The themes for last Sunday were decision, commitment, and faithfulness to God. The readings challenge the faithful to reflect on their personal relationship with God and their commitment to follow Him.
In the first reading, Joshua gathers all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He presents them with a choice: to serve the Lord or to follow other gods. The people affirm their commitment to the Lord, recalling His mighty acts and faithfulness. Joshua’s challenge emphasizes the importance of conscious decision-making in one’s faith journey.
Do I make a conscious choice to serve the Lord rather than other gods? In the second reading, Paul speaks about the relationship between Christ and the Church, using the analogy of marriage. He calls for mutual submission out of reverence for Christ, underscoring love and respect within Christian relationships. The passage reflects the deep, sacrificial love that believers are called to emulate in their commitment to God and each other.
The Gospel reading continues the discourse on the Bread of Life. Many disciples found Jesus’ teaching hard to accept and turn away. Jesus then asks the Twelve if they also want to leave. Peter responds with a profound declaration of faith: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” This moment of the decision highlights the challenge of faith and the necessity of commitment despite difficulties.
In the first reading, Joshua gathers all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He presents them with a choice: to serve the Lord or to follow other gods. The people affirm their commitment to the Lord, recalling His mighty acts and faithfulness. Joshua’s challenge emphasizes the importance of conscious decision-making in one’s faith journey.
Do I make a conscious choice to serve the Lord rather than other gods? In the second reading, Paul speaks about the relationship between Christ and the Church, using the analogy of marriage. He calls for mutual submission out of reverence for Christ, underscoring love and respect within Christian relationships. The passage reflects the deep, sacrificial love that believers are called to emulate in their commitment to God and each other.
The Gospel reading continues the discourse on the Bread of Life. Many disciples found Jesus’ teaching hard to accept and turn away. Jesus then asks the Twelve if they also want to leave. Peter responds with a profound declaration of faith: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” This moment of the decision highlights the challenge of faith and the necessity of commitment despite difficulties.
Reflection Questions:
- What are the “other gods” in my life that compete with my commitment to God?
- How do I respond when I find Jesus’ teachings challenging?
- How can I show greater love and respect in my relationships?
- How can I better remember and celebrate God’s faithfulness in my daily life?
God Bless,
-- Fr. Augustine Joseph
Pray the Rosary
The month of October is dedicated to the Rosary in the Catholic Church. This devotion stems from the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, celebrated on Saturday, October 7, which commemorates the victory of the Christian fleet in the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.
The Rosary, a prayer that meditates on the life of Christ and the intercession of the Virgin Mary, is especially encouraged during this month. Catholics are urged to recite the Rosary daily in October, reflecting on its mysteries to deepen their faith and seek Mary’s protection and guidance.
Join our guided Family Rosary every Thursday at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel.
We want to give a rosary and prayer book to all parishioners. The cost of the project is approximately $500.00. If anybody would like to donate this or any amount towards this project it would be a great help to defray the cost.
Donations can be made via cash, check (made out to St. Charles Borromeo, and in the memo line please add "Rosary Donation"), or online.
- Father Augustine will be Away on Pilgrimage...
Along with several parishioners, Father Augustine will be traveling to their pilgrimage in Italy from Monday, September 2 to Tuesday, September 17. Father has requested the community pray for a safe and eventful trip.
Below is a sample prayer that can be recited...
"May the journey be blessed with safety and guidance, each step filled with purpose and devotion. May the hearts of all pilgrims be uplifted, their prayers answered, and their spirits renewed. May they return home with peace, wisdom, and fulfillment, carrying the blessings of their sacred journey."
-Amen
- Employment Opportunity:
Apply Today for the Position of Part-Time Accompanist
Send your CV or inquiries to Angela Schweig.
- Friday, August 30:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream) - Saturday, August 31:
- Reconciliation 4:00 - 4:30 p.m. (Church)
- Vigil Mass 5:00 p.m. (Church) - Sunday, September 1:
Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
- Mass 7:30 a.m. (Church)
- Mass 9:30 a.m. (Church/Livestream)
- Mass 11:30 a.m. (Church) - Monday, September 2:
Labor Day - Parish Office Closed
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream)
- Christian Meditation 5:30 p.m. (Ignatius) - Tuesday, September 3:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream) - Wednesday, September 4:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream) - Thursday, September 5:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel)
- Adult Choir Rehearsal 6:30 p.m. (Church)
- A Family Rosary 7:00 p.m. (Chapel)
- Scout Troop Meeting 7:00 p.m. (Pope)
You May Also View Our
COMPLETE CALENDAR,
and Last Sunday's
BULLETIN
COMPLETE CALENDAR,
and Last Sunday's
BULLETIN
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Community
1315 Lomitas Ave.
Livermore, CA 94550
