tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88174747301308626362024-03-18T00:43:56.163-04:00A Pastor's Thoughts (Fr. Ed Namiotka)The thoughts and writings of Fr. Ed Namiotka as taken from his weekly parish bulletin columns.Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.comBlogger649125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-41053109152831055872024-03-18T00:43:00.002-04:002024-03-18T00:43:23.500-04:00Homily for the 5th Sunday of Lent "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_2Du5JgQ3AM" width="320" youtube-src-id="_2Du5JgQ3AM"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-39010120687417349312024-03-12T13:11:00.005-04:002024-03-14T06:19:14.324-04:00A Look at Some Liturgical Practices<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUbWbuu56xNKvrXuyOFF9gQTkmNl8pZ8d0yfJRq12OVwiDJ7EinY8Io0SJe5YiKkO2S1ARvS4xHg1H2AdiBFY5OHQO1jRa-qk17HZD_Rv-sWDxWxpJcjS_TcpbdhAqp9b-bZWeJkFmqim6IGwP3yO5BomZjHZva0prlxz90vvMrwQrwsoXG4wQ4L5YKfR/s1600/Chant.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUbWbuu56xNKvrXuyOFF9gQTkmNl8pZ8d0yfJRq12OVwiDJ7EinY8Io0SJe5YiKkO2S1ARvS4xHg1H2AdiBFY5OHQO1jRa-qk17HZD_Rv-sWDxWxpJcjS_TcpbdhAqp9b-bZWeJkFmqim6IGwP3yO5BomZjHZva0prlxz90vvMrwQrwsoXG4wQ4L5YKfR/s320/Chant.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Dear Parishioners, </div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div style="text-align: justify;">A couple of weeks ago I took the time to write about some Lenten liturgical customs. I want to follow up today with a few other liturgical practices which are part of the <i>Novus Ordo</i>—the current Mass offered in most Roman Catholic parishes throughout the world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As Roman Catholics, our particular rite is officially known as the Latin Rite. The pope, our spiritual leader, resides in Rome (more precisely, Vatican City). It is there where both St. Peter and St. Paul died for their faith as did many early Christian martyrs. Sadly, with the increased use of the vernacular in our liturgy, too many people seem to forget (or even to have an unhealthy distain for) our Latin heritage. I have heard people erroneously say that the Latin language is no longer in use since Vatican II. However, this is what the document on the liturgy, <i><b><a href="https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19631204_sacrosanctum-concilium_en.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SACROSANCTUM CONCILIUM</a> (S.C.)</b></i>, actually says:</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">.<b><i> . . Steps should be taken so that the faithful may also be able to say or to sing together in Latin those parts of the Ordinary of the Mass which pertain to them.</i></b> <b><i>(S.C. #54)</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Regarding sacred music, the document adds:</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>The Church acknowledges Gregorian chant as specially suited to the Roman liturgy: therefore, other things being equal, it should be given pride of place in liturgical services. (S.C. #116)</b></i></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">During Lent and Advent, this parish has the practice of chanting the <i>Holy, Holy, Holy</i> (<i>Sanctus</i>) and the <i>Lamb of God</i> (<i>Agnus Dei</i>) in Latin. Moreover, during the penitential rite, the <i>Lord, Have Mercy</i> (<i>Kyrie</i>) is also chanted in the original Greek. We try to keep our heritage alive in this small way by the use of some hymns in Latin and Gregorian chant.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next, I was recently asked by someone whether or not we were going to return to the reception of both the Body <i>and Blood</i> of Jesus (at our daily Mass.) I understood what the person meant, wanting to receive also from the chalice. In reality, even if we only receive the consecrated host at Mass, we still receive the <b><i>Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity</i></b> of Christ without ever partaking from the chalice. This, in fact, was the custom (standard practice) for centuries. Primarily, it was the priest who received from the chalice and not the laity.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Illustrating some further misunderstanding in the language used regarding the Blessed Sacrament, I have found that sometimes people continue to refer to the consecrated Sacred Host and Precious Blood as <i>bread</i> and <i>wine</i>. Please try not to do this. Let your language reflect your belief in the <b>Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist</b>. Yes, I know that St. Paul, occasionally, referred to the Holy Eucharist as <i>bread</i> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(see 1 Cor. 11: 26-28)</span>. Even some hymns use phrases such as <i>eat this bread</i>. But it is more reverential and proper for us to use terms like (Most) Holy Eucharist, (Most) Blessed Sacrament, (Most) Precious Blood to express clearly and unambiguously the Catholic belief in Jesus’ Real Presence. If we use the term bread, may it be more suitably the <b>Bread of Angels</b> (<i>Panis Angelicus</i>) that we are referencing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">How we worship and the language we use reflects what we believe. <i><b>Lex orandi, lex credendi.</b></i></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting"; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pastor<o:p></o:p></span></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-4961175719111635592024-03-10T15:49:00.000-04:002024-03-10T15:49:48.427-04:00Homily for the 4th Sunday of Lent "B" (Laetare Sunday) - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xo0IMThStYA" width="320" youtube-src-id="Xo0IMThStYA"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-39825314494685203142024-03-05T11:25:00.005-05:002024-03-08T06:40:59.759-05:00Continuing Our Lenten Journey<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNK6t7rgmbN9L1BeiW2x6qf5hljeSVgPaZ5xbKOLEo3gHK36roBFvfZhXzS28aT4Nlb7Uiv6moh6LbkCaIyp378xzXE5njsU_MOsY6iK7hPaB1seXkBTQLb4xKuQz8-76MQiahoXdakaf_n28BRmZTuA925xLfZV_7Pwl3gfiqW1ezXK_p72HJu7XXSGTu/s1658/lent.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1658" data-original-width="1242" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNK6t7rgmbN9L1BeiW2x6qf5hljeSVgPaZ5xbKOLEo3gHK36roBFvfZhXzS28aT4Nlb7Uiv6moh6LbkCaIyp378xzXE5njsU_MOsY6iK7hPaB1seXkBTQLb4xKuQz8-76MQiahoXdakaf_n28BRmZTuA925xLfZV_7Pwl3gfiqW1ezXK_p72HJu7XXSGTu/s320/lent.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Dear Parishioners,<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">I can’t tell you how many times I
have said to myself (and sometimes to my parish staff): “I should have been a
monk!” For years I have been going to a Trappist monastery for my annual
retreat. There I can experience some profound solitude and have quality time to
pray, read, write, etc. My time <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">in the
desert</i>, so to speak, can also be a time to confront the devil and his
temptations, just as Jesus did. However, in the end, I must return back to the
parish and to my priestly duties and routine. After all, I am not a monk.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The season of Lent is an occasion
for all of us to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">go into that spiritual desert</i>
to deepen our relationship with God, to repent of our sins and to confront the
evil (the demons) in our lives. This time should not be business as usual, if
we want to grow in holiness and the love of God. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Prayer, fasting and almsgiving</i> are not just suggestions, but
necessary requirements for penance (mortification) and our spiritual growth.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Many of us start out with good intentions
at the beginning of Lent, and then weaken our resolutions and grow less zealous
as we move through those long forty days. Let me act as a spiritual coach: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Don’t give up! Keep going!</i> The <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Stations of the Cross</b> can certainly be
comforting to us, especially when we realize that Jesus fell (at least) three
times and still got up and kept going on the road to Calvary. Follow His
example.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The 4<sup>th</sup> Sunday of Lent
(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Laetare</i> Sunday) is named for its
entrance antiphon reflecting on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Isaiah
66: 10-11</i>: “Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all
who were in mourning; exalt and be satisfied at her consoling breast.” <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Laetare</i> means "rejoice"
and like its counterpart in Advent, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gaudete</i> Sunday,
the priest has the option of wearing rose-colored vestments instead of violet. The
change of color is to indicate a sense of hope and joy—anticipation of Easter—during
the penitential season. We are now only 21 days away from Easter Sunday!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">I have been encouraged by the
good number of people who have taken advantage of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation</b> (a.k.a., confession) during
this time. If you have not, I implore you to seek out the healing power and
mercy of Christ waiting there for the repentant sinner. Too often people carry
sins around for months, years or even decades (for various reasons) not
realizing that Christ came <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to reconcile
us</i> (<span style="font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">see 2 Cor. 5: 18-19</span>)
with the Father and not condemn us. Yes, we first need to repent and change our
sinful ways. But Christ offers us forgiveness and mercy when we do.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Holy Week</i> and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Easter</i>
focus on the most profound mysteries of our faith: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Our Lord</i>. Please plan to
participate in the Masses and services at this sacred time. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Holy Thursday</b> emphasizes the
institution of the Holy Eucharist and the Ministerial Priesthood. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Good Friday</b> recalls Jesus’ Passion and
Death on the Cross for our sins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
celebration of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Easter</b> proclaims Christ’s
Resurrection from the dead and new life for us all! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">If we take <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lent</i> seriously, if we take our <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Catholic
faith</i> seriously, we are in the best position to deal with the ever-growing hostilities
that are present toward Jesus and His Church. He warned us that if they
persecuted Him they will persecute us also (<span style="font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">see Jn. 15:20</span>). They mocked, rejected, tortured, and
killed Jesus even though He came to save us and lead us to His Heavenly Father.
