Please pray for those who died and were injured by a bombing at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Jolo, Philippines. No person should fear violence or repression for worshipping God, the source of all peace. Pray also for an end to all violence throughout our world.
Herod did the unthinkable and murdered holy innocent babies. In our age, infants are killed daily through the horror of abortion. In honor of the Holy Innocents, whose feast we celebrate today, we pray for an end to abortion and for the protection and safety of all children.
Peter denied Christ. Paul persecuted Christians. Yet, the Lord chose both as his apostles and instruments in building the Church and spreading the Gospel. No matter our past sins and denials, the Lord never gives up on us. He continually calls us to be his faithful witness.
Jesus cured a man who had been ill for 38 years. We are reminded that, with God’s grace, we can always be healed and transformed, even from the vices that have controlled us for so long. Never lose hope. God’s time is not our time.
Today we honor someone who denied Christ and another who persecuted Christians. Yet, with God’s grace, both were radically transformed and became the Lord’s apostles. Saints Peter and Paul, help us to remember that Jesus never gives up on us and it is never too late to change!
Saint Paul says: “Have no anxiety at all.” This is only possible if we do not spend energy on the things we cannot control; if we entrust our cares to the Lord and if we rely not upon our own resources but on the grace and strength God supplies. Then, his peace will be ours.
Peter denied the Lord three times. Upon receiving three opportunities from the Lord, Peter professed his love and faith. Jesus did not “give up” on Peter nor does the Lord “give up” on us.” Pope Francis says: “God never tires of forgiving and we should never tire of asking!”
Like Martha we are often “anxious and worried about many things.” So, we must imitate Mary who knew the importance of simply “being” and sitting at the feet of Jesus. Try to find a few moments to be still and quiet with the Lord today. It will relieve anxiety and bring serenity.
Herod did the unthinkable and murdered holy innocent babies. In our own age, infants are killed daily through the horror of abortion. In honor of the Holy Innocents whose feast we celebrate today, we pray for an end to abortion and for the protection and safety of all children.
Herod did the unthinkable and murdered holy innocent babies. In our age, infants are killed daily through the horror of abortion. In honor of the Holy Innocents, we pray for an end to abortion and the protection and safety of all children.
I ask all Catholics and people of good will to pray for those killed in Kabul and all injured in today's devastating attack. May their families know God's healing love at this challenging time. Pray also that this developing situation finds peaceful resolution.
While in a boat with his disciples in the midst of a storm, Jesus rebuked the wind and said: “Be still...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!
Like Martha, we can be “anxious and worried about many things.” So, like Mary, we must sit daily at the feet of Jesus and simply listen to him. Instead of just “doing,” try to give more time to “being” with the Lord. He will ease our anxiety and increase our serenity.
Peter denied Jesus three times. Yet, three times the Lord gave Peter the opportunity to renew his love. The Lord never gives up on us! He says: “Follows me.” Perhaps we have failed to do so in the past, but today is our opportunity to renew our “yes” and our love for the Lord.
Herod did the unthinkable and murdered holy innocent babies. In our age, infants are killed daily through the horror of abortion. In honor of the Holy Innocents, whose feast we celebrate today, we pray for an end to abortion and for the protection and safety of all children.
We traveled a rough road this past year, but Jesus walked with us and sustained us with his grace. Today, we walk with him to Jerusalem as he takes up his cross. Stay with him throughout these sacred days. Allow more time for prayer and silence so that you have a truly Holy Week.
St. Monica prayed fervently for the conversion of her son, Augustine, and God answered her prayers. Dear parents: never underestimate how God, in his time, will respond to your prayers and the seeds of faith you plant. Never tire of entrusting your children to the Lord.
Jesus teaches that marriage is a sacred and permanent union of one man and one woman. It is a sign of the love that Christ has for his church. Dear married couples, thank you for your beautiful vocation and faithful witness. Renew daily your “yes” to the Lord and one another.
Jesus says: “I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me.” Reflect on that beautiful reality: Jesus knows you by name! Strive to know him more deeply by listening to his voice in prayer, the Good Shepherd who promises to lead, guide and protect you.
