Father Dave Preaches

The Baptism of the Lord. Father Dave notes how it's hard to understand why Jesus would need to be baptized. Like John the Baptist, we are to trust in the Lord even when we don't know God's reasoning. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-11-26

Tuesday after Epiphany. Father Dave reflects on the life of Saint Andre Bessette on his feast day, and considers how God worked through his humble life. Despite our own shortcomings, God can do wonderful and powerful things through us in the world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 01-06-26

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas). Father Dave reflects on his new eyeglasses with progressive lenses, and how God similarly sharpens our focus as he brings the light of Christ into the world. We are called to spread that light of Christmas to all, especially those suffering in darkness. Preached while serving as Chaplain of a Cruise Ship on 12-25-25

Third Sunday of Advent. Father Dave discusses how we sometimes question if we are hearing the voice of God. Just as Jesus assures John the Baptist in today's readings, God shows how he is with us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-14-25

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Father Dave compares Luke's Gospel account of the Annunciation to today's feast celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe. Mary proves that nothing is impossible for God, and we should not be afraid to bring him our needs. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-12-25

Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent. Father Dave reflects on today's first reading from Isaiah and reaffirms that God is never too busy for us. We can rest in the peace of God who always hears us, even if we feel far from him. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-10-25

Second Sunday of Advent. Father Dave compares Advent to a recipe's suggested prep time. We can trust that God will help us make our preparation fruitful. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 12-7-25

Tuesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on this time of limbo between Ordinary Time and Advent. He challenges us to prepare our hearts in one small way this week as we soon journey into Advent. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-23-25

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Father Dave notes how it is hard to relate to the idea of kings in modern America. While it is a challenge, we can help bring about peace in our world if we let God be king of our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-23-25

Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. Father Dave acknowledges that today's feast dedicating a building might seem strange, but it symbolizes the beginning of public Christian worship in Rome. The Scriptures deepen this message and say that we are God's dwelling place on earth. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-09-25

Friday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time. Today's readings share how God has revealed his saving power to all the nations, but Father Dave notes how Saint Paul says there is more work to be done. We are called to reach out and bring Christ to everyone, even in small ways. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-07-25

Wednesday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave talks about election day, and how news channels fill time talking before getting to the important results. Saint Paul describes many laws and commandments in today's readings, and how the crux of God's law is love. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 11-05-25

Vigil of the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls' Day). Father Dave discusses today's feast, especially following the unexpected death of fellow Paulist and ordination classmate Father Brad Schoeberle. We are to pray for those in purgatory, and trust in God's promise that our souls are in his hands. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Horseshoe Bay, TX on 11-01-25

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's Gospel and our tendency to focus on ourselves instead of God. We are called to find humility and see our neighbor through God's eyes. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-26-25

Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr. Father Dave talks about a friend who jokingly expects appreciation for doing the bare minimum. Today's readings explain how God's grace is a free gift and not something we earn or deserve. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-17-25

Monday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's story of Jonah and times in our lives where we try to avoid God. He challenges us to pay attention to how God prompts us and to say yes to his call instead of making excuses. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-6-25

Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave recalls when a younger coworker discussed her vision board and goals. It is not enough to envision a strong faith. We must take tangible actions to help bring about the kingdom of God. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 10-5-25

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave compares today's readings to tools used to stoke embers in a fireplace. Similarly, he reminds us that humility is a tool for us to grow closer to God. Preached at St. Mary on the Lake, Lake George, NY on 8-31-25

Memorial of Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church. Father Dave cautions those of strong faith to not become complacent. Just like Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, we are to answer God's call and never stop working to bring people to the Lord. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 8-20-25

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave highlights how Jesus talks about division in today's Gospel. While it is difficult, we are called to bring God's peace and reconciliation to our families and our world. Preached at St. Mary of the Lake, Lake George, NY on 8-17-25

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on making tough choices in our modern world. He reminds us we need to make difficult decisions in order to follow God, and we should not settle for less. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 8-10-25

Tuesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time. For those who struggle with faith, Father Dave reassures us that there are doubters in Scripture as well. We ask God to strengthen our faith in him, but also for faith in ourselves and those around us. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 8-5-25

Monday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses how God shows us signs, and other times does not. He reminds us that Jesus is present every day with us, even when we don't see dramatic miracles in our lives. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 7-21-25

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave reflects on today's familiar Gospel story of the Good Samaritan. Rather than figure out who our neighbor is, our challenge is to show kindness and compassion to everyone we encounter. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 7-13-25

Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave shares his appreciation for the friendship he has with his sister, Diana. As in today's readings about Joseph and his 11 brothers, we can find hope that God can reconcile strained relationships. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 7-10-25