Homily for the Ascension of the Lord "A" - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

The Holy Trinity

Dear Parishioners,

Whenever we look at the mystery of the Holy Trinity, we should realize that this is not something that we could figure out on our own without God revealing this to us through Jesus. If our explanation of the Trinity were merely one opinion among many of the inner make-up of God, then God could be just about anything that any one of us thinks or believes. One Person? Four persons? However, as Catholic Christians we believe that Jesus—the Son of God and one of the Persons of the Holy Trinity—revealed to us the mysterious inner-workings of God.

God exists as three Persons in relationship. Jesus often spoke of God as His Father. He taught us to pray the prayer we call the “Our Father.” He told us that “whoever has seen (Him) has seen the Father” (Jn. 14:9). He told us that “the Father and I are one” (Jn. 10:30). We begin to recognize this unique Father-Son relationship through Jesus.

But Jesus did not stop there.  He also began to speak of another—an “Advocate” (Jn. 15:26), “the Spirit of Truth”, (Jn. 15:26), the “Holy Spirit” (Jn. 14:26). With time the Church began to understand a little bit more about this third Person as “the Lord, the Giver of Life” who “has spoken through the prophets” (cf. the Nicene Creed).

It must have been very hard for many of the Jewish followers of Jesus who were strict monotheists to try to comprehend how God could be one, yet three at the same time. Why should this be surprising to us since we still fumble at various explanations to try to articulate this profound mystery?

As a teacher, the best analogy that I have used over the years that helps people comprehend this mystery of something being one and three at the same time is the analogy of ice, water and steam. All three have the same chemical composition (H₂O) and thus have a certain oneness, yet there can be a manifestation in different states (ice, water and steam) depending on temperature. While all analogies ultimately fall short of the reality, this analogy still gives us some insight into this profound mystery.

Then some insight might be given by the example of a human family where a relationship of two people in love with each other (in this case, husband and wife) can produce a third person (baby or child) who is both complete (a person) and entirely distinct from the other two. The family of this world may indeed reflect, in an analogous way, the mystery of the Holy Trinity—three unique and distinct Persons in one Godhead, eternally in love with each other.   

Trying to figure out God’s make-up is one thing. Having a personal relationship with each of the Persons of the Trinity is something else entirely. Jesus put a human face to God for us by taking on a human nature. And he also told us about the unique relationship that He has with the other Persons in the Godhead. Now we need to seek out each of these Persons of Holy Trinity in prayer and grow in our love for each of them—three Persons in one God.

On Trinity Sunday we rejoice in the fact that God (through Jesus) has revealed His inner make-up to us!

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Pentecost

Dear Parishioners,

Today in the Catholic Church we celebrate Pentecost Sunday.

Pentecost comes from a Greek word meaning “fiftieth day.” In the Jewish tradition, Shavuot or the Feast of Weeks celebrated the time between Passover and the giving of the Law (Torah) to Moses on Mt. Sinai, a period of 50 days. It was the Hellenistic (Greek) Jews who referred to this feast as Pentecost.

In the Christian tradition, however, the meaning is different. Fifty days after Easter, Christians celebrate Pentecost as the day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles (See Acts 2: 1-41). Pentecost has been referred to as the birthday of the Church.

Knowing the history of the Apostles and their actions / reactions to the Passion and Death of Jesus is significant here. Judas betrayed Christ and then hanged himself (Mt. 27: 3-10). Out of fear, Peter denied Christ (Mt. 26: 69-75). Also out of fear, all of the other Apostles (Mt. 26:56), except for John, fled from the cross. Yet, after receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Peter, acting as the spokesperson for the other Apostles, addressed the crowds fearlessly:

You who are Israelites, hear these words. Jesus the Nazorean was a man commended to you by God with mighty deeds, wonders, and signs, which God worked through him in your midst, as you yourselves know. This man, delivered up by the set plan and foreknowledge of God, you killed, using lawless men to crucify him. But God raised him up, releasing him from the throes of death, because it was impossible for him to be held by it . . . . God raised this Jesus; of this we are all witnesses . . . . Therefore let the whole house of Israel know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified. (Acts 2: 22-24, 32, 36)

Obviously, something significant changed Peter and the other Apostles. First, they experienced the Risen Lord Jesus. They saw that He was alive despite everything that was done to torture and kill Him. He is alive. Next, they were filled with the gift of the Holy Spirit. They received supernatural gifts to strengthen them with their mission of preaching, teaching and witnessing to Christ’s Resurrection.

