In what ways are we “would be disciples”? Where have we determined that we are not good enough, worthy enough, strong enough? Have we used rules or paradigms to keep us from following Jesus? Have we placed conditions on Jesus or our “yes” to God’s call?

I would like to begin by thanking both parishes for their welcome and then take a moment to reflect on hospitality.

Whether you’re sitting at the edge of a dock with a simple bobber or chatting up the local fishing expert on the Whopper Plopper 5000 lure, fishing lends itself well to easy conversation and time for reflection.  At its heart, fishing is a practice of trust and patience.

This weekend we hear again in the Gospel about how to pray, how to listen, and how to respond. Read on for one way Amberly has learned to listen…

Sometimes bringing our faith out of our heads and our quiet, personal relationship with Jesus in order to share with others can seem intimidating. It has been said by others in ministry that sharing our faith is as simple as “Be a friend of Jesus, make a new friend, introduce your friend to Jesus.” I’d like to illustrate with a story that happened this past week.

Welcome Fr. Jason!

A flash from the past!  This photo was taken on Saturday, May 18, 2013.  On that day, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Bishop David Ricken ordained me and eight other men to the Order of Deacon. 

Let the Lord draw your eyes up to Him!

Seminarian John Sparks reports from Rome!

Did you know that Memorial Day was initially called Decoration Day? This holiday originated in 1868, several years after the Civil War, to honor those who died. Today, we remember and honor those who have died in service in the U.S. military.

May is just December wearing a tank top. Am I right?

This past weekend I was mindful of all the work of the mothers (and fathers!) of our First Communicants – the preparation, the banners, the clothing, the family, the photos, and the celebrations. That and the occasion of Mother’s Day seems a good opportunity to reflect on my own 86-year-old mother and her quiet, but always faithful role in my vocation.

Humility in Action - Insights from Pope Francis & the NFL Draft

From Our Seminarian John Sparks - Prayers to Rome

The night before Ash Wednesday…is that like the night before Christmas?

As you may know, 2025 is a Jubilee Year! 

This “Year of Hope” officially began on Christmas Eve, when Pope Francis led the ‘Rite of Opening of the Holy Door’ of St. Peter’s Basilica, followed by Midnight Mass.

As I mentioned at the beginning of Advent this year, Advent and Christmas are part of the bigger salvation story. Yes, we experience them as a remembrance of 2025 years ago as well as the present season, but we are also always preparing our hearts and minds for Jesus’ second coming.

On that note, our Church, diocese and parishes have entered into a jubilee year.

I am right smack on the divide between Gen X and millenials and as an oldest child of oldest child boomers, I have a kitchy love of Claymation and Christmas is no exception. I don’t think I’ve written about this before…but it’s Advent, so if I have, give me grace!

Friends, we “know” God has perfect timing but how many times in our lives do we strive against His timing trying our best to make our timelines work?

If anyone ever asks me a good way to start reading the Bible, I usually recommend that they start by reading these two books written by St. Luke.