Reflections from St. Ann DC

Msgr. Watkins' #NewYears resolution: Be brief. Be sincere. Be seated.

We sometimes forget that the Holy Family lived real human lives — facing uncertainty, difficult decisions, and moments of struggle. In this homily, Msgr. Watkins invites us to look at their story through a human lens, beginning with the heartfelt reflection: “Poor Joseph.” Walk with them, feel their challenges, and discover a fresh perspective.

Jesus lived a short and humble life. What was he showing us? We can imitate him and live a holy life, in our own families.

We invite you this week to place a photo of your family next to the manger scene. In doing so, we may be reminded to treat our families with gentleness and patience, growing in holiness along the way.

In today's homily, Monsignor Watkins discusses the importance of the Holy Family — Mary, Joseph, and Jesus — and togetherness. As we near the end of the 12 days of Christmas, and enter into the new year, do not forget the importance of your loved ones in your life.

Msgr. James Watkins beautifully captures the heart of Christmas this year: embracing the Christ Child. During his homily, he tenderly holds a parishioner’s baby—a powerful and poignant image that says it all. May we, too, embrace the Christ Child this #Christmas 🙏🫶 Amen 🎄✨ #MerryChristmas

This Fourth Sunday of Advent, Fr. Ivan Pertiné explains that we should not hold onto our plans too tightly, so as to allow God to move in our hearts and minds. Let us pray that God's plan will always triumph in our lives!

Are you attentive to the signs of God? We have to stay alert this Advent, and listen. Prayer is the most important.

We see most of the world as black and white, good is acknowledged, bad is punished and most religions are the same way.

In Christianity however, God doesn't owe us anything.

If Santa were loving and merciful, he would go to the land of misfit toys regardless of their defects.

Jesus is mercy he came among us into our flawed world and didn't come for the righteous, but for the sinner. Not to punish us but to redeem us out of love.

Through baptism we turn from misfits into loved adopted children of God.

Fr. Maximo explains the three comings of Christ: Jesus' Incarnation, His Second Coming, and during the Sacrament of the Most Holy Mass. In light of this, our attitude should change during "Adventus," or Advent, and here's how and why.

Jesus should be King of our lives, and here's why.