Keep our eyes on the Kingdom of God

My dear friends in Christ,

During this election cycle, we find ourselves in a world that has become somewhat divisive. We are forced to blur the lines of faith and our political systems. Jesus offers us an interesting response in today’s Gospel. When addressing the Pharisees, Jesus gives them a message that applies to us today—simply that we need to get our priorities in check. We need to get “back on track” and keep our eyes on the Kingdom of God, focusing less on what we have and more on how we serve, advocate, and stand for all peoples. We must not allow ourselves to become engulfed in divisive and unproductive conversations that perpetuate division. We must be willing to seek the truth and flush out unfounded and biased information. How are we challenged to look beyond ourselves and toward the Gospel message?

Speaking of the election cycle, I encourage you to read the October edition of the Monitor especially the article regarding the USCCB document, “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.”

We welcome back our Religious Education Students, Faculty, and Staff this weekend. We also are adding the 11:00 AM Mass back to the schedule to accommodate those students and families in our program. Thanks to Bonnie and her assistant, Judy, for their organizational skills in the midst of this pandemic.

We celebrate World Mission Sunday this weekend. A portion of our collection will go to the Missions. Please be as generous as you are able.

May God bless you all,

Father John