I believe in the power of the Holy Spirit. If the Holy Spirit can be responsible for the growth of the Church against all odds from its seemingly impossible beginnings to become a Church of over a billion today worldwide, can we underestimate what that same Spirit can do to renew the face of the earth? Pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. Pray for the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit to be more fully present in your lives.

Don’t ever underestimate what the Holy Spirit can do if we invite Him into our lives (give Him permission) daily.

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Preparing to Move

 

St. Thomas the Apostle Church

Dear Parishioners,

Yesterday, I started packing some of my stuff. This is not a task I look forward to doing. Sometimes I just sit and stare. Most objects that I own have a memory attached or a unique, personal significance. Everything in the rectory has to be packed and transported to Brigantine, NJ over the next seven weeks.

In case you were not present at this past weekend’s Masses when it was announced, I have been reassigned by the Bishop as the new pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Brigantine, effective July 1^st. I replace Fr. Edward Maher who is retiring. Fr. Michael Matveenko, the current pastor of St. Mary’s Church (on the other side of Springdale Road), will act as administrator of St. Thomas More Parish.

The sad reality we have to face as a parish and as a diocese is the rapidly declining number of diocesan priests. Projections over the next decade indicate that we will have about half of the number of diocesan priests needed to staff our current parishes. Remember the Bishop is only ordaining one priest this year on Saturday. There were two ordained last year. Other years there were none.

Regarding this parish, the number of parishioners and families has traditionally been small. This situation, unfortunately, cannot continue as the number of priests decline. We will need to combine programs and consolidate Masses with our neighboring parishes—particularly St. Mary’s.

Most people, including myself, dread or resist change. We like things to remain the same. However, change can also cause positive outcomes and lead to growth—both personal and communal. We can meet new people, find creative solutions, and help spread the faith to a wider group of people. Without change, we can sometimes become complacent or too comfortable in our lives—even with sin—if we don’t improve or try to grow. Change can be positive.

So as I prepare myself mentally, spiritually and emotionally for another assignment, I pray that I have contributed something positive to this parish and to your lives. No priest is perfect and I have made my mistakes. However, I have tried to do what I thought was best spiritually for my parish and its parishioners. The salvation of souls is and will continue to be my primary concern.

Have I been able to accomplish everything that I wanted to do? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Many plans were left undone. Any unfinished business will have to be left for someone else. Sorry for that. Priests are all too human. We struggle. We fail. We hurt. Unfortunately, we sin as well. I have realized both my fragile humanity and my mortality over these past six years.

On the positive side, I look forward to our Spring Fling parish picnic this weekend. I thank all who organized and helped prepare what was necessary to help strengthen our parish community.

Over the next weeks I will try to enjoy the time I have left as your pastor. The priest needs his people and the people need their priest to act as a spiritual father. Working together, may we continue to help build the Kingdom of God and work together for God’s greater glory.

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

The Ascension, Mother’s Day and Preparation for Pentecost

 

The Ascension

Dear Parishioners,

I am sure that the movement of the celebration of Ascension Thursday to Sunday (May 17th this year) in the state of New Jersey will continue to be confusing for most people, and rightly so. Personally, I did not agree with this move, then or now. People who live in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, right over the Delaware River and those across the Hudson River in the Archdiocese of New York) are still obliged to observe and attend Mass on the traditional day (Thursday, May 14th, 40 days after Easter). A bit of confusion for all, wouldn’t you agree?

That being said, when Jesus ascended into heaven after His time on earth, he never abandoned us. He left us His Body and Blood in the Holy Eucharist. He remains in His words and teaching in the Sacred Scriptures. The ordained priest acts in His very person (in persona Christi) in the sacraments of the Church. He is present where two or three gather in His Name—community prayer, liturgy and worship, especially the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. And, as God-Man, He continues to intercede for us at the right hand of the Father.

Our humanity is now elevated in Jesus’ glorious Body and has entered Heaven. The fall and exile of Adam (original sin) is now reversed through the saving action of Christ, the new Adam. Heaven is open to us through Him. As He told us, no one comes to the Father except through Him (Jn. 14:6). This is what we celebrate.

I also wish all mothers today a happy Mother’s Day! For most people there is a special bond between mother and child. Our mothers carry us in their wombs for nine months. They endure the pangs of birth. They feed us, bathe us, clean up after us, teach us, comfort us, caress us and, most importantly, love us. How often they are willing to sacrifice for us!

Thanks moms for your strength, patience and ability to make things better by your calming and reassuring presence. Whenever we take you for granted or forget what you have done for us over the years, we apologize. You deserve better from us. We love you!

