Spirit and it changed the history of the world. Before the II Vatican Council, Pope John XXIII opened the windows of St. Peters and prayed for the power of the Holy Spirit to sweep over the Church – and the rest is history. “Receive the Holy Spirit!” These are the most revolutionary words in the history of the world.
But it is not merely from scripture that I know that the Holy Spirit can revolutionize the world. I know this from my own life. I would like to share three areas of my life that are related to today’s scripture where the Holy Spirit changed my life.
Ascension of the Lord
Today's Mass Readings
What would you do if your bank accidentally deposited six million dollars into your account? Think about it, this could change your life to your wildest imagination. This happened last week to a couple in New Zealand. The couple had applied for a NZ$10,000 overdraft but instead received NZ$10 million (US$ 6.1 million). Later that week the BBC invited people to call to say what they would do if they discovered US$ 6 million in their bank account. The responses said so much about the people who called in. A student from US called to say that in such bad economic times he would use the money to throw a huge party. Others said that they would escape with it. Another caller said that he would return the money but would shame the bank if he was not given a reward. But there were more than five callers who said that they would simply return the money because that is what God would want them to do. One of these callers was from Nigeria – a poorer country compared to the US. What is the difference between the people who instinctively let their faith in God influence their decision and those who decided did not? Hopefully, by the end of this homily we will have an answer.
Today's Mass Readings
What would you do if your bank accidentally deposited six million dollars into your account? Think about it, this could change your life to your wildest imagination. This happened last week to a couple in New Zealand. The couple had applied for a NZ$10,000 overdraft but instead received NZ$10 million (US$ 6.1 million). Later that week the BBC invited people to call to say what they would do if they discovered US$ 6 million in their bank account. The responses said so much about the people who called in. A student from US called to say that in such bad economic times he would use the money to throw a huge party. Others said that they would escape with it. Another caller said that he would return the money but would shame the bank if he was not given a reward. But there were more than five callers who said that they would simply return the money because that is what God would want them to do. One of these callers was from Nigeria – a poorer country compared to the US. What is the difference between the people who instinctively let their faith in God influence their decision and those who decided did not? Hopefully, by the end of this homily we will have an answer.
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Today's Mass Readings
In recent days there is much news about military offensive against the Taliban in North-West Pakistan. As a result, the media has reported that hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians are caught in the fighting. Hundreds of thousands of people have become refugees. As an Indian, my sympathy for the Pakistanis has been zero. India and Pakistan are traditional rivals. They have fought two wars. Moreover, I think Pakistani government has been playing games with the Americans and the Taliban, and so, my reaction has been, “the Pakistanis deserve it.” That is, till last week. Then I saw the picture of a man sitting and wailing over the dead bodies of his two children caught in the crossfire. They were his only children. This man plight was no different than any other person in the world crying over his dead children. Suddenly, I began to feel ashamed of myself. The question that popped in my mind was, “Am I a Christian?” How could I have become aware of suffering people and say, “They deserve it.” Am I a Christian first or an Indian first? What is it that should define my moral choices – that I am a Christian or that I am an Indian? I realize that my nationality has nothing to do with salvation. At heart, I must first be a Christian. At heart I must instinctively think like a Christian and act like a Christian.
Today's Mass Readings
In recent days there is much news about military offensive against the Taliban in North-West Pakistan. As a result, the media has reported that hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians are caught in the fighting. Hundreds of thousands of people have become refugees. As an Indian, my sympathy for the Pakistanis has been zero. India and Pakistan are traditional rivals. They have fought two wars. Moreover, I think Pakistani government has been playing games with the Americans and the Taliban, and so, my reaction has been, “the Pakistanis deserve it.” That is, till last week. Then I saw the picture of a man sitting and wailing over the dead bodies of his two children caught in the crossfire. They were his only children. This man plight was no different than any other person in the world crying over his dead children. Suddenly, I began to feel ashamed of myself. The question that popped in my mind was, “Am I a Christian?” How could I have become aware of suffering people and say, “They deserve it.” Am I a Christian first or an Indian first? What is it that should define my moral choices – that I am a Christian or that I am an Indian? I realize that my nationality has nothing to do with salvation. At heart, I must first be a Christian. At heart I must instinctively think like a Christian and act like a Christian.
