Independence Day

My dear friends in Christ,

This Tuesday, we celebrate Independence Day. The document that we know as the Declaration of Independence was adopted by Congress on July 4th although the resolution that led to the writing of the Declaration was actually approved two days earlier. The preamble to the Constitution states: "We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common Defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."

We have a beautiful set of readings for the weekend closest to the Fourth of July. They stand as a challenge to put the celebration of our nation and its history in a broader perspective and to read our national celebration through the critical lens of faith. St. Paul reminds us that the most important thing in our life is unity with Christ, dying with him to share in His resurrection. This text may seem familiar as it is proclaimed in the Holy Night of the Easter Vigil. Matthew gathers a collection of “hard sayings” about discipleship and its priority even about family bonds. We are also told of the priority of charitable giving as an expression of fidelity to the One who gave us unity in Christ through the Holy Spirit.

I want to thank everyone who made my installation Mass such a wonderful and beautiful experience. I am so blessed to be your Pastor.

May God bless you all!

Fr. John