For those (like myself) who have lost their earthly mothers, please remember to pray for them and have Masses offered for them. Our faith teaches us, whether they are in purgatory or in heaven, they can pray for us! Let’s aid them in getting to heaven by offering our prayers, Masses and sacrifices for them. 

In addition to our biological (or adoptive) mothers, I think that it is also important to remember to honor Mary, our Spiritual Mother as well, especially in this month of May. We honor Our Lady as our Queen and Mother. She continues to intercede for her children here on earth and we place our confident hope and trust in her. Our Blessed Lady should play an essential role in the lives of Catholics and indeed all Christians. She was given to us as our mother through St. John at the foot of the cross: 

When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son.’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother.’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.  (John 19: 26-27)

Finally, we enter into a period of preparation—originally, nine days of prayer or a novena—for the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (May 24th). As the disciples prayed and awaited the promised Holy Spirit, so should we. The gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church transformed the lives of early Christians into true believers and bold witnesses to the risen Christ and His teaching.

One might see the obvious necessity of another outpouring of the same Holy Spirit for our times!

 Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

An Honest, Comprehensive Look at Our Parish

Dear Parishioners,

I begin my weekly letter to you with a serious tone because I need to address objectively the over-all situation at St. Thomas More Parish. I also need to put matters here in the context of our diocese and local deanery (group of parishes joined in a particular area).

First, I acknowledge how I have truly grown more in love with you, the people of St. Thomas More Parish, over my past six years as pastor. Honestly, it was not easy being assigned here following the combined retirement of one pastor and then by the unexpected, sudden death of his successor. It was also the time of COVID-19 with its difficulties and societal irregularities. Fortunately, time has helped to heal some of those situations.

On an incredibly positive side, I am grateful for the cultural and ethnic diversity found here as well as the prayerful and cooperative spirit I find in so very many of you! Historically, St. Thomas More has been an intimate parish, and our people enjoy the closeness and camaraderie this small size brings.

However, with a weekly congregation of approximately 300 per week attending the current three weekend Masses, I have found it challenging as pastor to pull together the necessary participants for more large-scale activities or programs. We just do not seem to have the numbers to attempt new or varied things repeatedly!

For example, our First Holy Communion class this year is three, we had no one in the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) preparing to become Catholic, and I have had about six weddings total over the past six years. Parish funerals exceed baptisms annually, our religious education program instructs only about 40 students, and our Confirmation ceremonies are small enough to be held during an ordinary Sunday Mass (without any overcrowding) rather than in a separate ceremony as at most parishes. So far this year, I have had only one infant baptism. I could go on listing similar statistics, but I think these sufficiently illustrate my point.

Now when we consider the priest situation in the diocese, only one priest is scheduled for ordination this May (with eight seminarians currently being trained in various seminaries). Three pastors are retiring this year. There are 62 parishes serving almost one half million Catholics with the number of active diocesan clergy declining annually.

With the above in mind, Msgr. Louis Marucci, the Episcopal Vicar for the Renewal of Structures and our Dean, has been leading a discernment session with a group of our parishioners and me to discuss our parish situation. In the “spirit of Synodality,” through an experience of prayer and planning, Msgr. Marucci continues to facilitate this planning session to discuss ideas and to initiate a conversation on the various possibilities, pathways, and collaborative efforts we might undertake to serve the Catholic families of St. Thomas More Parish, our deanery, and the entire diocese.

If I can be blunt, the status quo will not continue here at our parish, and various changes are currently being considered. We will know more in the coming weeks.

Please pray as decisions are made for the best possible outcome for us as a parish, the good of the entire Diocese of Camden and our local deanery.

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Homily for the 4th Sunday of Easter "A" - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

First Holy Communion and the May Crowning

Dear Parishioners,

On May 3, 2026, at the 11 AM Sunday Mass, our parish will witness our religious education children receiving their First Holy Communion. It is a very special time for them and for the entire parish.

 

I began to reminisce when I received my First Holy Communion almost six decades ago. I was in first grade, not the traditional second grade. (Incidentally, the very next year, I received the Sacrament of Confirmation.) First Holy Communion was on a Saturday morning and I received Our Lord as part of a rather large class of students—approximately 50 or more.

Depending on the parish, First Holy Communion frequently is on a Saturday (usually in May) or may also be celebrated at one or more of the Sunday Masses. With our small size, the three First Communicants here will once again be receiving at the Sunday Mass.

It is critical to remember that the two families that should be most important in the children’s lives are their domestic family and their Church family. The parents are the first (and need to be the best) teachers of their children in the ways of faith.  It is also necessary to consider that we are preparing the children to be a part of the regular worshipping community that we call the Church.  While it may look “nice” or “cute” to have all of the children together in one (or two) ceremonies with their classmates and friends, it is much more essential to emphasize for them the bonds of family and Church. Essentially, we are not preparing them to be with their current friends (who may not be their friends past next week), but to be regular, practicing members of the Catholic Church as experienced through their local parish family.

