September 13, 2026 -24th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

This Sunday the Word of God speaks to us about something both simple and demanding: we are responsible for one another, we called to the love that takes responsibility for the other. In the first reading, God appoints Ezekiel as a “watchman” for the house of Israel. His task is clear: if he sees someone going the wrong way and remains silent, he shares responsibility for the outcome. If he speaks the truth in love, even if the person does not listen, he has done his part. Silence in the face of harm is not neutral.

Jesus takes this teaching further in the Gospel. He gives a practical and respectful process for dealing with conflict or sin within the community: first speak privately, then with one or two others if needed, and only then involve the wider community. The goal is never to shame or to win an argument. The goal is to “win back your brother” or sister. Correction offered with humility and genuine care is an act of love.

Saint Paul summarizes it beautifully: “Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law… Love does no evil to the neighbor; hence, love is the fulfillment of the law.” True Christian love is not passive. It does not look away. It does not harden the heart when God’s voice calls us to act. At the same time, it is never harsh or self-righteous. It seeks reconciliation and the good of the other.

This coming week we also mark the anniversary of September 11. As a nation and as people of faith, we remember the lives lost, the courage shown, and the deep wounds that still remain. In the light of this Sunday’s readings, that remembrance invites us to continue choosing responsibility, compassion, and solidarity—refusing indifference and committing ourselves to the hard work of healing, justice, and mutual care.

Jesus ends with a powerful promise: “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” When we face difficult conversations with charity, when we pray together, when we take responsibility for one another, and when we hold the suffering of others in our hearts, Christ is present.

This week let us ask ourselves: Is there someone I need to approach with honesty and kindness? Is there a situation where I have remained silent when love required me to speak?How can I honor the memory of September 11 by living more intentionally as a person of peace, responsibility, and love?

May our parish be a place where we help one another grow in holiness—not by judging, but by loving enough to care, to speak, and to walk together toward Christ. Just as we did in the procession with other parishes praying for our towns and families living in them.

God bless everyone always!!!

Fr. Stan