Homily Rewind from St. Margaret Mary Church

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 Jesus has for us.

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.