Peter denied Christ. Paul persecuted Christians. Yet, the Lord chose them to be his apostles and, with his grace, they became preachers of the Gospel. Despite our past sins, the Lord never gives up on us and invites us daily to return to him and to do great things for his Church.
Jesus says: “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” In these challenging times, pray specifically for the gift of perseverance rooted in the firm belief that God is in our midst and will strengthen, protect and sustain us with his grace. Persevere - one day at a time!
Jesus healed a woman who suffered for 12 years. God’s time is not our time. With faith and trust, always be ready for and open to the miraculous ways God will bring you healing and new life. It may even be today!
The names of the Archangels are associated with their functions:protector, communicator and healer. Ask Michael to protect you from temptation; Gabriel to help you to communicate the Good News by your example and Raphael to heal you of any distress during these challenging times.
In the midst of unsettling times within our church and world, may we never forget the One in whom we must place our trust as we profess with Simon Peter: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
Jesus speaks about the cost of discipleship: “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.” When we reject worldly values and untruths and remain faithful to the Lord, we may be labeled, ridiculed, or even rejected. But, know that God will give us the courage we need!
In the midst of the “stormy waters” we are experiencing, Jesus speaks to us: “It is I, do not be afraid!” He who walked on the sea and calmed the winds is in our midst and will lead us to brighter days. In him, we find serenity. Have faith - not fear.
Laws protecting women and children, such as the Alabama Abortion Bill, are a victory for truth and life. All people deserve to be welcomed in love and protected in law. Let us unite in prayer for the most vulnerable among us, and continue our work assisting mothers in need.
Jesus said to the Apostles: “As you enter a house, wish it peace.” Do your part to make for a peaceful home: Pray fervently; love intensely; be patient; stop quarreling; offer forgiveness; and spend quality time together. Then, your home will be filled with the Lord’s peace.
We are never too young or too old to pray: “Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here, ever this day, be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.
On the Memorial of St. John Paul II, we remember his sound advice: “I plead with you—never, ever give up on hope, never doubt, never tire, and never become discouraged. Be not afraid.”
We do not have to wait until Christmas morning to see our gifts. Through the goodness of God, they all are around us each day. So, with Mary, say: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord... the Almighty has done great things for me!”
Today (Spy Wednesday), Judas looks for a chance to hand Jesus over to his enemies. Many still reject Jesus and his Gospel. Let’s do our part to stand up for him and not worry about the opposition we may face. Remain confident that the Truth is always victorious over the enemy!
On Divine Mercy Sunday, we celebrate the Lord’s promise that there is no sin greater than his love and mercy. He never tires of forgiving all those who express contrition and the desire to begin anew. May we say with renewed faith: “Jesus, I trust in you.”
As we celebrate Independence Day, we ask Our Lord to bless our country with his peace and help us to be one nation under God with liberty and justice for all. For only then, will we be truly free!
Anticipating his crucifixion, Jesus says: “But I am not alone, the Father is with me.” As we carry our daily crosses, Jesus promises that we also will never be alone. He is in our midst and will give us the grace we need. Walk through this day - not alone- but with Jesus!
It was my great privilege and honor today to ordain eight new priests for the Diocese of Arlington! May God bless them in their ministry to the Church.
We live in the world but do not belong to the world. We belong to Christ. Thus, we must reject worldly values and priorities and follow God’s ways and commands. There may be a price to pay for doing so, but the reward Christ promises is life eternal!
As we carry our crosses and persevere in the midst of the pandemic, may we repeat confidently the words of St. Patrick: “I arise today through God‘s strength to pilot me; God‘s might to uphold me; God‘s wisdom to guide me; God’s hand to guard me; and God’s shield to protect me.”
Prophets are messengers of God. He continues to send them and they are often right in our midst. Be alert to the person God will send to you today with a message He wants you to hear.
In the midst of the evil we see around us, Saint Catherine of Siena tells us not to stand still. Instead, she says: “Start being brave about everything. Drive out darkness and spread light. Don’t look upon your weaknesses. Realize that in Christ crucified you can do everything.”