Let me quote from our diocesan guidelines:

Children should be made aware that Eucharist is not a “once and done” sacrament. Therefore, there should be encouragement to the children (and their parents) to form good habits of weekly celebration of the Eucharist.

Although so many Catholics today lack commitment and seriousness when it comes to the Sunday obligation to attend Mass, our requirement to worship God regularly has never changed. With our daily prayer, God deserves our worship minimally once a week at Mass. Amazingly, when we do so, we are often the ones who benefit from hearing the Word of God preached to us from the Sacred Scriptures. We are the ones being fed with Jesus, the Bread of Life, in Holy Communion to aid us in our journey of life.

We all have much to learn from each other and to teach one another. We should rejoice to see our children share in the sacramental life of the Catholic Church, as lived and experienced in our parish family. If the faith is not handed on to, experienced and practiced by our young, then eventually our Church will be nothing but a bunch of empty, lifeless buildings.

Congratulations to our First Communicants! My prayer is that your faith in Jesus Christ will grow ever stronger as you receive another important sacrament in your spiritual journey. 

Also, we will be honoring our Blessed Mother Mary after the Mass with the traditional May Crowning led by our First Communicants. Our Blessed Lady is Spiritual Mother to all of us and we publicly honor her as her spiritual children and disciples of her Divine Son, Jesus.

I hope that you can join us! 

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Homily for the 3rd Sunday of Easter "A" - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

The Road to Emmaus

 

Dear Parishioners,

Many years ago, the priests of the Diocese of Camden participated in a spirituality program of priestly fraternity that we referred to as the Emmaus program. It was based on the scriptural passage from today’s gospel of St. Luke (Lk. 24: 13-35). Priests were encouraged to make the journey of the two disciples with Jesus and ultimately to recognize the Risen Jesus in the Breaking of Bread like the disciples.

Notably, the two disciples were headed away from Jerusalem where Jesus had been crucified. They told the unknown stranger walking with them that they “were hoping that [Jesus] would be the one to redeem Israel.” Still, they were heading in the opposite direction. They had to be instructed how the teachings of the Scriptures, from the time of Moses and the prophets, referred to Jesus. The Scriptures were explained and interpreted for them.

Later, after the stranger was persuaded to stay for the meal, “he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them.” Note the Eucharistic formula and tone. And they finally recognized Jesus in the “breaking of bread.” He became present for them under the appearance of bread, and then disappeared from their sight.

This excerpt from the gospel is theologically important as it parallels the structure of the Catholic Mass: Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist. First, the Scriptures are interpreted and explained for us. Then, the sacrificial meal is shared in which Jesus becomes present in the Breaking of Bread. Hopefully, we can better understand how this passage illustrates our pattern of worship and what we believe actually happens during the Mass.

Belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist is an essential, non-negotiable teaching of the Catholic Church. The disciples recognized Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist while he disappeared physically from their sight. Catholics are called at every Mass to a faith seeing Jesus in the breaking of bread.

Additionally, from this passage we can learn about a redirection that was made in the lives of these disciples. Although they were initially headed in the opposite direction—away from the cross—they were turned around and returned to Jerusalem and to the Apostles. Whenever we might be journeying in the wrong direction in our lives, Jesus can help to reroute us back to the proper course. This can apply to matters both great and small.

While we have heard before about many Catholics not understanding or believing in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, it appears that these disciples in the early Church understood that Jesus was truly resurrected and present with them and remained with them in the breaking of bread.

Pray that the Lord may redirect our hearts and minds when they go astray and increase our belief in His Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist. He remains with us!

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Homily for Easter Sunday 2026 - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

Jesus, I Trust in Thee!

Dear Parishioners, 

Happy Octave of Easter! 

We continue in the octave of Easter. A single day is not enough to celebrate this great solemnity. The Church gives us eight days and then an entire Easter season to rejoice in the Risen Lord. Alleluia! This final day of the octave has been designated Divine Mercy Sunday.

Sister (now Saint) Maria Faustina Kowalska, a young uneducated nun, lived in Poland from 1905 until her death in 1938. Baptized Helena, she was the third of ten children. She entered the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy just prior to her 20th birthday. She had only three years of formal education at the time. During her thirteen years in the convent, she worked as a cook, gardener and porter.

At the same time, Sr. Faustina heard an inner voice speaking to her. She wrote down the messages which she said were given to her by Jesus into her notebooks. The compilation of notebooks was eventually published as The Diary of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska (Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul). The content of these notebooks centered on God’s Divine Mercy. Sr. Faustina described how Jesus gave her the task of “Secretary” of His Divine Mercy.

According to the Divine Mercy website (thedivinemercy.org): 

The years Sr. Faustina spent at the convent were filled with extraordinary gifts, such as revelations, visions, hidden stigmata, participation in the Passion of the Lord, the gift of bilocation, the reading of human souls, the gift of prophecy, and the rare gift of mystical engagement and marriage.

At the time of her canonization in the year 2000 by Pope (now Saint) John Paul II, he also declared the Sunday after Easter Divine Mercy Sunday for the Universal Church. Sr. Faustina described Jesus speaking to her about this day in her dairy:

On that day the very depths of My tender mercy are open. I pour out a whole ocean of graces upon those souls who approach the fount of My mercy. The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which grace flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet. My mercy is so great that no mind, be it of man or of angel, will be able to fathom it throughout all eternity. (Diary of Saint Faustina, 699) 

With the crazy times we live in, I suggest (no, urge or implore) that we all make an intention to avail ourselves of a good sacramental confession (when we can talk to a priest personally) if we have not already done so during Lent. Remember sacraments are properly administered person to person and not remotely by phone, by TV or by the internet. Moreover, each night we should make an examination of our consciences and continue to pray the act of contrition as perfectly as possible.

There is a very important spiritual lesson for us here: time and opportunity will run out for all of us. We will not live forever. If we want to experience God’s Divine Mercy, we have first to admit our guilt and acknowledge our sins to Him through the instrument of the priest—as Jesus instructed His apostles (see Jn. 20:23). We hear His words delegating the power to forgive to the apostles in today's Gospel.

Place your trust where we can have absolute certainty of God’s Divine Mercy: Jesus, I trust in Thee!

Fr. Ed Namiotka
Pastor

Sr. Maria Faustina Kowalska

Easter: A Time for Renewed Hope

Dear Parishioners,

I can only imagine how desperate the situation must have seemed to His apostles as Jesus was experiencing His brutal passion and death. To see your spiritual leader, the one whom you believed was the long-awaited messiah, suffer and die like a common criminal had to be devastating. We know most of them fled and went into hiding. Peter was so terrified that he denied the Lord three times, as Jesus had predicted. What do we do now? Where do we go from here?

Yes, there were a few who remained faithful and by the cross until the bitter end: Mary Magdalene, the Beloved Disciple John and Jesus’ own Mother Mary. How great must have been the emotional pain that they felt as they helplessly watched His suffering up close. Seeing every last breath coming from a beaten, broken body had to be stamped like a branding iron into their memories. How could this possibly happen?

Salvation and the forgiveness of sin came with a price: the suffering and death of the Son of God. Holy Week recalls these events. The crucifix in our churches (and homes) reminds us of the greatest act of sacrificial love. But the story does not end here.

Resurrection and new life followed. Jesus conquered sin and death. The grave was not His final resting place.  He is alive!

With all of the suffering and death continuing throughout our world, we need to preach this message loud and clear: Jesus is our salvation. He brings us hope in every situation, no matter how desperate.

I realize how difficult these times can be for all of us.  In recent memory, we have seen closed churches and sacraments being limited, Holy Week and Easter services on TV or through the internet and other unprecedented occurrences. We have to deal with ongoing wars and global conflicts and an uncertain economy. Despite it all, God is still in charge.  He allows this to happen for a reason, which I suspect is an urgent plea for us to return to Him with all our being. We cannot exist at all without His Divine Assistance. 

What do we do now? Where do we go from here? Do we seek resurrection and new life for ourselves and our loved ones? Do we want to find hope in any desperate situation? Jesus is our salvation. There is no other way.

I continue to hope and to pray. Easter gives renewed hope to all Christians as we realize Christ is alive! He is Risen! Death has no more power over Him. Although it may seem, at times, that the season of Lent continues in our lives and that Good Friday has not yet ended, trust in Jesus. Stand by Him at the foot of the cross. Resurrection and new life will come.

I assure you of my continued prayers and Masses for your health and spiritual well-being. Please pray for me. I appreciate all of your kindness and expressions of love and support!  

I may not have all the answers to what lies ahead but I certainly know Who does: Jesus, Our Risen Lord!  

Happy Easter!

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Homily for Good Friday 2026 - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

Homily for the Mass of the Lord's Supper (Holy Thursday) "A" 2026 - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

Holy Week and Easter 2026

Dear Parishioners,

This weekend we begin the most sacred week of the year for Christians. We recall Christ’s passion, death and resurrection. We are reminded of all that God has done for us in sending us His Only Begotten Son.

