For me, one of the most moving parts of a diaconate ordination ceremony is the handing on of the Book of the Gospels. The ordaining bishop has the Book of the Gospels in his hands and the new deacon kneels before him to receive it. As the bishop hands over the Book of the Gospels, he says these words, “Receive the Gospel of Christ, whose herald you now are. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach.”
Sunday Scriptures
Teaching the Truth
I think it would be safe to say that most of us have had one teacher in our lives that made a tremendous impact on us. Whether it was in grammar school, high school, college or graduate school, I’m sure there was one teacher that made us say “wow!” That person inspired us to work hard and to always reach our potential. One of the many images of Jesus that I love is of Him as teacher.
Heeding Words of Wisdom
I WAS TRULY BLESSED to have both my maternal and paternal grandmothers with me for most of my years growing up. Both of my grandmothers have now gone home to God, but I will always remember the way they imparted words of wisdom upon my sister and me.
The Greatest Consolation
Not only will Jesus give us the strength and nourishment that we need in this world, but He also gives us that same nourishment in the world to come.
We Must Believe
JUST THIS PAST spring, I had the great joy of celebrating Mass for our First Holy Communion children at St. Peter Claver Church. I could see the excitement and joy on their faces as they prepared to receive Jesus for the first time in the Most Holy Eucharist. It was equally a great joy for […]
Everyone Has an ‘Archie’
By Father John P. Cush Msgr. Conrad Dietz, a professor of philosophy who taught at all of the various incarnations of Cathedral College in Douglaston, has instructed several generations of priests of the dioceses of Brooklyn and Rockville Centre, as well as the Archdiocese of New York, and even beyond. Far from merely being admired […]
New Shepherds To Serve the Flock
THE SCRIPTURES WE proclaim today are especially important for us in the Diocese of Brooklyn as they employ in the first reading and the Gospel the image of a shepherd. In just a few days time, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, by the selection of Pope Francis and with the pope’s mandate, will ordain to the episcopacy two priests for service as auxiliary bishops in the Diocese of Brooklyn.
Walking Together in Trust and Love
From Marine Park to Howard Beach to Elmhurst and now Rome, I have had an incredible experience of priesthood for many reasons. In light of today’s Gospel, perhaps I might articulate two of them: first, “going out two by two,” and second, “taking nothing for the journey.”
What’s Your Kryptonite?
IT’S A FUNNY THING, kryptonite. The phrase has entered into our popular lexicon and comes from the one element that can depower the comic book character Superman. Actually created for the 1940s radio series, “The Adventures of Superman,” even before being introduced into the comics, kryptonite is a mineral from the now destroyed home planet.
Being Conduits Of Jesus’ Love
USUALLY THE GOSPEL teaches us a spiritual message that directs us toward living for the Kingdom. Today is no exception. However, the message today, as heaven-oriented as it may be, has to be lived out in the here and now, in our neighborhoods and homes. Imitation of the example of Christ in today’s Gospel must be lived with those people we see from day to day, hour to hour. To imitate Christ in today’s Gospel means to love the people around us.