Don’t ever think that the path ahead will be easy and without a <b>cross</b>. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">We adore
You, O Christ, and we bless You, because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the
world.</i></b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Pastor</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-79559596921954535412024-03-03T16:52:00.002-05:002024-03-03T16:52:35.738-05:00Homily for the 3rd Sunday of Lent "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UqRmAXlG7uw" width="320" youtube-src-id="UqRmAXlG7uw"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-42818000712381245982024-02-27T11:23:00.010-05:002024-02-28T05:51:12.567-05:00An Explanation of Some Lenten Practices<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwngBvhfnyLlTlTe-8_orJpXl0BBBLp71iFILjdbs0Atkl8FveUT4LyBD4xyWJBNNCTltGXUk45fa7VNKoL2hPI1wBSqqpsmwCAlJcK2B8Le5XrcRTsIV9H9bbMoIFQCnKLraVzB95h63gxnl4ARADcgPfAOYk6ROhUwDfQEZA-Dr1R7ut6oWNzcaPPFl7/s640/Covered.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="640" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwngBvhfnyLlTlTe-8_orJpXl0BBBLp71iFILjdbs0Atkl8FveUT4LyBD4xyWJBNNCTltGXUk45fa7VNKoL2hPI1wBSqqpsmwCAlJcK2B8Le5XrcRTsIV9H9bbMoIFQCnKLraVzB95h63gxnl4ARADcgPfAOYk6ROhUwDfQEZA-Dr1R7ut6oWNzcaPPFl7/s320/Covered.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Covered Statues for Lent</div><p></p>Dear Parishioners, <br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Depending on your parish, diocese, country or liturgical rite, there may be certain customs during Lent that do not occur universally. Certainly the blessing and distribution of ashes is universal in the Catholic Church, but what about the <i>covering of statues/crucifixes</i> or the <i>removal of holy water </i>in some parishes?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Catholic author <a href="https://aleteia.org/2016/03/19/why-do-we-cover-crucifixes-and-statues-during-lent/">Philip Kosloski</a> gives one helpful explanation regarding the veiling of statues:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>It seems strange that during the most sacred time of
year we cover everything that is beautiful in our churches, even the
crucifix. Shouldn't we be looking at the painful scene at Calvary while we
listen to the Passion narrative on Palm Sunday? While it may appear
counterintuitive to veil statues and images during the final weeks of Lent, the
Church recommends this practice to heighten our senses and build within us a
longing for Easter Sunday . . . . </b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>The rubrics can guide us. In
the Roman Missal we find the instruction, "In the Dioceses of
the United States, the practice of covering crosses and images throughout the
church from [the fifth] Sunday [of Lent] may be observed. Crosses remain
covered until the end of the Celebration of the Lord's Passion on Good Friday,
but images remain covered until the beginning of the Easter Vigil." This
is the current practice of the Church, but veiling from the Fifth Sunday of
Lent onward is miniscule compared to what was once practiced. For example,
in Germany there was a tradition to veil the altar from view throughout all of
Lent . . . . </b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>The unveiling before the Easter Vigil is a great reminder of our
own life on earth. We live in a "veiled" world, in exile from
our true home. But why go through such lengths to cover up images that are
designed to raise our hearts and minds toward heaven? </b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>First of all, we use
veils to alert us of the special time that we are in. When we walk into
church and notice everything is covered, we immediately know that something is
different. These last two weeks of Lent are meant to be a time of
immediate preparation for the Sacred Triduum and these veils are a forceful
reminder to get ready. </b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>Secondly, the veils focus our attention on the words
being said at Mass. When we listen to the Passion narrative, our senses
are allowed to focus on the striking words from the Gospel and truly enter into
the scene. </b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>Third, the Church uses veils to produce a heightened
sense of anticipation for Easter Sunday. This is further actualized when
you attend daily Mass and see the veils each day. You don't want them to
be there because they are hiding some very beautiful images. And therein lies
the whole point: the veils are not meant to be there forever. The images
need to be unveiled; it is unnatural for them to be covered. The unveiling
before the Easter Vigil is a great reminder of our own life on earth. We
live in a "veiled" world, in exile from our true home. It is
only through our own death that the veil is lifted and we are finally able to
see the beauty of everything in our lives.<span style="font-size: 9pt;"> </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;">In our parish the statues and crucifixes were covered <u>at
the beginning of Lent</u> (rather than the 5<sup>th</sup> Sunday) for <i>merely practical purposes</i>. When the
purple (violet) background drapes were put up in the main church sanctuary for Lent, the
statues and crucifix were also covered. Actually, I should have waited a
while longer. <i>Mea culpa.</i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;">Regarding those parishes (not ours) that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">remove holy water</i> from the fonts during
Lent, I refer you to the following <a href="https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/covering-of-crosses-and-images-in-lent-4938" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">response</a> from the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments</i> (2004):<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>This Dicastery is able to respond that the removing of
Holy Water from the fonts during the season of Lent is not permitted, in
particular, for two reasons:<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>1. The liturgical legislation in force does not foresee
this innovation, which in addition to being 'praeter legem' is contrary to a
balanced understanding of the season of Lent, which though truly being a season
of penance, is also a season rich in the symbolism of water and baptism,
constantly evoked in liturgical texts.<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>2. The encouragement of the Church that the faithful
avail themselves frequently of the sacraments is to be understood to apply also
to the season of Lent. The 'fast' and 'abstinence' which the faithful embrace
in this season does not extend to abstaining from the sacraments or
sacramentals of the Church.<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><b>The practice of the Church has been to empty the Holy
Water fonts on the days of the Sacred Triduum in preparation of the blessing of
the water at the Easter Vigil, and it corresponds to those days on which the
Eucharist is not celebrated (i.e., Good Friday and Holy Saturday).<span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;">I realize
that customs sometimes vary in different parishes, so I have tried to explain the
reasons why I am incorporating or not incorporating certain practices for Lent in