Fifth Sunday of Easter
Today's Mass Readings
I remember I was barely seventeen. Leaving home to go the seminary was the most difficult call I answered. This decision was even more difficult because I would not see my family for a whole year. My parents came with me to drop me off at the seminary in Bangalore, India. They stayed with me a few days and then the day came when they were to leave. I think it was the most difficult day of our lives. That morning we attended mass at the chapel in the seminary. When everybody had left the chapel, we sat there still and quiet. I guess each of us was still pondering what all this meant. Hanging on the wall of the chapel was a picture of the Mother of Perpetual Help. The legend behind the picture is that as a mere child, Jesus had a vision of his impending passion and death. In fear he ran into his mother who picked him up to console him. In the picture, this is symbolized by Jesus’ falling shoes. Perhaps my mother sensed my fear. She took me in front of the picture of the Mother of Perpetual Help and she said to me, “Thus far I have been your mother.” And then pointing to Mary she said, “From now on, SHE is your mother.” I am telling you this story for two reasons. First because, today is mother’s day, and second, because I am fortunate to have parents here today with me to celebrate this Eucharist.
Today's Mass Readings
I remember I was barely seventeen. Leaving home to go the seminary was the most difficult call I answered. This decision was even more difficult because I would not see my family for a whole year. My parents came with me to drop me off at the seminary in Bangalore, India. They stayed with me a few days and then the day came when they were to leave. I think it was the most difficult day of our lives. That morning we attended mass at the chapel in the seminary. When everybody had left the chapel, we sat there still and quiet. I guess each of us was still pondering what all this meant. Hanging on the wall of the chapel was a picture of the Mother of Perpetual Help. The legend behind the picture is that as a mere child, Jesus had a vision of his impending passion and death. In fear he ran into his mother who picked him up to console him. In the picture, this is symbolized by Jesus’ falling shoes. Perhaps my mother sensed my fear. She took me in front of the picture of the Mother of Perpetual Help and she said to me, “Thus far I have been your mother.” And then pointing to Mary she said, “From now on, SHE is your mother.” I am telling you this story for two reasons. First because, today is mother’s day, and second, because I am fortunate to have parents here today with me to celebrate this Eucharist.
Fourth Sunday of Easter
Today's Mass Readings
Last week, I invited an unusual group of visitors from India to my parish in Datyon. Two children from the city of Bhopal, India gave an interview to the Catholic Telegraph here at the parish and then later in the evening at the University of Dayton. Sartia and Saafrin are merely 16 years old and they are the victims of one of the worst industrial disasters in history. On Dec 2, 1984, a poisonous gas leak from a Union Carbide factory killed about three thousand people within three hours in Bhopal. Later figures rose to about ten thousand people. Investigators tell us that had the company followed all safety procedures this disaster could have been averted. Obviously, Union Carbide did not follow these procedures to save a mere thirty dollars a day. Moreover, the people in this densely populated neighborhood were not informed either by the company or the Government of India that such poisonous chemicals were being produced there. Twenty-five years later, the contaminated factory remains poisonous, spreading the contamination to larger areas; compensation is being withheld so that people cannot be resettled into cleaner areas; and Dow Chemicals, the new owner of the company refuses to admit any responsibility. The children that came to Dayton is hoping to get a congressional hearing on the issue. Meanwhile thirty thousand people still continue to bear the brunt of what is now called the Bhopal Gas Disaster.
Today's Mass Readings
Last week, I invited an unusual group of visitors from India to my parish in Datyon. Two children from the city of Bhopal, India gave an interview to the Catholic Telegraph here at the parish and then later in the evening at the University of Dayton. Sartia and Saafrin are merely 16 years old and they are the victims of one of the worst industrial disasters in history. On Dec 2, 1984, a poisonous gas leak from a Union Carbide factory killed about three thousand people within three hours in Bhopal. Later figures rose to about ten thousand people. Investigators tell us that had the company followed all safety procedures this disaster could have been averted. Obviously, Union Carbide did not follow these procedures to save a mere thirty dollars a day. Moreover, the people in this densely populated neighborhood were not informed either by the company or the Government of India that such poisonous chemicals were being produced there. Twenty-five years later, the contaminated factory remains poisonous, spreading the contamination to larger areas; compensation is being withheld so that people cannot be resettled into cleaner areas; and Dow Chemicals, the new owner of the company refuses to admit any responsibility. The children that came to Dayton is hoping to get a congressional hearing on the issue. Meanwhile thirty thousand people still continue to bear the brunt of what is now called the Bhopal Gas Disaster.