Prepare your heart for the celebration of Pentecost by praying throughout this day: “Lord Jesus, send me your Spirit to make me holy; to heal my wounds; to make me truly wise; and to keep me strong in faith, hope and love...Come, Holy Spirit!
Be sure to keep an image of Mary, Joseph and Jesus in your home beyond the Christmas season as a reminder of how near they are to us as we strive daily to persevere in faith and live together in peace, as members of God’s holy family.
Like Job, we may grumble and complain in the midst of our difficulties. But today, may we have the confidence of St. Paul and say: “I am content with my weaknesses and frustrations because in Christ, who is the source of my strength, I have strength for everything.”
John the Baptist’s persecutors did not ask him to deny Christ. They asked him to be silent and to stop speaking the truth. His refusal cost him his life. May we imitate his courage and never be silent when we witness evil and any form of injustice, no matter the cost.
The Holy Spirit dwells within us and makes all things new. We seek the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and pray for ourselves, our world and our Church: “ Holy Spirit, dispel the darkness of our times; turn hatred to love; sorrow to joy; and division to unity.”
For those who trust the Lord, there is no such thing as an unanswered prayer. The answer may not be what we desire nor expect. Yet, it is always a response from a loving God who knows best how and when to help us. So, never stop “asking, seeking and knocking.”
As you make New Year’s resolutions, include some that impact your spiritual life: to pray daily; to turn away from sinful behavior; to be courageous in living your faith; to be more attentive to those you love and to help the needy. God always gives us the grace to begin anew!
We continue to pray for Mr. George Floyd and his family. In his honor, and as we prepare for Pentecost, we ask the Holy Spirit to unite us and heal our wounds. May all hatred, violence and prejudice be eradicated so that we may live in harmony and in the peace of Our Lord Jesus.
St. Paul says: “I should like you to be free of anxieties.” This is not just a hope or dream. Even in these challenging times, it is possible! It requires total dependency on the Lord, the One whose grace calms our fears and eases our burdens. Lord, deliver us from all anxiety!
On Juneteenth, in which we celebrate the freedom of those who were previously enslaved, may we pray that all forms of oppression and racism be eradicated in our country and that the inherent dignity of the human person be upheld in our nation always.
St. Luke, a physician, became an evangelist who proclaimed God’s love especially for the poor and the sick. Entrust your spiritual and bodily ailments to the Lord, the Divine Physician, with trust in his power to heal our wounds. Also pray today for all in the medical profession.
Herod did the unthinkable and murdered innocent babies. Tragically, in our age today, infants are killed daily through the horror of abortion. May we be united in our prayer, witness, and advocacy in bringing an end to this evil. May we protect the sacredness of all human life!
On his Feast, may we repeat the prayer of Saint 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.”
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” May our words and actions radiate the light and love of Jesus, the One who unites us as brothers and sisters.
Saint Padre Pio: “Prayer is the best weapon we have and is the oxygen of the soul. So, pray, hope and don’t worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer.”
Monica shed tears due to her son’s lack of faith and worldly ways. Yet, she prayed daily for Augustine and, after many years, her prayers were answered. He converted and led others to Christ. Monica reminds parents: Never lose heart; keep praying; and entrust your children to God
In these dark and difficult times, we may suffer from spiritual blindness and fail to see God‘s many blessings in our midst; the goodness within others and those in need of our help. So we pray in faith: “Lord, heal my blindness and help me to see more clearly this day.”
Zacchaeus climbed a tree because the crowd blocked him from seeing Jesus. We too must be willing “to rise above the crowd” if we wish to encounter the Lord. It may mean being rejected and falsely labeled but it is all worth it if it leads to a deeper intimacy with the Lord.
Today, we celebrate the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the parents of Mary and grandparents of Jesus. What a perfect day for us to pray for our parents and grandparents, living and deceased, and to thank God for them. With his grace, may we live as members of his holy family.
Sadly, in these days, you may have to pay a price for bringing your faith into your workplace and community. Ask St. Thomas More for his help so you may imitate his courage; never compromise who you are and what you believe; and remain God‘s servant first!