<b><a href="http://stthomasmorenj.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">St. Thomas More Parish</a></b>.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting"; font-size: large;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;">Pastor <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBRGzI1_T74jzgTwAziJVQmDyskI4kZU6nCjdlllN5sQc7Qo5ba6eT01BF1eNGhB8CUhzMqLfgaw-ryPQ3dcYhI927x0t2kN4S91Yy2agK5XIpRm1DXOXBX0ZqCYuPOe8-WO-edfZgBji1d8R_FhC8b-RHb44WVOP7EopFzqMIw64cNZWLFOrgT6dk8Tkj/s3264/empty%20hw.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBRGzI1_T74jzgTwAziJVQmDyskI4kZU6nCjdlllN5sQc7Qo5ba6eT01BF1eNGhB8CUhzMqLfgaw-ryPQ3dcYhI927x0t2kN4S91Yy2agK5XIpRm1DXOXBX0ZqCYuPOe8-WO-edfZgBji1d8R_FhC8b-RHb44WVOP7EopFzqMIw64cNZWLFOrgT6dk8Tkj/s320/empty%20hw.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">An Empty Holy Water Font</div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-right: 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><br /></p></div>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-88981859824166457432024-02-25T18:12:00.001-05:002024-02-25T18:12:05.432-05:00Homily for the 2nd Sunday of Lent "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VjgD28znup0" width="320" youtube-src-id="VjgD28znup0"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-3470135564653230012024-02-20T13:47:00.003-05:002024-02-28T05:56:50.500-05:00Some Spiritual Guidance While on the Mountian<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjMBxx3ulAzW9M3Xj8WC2ti-g2nSDTVYsbg4zaU8MvGIEOp0iJAU7Ms-T4LhzT6NH1obocMtYILQ6rgYh_4QhpQWb-vhKgZ2dcykEItmzHo9wZLnsnHAZM-lePGOt8pdUfa25LlIek5a05870nJ8LppNNkXQgN0ELCwLRWvIuNNAumeuVDzgoKxm8W6SR/s1764/MTS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="1764" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjMBxx3ulAzW9M3Xj8WC2ti-g2nSDTVYsbg4zaU8MvGIEOp0iJAU7Ms-T4LhzT6NH1obocMtYILQ6rgYh_4QhpQWb-vhKgZ2dcykEItmzHo9wZLnsnHAZM-lePGOt8pdUfa25LlIek5a05870nJ8LppNNkXQgN0ELCwLRWvIuNNAumeuVDzgoKxm8W6SR/w400-h214/MTS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">Dear Parishioners,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">Have you thought about the many times a mountain is mentioned
in Sacred Scripture? Often there is an encounter, in some manner, with God. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">Think of Abraham and Isaac in today’s <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022524.cfm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">first reading</a>. The sacrifice
of Isaac was about to take place on a mountain (<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mt. Moriah</b>) before the angel stopped it from happening. Moses
received God’s commandments on <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mt. Sinai</b>
(<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mt. Horeb</b>). The prophet Elijah
challenged the false prophets of Baal on <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mt.
Carmel</b>. Jesus gave us the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sermon on
the Mount</i> on the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mount of Beatitudes</b>
and prayed in the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Garden of Gethsemane</i>
on the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mount of Olives</b>. Jesus’ disciples
experience His <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Transfiguration</i> (<a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022524.cfm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">today’s Gospel</a>) on <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mt. Tabor</b>. He died for us
on <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mt. Calvary</b> (Golgotha). In these
and other situations, the mountain is the location for encountering God.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">In the spiritual life, people frequently describe some
intense religious event as a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">mountaintop
experience</i>. Perhaps, we might identify the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Transfiguration</i> of Jesus as such an experience for the apostles
Peter, James and John. They saw Jesus in His glory. While Moses and Elijah—both
commanding respect and obedience from the Jews—are seen with Jesus, they
disappear. They represented the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Law</i>
and the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Prophets</i>, respectively, to
the people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, we are told, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jesus</b> <i>is the one to whom we must
listen!</i> <i>He is the beloved Son of God! He alone!</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">As you progress through Lent, realize you may experience many
types of situations in the spiritual life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Perhaps there will be some mountaintop days when the presence of God is
powerful, real and apparent. Other times there may be aridity and dryness in your
prayer, like being in the desert. There may be occasions when you can seem to
be drowning like St. Peter (<span style="font-size: xx-small;">see Mt. 14: 22-33</span>) and you need Jesus to come to the rescue. Moreover,
there can be times when nothing whatsoever seems to be happening. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Is God there?</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">What God seeks is our fidelity to Him at all times. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Emotions</b> are fleeting and circumstances
can change quickly without warning. Our emotions or feelings are not necessarily
the best guides for sanctity or holiness. Many saints have had days of spiritual
darkness (a dark night of the soul) or a tremendous cross or suffering in their
lives. The Lord may allow this for the increase of grace and holiness in us.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">Here's some spiritual advice: work to create and fortify virtues (good habits) in your
life. Virtue involves discipline and a regular routine in your spiritual life. Otherwise,
we can develop vices (bad habits) when we <u>fail</u> to pray, <u>fail</u> to
go to Mass and receive Holy Communion weekly, <u>fail</u> to frequent the
Sacrament of Penance, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we find
a fault or weakness in our lives that leads to sin (for example, selfishness), we
should attempt to cultivate the opposite virtue (charity, generosity).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">As you read the Scriptures, we see Jesus had to teach, guide,
reprimand and warn his chosen disciples. They did not necessarily
understand Him or comprehend His motives. However, He did perform miracles in
their presence and even allowed some of his closest followers to accompany Him
up the mountain where they experienced His glory. Nonetheless, He gave them <b>all</b>
what they needed to know so that they would find eternal life and salvation in
Him. I suspect He will do the same for you and me in whatever way He sees fit.
Trust Him and be faithful to Him, no matter what.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%;">Our spiritual journey may not necessarily involve some fantastic mountaintop
experience, but it will be whatever God determines is for our ultimate good.</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting"; font-size: medium;">Fr.
