Know - Grow - Go

Becoming "full of grace" (Immaculate Conception)

With God, grace is eternal; it's not linear. And we, too, can become "full of grace" when we receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.   Readings at this Mass: Gn 3:9–15, 20 | Eph 1:3–6, 11–12 | Lk 1:26–38

Drive Out the Darkness by Confession

Advent is not merely a countdown to Christmas, but also an invitation to let Christ’s light break into those dark places in our souls. If we’re honest, our lives aren’t where they should be. We are sinners; we’ve fallen short. Catholics sometimes get criticized for “guilt trips,” but the opposite is worse: pretending everything is fine and nothing is considered sinful. What we need is a reality check: yes, we do sin, but God’s grace is more powerful, and He can forgive and heal anyone no matter how deep the offense. That is the gift encompassed in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.    Readings at this Mass: Is 11:1–10 | Rom 15:4–9 | Mt 3:1–12

The Triumph of the Light

Advent is a time to prepare ourselves for Christmas, to remember that Christ coming into the world is meant to drive out darkness. During these four weeks of preparation, we can join in His work by pushing back the darkness in our own lives. What can you do this Advent to drive out the darkness, even a little? Think of where it is coming from: your screens, your phone, relationships with patterns of negativity or sin? Choose one area where you will push back the darkness and stop letting it enter your life — and in your own small way, in preparation for Christ’s coming, put on the armor of light.   Readings at this Mass: Is 2:1–5 | Rom 13:11–14 | Mt 24:37–44

Being People of Thanksgiving

What are you thankful for? That’s the question Fr. Bill asks of our Thanksgiving Day Mass attendees, reminding us that we are called to be people of thanksgiving — the word eucharist itself comes from the Greek word for 'thanksgiving'. Consider what you are thankful for as you listen to their responses!   Readings at this Mass: Sir 50:22-24 | 1 Cor 1:3-9 | Lk 17:11-19

No King but Jesus

More and more, it’s becoming impossible for us to talk about our challenges as a country. It doesn’t matter if the issue is cultural, moral, economic, political, whatever — the conversation quickly gravitates towards the extremes. So our problems remain, our divisions deepen, and we don’t go anywhere as a people. Politics is not king. Tribalism is not king. Anger and fear, hatred and shame, cruelty and violence — they’re not king, either. Jesus is king. At least in our lives, it’s time we restore Him to the throne.   Readings at this Mass: 2 Sm 5:1–3, Col 1:12–20, Lk 23:35–43