Living Advent in a pandemic (1 Sunday Advent)

Every Advent season - especially an Advent during a pandemic - is a special time to pay attention to how God is working in our life and world. As the Gospel (Mk 13:33-37) tells us, we need to "Be watchful! Be alert!". God is trying to teach us something. Let us pay attention.

Audio only:

Use it or lose it! (33 Sunday ofOT)

 God has given each one of us incredibly valuable gifts. In the Gospel (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus teaches us that we will be judged based on how well we have used these gifts. This challenges us to change our perspective regarding what it means to follow Jesus well. Instead of focusing solely on the bad actions that we commit, we also need to pay close attention to those good actions that we neglected to do.

Be prepared! (32 Sunday Ordinary time)

Waiting is difficult! Today's Gospel (Matthew 25:1-13) shows us that the tension of waiting is an opportunity for growth. We prepare ourselves to meet Jesus by growing in faith and the practice of charity. This challenge is particularly important during the pandemic, during which we can accept regulations and other sacrifices out of love and concern for others. In addition, reaching out to the lonely and isolated is especially important now.

Longer audio version:

Saints are like pumpkins

The Feast of All Saints reminds us we are all called to be saints. Jesus' beatitudes are a roadmap for how we can be holy. Saints are people who let God's light shine through them.

Longer audio version: