Father Dave Preaches

Thursday of the Second Week of Easter. Father Dave reflects on how the Apostles were told to stop preaching in the name of Jesus. Names are powerful, and the Apostles recognized this and were bold enough to continue to preach in his name. Father Dave encourages us to be as bold as the apostles. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, on 4-12-18

Thursday in the Octave of Easter. Father Dave points out how we sometimes miss important details in our lives. In the Gospel reading from Luke, Jesus appears to the disciples after the resurrection, and they think he is a ghost. This leaves us asking, "how did they miss that?" In our own lives, Jesus continues to reveal himself over and over again, and we must open our eyes and hearts, so as not to miss it. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, on 4-05-18

Monday in the Octave of Easter. Father Dave discusses today's Gospel reading from Matthew in which Jesus instructs Mary Magdalene and Mary to tell the disciples to go to Galilee. Father Dave points out that this was where Jesus first called his apostles, and it serves as a good reminder for us to go back to the roots of our faith. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, on 4-2-18

Easter Sunday. Father Dave contrasts the joy of Easter with today's Gospel reading, which ends with the empty tomb. Father Dave points out that it is in the emptiness that the disciples have faith. It's not about proof, it's about faith, and sometimes our faith feels like the empty tomb. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, on 4-01-18

Monday of Holy Week. Father Dave focuses on the Gospel reading in which Judas complains about the woman using expensive oil to anoint Jesus. While many argue that Judas was saying this out of greed, Father Dave relates this story to our complaints about churches looking expensive. The beauty of the church can draw us in, and it is good to want a beautiful space to worship God. Our faith is what should draw us to serve the poor. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, on 3-26-18

Monday of the Third Week of Lent. Father Dave discusses the story of Namaan and his healing. Namaan was asked to do something very simple in order to be healed from leprosy, and did not believe it would work because it was such a small task. Father Dave points out that often we look for something big in our spiritual lives, but it is possible that God is asking something simple of us, and we might miss out on it if we are focused on bigger plans. Preached at St. Benedict Catholic Church, New Jersey, on 3-05-18

Monday of the Second Week in Lent. Father Dave explains Daniel's description of sin: a rebellion against God's commandments. He points out that it is easier to fall into sin than we may think, and discusses the Gospel message that says we will be forgiven if we forgive others. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, on 2-26-18

Feast of the Chair of St. Peter, Apostle. Father Dave discusses the chair of St. Peter, which represents the authority that Jesus gave to Peter to represent Him, and the authority of the office of the pope. This feast day is also an opportunity for us to reflect on the sources of authority in our lives, and consider who represents God. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle, New York City on 2-22-18

Monday of the First Week of Lent. Lent goes beyond self-help. Father Dave explains that while self-denial is an important component of Lent, we have a tendency to focus on just that piece and not see the bigger picture: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. So, we shouldn't just focus on ourselves this Lent, but focus on others as well. Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 2-19-18

Thursday after Ash Wednesday. Father Dave discusses Lenten promises and how we have the freedom to choose whether or not to keep them. He discusses today's reading in which God gives Moses the choice to adore other gods. He poses the question, "How often do we choose to adore God?" Preached at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 2-15-18