Homily Rewind from St. Margaret Mary Church

Fr. Shenoy compares the story of Abraham and the Transfiguration to our lives today. He challenges us, like Abraham, to walk away from sin and immorality and, like Jesus, to walk towards the light of God.

Lent is a time that Jesus encourages us to make a leap of faith. Deacon Tommy challenges us to take that leap, and draw closer to Jesus, by taking the opportunities that are presented to us. We are encouraged to walk with Jesus these next 40 days and prepare ourselves to embrace the joyous Resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Deacon Nemsy tells us we are called to observe the three disciplines of Lent: fasting, almsgiving, and prayer. By doing this and offering up our trials and tribulations to God, we will deepen our relationship with Him and become a true disciple of Jesus.

Do you like the Lenten Season? Fr. James tells of his childhood and how he struggled with giving up things for Lent. He explains how he has realized sacrifices have led to major differences in his life. He encourages us to have a fruitful Ash Wednesday and embrace the difference this season can have in our lives.

When someone takes advantage of us, Jesus tells us to turn the other cheek. Fr. Shenoy explains that Jesus is not telling us to be passive, or a doormat to others. Jesus’ intention is to challenge others that wrong us, in the hope of a change of heart.

Fr. Walsh talks about the Sermon on the Mount and how we need to look inward at our hearts, not just our actions. He then announces the annual Bishop's Appeal, he thanks all of us for helping us make our goal every year. He tells us the more we participate in the Appeal the more that we can build the Kingdom of God on Earth.

Fr. Walsh introduces our parish mission presenter this week, Sarah Hart. Sarah talks about discipleship and how we need to be both salt and light. In salt we need to preserve the souls around us and in being light we need be a beacon in order to save others. She tells us to do everything we do, especially the small things, with great love.

Are we present? Just as Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the Temple in the Gospel today, Fr. James tells us we not only need to be present at Mass but to each other in our everyday lives. In doing so, we will find we will be inspired by the Holy Spirt. This will enable us to be a blessing to those we encounter.

How is Jesus calling us? Deacon Tommy tells us today that Jesus calls us all in different ways. He explains how we not only need to be aware of His call, but to have the courage to answer Him. One of the best ways to be prepared for Jesus’ call is to study the scripture. He concludes by telling us that we are all called to greatness and we need to prayerfully consider all of the opportunities Jesu...

Pope Francis asks that the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time be devoted to celebrate and study of the Word of God. Fr. Augustine tells us today of the importance of words both spoken and written. He challenges us to study the readings each week and to be attentive during the very important Liturgy of the Word. Jesus uses these words as tools to communicate with us.

“Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world”. This was John the Baptist’s message. Deacon Bill reminds us today that we are all called to be John the Baptist in our own way. He says it is not always easy to share our faith, but we must take the little promptings of the Holy Spirit and share our faith with the world.

Are you prepared? In this the 4th Sunday in Advent, Fr. James reminds us as we prepare for Christmas, the most important preparation is in our hearts. He challenges us to rediscover our relationship with Christ and to prepare for Christ to come into our lives in an authentic way.

The Third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday. This is supposed to be a joyous celebration in Advent. Fr. Walsh asks today, whether joyful or not, are we doing what Jesus asks of us? He says to us, as we approach Christmas, anything material will not make us truly happy. The most important things in life are what we give to others.

A baby changes everything. Deacon Tommy reminds us that a big change is coming! Jesus came into this world in a very simple and humble way. We are challenged this Advent to prepare in that same manner... simply and humbly. This Christmas, simply be present to those that need it the most.

Fr. Shenoy reminds us today, on the first Sunday in Advent, to continue to be thankful. He gives us 5 examples of reasons to begin this new church year in a spirit of thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving, parishioners Jimm and Jeanne share their story. They tell of God’s healing in their lives, and the importance of realizing that each moment is a gift. They remind us to be ever thankful of God’s presence.

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King, Fr. Walsh challenges us to not let the season we are coming into distract us from its true meaning. He suggests that if we all reflect on today’s gospel throughout Advent, that the Lord that is on the cross is the same one that loves us eternally, then we will realize that the celebration at Christmas is truly a special celebration.

Today Deacon Nemsy speaks on the drama of the second coming of Christ. This drama is the triumph over good, over evil, and the triumph of justice. He tells us that Jesus has prepared a place for us in the House of the Father. All Jesus wants is for us to love Him back, and that this is the true drama of salvation.

The gospel today tells us the end is coming but we do not know the time or the hour. Deacon Bill tells us that even though this world is going to end we still need to continue to use our gifts and talents to build up His kingdom on earth.