Palm Sunday recalls Jesus’ triumphant entry into the city of Jerusalem. His royal reception sees Him being lauded by the crowd: Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest. (Mt. 21:9) However, entering Jerusalem meant that Jesus was now ready to begin His bitter passion and to face death on a cross. The crowd quickly turned on Him as they chanted: Let him be crucified! . . . Let him be crucified! (Mt. 27:  22-23) We can see how quickly any glory and honor that the world may have for any of us can change to ridicule, scorn and even hatred. Sic transit gloria mundi.

On Holy Thursday (7:00 PM Mass) we recall the Last Supper where Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist and the Ministerial Priesthood. Priesthood and the Holy Eucharist are intimately connected: without the Priesthood, there would be no Holy Eucharist. Jesus’ actions also remind us of the call to service displayed by the mandatum or washing of the apostles’ feet. Do you realize what I have done for you?  You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am.   If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet.  I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do. (Jn. 13: 12-15) The Blessed Sacrament will remain in the repository in our chapel until 10 PM, where there is time for silent prayer and adoration.

The liturgy of the Passion of the Lord on Good Friday (3 PM Service) has 3 main components: a reading of the passion account from St. John’s gospel followed by various intercessions, veneration of the cross and Holy Communion. Masses are not offered on Good Friday. In addition, the Stations of the Cross will be observed in the chapel at 7 PM. (This day remains a day of fast—one full meal—and abstinence from meat.)

The Easter Vigil (7:30 PM Mass) is not intended as a Mass to be rushed through quickly. (Please note: Mass usually lasts minimally about 2 hours.) There are so many beautiful parts that, if done reverently and properly, should not be hurried or omitted. We begin with a lighting of the Easter fire and a candlelight ceremony. Then follows the singing of the Exultet or Easter Proclamation. Salvation history is traced through a series of readings as the congregation is reminded of how God has continued to work in and through every age. After the readings comes the time to bring new members into the Catholic Church through Baptism and the reception of other Sacraments of Initiation—Confirmation & Holy Communion. (Unfortunately, there are no candidates or catechumens in our parish for the vigil Mass this year. We certainly need to encourage others among our family and friends who are not Catholic to consider becoming Catholic.) The Easter water is blessed at this time and sprinkled on the congregation as we renew our baptismal promises. Finally, Mass continues in normal fashion with the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Please consider participation in these liturgies of the Easter Triduum. All of us need to be reminded of the saving events Christ undertook out of love for us, sinners. Any extra time we might choose to spend in Church pales in comparison to His many hours of suffering when He was mocked, tortured and died for us on the cross. 

The Masses for Easter Sunday are at the usual times: 8:30 AM and 11 AM.

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Homily for Palm Sunday "A" - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

Homily for the 5th Sunday in Lent "A" - Fr. Edward Namiotka

(At times the auto-focus of the camera unfortunately was fixed on the candles in the foreground and blurred the image of the preacher.) 

Lenten Advice for the Procrastinator, Underachiever or Spiritual Slug

 

Dear Parishioners,

How is your Lent so far? Lent is nearing its end. Next week is Palm Sunday and Holy Week begins. Maybe you attempted only some of the recommended practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Maybe you did little or nothing. Maybe you tried, failed and then gave up entirely.

Stop! It is never too late to pick up the pieces and move forward once again. It is not too late to start changing your life for the better. I have been there. Sadly, there were times in the past when I would think that my practice of Lent seemed to be a failure (or at least much less than I originally, idealistically intended.) Let me give some advice looking forward.

First, make sure you take some time to examine your conscience thoroughly and get to the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation (confession) before Easter. To me, there is nothing more fruitful for a person than to humble oneself before God and to admit one’s sinfulness to Him in this grace-filled sacrament. I have seen lives dramatically change over my past four decades of hearing people’s sins. I know well that I too am a sinful human instrument in this process. However, it is Jesus who forgives the sins. As a Catholic priest, I absolve in His Name. We all need God’s forgiveness and He indeed is abundantly merciful. Don’t wait to the last minute when the confession lines tend to get long. To borrow a Nike slogan: Just do it!

Second, add some prayer time to what you are already attempting. Maybe you can pray a rosary, open the Holy Bible and start reading, participate in the Stations of the Cross, go to daily Mass, make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament, or go to your inner room and simply talk to God from the heart. These and other personal ways of trying to connect with the Almighty—the God who created you, loves you and redeemed you—are never a waste of time. God hears all, sees all and knows the deepest longing of our hearts. Talk to Him. He’s waiting.