So often, Saint Paul used the phrase “by the grace of God.” Remember: all that you are; all that you seek to accomplish and all that you strive to overcome are only “by the grace of God.” Pray daily for that grace. Rely on that grace. It is truly amazing!
In the midst of the pandemic, we can confidently echo the words of Saint Patrick: “I arise today, through God’s strength to pilot me, God’s might to uphold me, God’s wisdom to guide me, God’s hand to guard me, God’s shield to protect me and God’s host to save me.”
We continue to see darkness in our world, especially during these difficult times. Yet, we do not despair for today Christ is revealed as the Light who has conquered the darkness. Do not be afraid. Let his Light guide you in all you do. In his Light, all is calm; all is bright.
We need to listen to others and respect them even when they disagree with us. However, we are never to compromise who we are and what we believe. Jesus loves us too much to let us stay in the middle. He reminds us that we are either for him or against him. No compromises today!
As we pray for unity and peace within our nation, we are also mindful of our ultimate destination, as conveyed by Saint Paul: “Our citizenship is in heaven.” Thus, he tells us not to be occupied with earthly things but “to stand firm in the Lord.”
Through the intercession of Saint Blaise, may we be freed from every disease of the throat and all illness. May he also help us to avoid speaking ill of one another and to say only the good things that all those we love and meet need to hear.
Jesus assures us that with faith, nothing will be impossible for us. Thus, a short and powerful prayer we should say throughout each day is: “Lord, increase my faith.” It is his gift to us and one we must seek and nourish constantly.
We honor St. Paul VI today who taught us to avoid procrastination: “Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives, that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit, every minute of every day. Do it now! There are only so many tomorrows.”
Jesus expanded the commandment “not to kill” to include anger held deep within our hearts against those who have offended us. Such anger along with harsh and bitter words toward others “kill” their spirits and destroy our peace. Pray specifically today for the grace to forgive.
Like Mary, God has a special plan for each of us and it is often different than what we imagined or desired. Yet, he promises to equip us with the grace we need so we can echo Mary’s “yes” to his holy will with the conviction that “nothing will be impossible for God.”
We do not have one word from St. Joseph in the Bible. He was a man of action and faithfully responded in obedience and trust to God’s holy will and divine plan. With his help, renew your “yes” to the promises you have made to the Lord and let your actions do the speaking!
Jesus cured a woman who was incapable of standing upright for eighteen years. We can never lose hope in the Lord’s power to heal us and transform our lives - in his time, not ours. So, we pray for the grace to be patient and to persevere in faith, especially in our time of need.
Jesus healed a man who had been ill for thirty-eight years. At times, it may seem that our prayers are not being answered. Do not get discouraged. Persevere in faith and prayer. It is all in God’s time and according to his plan. He will always respond with what is best for us.
The names of the Archangels are associated with their functions: protector, communicator, and healer. Ask Michael to protect you from temptation; Gabriel to help you to communicate the Gospel by your example, and Raphael to heal you of any anxiety during these challenging times.
While in a boat with Our Lord, the disciples were terrified during a violent storm. They turned to Jesus and he calmed the winds and sea. We are experiencing “stormy waters” these days but remember that Jesus is in the boat with us! So, like the disciples we say: “Lord, save us!”
Some people were willing to follow Jesus until they learned it included the path to Jerusalem. Take courage if Jesus invites you to embrace his cross. He will give you the strength to carry it and, in doing so, you will be walking with him on the path that leads to heaven.
Jesus says: “Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.” Tell the Lord your specific needs and requests, trusting that he will give us not necessarily what we want - but what we truly need - so that our joy may be complete. So pray: “Thy will be done!”
It was my privilege to ordain 12 seminarians to the transitional diaconate today! Please join me in congratulating and praying for these new deacons who, God willing, will be ordained to the priesthood next year.
Advent invites us to stop waiting until “tomorrow.” Today is the time to act; to turn away from sin; to seek the Lord’s mercy; to live faithfully; and to renew our commitments to daily prayer and service. With God’s grace, make this your best Advent ever - beginning “today!”
