The people who touched the cloak of Jesus were healed. He continues to do the same for us. Our Lord heals infirmities, forgives our sins, relieves our distress, and eases our burdens. All he asks for is our faith in his power to heal and save us.

As a son of PHL, I am rooting for the Eagles to win the Super Bowl. My good friend and predecessor as USCCB Chair for Pro-Life Activities, Archbishop Joseph Naumann is a Kansas City fan. Our pledge: the winner receives a donation to his favorite pro-life charity (loser also needs to send a photo wearing the Super Bowl Championship team’s jersey)! Go Eagles!

Reflecting on today’s Gospel, St. John Paul II said: “Do not be afraid. Do not be satisfied with mediocrity. Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” Follow that advice, step out in faith, and celebrate what God will accomplish in you and through you.

Noise, social media, and constant activity can be obstacles to spiritual growth. Accept daily the invitation of Jesus: “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” Quiet time with Jesus is the “rest” you may need. It leads to growth in the spiritual life.

“Let your life be free from love of money…be content with what you have” (Hebrews: 13:5). The world tells us money and wealth will bring us the happiness we desire. Not true! Strive daily “to grow rich” in the sight of God. Then, you will know true happiness now and forever.

St. Paul Miki and his companions died as martyrs in Nagasaki for the Gospel they preached. While we may not suffer physical martyrdom, we may be ridiculed, rejected, and falsely labeled as we stay loyal to our faith. Like those who have gone before us, be strong and courageous.

Jesus warns that we may not find honor in our native place or homes. Those closest to us, including family members and friends, may not always agree with us or embrace our beliefs and morals. Never stop loving them nor tire of speaking the truth with gentleness and patience.

Jesus healed a woman who was afflicted for 12 years. God’s time is not our time. He will respond to our prayers when we least expect and in ways we can never imagine. Thus, we have every reason to preserve in prayer, stay patient, and remain joyful in hope.

Throughout his ministry, Jesus demonstrated his power over unclean spirits. So, when worldly temptations, impure desires, and evil thoughts come your way, call upon the name of the Lord. Say and repeat a few times: “Jesus, I trust in you.” He will make you clean and pure.

We bless candles on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. They remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World; the One who has conquered the darkness. We are called to radiate his presence to others. Light a candle in your home today to remind you of these truths.

While in a boat with his disciples during a storm, Jesus rebuked the wind and said: “Be still.” Then, “the wind ceased and there was great calm.” In the midst of the storms we are experiencing, Jesus says: Do not be terrified; I am in the boat with you. So, be calm this day!

RT @arlingtonchurch: “As principles of Catholic social teaching, human dignity and the common good must not be brought into conflict…” Rea…

We honor St. John Bosco as we conclude Catholic Schools Week. He was devoted to the formation and education of youth and our Catholic educators walk in his footsteps. We thank them for their service and honor all parents, the first teachers of their children in the ways of faith.

May we be united in prayer for all those tragically impacted by the accident near Reagan airport. We ask God to embrace them in his love; to grant strength to their families; and to watch over all first responders.

Jesus reminds us that we must not merely hear the Word of God. We must allow it to penetrate our hearts; to transform our lives; to guide our decisions; to provide the consolation and wisdom we are seeking; and, most importantly, to act upon it! What is God saying to you today?

On his feast day, may we repeat the prayer of St. Thomas Aquinas: “Grant me, O Lord my God, a mind to know you, a heart to seek you, wisdom to find you, conduct pleasing to you, faithful perseverance in waiting for you, and a hope of finally embracing you. Amen.”

Jesus said: “If a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.” Bring unity to your home. Pray fervently; love intensely; be patient; stop quarreling; offer forgiveness; and spend quality time together. Then, you will live harmoniously within your home.

All priests will be wearing green vestments today. Not sure if that is a sign related to the Eagles - Commanders game today! It will be a great one. Enjoy!

“Rejoicing in the Lord must be your strength.” This only possible if we believe the Lord is near; if we trust his promise to protect us; if we remain faithful to his ways; and rely on his love and mercy. If we live in such a way, there is every reason to rejoice!

We celebrate the conversion of Saint Paul. He was transformed from being a persecutor of Christians to a preacher of the Gospel. He shows us that with God’s grace it is never too late nor impossible for us to change. Conversion is a life-long process and God’s mercy is infinite.