Do Not Perform Righteous Deeds to Be Seen

The Example of St. Veronica Giuliani

On the memorial of St. Veronica Giuliani, Fr. Miguel explores the profound and often challenging theme of the Cross in the Christian life. Drawing from the readings of St. Paul and the Gospel of Matthew, he explains that suffering is not merely something to be avoided, but a powerful "weapon" and a tool for holiness when offered to God. Fr. Miguel shares the life of St. Veronica—a Franciscan saint gifted with the stigmata—to demonstrate how she used regular mortification to train her will, learning to say "no" to self and "yes" to God. By reflecting on her diary entries and her desire to suffer for Christ, this homily invites us to move beyond our natural instinct to flee from pain and instead embrace the trials God permits in our lives as opportunities for spiritual growth. Whether through small daily sacrifices or carrying larger crosses, we are encouraged to persevere with grace, trusting that our present burdens are preparing us for an eternal weight of glory.

A Lesson on Proclaiming the Kingdom

"The kingdom of heaven is at hand." This directive from Christ was not just for the Apostles, but is a living call for every disciple today. In this inspiring homily, Fr. Miguel explores the profound mystery of the Kingdom of God, explaining how it exists both as a future promise of unimaginable glory and a present reality that begins in our lives right now. Drawing on the wisdom of Pope Benedict XVI, Fr. Miguel challenges us to adopt God’s will as the guiding criterion of our existence, making the Lordship of God the foundation of our daily decisions. Through the moving story of St. Augustine Zhao Rong and the Chinese martyrs, we are reminded that true faith often requires sacrifice and courage. This episode serves as a powerful invitation to reflect on our own purpose as followers of Christ and to find the strength to proclaim, through our words and our very lives, that the Kingdom of Heaven is truly here.

The Kingdom of Heaven Is at Hand

In this straightforward homily, Fr. Miguel reflects on Jesus’ clear priority: first preaching the Kingdom of Heaven to the lost sheep of the house of Israel, then sending the Apostles (and us) to all nations. The Kingdom is not only a future promise — it is already at hand through Christ, the Church, and the Eucharist. As baptized Catholics, every one of us is called to proclaim it, not just from a pulpit but from the “pulpit of our life” — through our daily witness, words, and example. Fr. Miguel reminds us that God has given each of us a role in making the Kingdom known, just as the saints did in their time. A simple yet powerful call: the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand — let us live and proclaim it.

Take My Yoke Upon You and You Will Find Rest

In this gentle and encouraging homily, Fr. Miguel reflects on Jesus’ beautiful invitation: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart.” Jesus does not ask us to carry our burdens alone. When we accept His yoke and walk with Him, even the heaviest cross becomes light. Fr. Miguel shares how we can unload our worries, stresses, and daily struggles to the Lord in prayer, and he draws inspiration from St. Francis, who fully embraced Christ’s yoke and found true freedom in total surrender. A comforting reminder that the path with Jesus brings rest for our souls — not by removing every difficulty, but by carrying it together with the One who is meek and humble of heart.

America 250: Do Not Take Freedom for Granted

On this 250th anniversary of American Independence, Fr. Miguel gives a heartfelt reflection on the blessings of living in the United States. He shares his own family’s journey as legal immigrants arriving during the Reagan years and reminds us that freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. Drawing from today’s Gospel on the Judgment of Nations, Fr. Miguel emphasizes that how we treat one another is how we treat Christ Himself. True patriotism means safeguarding the God-given rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — not just for ourselves, but for future generations. A grateful and challenging message for Independence Day: cherish freedom, live responsibly, and love your neighbor as you would love the Lord. Happy 250th, America! God bless the United States.