Ed Namiotka</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Pastor<o:p></o:p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-8456221688948273562024-02-19T10:34:00.006-05:002024-02-19T10:38:26.136-05:00My Mom's Passing into Eternal Life<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6T1gA3qXSnyBI9MeebdfFLU_BMJ17Nh9Ly0v9U0s-K9yrjIbjjs3AymOSBfo-5_htQryVg8ujay8-CQq4fh4mNvDbJ1rDUuSfG79kz8mOuB4jbYxu20ntKSzrHFHwnH9l2r6SyXRAWAcEjclNPpZ_3Yn50H3_IBQKje6fN5L0jDpJ9r87_PUvhlAr6QU/s2578/mom%20Docs.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2578" data-original-width="2054" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6T1gA3qXSnyBI9MeebdfFLU_BMJ17Nh9Ly0v9U0s-K9yrjIbjjs3AymOSBfo-5_htQryVg8ujay8-CQq4fh4mNvDbJ1rDUuSfG79kz8mOuB4jbYxu20ntKSzrHFHwnH9l2r6SyXRAWAcEjclNPpZ_3Yn50H3_IBQKje6fN5L0jDpJ9r87_PUvhlAr6QU/s320/mom%20Docs.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mrs. Catherine Namiotka</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My mother Catherine passed early Friday morning (2/16/24) at the age of 90. May she rest in peace.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Funeral Mass will be Friday (2/23/24) at 11 AM at St. Ann Church (Notre Dame de la Mer Parish) in Wildwood.</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A viewing will be held from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM in the church prior to the Mass.</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My brothers, sister and I would appreciate your prayers for her.</span> <br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 18.6667px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 48px;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-79032654030690114272024-02-14T17:48:00.004-05:002024-02-14T17:48:41.577-05:00Homily for Ash Wednesday - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M49gPYRAQN8" width="320" youtube-src-id="M49gPYRAQN8"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-72254932536989941392024-02-13T08:03:00.004-05:002024-02-13T08:07:12.997-05:00How Seriously Will You Take this "Lenten Season?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Cuf-SDtl7I0-M_G8QHQl0YpF1ybkn9LG4LIMo_SvWrZWT7mqpMQUQf9jc0p-bSDV8uKzUiCxelPBDMFauALCodA5cJrx8bVKbHKaHlNyumx3ryy6Vueng5gdFY4aYJ6A4T_7-MZf8_vn/s1600/AshWednesday.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Cuf-SDtl7I0-M_G8QHQl0YpF1ybkn9LG4LIMo_SvWrZWT7mqpMQUQf9jc0p-bSDV8uKzUiCxelPBDMFauALCodA5cJrx8bVKbHKaHlNyumx3ryy6Vueng5gdFY4aYJ6A4T_7-MZf8_vn/s1600/AshWednesday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
Dear Parishioners,</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Typically, <b><a href="http://www.fr-ed-namiotka.com/2011/04/ash-wednesday.html" target="_blank">Ash Wednesday</a></b> is a crowded day
in our church. People annually come
to “get ashes.” Despite the fact that
the day is <u>not</u> a holy day of obligation in which we are <i>required</i> to attend Mass—<i>psst</i>, please don’t tell anyone!—people are here throughout the day looking for those ashes. Sometimes, they have even come to the rectory
door at all odd hours because they don’t want to be without those blessed ashes.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
If I look at this phenomenon
from a positive angle, I hope and pray that people see the need for <b>repentance</b> and a <b>change of life</b>. I pray that
they heed the call to <b>conversion</b>. I pray also that they truly <b><i>open
their lives to Jesus</i></b> and want to <b><i>turn away from sin</i></b>.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
The logical follow-up during the
<b>Lenten season</b> would then be a desire <i>to
attend Mass more frequently</i>. There
should be an increase in the use of the <i>Sacrament
of Penance and Reconciliation (confession)</i>. Time for <i>prayer and meditation</i> should
grow. Certainly, we should see more <i>generosity</i>, <i>kindness</i> and <i>compassion</i>
in all of us. In the end, we should be
spiritually renewed and prepared for the great events of the <b><a href="http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/liturgical-year/triduum/questions-and-answers.cfm" target="_blank">Easter Triduum</a></b>.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
This is my sincere hope and
prayer.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
Unfortunately, there will be
those who approach the ashes in a <i>superstitious</i>
manner or with a misunderstanding that places more importance on this <i>sacramental</i> than it truly deserves. I used to tell my students in high school quite
bluntly that <i>ashes (burnt palm) on the
forehead, in and of themselves, will not get someone into heaven</i>. They are merely a symbol of <b>repentance</b> and <b>mortality</b>. Rather, <b>Jesus</b>, the <i>Bread of Life</i>, in the <i>Holy
Eucharist </i>is much more than any such <i>symbol</i>. The <i>Holy Eucharist</i> is, in fact, the real,
true presence of Jesus who was offered <i>for
us</i> on the cross and who is now offered <i>to
us</i> in Holy Communion.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="51006054"></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0.25in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b>Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him. </b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(John 6:
54-56)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
Essentially, it is my duty as
one who preaches and teaches to help people to understand and to prioritize
what is <i>essential</i> for a Catholic (the
<b>Holy Eucharist</b>) and what is merely
helpful and a symbolic reminder for us (<i>blessed
ashes</i>). All of the seven <b><i>sacraments</i></b>
are <i>life-giving</i>—in essence, imparting
to us <i>God’s grace</i>—through various outward
signs. They are opportunities to
encounter <b>Christ</b>. We are <i>fed,
nourished, healed, forgiven, strengthened, and sanctified</i> by our
participation in these sacraments. Most
notably, the <b>Holy Eucharist</b> and the <b>Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation</b>
are the two sacraments that we are able to and should participate in <i>frequently</i>.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
Please take <i>Lent</i> seriously. Heed the call to <i>conversion</i>. Put into
practice acts of <i>prayer</i>, <i>fasting</i> (self-denial) and <i>almsgiving</i> (charity). </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
Over everything else, <b><i>fall in love with Jesus</i></b>. I say this not in some superficial, romantic
way but as our essential, unconditional response to the <i>Son of God</i> who loved us unto death.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Fr. Ed
Namiotka</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Pastor</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0o5CxSX-my7VX0BQvmcbxlGi108dcfagkiubdO7X84c0yKCNuVVm06B95D1vHf8RpoKwYL1EDbtKaMv9Iu1bZWuEVypPGr191FdkTvNBPRd1gIpimBSzuDfrXmpAdwGp_zy2bUUvC0BW/s1600/repentance.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0o5CxSX-my7VX0BQvmcbxlGi108dcfagkiubdO7X84c0yKCNuVVm06B95D1vHf8RpoKwYL1EDbtKaMv9Iu1bZWuEVypPGr191FdkTvNBPRd1gIpimBSzuDfrXmpAdwGp_zy2bUUvC0BW/s1600/repentance.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"></span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span></div>
Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-88523696868663184062024-02-13T07:25:00.001-05:002024-02-13T07:25:19.233-05:00Homily for the 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OB13-k1rGkQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="OB13-k1rGkQ"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-9963435168548640152024-02-06T10:23:00.004-05:002024-02-06T10:39:00.919-05:00A Look Ahead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXxD-baDe-f8qrVmw4TpWvEpVty2VPV8DprBvy_3YpxwQ1OeijlVINDnbsE8cSgj79h19HNl0kpCWPejk_-d5g8FgdR0jX_SpcBS4HxJr-qLIpUMoE_jKIw_GqZnYxxsSJUhcWz0r4FoHXCNbn4qQeK7hykS2tuN-VxgY8fHmBYCePmoEk7HJhFT9bAYt/s800/looking-ahead.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXxD-baDe-f8qrVmw4TpWvEpVty2VPV8DprBvy_3YpxwQ1OeijlVINDnbsE8cSgj79h19HNl0kpCWPejk_-d5g8FgdR0jX_SpcBS4HxJr-qLIpUMoE_jKIw_GqZnYxxsSJUhcWz0r4FoHXCNbn4qQeK7hykS2tuN-VxgY8fHmBYCePmoEk7HJhFT9bAYt/s320/looking-ahead.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Dear Parishioners,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While the anticipation of the Super Bowl permeates this weekend in the secular world, <b>Lent</b> begins for Christians on <b>Ash Wednesday</b>, February 14, 2024. It is a time for increased <i>prayer</i>, <i>fasting</i> and <i>almsgiving</i>. This sacred time is meant to be different from the rest of the year in preparation for the events of Holy Week and Easter. I pray you take the season seriously as we preach the call to <i>Repent, and believe in the Gospel!</i> <b>Stations of the Cross</b> will be added every Friday in Lent at 7 PM.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At the end of the month, we will have our annual <b>Parish Mission</b> from Monday, February 26 to Wednesday, February 28 at 7 PM. This year the preacher will be <a href="https://www.mary-mom.com/rev--caparas">Fr. Allain Caparas</a>. I was fortunate to have Fr. Caparas as my parochial vicar as a newly ordained priest in 2006. Since then he has served at various parishes, as a high school principal, and is now pastor at <i>Mary, Mother of Mercy Parish</i> in Glassboro. Please mark these dates on your calendar as we anticipate the inspiring preaching of Fr. Caparas.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As I had mentioned several months ago, St. Thomas More Parish will now begin the application process to seek a committed, active Catholic to serve as the <i><b>Coordinator of Catechesis, Lifelong Faith Formation and Evangelization</b></i>. This position will be responsible for oversight of all catechetical ministry to every age group within the parish. The coordinator initiates, organizes and facilitates various programs and services relating directly to the evangelization and the education of parishioners in the Catholic faith. The coordinator seeks to meet the needs of parishioners in the areas of catechetics, youth and young adult ministry, adult faith formation, and sacramental preparation, including adult Christian initiation. The applicant must be a practicing Catholic in good standing in the Church with an in-depth knowledge of the Catholic faith (BA, or MA preferred). The coordinator must have working knowledge of computers and technology. The applicant must be willing to be involved in the spiritual life of St. Thomas More Parish. Salary and weekly hours are negotiable. This position reports directly to the pastor. Anyone who wishes to apply for this position should submit a résumé to me personally, by regular mail or e-mail (<a href="mailto:fr.namiotka@gmail.com">fr.namiotka@gmail.com</a>). The appointment of this position will be made before the end of the fiscal year in June.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Finally, please continue to pray for my mom as she is now on hospice care and has begun her preparation to journey back to God. My mom is 90 years old and has been very close to me since the sudden death of my father in 1995. I know her time is short (days, weeks, months?) and I will certainly miss her as her first-born son. My brothers, sister and I appreciate your continued prayers for her.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting"; font-size: x-large;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pastor</div>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-53729398315127084372024-02-05T12:12:00.006-05:002024-02-05T12:12:55.377-05:00Homily for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/huMpx5YmVJI" width="320" youtube-src-id="huMpx5YmVJI"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-60572801081427247592024-01-29T07:49:00.006-05:002024-01-29T07:49:42.116-05:00Homily for the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xtB-V_UVsBI" width="320" youtube-src-id="xtB-V_UVsBI"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-49471490453619447282024-01-23T13:38:00.000-05:002024-01-23T13:38:43.950-05:00Moral Correctness vs. Political Correctness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRuM6h8IhKg9dwb2P-FBfgCwGqzGQBb0oUmKnxtIU46sH9I-XXR244LvrI9nZuKRWtGKvmBZcZhi3ood73ACBmsONNKmCFNW91Gs9eHwMjUMW_5LIcLPW7_CPrYaDfjxLWrFW8TBdYObZ/s1600/politically-correct-645x325.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRuM6h8IhKg9dwb2P-FBfgCwGqzGQBb0oUmKnxtIU46sH9I-XXR244LvrI9nZuKRWtGKvmBZcZhi3ood73ACBmsONNKmCFNW91Gs9eHwMjUMW_5LIcLPW7_CPrYaDfjxLWrFW8TBdYObZ/s320/politically-correct-645x325.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Dear Parishioners,<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Unfortunately, we live in
a <i>politically correct</i> world. The
legacy news media and advertising often drives it. We have become so cautious
not to offend anyone. We do not want to be <i>cancelled</i>. As a result, we may wind up compromising what we truly
believe in the name of <i>tolerance</i>. There are rumblings among
the <i>populus</i>, however, and ever-more people are becoming fed-up with
what is going on.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">What if the early Christians
acted in the same manner? Would they have been so cautious not to
proclaim <b>Jesus is Lord</b> in the face of torture and death? I
think about how the early Apostles were willing to die rather than compromise
their beliefs. How easy it would have been to acknowledge that Caesar
was <i>divine</i> (as was demanded at the time), and go on living. Couldn’t
Jesus just be acknowledged as one <i>god</i> among many other
gods? After all, the Greeks and Romans were polytheistic cultures and
would more than likely tolerate one more god. It would be the <i>politically
correct</i> thing to do at that time. Instead, the early Christians
bravely faced torture and death in their unwavering proclamation that <b>Jesus
is the Risen Son of God</b>. For them, there was no other option.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">Today, we may not
say certain things are <b>objectively
wrong</b> for fear of offending someone:<span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"></p><ul><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Abortion is
not killing an innocent human being—dare I say murder?—but a
woman’s choice.</span></li><li>Marriage<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> (the <i>permanent</i>, <i>exclusive</i>, <i>open-to
children</i> union between a <i>man and a woman</i>) is
redefined <u>not</u> according to timeless, divine principles but as
we enlightened humans currently see fit.</span></li><li>We don’t call
co-habitation <i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">fornication, </i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">but a </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">trial-marriage</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">.</span></li><li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Euthanasia</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> (killing the elderly) is <i>mercy-killing</i>.</span></li><li>Adulterers<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> are <i>swingers.</i></span></li><li>The difference
between <i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">partial-birth abortion </i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">and </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Infanticide </i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">is
negligible</span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">.</i></li><li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Homosexual acts </i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">fall into the category of an<i> alternate lifestyle.</i></span></li><li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Artificial contraception</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> is never wrong or sinful in many people’s mind.</span></li><li>There is no longer a
proper understanding that we have a moral obligation <b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><i>to God</i></b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> to
attend Mass </span><u style="text-indent: -0.25in;">weekly</u><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">. </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </i></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i>Wrong </i>becomes <i>right. Right </i>is no
longer <i>right. </i>The world is horribly confused. And this
confusion does have serious, eternal consequences.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">God in timeless wisdom and
with apparently incredible patience looks at us and, I suspect, desires that we
would listen and obey. <i>There is a law written in your hearts. I
sent you the prophets</i>. <i>I even gave you my only <b>Son</b> as
my definitive <b>Word</b>.</i> <i>You have centuries of saints and
martyrs witnessing to the truth by their lives.</i> <i>My gift of the Holy
Spirit continues to guide the Church. Please listen. Don’t delay.</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">I trust that God is <i>all-merciful</i>. There is frequently an emphasis on His mercy. I also believe that God
is <i>all-just</i>. God’s justice is tempered by His mercy. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(See James 2: 12-13)</span> Mercy is offered to us so that we admit our
sinfulness, desire to change our erring ways and completely conform our lives
to the teachings of Christ. Mercy is not like a <i>get out of jail
free</i> card. We can’t just continue with our sinful ways assuming
God to be some pushover—some <i>lenient parent</i>—who will continually
let us do whatever we want without consequences. <i>We are all going to
Heaven despite what we do here on earth</i>. <b>Not really.</b> Why
would Jesus have suffered and died in such a horrible manner if we all just go
to Heaven no matter what we think, say or do? No, if we refuse mercy, if
we refuse to listen, if we fail to change, then God remains <i>all-just</i>. We
will get what we actually deserve. And it wasn’t because God did not try
to get through to us time and time again.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">If <i>political correctness</i> blurs
our <i>moral correctness</i> then I would suggest that we make the
necessary adjustments to our thinking and acting. We need to realize that
the truth—the objective moral teachings given by Jesus Christ and faithfully
proclaimed by His Church—are the means given us for our <i>eternal
salvation</i>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"> And <i>eternal </i>does
mean <i>forever</i>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting";"><span style="font-size: large;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Pastor<span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></div>
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Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-3661444815362481412024-01-16T11:23:00.000-05:002024-01-16T11:23:05.365-05:00Homily for the 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lAbnkyR2mso" width="320" youtube-src-id="lAbnkyR2mso"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-88470068290752437972024-01-16T11:15:00.001-05:002024-01-16T11:15:34.952-05:00When the Entire World is Upside Down<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgliM3raHCJ5DfIxmaJT5NrqIPYUx3_FpACC5DTOk2Doq2q-V3TGWB5-_giCpS5eF9hhyQBzj_IItYas8GURc8mNneageKKunv5cjhcISRsZ2d1lmmUTGennE5Vp2wdgpmmIo2rNunVFITt/s1600/world-upside-down-300x176.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgliM3raHCJ5DfIxmaJT5NrqIPYUx3_FpACC5DTOk2Doq2q-V3TGWB5-_giCpS5eF9hhyQBzj_IItYas8GURc8mNneageKKunv5cjhcISRsZ2d1lmmUTGennE5Vp2wdgpmmIo2rNunVFITt/s1600/world-upside-down-300x176.jpg" /></a></div>
<div><div class="MsoNormal"><span><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">Dear Parishioners,<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">I know that Jesus would
use a type of <b>hyperbole</b>—<i>an intentional exaggeration for effect</i>—at
various times in the Gospels. Did he really want us <b><i>literally</i></b> to <i>tear
our eyes out and throw them away</i> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(see Mt. 5:29)</span> or to <i>cut our
hands off and throw them away</i> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(see Mt. 5:30)</span> as stated in the Sacred
Scriptures? I don’t think so. He most likely said things in this manner
to <i>wake people up</i> and have them <i>pay attention</i> to
what he had to say. He needed people to recognize his legitimate,
definitive authority.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">Much was the same with
Jesus’ miracles. His miracles were often meant to attract people to His
message and to show His true authority: <b>“’But that you may know that
