Reflections
February 2 ~ The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Posted by Ray Lodato
On this feast of the Presentation, the Gospel of Luke gives us a lovely scene on which to reflect. Mary and Joseph bring the child Jesus to the Temple to present him to the Lord. In the Temple, both Simeon and Anna, elders in the Temple, recognized Jesus as ... Read More »
January 26 ~ Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Posted by Ray Lodato
Today’s readings are filled with inspiration and instruction. Isaiah reminds us that we no longer walk in darkness. For us, the ‘great light’ he speaks of is Jesus Christ. In the second reading, Saint Paul urges the community to “be united in the same mind and in the same ... Read More »
January 19 ~ Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Posted by Ray Lodato
In today’s gospel, John the Baptist testifies that Jesus is the Son of God. Our faith and Sacred Scripture confirm this for us – Jesus is the Son of God. Pray today’s Psalm with an open heart and open mind: “Here am I, Lord; I come to do your ... Read More »
January 12 ~ The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord
Posted by Ray Lodato
This feast of the Baptism of the Lord presents us with the opportunity reflect on the importance of our own baptism. It is the sacrament we receive only once but the graces of the sacrament continue to unfold throughout our lives. Spend some time in prayer with the reading ... Read More »
January 5 ~ The Epiphany of the Lord
Posted by Ray Lodato
We know this story so well it is a good example of perseverance. The Magi were determined to follow the star- “overjoyed at seeing the star. . . and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother... and did him homage.” Our culture urges us ... Read More »
December 29 ~ The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Posted by Ray Lodato
The example of the Holy Family can be summed up in the words of today’s second reading. They were clothed in “heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another...” This feast offers all families the inspiration and encouragement to make these values ... Read More »
December 22 ~ Fourth Sunday of Advent
Posted by Ray Lodato
Today’s readings offer us great hope: “the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” This name means “God is with us.” It is important that we remember this especially when the world is calling us to move faster – to shop more, to buy ... Read More »
December 15 ~ Third Sunday of Advent ~ Gaudete Sunday
Posted by Ray Lodato
Today’s second reading from the letter of Saint James is four verses that are packed with meaning and encouragement. The words “patient” or “patience” appear four times. The world will tell us that time is running out, so BUY NOW! The Church is telling us that Jesus will come ... Read More »
December 8 ~ Second Sunday of Advent
Posted by Ray Lodato
In today’s first reading, Isaiah presents a hope-filled picture of the Kingdom that Christ came to establish. Pray the Our Father each day this week and as you do so, pray for the grace to notice the glimpses of the kingdom that are springing up around you – acts ... Read More »
December 1 ~ First Sunday of Advent
Posted by Ray Lodato
The message is clear on this first Sunday of Advent: “Walk in the light of the Lord”; “Stay awake...”; “You must be prepared...”; “Put on the Lord Jesus Christ.” The Church gives us this holy season as a time for us to re-order our lives and our priorities. While ... Read More »