Third Sunday of Easter
Today's Mass Readings
Have there been times in your life when you were doing something routine, and suddenly a sense of self-awareness overcame you? Say you are doing laundry or cutting grass, or doing dishes or driving to work, and suddenly the question pops in your mind, “What am I doing?” or “What is my life all about?” I was driving from one hospital to another last week, taking communion to the sick and, behind the wheels, a similar thing happened. I asked myself, “What am I doing? Am I crazy visiting sick people who really are not either family or friends or people who otherwise I would not visit? What am I doing with my life anyway?” Thank God, that day I had consecrated hosts in my coat pocket. Just at that moment the fact that I was taking the risen Christ to helpless people consumed me. I said to myself, “I am so fortunate that I get to take the very presence of God to people who are struggling.” I don’t make a lot of money, I don’t get kudos for taking care of the sick, it is not the most advertized job in the world, but I get to bring the hope, love and healing that only Christ can give. Is there anything more precious than that? That consciousness was worth everything that I live for.
Today's Mass Readings
Have there been times in your life when you were doing something routine, and suddenly a sense of self-awareness overcame you? Say you are doing laundry or cutting grass, or doing dishes or driving to work, and suddenly the question pops in your mind, “What am I doing?” or “What is my life all about?” I was driving from one hospital to another last week, taking communion to the sick and, behind the wheels, a similar thing happened. I asked myself, “What am I doing? Am I crazy visiting sick people who really are not either family or friends or people who otherwise I would not visit? What am I doing with my life anyway?” Thank God, that day I had consecrated hosts in my coat pocket. Just at that moment the fact that I was taking the risen Christ to helpless people consumed me. I said to myself, “I am so fortunate that I get to take the very presence of God to people who are struggling.” I don’t make a lot of money, I don’t get kudos for taking care of the sick, it is not the most advertized job in the world, but I get to bring the hope, love and healing that only Christ can give. Is there anything more precious than that? That consciousness was worth everything that I live for.
Second Sunday of Easter/Divine Mercy Sunday
Today's Mass Readings
I was deeply moved by with Jana Bennett’s reflection she wrote for www.itemissaest.org. She wrote, “Sometimes I think it is very difficult to comprehend, let alone believe, that Jesus rose from the dead. Death for us is something final. It is something that we have to deal with and confront because we cannot undo time and make someone come back. That finality makes it quite hard to see that perhaps death does not always win – that God’s Son rose from the dead.” Jana is so right. Our normal experience is that death happens, that no one can extend life, and that dead people do not normally rise to life. Not only is death more real than risen life. So are our fears, our anxieties, our pains, our brokenness, our ruptured relationships, our sins, our helplessness and even our moments of godlessness.
Today's Mass Readings
I was deeply moved by with Jana Bennett’s reflection she wrote for www.itemissaest.org. She wrote, “Sometimes I think it is very difficult to comprehend, let alone believe, that Jesus rose from the dead. Death for us is something final. It is something that we have to deal with and confront because we cannot undo time and make someone come back. That finality makes it quite hard to see that perhaps death does not always win – that God’s Son rose from the dead.” Jana is so right. Our normal experience is that death happens, that no one can extend life, and that dead people do not normally rise to life. Not only is death more real than risen life. So are our fears, our anxieties, our pains, our brokenness, our ruptured relationships, our sins, our helplessness and even our moments of godlessness.
Easter Sunday The Resurrection of the Lord
Today's Mass Readings
What is the last thing that a priest wants on Holy Saturday? How about a Funeral service! When I first got news about the funeral, I felt overwhelmed. The last thing I wanted in the midst of all the Holy Week schedule and practices was a funeral. I agreed to do the funeral simply because that is what my duties call for. But when I entered the funeral home and saw the family of the deceased gathered in love around the body, I realized that this funeral was the best thing I could accommodate on Holy Saturday. It gave me a sense of what the family of Jesus must have felt on that first Holy Saturday. Like them, here was a family waiting with the body in a casket, waiting for the stone to be rolled away. It was a most beautiful experience for me to see this person buried with Jesus, and like Jesus, waiting for the resurrection. For the family too, to know that they could entrust their loved one into the hands of the same Father into whose hands Jesus entrusted his life was the most consoling thing. They left in peace.
Today's Mass Readings
What is the last thing that a priest wants on Holy Saturday? How about a Funeral service! When I first got news about the funeral, I felt overwhelmed. The last thing I wanted in the midst of all the Holy Week schedule and practices was a funeral. I agreed to do the funeral simply because that is what my duties call for. But when I entered the funeral home and saw the family of the deceased gathered in love around the body, I realized that this funeral was the best thing I could accommodate on Holy Saturday. It gave me a sense of what the family of Jesus must have felt on that first Holy Saturday. Like them, here was a family waiting with the body in a casket, waiting for the stone to be rolled away. It was a most beautiful experience for me to see this person buried with Jesus, and like Jesus, waiting for the resurrection. For the family too, to know that they could entrust their loved one into the hands of the same Father into whose hands Jesus entrusted his life was the most consoling thing. They left in peace.