Services

1/7/24 - The Magi

Dear Families,

Merry Christmas! In this Sunday’s Gospel of Matthew, we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany. We learn how the Magi were not members of the Jewish people. The Magi came from far away because they had seen a star appear in the sky and understood that a king had been born and traveled to Jerusalem. When they arrived in Jerusalem, they first met with the king of Jerusalem. King Herod was rich, had servants, was a powerful leader and everyone did what he commanded. But the Magi understood that this was not the king they were seeking. So, they continued their journey and followed the star to Bethlehem. They found the new king not in a palace or rich. The Magi found a baby with his mother and understood that this was the true king. They knelt and they offered him their best gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

In many cultures, gifts are not exchanged at Christmas, but on the feast of the Epiphany. The Magi teach us that Jesus is here for all of us and to seek him. Let’s celebrate the feast of the Epiphany and bring to Jesus the gift of the best version of ourselves that God created us to be and to serve him.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What can the Magi teach us about seeking Jesus? What gifts do you bring to Jesus?

Family Prayer: Lord, your kingly power, announced by a star, shines brightly. May our hearts be opened to seek you and serve you completely. Amen.

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Read more: The Magi / Los Magos

(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

2/25/24 - Abraham, Isaac, and Jesus Transfigured - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Second Sunday of Lent, in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a mountain and they witness Jesus’ Transfiguration. His clothes became dazzling white and then Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus. Peter, James, and John were amazed and afraid. Then a cloud came and made a shadow over them. A voice spoke from the cloud and said “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him”. They wonder what all this means. Coming down the mountain Jesus told Peter, James, and John not to tell anyone what happened until after He rose from the dead.

The Transfiguration remind us that even though Jesus suffered and died on the Cross, he rose in glory and gave us the opportunity for a new life forever in Heaven. It helps us understand that hard times will come and we need to think about Jesus because he understands our pain and suffering. There is a better life waiting for us when we are faithful. Each Lent gives us the opportunity to grow closer to Jesus, and become the person God created us to be for His glory.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What are some ways you can listen to Jesus? How will you listen to Jesus to change and grow during Lent?

Family Prayer: Jesus, show us the way to God the Father. Helps us listen so that we can hear you and follow you. Amen.

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

1/14/24 - Christ is Calling - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Sunday’s Gospel of John, we hear how John the Baptist points to Jesus and tells two of his disciples “Behold, this is the Lamb of God.” They heard what John said and follow Jesus who asks them “What are you looking for.” They don’t answer the question but ask him “Where are you staying” and he answers “Come, and you will see”. Andrew who had been one of the disciples who had followed Jesus, tells his brother Simon they have found the Messiah, and brings him to Jesus.

Jesus calls each one of us to come and see who he is. We get to know Jesus by developing a relationship with him. Like Andrew when we have experienced Jesus in our lives, we want to share this encounter with our family and friends.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
How would you answer if Jesus asked you “What are you looking for?”

Family Prayer: Dear Lord, open our hearts to see you in our lives. Amen.

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

12/10/23 - Living Like John the Baptist - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Second week of Advent in Mark’s Gospel, we hear how John the Baptist is baptizing the people in the Jordan River. He baptizes them with water and the people acknowledge their sins. He told them that one mightier than he would baptize them with the Holy Spirit. John is preparing the people for the coming of Christ.

During this Advent season let’s listen to what John is proclaiming. Let’s turn away from the things that separate us from God by confessing our sins. Prepare the way to welcome Jesus into your hearts by attending mass, thanking God for what he has given you, pray every day, be forgiving, kind, and help one another.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
In what way are you preparing the way of the Lord in your heart?

Family Prayer: Lord, please help us to prepare not only for Christmas celebrations, but also for your arrival in our hearts. Amen.

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

9/3/23 - God Forbid! - Cycle A

Dear Families,

In last week’s Gospel, Peter tells Jesus he is the son of the living God. This week Peter tells Jesus God forbid he shall suffer when he hears Jesus predict his death. Jesus who had just given Peter authority in the Church, scolds Peter for his lack of trust. Even someone as important as Peter needs to be corrected. Peter would learn that if he wanted to be like Jesus, he would have to trust Jesus, pick up his cross, and follow him.

Jesus never said it would be easy to follow him. Sometimes it is easy to be a disciple of Jesus. Other times it is difficult to follow Jesus. During difficult times we need to trust Jesus. Faithful disciples are called to sacrifice and serve others as Jesus did.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Have you ever behaved like Peter and been an obstacle to others in their following Jesus? How does God use others to correct you or teach you?

Family Prayer: Lord, help us to think of others before ourselves. With God’s love, let our little crosses of each day be offered up to you for the love of others. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.