August 23, 2026 - 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus asks His disciples a very important question: “Who do you say that I am?” After hearing the different answers people have given about Him, Jesus turns directly to His disciples. Peter responds with a profound confession of faith: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Peter’s answer is more than simply identifying Jesus. It is an expression of faith—a recognition that Jesus is not merely a teacher, prophet, or miracle worker, but the Messiah, the Son of God. Jesus tells Peter that this truth has been revealed to him by the Father. Then Jesus gives Peter a special mission: “You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church.”
This Gospel reminds us that our Christian faith is ultimately about a person: Jesus Christ. It is not simply about following rules, belonging to a religious community, or participating in traditions. At the heart of everything we believe is our relationship with Christ. Each of us must eventually answer His question: “Who do you say that I am?”
Our answer should not remain only in words. If Jesus is truly the Christ, the Son of the living God, then our lives should reflect that faith. We are called to trust Him when life is difficult, to follow His teachings when they challenge us, to forgive as He forgives, and to love as He loves.
Jesus also reminds us through Peter that faith is never lived entirely alone. Christ established His Church and entrusted Peter and the apostles with the responsibility of guiding His people. The Church continues this mission today through the successor of Peter, the Pope, the bishops, priests, and the entire community of believers. We are all called to build up the Church through our faith, our service, and our love for one another.
As we gather for the Eucharist this Sunday, let us renew our own profession of faith in Jesus. May we be able to say with Peter, not only with our lips but with our whole lives: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And may our faith in Him give us the courage to follow Him faithfully and to become living stones in the Church He continues to build among us. God bless everyone always !!!
Fr. Stan