the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth’–he said to the
paralytic, ‘I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.’” </b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Mk. 2:10-11)</span> I suppose in Jesus’ time, just as in ours, people wondered who to
listen to, who is telling the truth and what authority is legitimate. Many
people, then and now, have various things to say, but they certainly don’t all
carry the same weight. My utmost loyalty and attention goes to the <i>Son
of God</i>—hands down!</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">In today’s conversations
we too may say some things <i>emphatically</i> to get a point across:
<i>“That weighs a ton!”</i> <i>“I’m so hungry that I could eat a horse!”</i> and <i>“I’ve
told you a million times already!”</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">I guess that there are
times when our current culture has become so <b>de-sensitized</b> or
may even have become so <b>calloused</b> to current societal issues
that we may need to say something in an unusual or extreme manner to get people’s
attention once again. Society nowadays is also so careful to be <i>politically
correct</i> on almost every matter for fear of offending <i>someone </i>and
being cancelled.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">So how do we make people realize that
the <i>breakup of the traditional family</i> is tragic for society,
how [according to the <i>World Health
Organization</i> (W.H.O.) <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abortion" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>] there are <b><i>73 million</i></b><i> abortions</i>
worldwide <b>per year</b>, how <i>co-habitation
outside of marriage</i> can have detrimental effects on relationships,
how <i><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8817474730130862636/8847006829075243797"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration-line: none;">homosexual
sexual acts</span></a></i> are always sterile and empty acts, and how
our <i>addiction-prone society</i> (alcohol, drugs, sex, pornography,
gambling, shopping, etc.) can destroy moral character and ultimately lead to
self-destruction, just to name a <i>few</i> contemporary societal
concerns?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">What do I say or do to make
people <i>pay attention</i>? Perhaps I need to quote <b>Jesus</b> again:</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.25in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the
road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many.
How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who
find it are few. </b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Mt. 7: 13-14)</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.25in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.25in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day
your Lord will come. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the
hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let
his house be broken into. So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you
do not expect, the Son of Man will come. </b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Mt. 24: 42-44)</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.25in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.25in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on
earth? </b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Lk. 18:8)</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.25in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></p>
</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I often wonder just who is listening to and following <b><i>Him</i></b>?</div></span><span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">I express my frustration
like this: <b><i>The entire world is upside down!</i> </b>And,
in my humble opinion, this seems to be no <i>exaggeration</i>!</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting"; font-size: 14pt;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt;">Pastor</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></span></div>
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Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-41449546631606197332024-01-09T10:24:00.008-05:002024-01-16T09:59:56.112-05:00The Harvest is Abundant . . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qb19Jhyphenhyphen3A4z4APo4m3pImDrBX0UMEChCLhjftaXchWWjaNO2IpeMpcoOcgkyJjvSu-khguh3zUTKCNKWQvlQWzoNIYJobF5EKG9HVWhsLRiuahcMza4XmdJ1RBDBBMvkhhGdOTDpSYJ1/s1600/keep+calm+%25282%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qb19Jhyphenhyphen3A4z4APo4m3pImDrBX0UMEChCLhjftaXchWWjaNO2IpeMpcoOcgkyJjvSu-khguh3zUTKCNKWQvlQWzoNIYJobF5EKG9HVWhsLRiuahcMza4XmdJ1RBDBBMvkhhGdOTDpSYJ1/s320/keep+calm+%25282%2529.png" width="238" /></a></div>
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Dear
Parishioners,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">In <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011424.cfm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">today’s</a> Scripture readings we hear
the “call” to ministry/service of Samuel <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1 Sam. 3)</span> and of the two fishermen Andrew and
Simon Peter <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Jn. 1)</span>. These readings should
remind us to reflect on the call to ministry (particularly as priests, deacons,
religious sisters and brothers) in our Catholic Church today.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">For
some time now, more priests die and retire each year than we see ordained for our diocese. Regrettably, for the past two years, the <a href="https://camdendiocese.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Diocese of Camden</a> had <u>no</u> priesthood ordinations. We were blessed for many years to have a fairly large number of
priests to supply the needs of the people. Many rectories had two or more priests living in them. Things, however, have changed regarding the number of <i>active</i> priests. Fortunately, many <i>retired</i> priests in our diocese continue to supply some of our needs—especially
Mass on the weekends.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Various Gospels <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span>(e.g., Luke 10: 1-12.
17-20 and</span> <span>Mt. 9: 32-38)</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span>contain the words of Jesus: <b><i>The harvest is abundant, but laborers are few</i></b>.
. . . He tells us to <i>ask</i>—<i>to pray</i>—to the master of the harvest
for workers. <i>Do we?</i> <i>Everyday?</i> <i>Do we pray for and encourage vocations to
the priesthood and religious life in our own families?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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I
have heard it suggested to me on numerous occasions what the church needs is <i>married</i> priests or <i>women</i> priests. I know a married
Orthodox priest who once told me, “Don’t let them tell you that married priests
is the solution to the vocation crisis. Our priests can marry, and we still have a shortage.” Protestant ministers, who are usually
married, tell me much of the same. They
still see a decline in clergy (as well as church attendance). By the way, the option of women priests in
the Roman Catholic Church was officially closed by <b><a href="http://w2.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en.html" target="_blank">St. John Paul II</a></b> when he wrote the Apostolic Letter <b><i><a href="http://w2.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1994/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_19940522_ordinatio-sacerdotalis.html" target="_blank">Ordinatio Sacerdotalis</a></i></b> and stated:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Wherefore,
in order that all doubt may be removed regarding a matter of great importance,
a matter which pertains to the Church's divine constitution itself, in virtue
of my ministry of confirming the brethren (cf. Lk 22:32) I declare that the
Church has no authority whatsoever to confer priestly ordination on women and
that this judgment is to be definitively held by all the Church's faithful.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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For
me, the crux of the problem is multi-faceted. Our society does not revolve around God or the importance of faith in
Jesus Christ. Faith is minimized or seen
as irrelevant. Many, if not most,
Catholic families do not go to Mass each week, if they indeed go at all. Our cultural values teach the young to be
successful and wealthy, but not necessary to do what God wants you to do. Priests, at times, have been ostracized (dare
I say <i>demonized</i>?) and are seen as “suspect”
by the media and others for the horrible and most-regrettable sins of a few. The moral authority of the Church is
undermined, mocked and seen as extraneous to daily life. People are no longer taught or are willing to make <i><b>sacrifices</b> </i>in life, as evidenced by a lack of those responding to a priestly or religious vocation (and even to the many demands required by married life).<o:p></o:p></div>
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I
give tremendous credit to those men and women who answer the “call” today and attempt
to follow the Lord’s invitation to be a priest, deacon, religious sister or brother. The world needs them now more than ever to be bold, counter-cultural disciples in a world of confusion, doubt and even
hatred towards all things <b>Christian</b>.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
rest of us must continue to pray most fervently.<span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 14pt;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></div>
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Pastor </div>
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Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-27520156886516473602024-01-02T11:52:00.000-05:002024-01-02T11:52:47.840-05:00Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear
Parishioners,<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">From the time when I was young, they always seemed like strange gifts to bring a newborn baby: <i>gold,
frankincense and myrrh</i>. Today we
would think of things like diapers, toys, blankets, formula, socks, pajamas, etc.
