Father Michael's Thoughts This Week

WEEKLY THOUGHTS 13th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

JUNE 29, 2025

Dear Friends, 

Welcome to the celebration of the 13th Sunday in Ordinary time that falls on the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul; which takes precedence. Sincere congratulations to all named Peter and Paul as well as the Institutions named after these great Saints in the Church. The month of June has celebrated great Solemnities. On June 24th we celebrated the Birth of St. John the Baptist born 6 months before the birth of Jesus. He prepared the way for the Lord, baptized Jesus in the Jordan River and introduced Jesus to the people as the Lamb of God.  Congratulations to all named after this great Saint whose passion is celebrated on August 29th when Herodias daughter demanded Johns’ head on a platter.

On Friday June 27th we celebrated the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus characterized by Jesus’ obedience and love to do the will of his Father. The heart is a symbol of love. The symbols of the Sacred Heart of Jesus are a flame- that the heart of Jesus burns with love for all humanity. The Cross; symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice of love for mankind. Thorns symbolize the suffering and agony of the Lord in his passion and death. Wound and Blood the side pieced by a lance on the cross and his blood shed for us. 

On Saturday June 28 is the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. It celebrates the love and Mary’s cooperation for the redemption of humankind. Let us be thankful to God for the blessings received over this month ending on Monday.

In the Gospel Reading Matthew 16:13-19 Jesus turned to his disciples and asked what the people considered him to be. In Matthew 3:11; the Pharisees and other people demanded for a sign from Jesus that He is the Christ. This represented the popular public opinion that he is John the Baptist risen from the dead. Yet other contenders thought of him as Elijah and Jeremiah or one of the prophets.  Jesus asked his disciples; who do you say that I am? “You are the Christ the Son of the living God,” Peter responded. Jesus confirmed Peter’s statement that he was the Son of God and declared to Peter that He will build his Church on him that will prevail and stand against all forces of evil.

Jesus chose Peter to be his first vicar on earth. Jesus entrusted Peter with power and authority to lead the Church. The nature of authority is one of service to the Body of Christ. It is the role of a Shepherd; to feed, lead and protect the flock. Let us pray for the present vicar of Christ, Leo XIV to fulfill his pastoral role and duties as supreme Shepherd of the Church. 

St Paul’s calling was unique and dramatic. He preached the Gospel to the gentiles, and many came to believe and know Christ as their Savior. Peter and Paul shed their blood for Christ. Let us emulate their heroic witness and love for Christ and his Church.

Have a great week and a happy and safe Independence Day.