Msgr. Joseph Calise MICHAEL YORK gave one of his most brilliant performances as John the Baptist in Franco Zeffirelli’s film, “Jesus of Nazareth.” He showed the strength, determination and power of the prophet who prepared the way for Christ’s coming. In the few times we actually hear of him in Scripture, John leaps in his […]
Sunday Scriptures
Come, O Come Emmanuel
by Sister Karen M. Cavanagh, C.S.J. TODAY THE CHURCH gives us one Word .. one Name… in Hebrew, it is a sentence. “They shall name Him, Emmanuel…” which means, “God is with us.” We are also presented with two men at very decisive moments in their lives. For each of them, the moments seem to […]
Now Is the Time to Change Our Ways, to Turn Our Lives Around
by Sister Karen M. Cavanagh, C.S.J. THE RITE of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) process is such a wonder-filled experience. Accompanying members of a parish community on their pathway to baptism can be a blessed teachable moment for the candidates (the elect) and for teachers and parishioners who journey with them. One December evening during […]
Readying Our Hearts and Spirits
by Sister Karen M. Cavanagh, C.S.J. “IT’S A BROOKLYN thing!” In my day (that’s a giveaway), children dressed as ragamuffins on Thanksgiving morn. We visited neighbors, knocking on doors and begging: “Anything for Thanksgiving?” We received an apple, an orange, walnuts in their shell or maybe some pennies. We imagined the experience of those who […]
Purchased by His Precious Blood
by Father James Rodriguez FOR CENTURIES, Catholics have praised Christ as King through the arts. Just last summer, during the World Youth Day festivities in Rio de Janeiro, I heard an a capella masterpiece that continues to resonate with me, and unfailingly brings me to tears every time I hear it. “Crown of Thorns” by […]
We Celebrate the True Thanksgiving at the Altar
by Father James Rodriguez In just under two weeks, our country will celebrate the joy of Thanksgiving Day. It is stressful, to be sure, especially for those who have to cook, but even this stress is worthwhile if the result is a delicious meal shared in good company. Families and friends come together, volunteers feed […]
Endurance of Christ Defends Our Faith
by Father James Rodriguez If a chill runs down your spine during today’s first reading, then you were truly listening. While it is sometimes easy to be distracted during Mass, this gripping story of the martyrdom challenges us all to greater faith. These seven brothers, with their mother, were arrested and tortured for their refusal […]
Are You Ready to Go the Distance?
by Father James Rodriguez Today, tens of thousands of people from all over the world will flood the streets of our diocese in one of the most famous footraces on earth. The N.Y.C. Marathon is a major annual event, not only for runners but for spectators at home and on the streets who cheer for […]
The Importance of Humility
by Father William R. Dulaney When you speak, tell a story, or communicate in any way, you believe you have something important to say; hope your audience understands your message; and want your message to have an impact on and make a difference in your listeners’ lives. In speaking about the Bible, Vatican II said, “the […]
Prayer Is a Struggle; Embrace It
by Father William R. Dulaney Even though you’re not perfect, I hope you think of yourself as a good person. Isn’t it ironic many good people are apprehensive or filled with frustration and guilt because of prayer – something we hope will strengthen us and bring us peace? Throughout my priesthood, I’ve been approached by […]