to bring to an infant. Obviously, there
is more to the gifts of the <i>magi</i> than meets the eye.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Gold</b> is meant as a tribute to a king. Gold as a precious, valuable metal was prized by many cultures and worn
by kings, present in the worship of gods, and used as currency. Jesus is indeed a <b>king</b>—the King of the Universe.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Frankincense</b> is offered to a deity. When we occasionally burn incense in church
(and the parishioners begin to cough <i>automatically</i>)
it is meant to be a symbol of our prayers rising up to God. <b>Psalm</b>
141: 2 states: <i>Let my prayer be incense before you . . . </i>and the <b>Book of Revelation</b> (5:8) speaks of the
elders who held a harp and <i>gold bowls
filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones. </i>The Hebrews had an <i>altar of incense</i> where a pleasing fragrance burned before the <i>Holy of Holies</i>. Some other cultures, like the ancient Romans,
burned incense before their various statues as a sign of divinity. Jesus is <b>divine</b>—the
<b>Son of God</b>. He is also the <b>Great High Priest</b> who is mediator between God and man. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Myrrh </b>has various uses in perfumes,<b> </b>incense
and medicine.<b> </b>The ancient Egyptians used it for embalming
of mummies. When it is presented to
Jesus it can be symbolic of his healing ability or an anticipation of his death
and burial. Jesus was offered myrrh
mixed with wine on the wood of the cross.
Nicodemus brought myrrh to the tomb for Jesus’ burial.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gift-giving
has become such a part of the Christmas season, often overshadowing the true
spiritual meaning of the <i><b>Incarnation</b></i>. What is so astounding is that <b><i>God became man!</i> </b>Our Creator became a <i>creature</i>. God in all His
power became a <i>powerless</i>, vulnerable
infant who needed his mother and foster-father to feed, clothe and provide for
Him. Timelessness entered into <i>time</i>, the Immortal, Eternal One became subject to
<i>death</i>, and the All-Knowing God had to
grow in “wisdom, age and favor.” <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Lk. 2:52)</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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When
we celebrate the <b>Epiphany</b> (<i>manifestation</i> or <i>showing</i>) of the Lord to the <i>magi</i>
(astrologers representative of <i>non-Jews</i> or <i>gentiles</i>) we realize that salvation is
open to all peoples and we are directed to <b>Christ</b>
as the one and only Messiah and Savior of the World.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our
fitting gift to Jesus should be a <i>humble
and contrite heart,</i> as the psalm relates. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(See Ps. 51:19)</span> He does not need material “things” to make
Him happy. Instead He desires <b><i>us</i></b>
and our willingness to do His will. He desires
obedience to His commands.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><b>
The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the
soul.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving
wisdom to the simple.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the
heart.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening
the eye.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The statutes of the LORD are true, all of them
just;<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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More desirable than gold, than a hoard of purest gold,<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Sweeter also than honey or drippings from the comb.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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By them your servant is warned; obeying them brings
much reward.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">
(Ps. 19: 8-12)</span><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">Pastor</span><span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-1420328513649767662024-01-01T15:54:00.010-05:002024-01-02T11:31:39.808-05:00Homily for the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph "B" - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hRZbf2ptfOs" width="320" youtube-src-id="hRZbf2ptfOs"></iframe></div><br />Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-82787776204815732772023-12-24T22:14:00.002-05:002023-12-24T22:14:12.113-05:00Homily for the Vigil of Christmas 2024 - Fr. Edward Namiotka<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qg2NzPmozd4" width="320" youtube-src-id="Qg2NzPmozd4"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-54531982212805685852023-12-19T03:38:00.001-05:002023-12-19T03:46:16.270-05:002024<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdkWMC_ZUIYMR9zQ47lw-Xqh0r7oHxIsBgsmjwMdYsMVht8Zkvl6yT3PyMVvyyPn91e0wwYjqZtXX5NM4LMz4nprpDXsBltQaaMYmV6QozFS4TMvQtbZ8TzFcY91whmBOEtBJX8HB2qCMvrZrZmLV5j9hVGYSA1_-LMzcietI6tVukiggPxOPCegiI9vuL/s1200/New%20year%202024.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdkWMC_ZUIYMR9zQ47lw-Xqh0r7oHxIsBgsmjwMdYsMVht8Zkvl6yT3PyMVvyyPn91e0wwYjqZtXX5NM4LMz4nprpDXsBltQaaMYmV6QozFS4TMvQtbZ8TzFcY91whmBOEtBJX8HB2qCMvrZrZmLV5j9hVGYSA1_-LMzcietI6tVukiggPxOPCegiI9vuL/s320/New%20year%202024.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Dear Parishioners,</div>
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<br /></div>
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Coming to the end of a
calendar year and the beginning of a New Year makes me reflect on various past
events and remembrances that I have.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I can recall reading George
Orwell’s <i>1984</i> as a student and
thinking about what would it be like when we actually reach that time period. Then there was the song <i>1999</i> by Prince. We were
supposed to party it up like there’s no tomorrow. Then we faced the <i><b>Y2K</b></i> potential threat focusing on what will happen when the
computers have to change to the next calendar year, <b>2000</b>. In the end, it really
didn’t live up to the hype.</div>
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I wasn’t born yet during major
world events like <i>World War I</i> or <i>II</i>, or conflicts like <i>Korea</i>. The adults I knew
sometimes talked about them and I read about these difficult times in the
history books. I was a boy/teen during <i>Viet Nam</i> and remember some news stories
from those tumultuous years (that included the <i>sexual revolution</i>, the <i>drug
culture</i>, <i>hippies</i> and a regular <i>questioning of all authority</i>). I later witnessed the collapse of <i>Communism</i> in Europe and the tearing down
of the <i>Berlin Wall</i>. Later, the <i>Gulf War</i> was substantially more real to me as we could watch it on
TV with reporters embedded with the troops. I actually was in Medjugorje, Bosnia-Herzegovina when the <i>Bosnian War</i> (c. 1991-1992) broke out
there. I had to get a number of teens
and young adults who were part of a youth pilgrimage to safety in London at
that time. It was pretty scary! </div>
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<br /></div>
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However, what I think
substantially changed things for me/us in America happened in the year 2001—<b>September 11, 2001</b> to be precise. I saw the 2<sup>nd</sup> plane hit the World
Trade Center building on TV and later visited the ruins about a month or two afterwards. Things in America, I fear, will never quite
be the same again.</div>
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What will <b>2024</b> hold? A U.S. <i>presidential
election</i> is on the calendar. The Olympic Games are scheduled for Paris. There will be a Leap Year (February 29). What about the <b>Catholic Church</b>? In too many people's mind, we are currently in the midst of much confusion and uncertainty. What else will come?</div>
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As we approach the New Year, I
customarily entrust and consecrate the parish wherever I am pastor to the care
of the <b>Blessed Virgin Mary</b> to begin the New
Year. I give this parish and all
of its parishioners over to the loving care of the Mother of God. I invite you to join me at <b>Mass</b> for the New Year celebrating the <i><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010124.cfm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God</a></i>. I can think of no better way to start the New Year right.</div>
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Why not take the time to <a href="https://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=3036" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">consecrate your families</a> to the Blessed Virgin Mary’s maternal care as well? Parents, you can (and should) pray
for your children and families in your homes.</div>
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My prayers and Masses are
continually offered for your spiritual well-being. Please remember me as well so that I have the
graces necessary to live up to my responsibility as your pastor.</div>
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God’s blessings in the New
Year!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting"; font-size: 14pt;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></div>
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Pastor</div>
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Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-9086324330764339522023-12-18T08:24:00.000-05:002023-12-18T08:24:35.911-05:00What Does Christmas Truly Mean?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4iIrXwobNB-5u6rU2zRTlzg_dQ2iVwZ003eGfbFu2a7jACRQAT3hZuiHuiSf8YKsPePOMotX-ptn1nDiIY1w2Zty4lyQJ1rgPnMdSmSTczzQRYnP36TT2WC6luy7Lw0Odj6wdKW52t_KlhuZoQJo_YYkAMfWeg8l7Hhcyraz4QHHGfnz_hDKRQhkdsAg/s1280/mary_baby_jesus_painting.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1280" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4iIrXwobNB-5u6rU2zRTlzg_dQ2iVwZ003eGfbFu2a7jACRQAT3hZuiHuiSf8YKsPePOMotX-ptn1nDiIY1w2Zty4lyQJ1rgPnMdSmSTczzQRYnP36TT2WC6luy7Lw0Odj6wdKW52t_KlhuZoQJo_YYkAMfWeg8l7Hhcyraz4QHHGfnz_hDKRQhkdsAg/s320/mary_baby_jesus_painting.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Dear Parishioners,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><i>Merry Christmas to all!</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in 8pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid;
for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the
people.<a name="50002011"></a> For today in the city of David a savior has been
born for you who is Messiah and Lord.<a name="50002012"></a> And this will be a
sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in
a manger.” </i></b><span style="font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">(Lk. 2:10-12)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">The mystery of the <b><i>Incarnation
</i></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">is foremost
what <b>Christmas</b> is all about.</span> God became a man for us. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.</i></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">(Jn. 1:14)</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"> </span><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Timelessness entered into
time. The almighty and all-powerful God became a helpless, vulnerable
infant formed in the womb of a virgin. The creator of all life became subject
to suffering and death. The infinite majesty of God became finite. God
walked this very earth. He could be seen, felt and touched.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Jesus</span> is the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">face
of God</i> for us to see.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">Christ’s <i>humility</i> should certainly be pondered as part of this mystery.
