Flocknote

Hello, parishioners:

Last Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 12:49–53) may have been a surprise to many. Jesus declares, “I have come to set the earth on fire… Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.” These words are jarring, especially from the One we call the Prince of Peace. But what is Jesus really saying?

Jesus is not advocating for violence or conflict. Rather, He is speaking about the deep and often painful choice involved in following Him. The “fire” He brings is the fire of truth and purification - a fire that burns away falsehood, compromise, and complacency. This fire also refines the hearts of those who commit themselves fully to the Gospel, even when it causes tension in their closest relationships.

In today’s world, we still see this division. A sincere Christian witness may be misunderstood, rejected, or even opposed by family, friends, or the broader culture. Standing up for Gospel values - honesty, life, dignity, justice—may lead to uncomfortable conversations or even estrangement. Jesus is clear: the path of discipleship is not always easy, but it is the way to eternal life.

The first reading from Jeremiah (Jeremiah 38:4–6, 8–10) reinforces this theme. The prophet suffers for speaking God’s truth, even being thrown into a cistern and left to die. Yet God delivers him. The Lord does not abandon those who remain faithful, even when their witness is unpopular.

The Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 12:1–4) encourages us to persevere, reminding us that we are surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses” - the saints who have gone before us and remained steadfast in their faith. We are urged to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who endured the cross for the sake of the joy that lay before Him.

Last Sunday challenged us to examine our commitment to Christ. Are we willing to stand firm when our faith is tested? Are we prepared to make hard choices for the sake of the Gospel? And are we courageous enough to allow the fire of Christ to refine our hearts?

Let us pray this week for the grace to be faithful witnesses - brave, loving, and true -trusting that Christ walks with us even through the divisions that may arise. May His fire burn brightly in us, not to destroy, but to renew and purify our world through His truth and love.

-- Fr. Augustine Joseph

"PLEASE KEEP DIVISIVE POLITICS OUT OF THE CHURCH"

Hello,

Last Sunday, one of our church members got up (uninvited) to voice her opinion about the current political climate in our country. Holy Mass is a very sacred time which should not be compromised in any way. Nobody should engage in any disruptive behavior during Holy Mass that compromises the sanctity and holiness of the sacred moment!

Remember, every opinion has a contrary opinion! To avoid chaos, rancor, and division in the Church, let each keep their opinions to themselves and focus on Jesus Christ and prayer. We are all brothers and sisters coming together to worship God. Our politics is the politics of "Our Father!"

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2

"Make allowances for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others." Colossians 3:13

"...do not let the sun go down on your anger, " Ephesians 4:26

-- Fr. Augustine Joseph

PS

Please read Bishop Barber's comments about the immigration issue. You can read that HERE or by picking up a copy at the entrance of the Church.

Friday, August 22: VBS 2026 Dine Out Fundraiser: Menchie's Frozen Yogurt
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Church/Livestream)
- Fair Friday Small Group 10:00 a.m. (Oscar)
- Funeral Mass - Susan Devine 11:00 a.m. with reception immediately to follow in the Hall
Saturday, August 23: VBS 2026 Dine Out Fundraiser: Menchie's Frozen Yogurt
- Maxine McGee and Nicholas Piscotty Rehearsal & Wedding 9:00 a.m. (Chapel)
- Reconciliation 4:00 p.m. (Church)
- Vigil Mass 5:00 p.m. (Church)
Sunday, August 24: Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
VBS 2026 Dine Out Fundraiser: Menchie's Frozen Yogurt
- Mass 7:30 a.m. (Church)
- Mass 9:30 a.m. (Church/Livestream)
- Mass 11:30 a.m. (Church)
Monday, August 25:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream)
- Christian Meditation 5:30 p.m. (Ignatius)
- Social Concerns Meeting 7:00 p.m. (Oscar)
Tuesday, August 26:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream)
- Small Faith Group (RC) 9:00 a.m. (Oscar)
- Catechist Training 6:00 p.m. (Pope)
Wednesday, August 27:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream)
- Adult Choir Rehearsal 6:30 p.m. (Church)
- New Testament Study Group 6:30 p.m. (Pope)