The First National Thanksgiving Proclamation issued by Congress called for a day set apart for “solemn thanksgiving and prayer.” Every day will be the same if we reflect upon the many blessings showered upon us by our loving God, the Source of all good gifts. Happy Thanksgiving!
The Evil One tries to convince us that certain sins and weaknesses that have consumed us for so long can never change. Yet, Jesus healed a man who had been ill for 38 years! Our Lord is not bound by time or circumstances. If you want to change, you know the One who will heal you.
“Do not be disturbed by the clamor of the world, which passes like a shadow. Do not let false delights of a deceptive world deceive you.” St. Clare’s advice reminds us that we will only know peace and true freedom if we remember that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life!
Like St. Joseph, there are times we find God’s plan for us somewhat mysterious and not always what we would have chosen. Yet, it is only in saying “yes” to the Lord’s will that we experience genuine peace and joy. Pray for the grace to imitate the faith and trust of St. Joseph.
Our Advent Readings continue to proclaim that “with God all things are possible.” Be renewed in your conviction of the Lord’s power to make all things new in your life and to transform and heal you with his mercy and love. With faith in God, all things are truly possible!
On Holy Saturday morning, there is silence and stillness in the Church as we anticipate the celebration of the Easter Vigil. Use this time of serenity to prepare your heart to receive the many graces, Easter blessings, and the new life Our Risen Lord has waiting for you.
Jesus told Martha: “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and anyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” Our life on earth is merely a journey. May we spend our days preparing to be with the Lord forever in heaven.
When others looked at Matthew, they saw a tax collector. But, Jesus looked at him through the eyes of mercy and saw a beloved son and said: “Follow me.” Jesus sees us through those same eyes and calls us to be his disciples. Like Matthew, may we rise this day and follow the Lord.
Jesus healed a man who was ill for 38 years. Miracles occur in God’s time, not ours. There are some sins and vices that we begin to think we can never overcome. Do not give up trying. In faith, continue to ask the Lord for healing and transformation. It is never too late!
Jesus tells us not “to worry” about our life or about tomorrow and conveys why: his Father will never abandon us; he will provide us with exactly what we need; and hold us in his loving embrace. So relax in the Lord’s presence. Enjoy the gift of this new day - and do not worry!
More than ever, we need Mary’s help. Upon hearing she would be the Mother of God, she moved from fear to courage and from doubt to trust. Like Mary, we must believe the Lord will give us the grace we need, especially when our lives have been changed in a way we never anticipated.
Jesus does not only say: “Love one another.” He adds: “as I love you.” The love of Jesus embraced everyone without exceptions; it was without conditions; and was always ready to forgive. This is the love we are called to imitate today and always. And remember: Jesus loves you!
We seek the help of the Archangels: Michael, protect us against all evil; Gabriel, assist us in communicating the Gospel by our words and example and; Raphael, ask the Lord to bless us with his healing love and to grant us the bodily and spiritual graces we need.
When we are overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life and the challenges of these times, maybe the Lord is reminding us of how much we need him and of his promise to help us. When we accept his help, we can echo St. Paul’s words: “I can do all things in him who strengthens me.”
Ash Wednesday powerfully reminds us that one day we will die and the Lord will call us home. Pray that through prayer, fasting and almsgiving, and with God’s grace, we are always ready and prepared to meet him. Do not delay. Now is the time to “repent, and believe in the Gospel.”
Jesus tells us “to pray always without getting weary.” We can say our favorite memorized prayers; reflect upon a Bible verse; speak to the Lord from our heart; or simply be still and listen to him. No matter the form, just be sure to persevere and pray daily!
“Stay awake” is the call of Advent. May we keep our eyes open to God‘s many blessings in our midst; to the behaviors that have to change in our lives; and to those who need our help. Do not “sleepwalk” throughout this sacred season. “Stay awake” so it is your best Advent ever!
“Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.” Only in relationship with him do we find the true peace, genuine freedom and lasting joy for which we are searching. May these precious gifts be yours at Christmas and always.