Christ <i>emptied himself</i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 9pt;">(Phil. 11:5) </span>and begins a hidden life in the womb of Mary. He has no royal palace and
servants awaiting his birth but rather a stable. He was obedient to His parents
and trusted in their care and protection as His life is threatened by Herod. He
was forced to flee to a foreign land—Egypt. His life of sacrifice and humility
will culminate in His suffering and death on a cross, like a common criminal. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">Secularists, atheists, agnostics, pseudo-intellectuals
and various irreverent comedians may deny, doubt or make fun of that which
Christians believe as a central mystery of our faith: <b>God became a man</b>. Yet,
this is truly what <b>Christmas</b> signifies.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">Unfortunately, <b>Christmas</b> is
all too frequently experienced as a <i>once-a-year</i>,
<i>get-nicely-dressed</i>, <i>go-to-church</i> experience.
It becomes a time for the family to join together and share an extravagant
meal. It is anticipated as a nostalgic, sentimental, <i>feel-good</i> holiday
in which multiple gifts are exchanged. While these limited perceptions are not
necessarily bad, let’s not miss one of the <b>greatest acts of love ever
given to humanity</b>: <i>For God so loved
the world that He gave His only Son . . . </i><span style="font-size: 9pt;">(Jn. 3:16)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><b>Christmas</b> celebrates when <i>Heaven touched Earth</i> and the Love
of God took human form. <b>Christmas</b> is when a baby—the Son
of God and Son of Mary—is born for us in Bethlehem. Christmas
is unmistakably and definitively about <b>Christ</b>—Jesus, <i>the Christ, the anointed one, the messiah</i>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><b>Christmas </b>is a mystery that needs to be pondered regularly so that we can begin to
examine all of its beauty—like a most magnificent gem. When you peer into the
manger this Christmas, realize that before you is a glimpse of the love that
God has for you by giving us His only-begotten Son.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">On behalf of all of the priests that
serve our parish, our sisters and staff, we wish you and your families a happy,
holy Christmas and a blessed New Year! May the love of God which
took human form in the person of Jesus be honored and revered <i>in every
human person</i> that we meet.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">After all, God became one of <b><i>us</i></b>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Lucida Handwriting";"><span style="font-size: medium;">Fr. Ed Namiotka</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">Pastor</p>Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8817474730130862636.post-6807579691589663752023-12-18T08:05:00.000-05:002023-12-18T08:05:28.512-05:00Gaudete Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Dear Parishioners,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The liturgical season of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Advent</i> originated as a <b>fast</b> of forty days in <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">preparation</b> for Christmas. It was sometimes called <i>Little Lent</i> or <i><a href="https://onepeterfive.com/forgotten-customs-of-martinmas-and-st-martins-lent/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">St. Martin's Lent</a></i> because it began on the feast of <i>St. Martin of Tours</i> (November 11).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The third Sunday of Advent is called <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gaudete</i> </b>Sunday—from the Latin word “rejoice.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We rejoice because the Lord is near.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Advent is halfway completed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Priests have the option of wearing a <u>rose</u> colored vestment and we light the <u>rose</u> candle of the advent wreath.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">To me, the season of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Advent</i> is often treated like a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">neglected step-child</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Society seems to overlook this minor penitential season and move right into Christmas. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">There is no fasting, sacrifice or spiritual preparation but Christmas parties, holiday shopping and increased celebration. </span>Unfortunately, when the actual <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Christmas season</i> begins with the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mass of Christmas Eve</i>, many people will soon thereafter take down the decorations and the tree. Christmas seems to end all too abruptly <u>within</u> the actual <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Christmas season</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">How often we are driven by the consumer mentality as the stores will begin preparing for Valentines Day and Presidents Day, immediately following those after-Christmas sales. Does everything have to be about <u>buying</u> and <u>owning</u> many things?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I once read this thought-provoking saying on a t-shirt:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">He who dies with the most possessions <i>still dies</i></b>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I believe in the importance of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">person and relationship</i></b> over <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">things and possessions</i></b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christmas-time can have some wonderful effects when families come together and people socialize with both families and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People can be extraordinarily generous and kind as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But the essential meaning of Christmas should never be lost:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">God became a man</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He revealed His life to us and spent time with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He lived with us and died for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many messages <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">distract</i> from this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the coming of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jesus Christ </b>is truly the focal point of all human history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why do even <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Christians </i>sometimes miss or forget this truth? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">What will it take to bring more people to realize the importance of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jesus Christ</b>?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dynamic preaching?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vibrant parishes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A plethora of activities?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Better evangelization and outreach?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A natural disaster?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>War?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An act of terrorism like 9-11?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sickness and death? God alone knows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I think that first and foremost there has to be more of a focus on <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">prayer and conversion</b>—a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">change of heart</i></b>—within our parishes and families. The glamour of sin and the illusory happiness that it may temporarily bring has a choke hold on the world today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While many may not directly deny the existence of God, far too many live in such a way that His effect on our lives is negligible or non-existent.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Use the remaining time of Advent in the way it was intended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prepare <u>spiritually</u> for the coming of Christ. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Go to confession (the <i>Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation</i>). Pray, fast, read Sacred Scripture, be charitable. </span>Come visit Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">When <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><b>Christmas</b> actually arrives </i><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(Christmas eve)</span>, we will be much better off spiritually.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b>Come, Lord Jesus!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "lucida handwriting"; font-size: 16pt;">Fr. Ed
Namiotka<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Pastor</span></div>
Fr. Edward Namiotkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06790889147253682104noreply@blogger.com0