In challenging times, can I still say yes to the Lord?

Fr. Carlson shares how to go to the Lord when our hearts are heavy, and speaks to the tragic events of last Wednesday.

We have to spend time with God in order to grow. Are we stuck in the same place as when we were 10 years old, 20 years old? How do we grow spiritually?

Sometimes it gets hard, but never give up hope.

Deacon Michael Nevin, 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 17, 2025

Fr. Carlson's homily for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time - 8.10.2025

Jealousy is saying - “God, I like the gift that you gave to this other person better than the gifts that you gave to me.”

The disciples come to Jesus asking Him to teach them how to pray. We, as disciples, also ask this question. We all know the importance of prayer but how do we actually pray?

Here at St. John's we will be holding a 6-week School of Prayer to explore this very question. Find more details here: https://stjohns-excelsior.org/school-of-prayer/

How do we enter into prayer? How do we enter into Mass? Fr. Carlson gives practical tips to be less distracted and more present.

Deacon Michael unpacks the parable of the Good Samaritan, explaining who each of the people in the story represent.

He also invites us to reflect on the times we’ve chosen the other side of the street, rather than helping someone in need. We are called to serve no matter the cost, knowing that God will give us the grace.

Do we cry to God with joy, as the psalmist says in Psalm 66? This week, Fr. Carlson invites us to praise God for His goodness, in small moments and in big.