Homily Rewind from St. Margaret Mary Church

Fr. Ken invites us to contemplate Emmanuel—God with us—through the final candle of love, reminding us that Christmas is rooted in God’s unconditional love, not our perfection. Through the examples of Ahaz, Joseph, and the Advent readings, we are called to trust God, open our hearts to His presence, and allow Christ to be born in us, even amid uncertainty, fear, and imperfection.

On Gaudete Sunday, Fr. Benjie calls us to recognize that true happiness is not found in possessions or achievements, but in a right relationship with God. Through gratitude, prayer, generosity, and forgiveness, he invites us to cultivate a lasting joy rooted in Christ—because happiness is a choice grounded in faith, not a result of circumstance.

Deacon Bill reflects on John the Baptist, who had “one job” and fulfilled it perfectly—to prepare the way of the Lord. In this second week of Advent, he invites us to discover, strengthen, and generously use our God-given gifts so that we may one day hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Fr. Ken reminded us that Advent is a season of hope, spiritual renewal, and awakening. As we light the first candle of the Advent wreath, we are called to walk in the light of Christ, cast off darkness, and ready our hearts for His coming. Even in a world clouded by fear and division, hope endures — for Christ is our peace, our joy, and our salvation.

Fr. Walsh reminds us that as we close the liturgical year on Christ the King Sunday, we are invited to reflect on whether we have grown in faith and to begin anew with hope in Christ. He challenges us to embrace the whole Jesus by living out His values—love, mercy, compassion, forgiveness, justice, and truth—in our daily lives.

Fr. Benjie reflects on the nature of fear and reminds us that while life is full of uncertainties, trust in the Lord and perseverance empower us to overcome them. He encourages us to live in the present, let go of the past, and avoid overthinking the future, knowing that God’s love and timing are perfect.

Fr. Ken reflects on the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, reminding us that the Church is not just made of bricks and stone but of living believers united in Christ. He calls us to renew our hearts as true temples of the Holy Spirit, allowing God’s grace to bring healing, peace, and unity to the world.

Deacon Dave reflects on All Souls' Day as a time of hope and prayer for our loved ones who have gone before us. He reminds us that we are all called to become Saints now by living with love, faith, and trust in God’s promise of eternal life.

Fr. Benjie reflects on humility as the key to answered prayer and the foundation of holiness. He reminds us that God hears the prayers of the humble heart, calling us to approach Him with trust, patience, and a spirit of repentance rather than pride.

Fr. Walsh reflects on the life and mission of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, reminding us that God often works through humble and ordinary people to accomplish great things. He calls us to deepen our devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, to respond to His love through prayer, adoration, and Eucharistic devotion, and to find peace in Christ’s invitation: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdene...

Deacon Dave reflects on the theme of hope, drawing parallels between the healing of Naaman, the ten lepers, and our own need for spiritual healing. He reminds us that just as Naaman and the lepers found restoration through faith and obedience, we too can be healed through reconciliation and renewed hope in God’s unfailing love.

Fr. Ken reflects on the gift of faith that moves us to compassion and action, reminding us that faith and hope work hand in hand to sustain us through darkness and suffering. On this Respect Life Sunday and World Day of Migrants and Refugees, he calls us to uphold the dignity of every human person—from the unborn to the elderly and displaced—and to live our faith with courage, love, and solidarity...

Fr. Walsh reminds us that complacency and self-indulgence blind us to the suffering at our very doorstep, like the rich man ignoring Lazarus. Our parish’s mission in Haiti calls us to respond differently—by listening, walking with others, and empowering them to build a hopeful future.

The parable of the dishonest steward reminds us that while Jesus does not praise dishonesty, He highlights the steward’s resourcefulness, self-assessment, and decisive action. We are called to bring these same qualities into our spiritual lives—honestly examining our faith and taking bold steps to grow closer to God.

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross reminds us that through the Cross, God’s love conquered sin, darkness, and death. We are called to embrace the Cross daily with humility, forgiveness, and hope in Christ’s saving love.

Fr. Joshy reflects on the cost of true discipleship, reminding us that following Christ requires sacrifice, trust, and a willingness to place Him above all else. With gratitude and emotion, he shared that he has been called back to his community in India, making September 15 his last day at St. Margaret Mary.

Fr. Walsh reminds us that Ash Wednesday ashes are a sign pointing to Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, not the source of salvation. He urges us to live true humility by reaching out in service to those in need, where Christ continues to suffer with His people.

Fr. Ken reminds us that Jesus calls us to “strive to enter through the narrow gate,” living our faith with commitment, perseverance, and hope. Though the path may be difficult, it leads to eternal joy, for hope in Christ never disappoints.

Deacon Joe reminds us that Jesus came to set the world on fire, and we are called to keep that flame alive in our hearts. Through the sacraments, reconciliation, and the support of our Catholic community, we can fuel our spiritual fire and share its light with the world.

Fr. Joshy reflects on the call to live in constant spiritual readiness, trusting God’s promises like Abraham and the Israelites. He urges us to keep our hearts awake, our “lamps lit,” and to live each day in hope, faith, and faithfulness so that when the Lord comes, He will find us ready.

Fr. Charles and Deacon Dave thanked the parish for their generous support, which has brought hope and transformation to orphaned children at the Home of the Holy Angels in Uganda. They reminded us that our faith calls us to care for the vulnerable, and through our continued prayers and support, we become instruments of God’s love and mercy across the world.

Fr. Ken reflects on the power of prayer—not as a way to change God’s mind, but to transform our hearts. Drawing from Abraham’s intercession, Jesus’ teaching on the Lord’s Prayer, and St. Paul’s reminder of our identity in Christ, we are encouraged to pray with humility, persistence, and trust. Even when God seems silent, He is present, working in love and mercy. Let us ask, seek, and knock, confid...

Deacon Bill reflects on the story of Martha and Mary, highlighting the essential balance between serving others and being spiritually nourished. He encourages us to find daily ways—whether through apps or books—to nurture ourselves with God’s word so that our ministry flows from a deep relationship with Christ.

Fr. Walsh reflects on the parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing that true neighborliness means showing mercy to those in need, regardless of who they are. He challenges us to live our faith with compassion, not only through personal acts of kindness but also by advocating for the humane treatment of all people, especially the vulnerable and marginalized.

Fr. Joshy reflects on our journey through the Jubilee Year of Hope, reminding us that we are pilgrims called to trust in God’s providence and share His peace. He invites us to boast not in our accomplishments but in the cross of Christ, drawing strength from God's love and becoming witnesses of hope in the world.