Next, if you are ready for the ultimate challenge, attempt a No Device Day. I have often recommended this as a means of penance (or fasting). Put the phone or tablet down. Shut off the computer. Go radio silence for the day. I think today some might call it ghosting—disappearing with no contact or communication. We are just too dependent on technology for most everything. Maybe it will have to occur on a day off from work, when we do not have business or other obligations, but try to do it if you can. It is actually quite liberating. God often speaks in the silence.

Finally, do something nice for someone without expecting any recognition or reciprocity. This personally chosen act of charity should make someone’s life a little better or easier. There is no limit to the creative ways in which we can help others. Decide on one.

Honestly, we never really know how much time we have left, do we?

Take action while there’s still time to make a difference in your life and in someone else’s life this Lent.

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Homily for the 4th Sunday in Lent "A" (Laetare Sunday) - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

Never Ending Wars and Military Conflicts

 

Dear Parishioners,

As I write this, the USA is involved in a military conflict with the nation of Iran. I have lived long enough to know that war is not a moral good in and of itself and that there must be a just cause to be morally involved in one. Since the time I was a child I recall conflicts in areas surrounding Vietnam, Korea, Central and South America, Bosnia (former Yugoslavia), the Persian Gulf, Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Israel, Libya, Syria, Somalia, Yemen, Ukraine, Gaza, Venezuela, and now once again Iran. This is not an all-inclusive list by any means. These are just some of the places I can currently recall (and am aware of) as I write. There never seems to be an end to war and military conflict somewhere in the world.

This is what The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) #2309 states about war:

The strict conditions for legitimate defense by military force require rigorous consideration. The gravity of such a decision makes it subject to rigorous conditions of moral legitimacy. At one and the same time:

• the damage inflicted by the aggressor on the nation or community of nations must be lasting, grave, and certain;
• all other means of putting an end to it must have been shown to be impractical or ineffective;
• there must be serious prospects of success;
• the use of arms must not produce evils and disorders graver than the evil to be eliminated. The power of modem means of destruction weighs very heavily in evaluating this condition.

Let’s also look at Catholic Just War Theory according to St. Thomas Aquinas. St. Thomas Aquinas systematized the Church’s teaching on Just War in his Summa Theologiae, (II-II, q. 40, De bello). He laid out three essential conditions for a war to be considered just:

• Legitimate Authority (auctoritas principis): War must be declared by a lawful sovereign, not by private individuals.
• Just Cause (causa iusta): There must be a real and grave reason, such as defense against aggression or rectification of grave injustice.
• Right Intention (intentio recta): The goal must be to advance good or avoid evil, not vengeance or conquest.

St. Thomas emphasizes that even with these conditions, war remains a sad reality, not a virtue. The aim is peace, not perpetual conflict.

At this time I recommend continual prayers for peace—especially the Holy Rosary. We should also pray continually for those brave men and women protecting and serving our country in the military.

I believe that the intercession of Our Lady is essential for us to obtain true and lasting peace. Her apparitions and various messages—especially at Fatima—have warned us the war is a punishment for sin and that her Rosary is our greatest weapon against such moral evils.

Pray, pray, pray.

Fr. Ed Namiotka
Pastor

Homily for the 3rd Sunday in Lent "A" - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

Lessons from the "Woman at the Well"

Dear Parishioners,

In this Sunday’s Gospel for the 3rd Sunday of Lent "A", we have the story of the Samaritan woman at the well (Jn. 4: 5-42). Certainly, there are multiple lessons to be learned from this passage. I focus here on three.

Living Water. Jesus is thirsty and asks the woman for a drink. Their conversation then progresses to Jesus inviting the woman to ask Him for living water instead. As is typical in St. John’s gospel, there are varying levels of understanding present in the dialogue (see also the conversation with Nicodemus, Jn. 3: 1-21). The woman is thinking about water to quench thirst while Jesus is offering something more. Ultimately, I suggest Jesus is inviting us (through her) to BAPTISM. Jesus is the source or fountain of living water (grace, the Holy Spirit) which we initially receive through the sacrament of baptism. This is certainly an appropriate reflection for those throughout the world preparing for baptism through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).

It is no secret that I am very frustrated when people do not see an urgency to get baptized themselves or to have their children baptized. According to the Code of Canon Law: Parents are obliged to take care that infants are baptized in the first few weeks (canon 867). Instead they wait years or decide to let the children “choose for themselves” when they get older. When baptism is delayed, sanctifying grace (God’s life) is not present in a person’s life. Remember, we are not born in a relationship with God, but rather separated because of original sin. Baptism washes away original sin (and actual sin, if one has reached the age of reason), makes one an adopted child of God and allows sanctifying grace to enter a person’s life. Do I not want this for myself and/or my children? Is there no sense of urgency?

