On January 1, the Church begins the new year not with goals, but with a blessing. On the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, we hear God place His name upon His people before asking anything in return.

This homily reflects on why most resolutions fail, how the Church redeems the idea of new beginnings, and what Mary teaches us about real, lasting change. Growth does not start with pressure or willpower. It starts with belonging.

Gospel: Luke 2:16–21

Thursday of the Third Week of Advent

As the Church enters the final days of Advent, the O Antiphons give voice to a deeper longing. Today we cry out: O Wisdom. O Leader. These ancient prayers do not explain. They plead.

This homily reflects on our hunger for wisdom that actually converts us, and a rescue that requires surrender. Christ does not arrive with noise or force. He comes quietly as Emmanuel, God with us, feeding us and changing us from the inside out.

Liturgical Focus: The O Antiphons of December 17–18 and the Church’s Advent prayers.

On Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent, Rev. Korey R. LaVergne reflects on Zephaniah’s hard but merciful words to a people who thought they were listening to God, while quietly deciding for themselves.

“Lord, I said yes, but I didn’t go.”

On Monday of the Third Week of Advent, December 15, 2025, Fr. Korey LaVergne reflects on an unexpected Advent figure: Balaam. An outsider hired to speak for pay becomes an unwitting prophet when God interrupts his plans and places truth on his lips.

Set alongside the Gospel’s confrontation over authority, this homily explores the difference between humility and fear, between being taught by God and trying to keep control. Advent, Fr. Korey reminds us, is not about waiting for safety or certainty, but about allowing God to rearrange us.

Gospel: Matthew 21:23–27. 

On the Third Sunday of Advent, John the Baptist asks a question many faithful hearts eventually face: Are you the one, or should we look for another? From a prison cell, John voices the tension of waiting, disappointment, and hope that has not yet been fulfilled.

Drawing from the Gospel, Isaiah, and the Letter of James, this homily reflects on patience, quiet growth, and the strange joy of Gaudete Sunday. Christ does not wait for the desert to improve before He comes. He enters it and begins the work of new life.

Preached at Saint Edward Catholic Church and Saint Thomas Mission Chapel on December 14, 2025.

On December 12, 2025, the Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. In today’s homily from Saint Edward Catholic Church, Fr. Korey reflects on how Mary does not announce herself with noise or power. She simply shows up, carrying Christ into ordinary moments where hearts are ready to awaken.

Drawing from the Visitation, the story of Juan Diego, and the Eucharist, this homily reminds us that holiness is not about being impressive but about being available. When Christ is carried into wounded places, things begin to move again.

Gospel: Luke 1:39–45

Thursday of the Second Week of Advent brings us back to Isaiah’s promise that God grasps our right hand and speaks strength into places that feel worn down or hidden.

Friday of the First Week of Advent reminds us that Jesus reveals Himself on His own terms.

Thursday of the First Week of Advent

Isaiah sings of a strong city built by God Himself. Jesus speaks of the house that stands because it rests on rock. Today’s readings reveal the heart of Advent: God does not only give strength. He becomes our strength.

Listen to today’s reflection and let the Lord steady the foundations beneath your feet.

December 3, 2025

One line to carry with you: “In our hands it is not enough. In His hands it becomes abundance.”

Listen, pray, and walk through Advent with hope.