I Do Not Have a Husband. While the woman denies that she has a husband, Jesus reminds her she has had five. As one of my seminary professors once put it: “She was the Elizabeth Taylor of her time.” This part of the dialogue reminded me about the importance of Catholics rectifying any marriage situation that is not seen as valid in the eyes of the Church. People in our congregation are sometimes married, divorced and then remarried outside the Catholic Church. Or they were never married in the Catholic Church in the first place. Unless the proper permissions were sought out and granted, these marriages may be invalid according to Church law. The longstanding Catholic teaching is that one should not receive Holy Communion, (or be a godparent or sponsor, or be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, etc.), until such a situation is rectified. An annulment (declaration of nullity) may be needed. Or a convalidation of the marriage may be necessary. Or the couple may be required to live in a brother/sister relationship, if nothing else can be done. It is best to set up an appointment with a priest to help discern what may be possible or necessary.

I am He, the One Speaking with You. As their dialogue continues, Jesus reveals his identity as the long-expected messiah. It is of utmost importance that we all realize the implications of this reality. Jesus is the messiah. He is also God’s only-begotten Son. Salvation comes through Him and on His terms, not ours. I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (Jn. 14: 6). The Samaritan woman believed in Him. She also witnessed to others about Jesus. She led others to believe in Jesus. Similarly, if we acknowledge Jesus as our Lord, God, and Savior, then we must also bring others to Him. Go and make disciples (Mt. 28: 19). Start in your family. Witness to your friends. Tell the whole world what God has done for you!

Jesus continually uses unlikely people to be His disciples and his missionaries: fishermen, tax collectors, Samaritan women, you and me.

 

Let’s not waste any more time getting started or continuing to make excuses!

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor

Homily for the 2nd Sunday in Lent "A" - Fr. Edward Namiotka

 

The Transfiguration

 

Dear Parishioners,

Just as the 1^st Sunday of Lent annually begins with Jesus’ 40 days in the desert confronting Satan, the 2nd Sunday of Lent each year concerns the Transfiguration of Jesus. Thus, we should consider its significance.

Jesus is with his inner circle: Peter, James and John. They alone accompany Him during certain important events in Jesus’ ministry (the Agony in the Garden, the healing of Jairus’ daughter). On this high mountain Jesus is seen in glory. His face and His clothes were brilliant, perhaps anticipating His future Resurrection from the dead. The appearance of two Old Testament figures, Moses and Elijah, shows Jesus in connection to the Law and the Prophets, which Jesus stated that he came to fulfill (see Mt. 5: 17).

Then comes the overshadowing cloud and the voice from on high. The other time when such an occurrence transpires is Jesus’ Baptism where the voice of the Father was heard. The image of an overshadowing is also reminiscent of when the Blessed Virgin Mary was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit at the Annunciation. The presence of the Holy Trinity indeed seems plausible.

Why did this event happen? Why do we consider it specifically during Lent?

One can certainly argue that Jesus wanted to strengthen the faith of these apostles prior to the scandal of the cross. Jesus is going to be tortured and killed. Peter would deny Him and the other disciples, except John, would flee the scene. Yet, He now appears in glory as He will post-Resurrection. The Father’s voice reassures and directs them: This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him. We already know that the apostles were weak, flawed men. It would only be with the fortitude that they were given by the Holy Spirit that they later would be able to preach, teach and baptize in the name of the Lord Jesus to the various peoples.

During this Lenten season we can become discouraged. We can sometimes make Lenten resolutions and then fail to carry them out. Additionally, we can go through times of dryness in prayer and question whether anything is happening or if our prayers even matter. We can also battle temptation. It is for times like these when the Transfiguration is significant. Jesus appears in glory. He is identified as the Son of God—not just some ordinary human being or prophet. He indicates a future Resurrection from the dead. He provides hope and increases faith.

Like Peter, James and John, sometimes God might even provide for us supernatural religious experiences during our life and faith journeys to strengthen us. Many times during the course of my priesthood various people have related to me occasions when God was inexplicably present for them through signs, events or even miracles. I have even had a few of these experiences personally. Don’t ever underestimate what God can do for any of us at any time!

As we continue our personal 40 day journey with Jesus into the desert this Lent, realize that He accompanies us the entire time. Sometimes, He may even lead us up to mountain to experience things beyond expectation and comprehension.

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor