Q. What role does the Holy Spirit play in your life?
A. The Bible makes many references to the many roles the Holy Spirit plays in the lives of the faithful -- from speaking through the prophets, providing wisdom and counsel, and being the creative or active force of the Holy Trinity, inspiring us to create beautiful works of art, poetry, and even gracious hospitality towards others. It is the Spirit who teaches us how to pray and then intercedes on our behalf when we don’t know how or what to pray. The Spirit helps to mold/fold our conscience and guides us along our faith journey. And consoles us when we grieve.
For me, personally, the Holy Spirit provides inspiration for my homilies, for the column I write in the diocesan newspaper, the Byte, each month, and even my responses to the “Ask the Clergy” questions on our parish website.
The Holy Spirit has given me a spirit of courage (that I can attest I did not possess prior to my confirmation), has guided me in discerning my vocation to become a permanent deacon and has even provided words to speak when I needed to speak truth to power on behalf of justice.
The Spirit is full of surprises -- appearing when needed. We just have to trust and be open to be used for God’s purpose. And then, with gratitude, give God the glory that is his due.
- Deacon John
For me, personally, the Holy Spirit provides inspiration for my homilies, for the column I write in the diocesan newspaper, the Byte, each month, and even my responses to the “Ask the Clergy” questions on our parish website.
The Holy Spirit has given me a spirit of courage (that I can attest I did not possess prior to my confirmation), has guided me in discerning my vocation to become a permanent deacon and has even provided words to speak when I needed to speak truth to power on behalf of justice.
The Spirit is full of surprises -- appearing when needed. We just have to trust and be open to be used for God’s purpose. And then, with gratitude, give God the glory that is his due.
- Deacon John
Q. What can we do to strengthen our faith during lent?
A. Make a point of receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday, for starters. This public display of faith is both humbling and energizing! That we can bear ash on our forehead as a witness of our faith and trust in Jesus is a powerful testimony of selfless love to a world that yearns for truth and has lost hope.
Remember the words spoken as the ash is applied: “Repent and be faithful to the gospel!” Or “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return.” These words can be mulled upon for the next forty days as we examine our lives, pray for one another, and seek to root out sin and bad behaviors.
Listen closely to the readings of Mass. They speak of sin and the power of God to destroy even death itself. Nothing can keep us from God except ourselves. As long as we continue to pick ourselves up when we fail, ask God’s forgiveness through reconciliation, and try, try again, we have Jesus assurance that we will be with him in the Kingdom of God.
Serve the poor. We won’t encounter Jesus in the glitter of Hollywood or the places of power but in the gutters and deserted places. There he waits to bless those who seek him out in the poor and marginalized. Don’t be like the Pharisees who stand idly by while sinners and tax collectors are getting into heaven!
And finally, do all these things with love and you may find that your treasure will be great in heaven.
- Deacon John
Remember the words spoken as the ash is applied: “Repent and be faithful to the gospel!” Or “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return.” These words can be mulled upon for the next forty days as we examine our lives, pray for one another, and seek to root out sin and bad behaviors.
Listen closely to the readings of Mass. They speak of sin and the power of God to destroy even death itself. Nothing can keep us from God except ourselves. As long as we continue to pick ourselves up when we fail, ask God’s forgiveness through reconciliation, and try, try again, we have Jesus assurance that we will be with him in the Kingdom of God.
Serve the poor. We won’t encounter Jesus in the glitter of Hollywood or the places of power but in the gutters and deserted places. There he waits to bless those who seek him out in the poor and marginalized. Don’t be like the Pharisees who stand idly by while sinners and tax collectors are getting into heaven!
And finally, do all these things with love and you may find that your treasure will be great in heaven.
- Deacon John
Q. What is one thing we can do to be better Catholics in 2018?
A. We can be better listeners.
Too often we try and solve ‘problems’ and miss the human dynamic of accompaniment that Pope Francis has been calling us to embrace this last year. Being a good listener not only values the one speaking (respecting their dignity) but it helps the listener grow in compassion and respect.
To be a better listener is to live a life of prayer. Conscious of God’s still, small voice guiding our steps as we seek to serve God through our brothers and sisters in Christ (as well as, the stranger at our door).
As Eli advised Samuel in last Sunday’s (2nd Sun. in Ord time) reading, “Speak Lord, Your servant is listening.”
- Deacon John
Too often we try and solve ‘problems’ and miss the human dynamic of accompaniment that Pope Francis has been calling us to embrace this last year. Being a good listener not only values the one speaking (respecting their dignity) but it helps the listener grow in compassion and respect.
To be a better listener is to live a life of prayer. Conscious of God’s still, small voice guiding our steps as we seek to serve God through our brothers and sisters in Christ (as well as, the stranger at our door).
As Eli advised Samuel in last Sunday’s (2nd Sun. in Ord time) reading, “Speak Lord, Your servant is listening.”
- Deacon John
Q. What is your favorite song of the Christmas season, in English or in you native language? An why?
A. My favorite Advent song is “Prepare ye the way of the Lord” (from Godspell).As we heard in our homilies for 1st Sunday of Advent, John the Baptist counsels the people to prepare. God is coming. Don’t be caught unprepared. It serves as a good reminder not to get too caught up in the world, since heaven is our home.
My favorite Christmas song is “Child of the Poor/What child is this?”
As for “child of the poor/What child is?” this, this touching (combined) song expresses the fragileness of a newborn, requiring assistance in every way. In the incarnation, Jesus surrendered the divine power and humbled himself becoming human out of love for the Father and for God’s creation. It also speaks to the trust God placed in us (his creation) to protect his son from harm until Jesus matured and could accept his role as suffering servant in order to teach us about sacrificial love so that we might believe and receive the gift of salvation and eternal life with the Father in heaven.
May you continue to be blessed throughout this Advent and Christmas season(s).
- Deacon John
My favorite Christmas song is “Child of the Poor/What child is this?”
As for “child of the poor/What child is?” this, this touching (combined) song expresses the fragileness of a newborn, requiring assistance in every way. In the incarnation, Jesus surrendered the divine power and humbled himself becoming human out of love for the Father and for God’s creation. It also speaks to the trust God placed in us (his creation) to protect his son from harm until Jesus matured and could accept his role as suffering servant in order to teach us about sacrificial love so that we might believe and receive the gift of salvation and eternal life with the Father in heaven.
May you continue to be blessed throughout this Advent and Christmas season(s).
- Deacon John
Q. What do you thank God for?
A. I begin my day by acknowledging the beauty of God’s Creation as evidenced in the daily serenade of the birds in the trees outside my window. I thank God for another day of life, the breath that I take and the people I will meet. I am thankful for my wonderful wife, Cheryl, family and friends, and the community of St. Catherine whom I am blessed to minister to and with. But most of all, I am grateful to God for his presence in my life. And his spirit that encourages me to keep trying to do my best and his mercy when I fail to live up to the challenge. I am not perfect, but I thank God that through our relationship together, I am being perfected.
-Deacon John
-Deacon John
Q. What is your favorite saying or value do you try to live by?
A. One of my favorite sayings comes from St. Francis of Assisi,
“Preach the gospel at all times, use words when necessary.”
This combined with the journalistic advice of St. Peter -- “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” – (1Ptr 3:15) -- forms the basis of my faith outlook.
As his witnesses to the world, we can do nothing better than share how Jesus Christ has influenced our lives and, therefore, why we have hope in the resurrection.
Each of us has a unique story that no one else can tell. And somewhere there is an eager audience hungering to hear it. So be prepared!
-Deacon John
“Preach the gospel at all times, use words when necessary.”
This combined with the journalistic advice of St. Peter -- “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” – (1Ptr 3:15) -- forms the basis of my faith outlook.
As his witnesses to the world, we can do nothing better than share how Jesus Christ has influenced our lives and, therefore, why we have hope in the resurrection.
Each of us has a unique story that no one else can tell. And somewhere there is an eager audience hungering to hear it. So be prepared!
-Deacon John
Q. What is your favorite hymn, and why?
A. One of my all-time favorite traditional hymns is Ave Maria because when sung with feeling, I can feel my spirit rising up heavenward within me. It gives me great peace and joy.
More contemporary songs would include:
What Child is this?/Child of the Poor (where both songs have been combined together)– because it/they remind me of all Jesus gave up in order to become one of us and the trust he had in placing himself in the hands of Joseph and Mary amidst the dangers that the Holy Family faced. And the second ‘portion’ looks more deeply at Jesus (the child of and who became poor for our sakes). It reminds me what it means to be truly humble and challenges me to put others’ needs ahead of my wants.
Hail Mary/Gentle Woman (combined) is another one of my favorite contemporary offerings. I guess I like songs/hymns that evoke an emotional and spiritual response. This one is about Mary’s faith in dangerous and uncertain circumstances.
Holy is His Name and Come (Now is the time to Worship) round out my short list.
I can listen to these every day and not get tired of hearing (or singing) them.
-Deacon John
More contemporary songs would include:
What Child is this?/Child of the Poor (where both songs have been combined together)– because it/they remind me of all Jesus gave up in order to become one of us and the trust he had in placing himself in the hands of Joseph and Mary amidst the dangers that the Holy Family faced. And the second ‘portion’ looks more deeply at Jesus (the child of and who became poor for our sakes). It reminds me what it means to be truly humble and challenges me to put others’ needs ahead of my wants.
Hail Mary/Gentle Woman (combined) is another one of my favorite contemporary offerings. I guess I like songs/hymns that evoke an emotional and spiritual response. This one is about Mary’s faith in dangerous and uncertain circumstances.
Holy is His Name and Come (Now is the time to Worship) round out my short list.
I can listen to these every day and not get tired of hearing (or singing) them.
-Deacon John
Q. Who is your favorite writer for spiritual inspiration, and why?
A. I don’t know if I have a particular author that’s my ‘go to’ person for spiritual inspiration. For me it’s more the issue of the topic rather than the author.
I’ve read a number of C.S. Lewis’ (the Narnia series, Screwtape Letters and The Problem of Pain) and Henri Nouwen’s (The Return of the Prodigal Son and The Wounded Healer) books so I guess they come the closest to answering the first question.
A few of my other personal picks (outside of the Bible itself) would include:
And finally I keep returning to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si (Care for our Common Home) and Evangelii Gaudium (the Joy of the Gospel) for inspiration when I need to refocus my attention on current events and potential ministerial activities.
-Deacon John
I’ve read a number of C.S. Lewis’ (the Narnia series, Screwtape Letters and The Problem of Pain) and Henri Nouwen’s (The Return of the Prodigal Son and The Wounded Healer) books so I guess they come the closest to answering the first question.
A few of my other personal picks (outside of the Bible itself) would include:
- L Frank Baum – The Oz series
- Lewis Carroll – the Alice books
- JRR Tolkien – The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings trilogy
- Fr. Thomas Keating, OCSO
- Thomas Merton, OCSO
- Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM
- Fr. Ron Rolheiser, OMI
- Sue Bender – Plain and Simple: A Woman’s Journey to the Amish and Everyday Sacred: A Woman’s Journey Home.
- Fr. Richard Leonard, SJ – Where the Hell is God?
- Fr. James Martin, SJ – YouTube videos and articles in America
- Kathleen Norris – Cloister Walk, Amazing Grace and Acedia and Me
- Joyce Rupp – Praying our Goodbyes
- Matt Weber – Fearing the Stigmata
And finally I keep returning to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si (Care for our Common Home) and Evangelii Gaudium (the Joy of the Gospel) for inspiration when I need to refocus my attention on current events and potential ministerial activities.
-Deacon John
Q. How can St. Catherine families practice their faith while on vacation? How have you practiced your faith while on vacation?
A. This is a good reminder that we aren’t supposed to behave like those of the world (i.e., who have no faith) but rather, we are to live our faith ‘in season and out of season’ so that our actions may be pleasing to God and witness to others God’s love and mercy.
This can be hard for children to understand, since from an early age we are conditioned (by the world) to conform our lives to the school year model (nine or ten months ‘on’ and two months ‘off’). The repetitive cycle of lots of activity and ‘homework’ followed by a ‘window’ of unstructured inactivity.
Many working adults succumb to the tyranny of time and never seen to have enough vacation time to rest and enjoy the company of family and friends. They tend to ‘pack’ activities into every spare moment of their hectic ‘weekend warrior’ lifestyle and return to work more exhausted than when they left.
So how should we do things differently?
As a child, my family enhanced our learning (both culturally and historically) by trips to visit the California Missions, State and National Parks and/or the various World’s Fairs. We camped at the beach, sang songs around the campfire, walked up and down trails in the forest and shared our adventures together (and with others).
Cheryl and I continue to spend our vacation time exploring. We try and balance our time between seeing new places, returning to favorite ones and spending time with friends and family. Over the course of the year we attend various conferences as part of our continuing formation of our faith and we look for nearby churches or shrines so that we can attend mass and experience how other communities celebrate their ‘catholic’ faith in their region of the country.
Now I’m not saying that everybody needs to do what we do… but, here’s a few other suggestions:
If your schedule or financial means require you to use your home as ‘base camp’, be creative. The above suggestions can be readily adapted for day trips, as well.
Remember, you may be on vacation, but your faith should not be. Treat others as you would want to be treated. A smile is free… And a simple ‘hello!’ can brighten someone’s day.
-Deacon John
This can be hard for children to understand, since from an early age we are conditioned (by the world) to conform our lives to the school year model (nine or ten months ‘on’ and two months ‘off’). The repetitive cycle of lots of activity and ‘homework’ followed by a ‘window’ of unstructured inactivity.
Many working adults succumb to the tyranny of time and never seen to have enough vacation time to rest and enjoy the company of family and friends. They tend to ‘pack’ activities into every spare moment of their hectic ‘weekend warrior’ lifestyle and return to work more exhausted than when they left.
So how should we do things differently?
As a child, my family enhanced our learning (both culturally and historically) by trips to visit the California Missions, State and National Parks and/or the various World’s Fairs. We camped at the beach, sang songs around the campfire, walked up and down trails in the forest and shared our adventures together (and with others).
Cheryl and I continue to spend our vacation time exploring. We try and balance our time between seeing new places, returning to favorite ones and spending time with friends and family. Over the course of the year we attend various conferences as part of our continuing formation of our faith and we look for nearby churches or shrines so that we can attend mass and experience how other communities celebrate their ‘catholic’ faith in their region of the country.
Now I’m not saying that everybody needs to do what we do… but, here’s a few other suggestions:
- When planning your vacation, don’t ‘over schedule’ yourself. Leave opportunities to encounter Jesus in the people you meet and the places you visit. Relax and breathe. You’ll regret it if you don’t.
- Bring along Christian music (ex., songs we sing at mass) to play in the car while you are driving.
- It’s very important to keep your faith routine (especially if you have children with you). If you pray (the rosary or meal prayers) at home as a family, continue to do so on the road. Not only is it a good witness but it instills that we can worship God everywhere, not just in church!
- Bring a Bible (or Bible app) and take the time to read together Scripture passages that apply to what you will be seeing (ex., If going to the mountains, read Psalm 121. And pause to take in the grandeur of the vistas (a sort of God’s eye view of the world). Another second option is to read the story of creation found in Genesis chapter 1 and 2. Then make a list of all the animals (including bugs!) you see on your trip.
- Keep an eye out for faith- related exhibits at museums, concerts or movies in the park, church camps or family-friendly retreats. Turn off electronics and play Catholic trivia games or do a faith-based craft together.
- Keep a journal and at the end of each day ask each person to write down and/or draw something that they did or saw. When you get home you can scrapbook the pages and enhance them with family vacation photos or drawings.
If your schedule or financial means require you to use your home as ‘base camp’, be creative. The above suggestions can be readily adapted for day trips, as well.
Remember, you may be on vacation, but your faith should not be. Treat others as you would want to be treated. A smile is free… And a simple ‘hello!’ can brighten someone’s day.
-Deacon John
Q. Do priest/deacons do home visits for parishioners or anybody else on hospice? What's the message they bring?
A. The priest administering the Sacrament of Anointing to the Sick to someone who is ill or visiting the homebound is celebrating in the Lord’s healing prayer and offering the gifts of the Holy Spirit – faith, peace, strength and courage.
All of the priests from St. Catherine of Alexandria parish make home or hospital visits to those who are ill. The patient or a family member calls the number listed in the church bulletin for the sick and requests a priest visit. If requested, the priest will administer the Sacrament of Anointing to the Sick, Confession and Holy Communion.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to the Sick visit the homebound and chronically ill on a regular basis to serve them Holy Communion and to pray with the patients and their families. The minister lets the patients and the families know that the community is praying for and with them. Hospice organizations have chaplains who also visit hospice patients regularly. They pray with the patients and offer spiritual guidance. If the hospice patient is Catholic, they will contact a Catholic parish that is close to the area where the patient lives and will request a priest visit for the Anointing of the Sick or a minister to bring Holy Communion to that patient.
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the Sick Coordinator – Mary Ann Landweer (951) 780-4015
All of the priests from St. Catherine of Alexandria parish make home or hospital visits to those who are ill. The patient or a family member calls the number listed in the church bulletin for the sick and requests a priest visit. If requested, the priest will administer the Sacrament of Anointing to the Sick, Confession and Holy Communion.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to the Sick visit the homebound and chronically ill on a regular basis to serve them Holy Communion and to pray with the patients and their families. The minister lets the patients and the families know that the community is praying for and with them. Hospice organizations have chaplains who also visit hospice patients regularly. They pray with the patients and offer spiritual guidance. If the hospice patient is Catholic, they will contact a Catholic parish that is close to the area where the patient lives and will request a priest visit for the Anointing of the Sick or a minister to bring Holy Communion to that patient.
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the Sick Coordinator – Mary Ann Landweer (951) 780-4015
Q. Can people with Down Syndrome or people who lack the mental capability of being parents without outside help get married in the Catholic Church? Is it possible to get married and not be fully capable of having and raising children?
A. The question(s) raised this week appear to have a lot of ‘layers’ that I felt I might overlook something (since I am not a canon lawyer and didn’t want to misspeak) so I contacted the Office of Canonical Services for the Diocese of San Bernardino for their assistance.
-Deacon John DeGano
Here's the response of the Very Rev. David Andel, Director/Judicial Vicar:
In general, those who lack the psychological capability of understanding the essential obligations of marriage and of fulfilling those obligations are not capable of marriage.
There is a certain minimum threshold not just for the sake of validity but for capacity. We see that in many areas of life - job requirements, entrance into college, buying a firearm, being a foster parent. Sometimes the law - civil and ecclesiastical - says a person is not capable of placing a certain act. There's nothing bad or discriminatory about that.
The Canonical Services staff have been of great help to me over the years in responding to various questions regarding the sacraments, annulments, etc. and so I say publicly, ‘Thank you.’
-Deacon John DeGano
Here's the response of the Very Rev. David Andel, Director/Judicial Vicar:
In general, those who lack the psychological capability of understanding the essential obligations of marriage and of fulfilling those obligations are not capable of marriage.
There is a certain minimum threshold not just for the sake of validity but for capacity. We see that in many areas of life - job requirements, entrance into college, buying a firearm, being a foster parent. Sometimes the law - civil and ecclesiastical - says a person is not capable of placing a certain act. There's nothing bad or discriminatory about that.
The Canonical Services staff have been of great help to me over the years in responding to various questions regarding the sacraments, annulments, etc. and so I say publicly, ‘Thank you.’
Q. What is the Church’s position on abortion? How can parishioners at St. Catherine’s to get involved?
A. We are pro-life. That means we are against abortion. Not only because it kills the child in the womb violating the Fifth Commandment ‘thou shall not kill’ but because it violates Jesus’ commandment to ‘love God and neighbor’. Any taking of life, unless it is in defense or an incidental result from some other life-saving procedure is both inherently wrong (a sin against life) and ‘gravely contrary to the moral law’ (Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 2271) .
However, we must not equate pro-life simply with pro-birth. The church is pro-life at every stage of life. That is, to quote Popes (St.) John Paul II and Benedict XVI ‘from conception to natural death.’
Therefore we should not be making a distinction between pro-birth and pro-life. All life is sacred. All have dignity and deserve our respect as members of God’s family. (You may read more about church teaching on the connection between ‘human life and dignity of the human person’ at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops at http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/)
As for ways you can get involved, contact our parish respect life ministry (see bulletin) or diocesan pro-life ministry office. You may contribute to the great work that our local pro-life clinic, Riverside Life Services, does for pregnant mothers, or ministries like St. Vincent de Paul or Feed the Hungry. You can also get involved by learning more about Rachael’s Vineyard, a healing retreat program for those who have suffered an abortion, and sharing your research with others.
The parish Respect Life ministry can be reached at 951-836-0901 and the Diocese of San Bernardino Office of Life, Dignity and Justice can be reached at (909) 475-5478.
-Deacon John
However, we must not equate pro-life simply with pro-birth. The church is pro-life at every stage of life. That is, to quote Popes (St.) John Paul II and Benedict XVI ‘from conception to natural death.’
Therefore we should not be making a distinction between pro-birth and pro-life. All life is sacred. All have dignity and deserve our respect as members of God’s family. (You may read more about church teaching on the connection between ‘human life and dignity of the human person’ at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops at http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/)
As for ways you can get involved, contact our parish respect life ministry (see bulletin) or diocesan pro-life ministry office. You may contribute to the great work that our local pro-life clinic, Riverside Life Services, does for pregnant mothers, or ministries like St. Vincent de Paul or Feed the Hungry. You can also get involved by learning more about Rachael’s Vineyard, a healing retreat program for those who have suffered an abortion, and sharing your research with others.
The parish Respect Life ministry can be reached at 951-836-0901 and the Diocese of San Bernardino Office of Life, Dignity and Justice can be reached at (909) 475-5478.
-Deacon John
Q. What do you do during Lent to prepare for Easter?
A. I know it may seem trite, but I follow the ‘holy trinity’ of Lenten practices: Pray. Fast. Almsgiving.
These ‘tools’ are time-honored ways to re-take control of our lives so that we might focus our attention and extra time on things that promote life.
I try and carve out more time for prayer. Usually early morning and late at night. I am a strong advocate of our parish’s communal penance services so I participate in them during Advent and Lent.
During Lent I fast from unproductive computer games like Solitaire and reduce my food intake as ways to focus my attention on the gift of life that God has given me and that I shouldn’t waste time and energy on things that do not promote life or better health. This may include walking more and sitting at my desk less.
For almsgiving, I try and give more of my time, talent and treasure to help others. I am speaking to more groups about social justice issues and am working with other parish and diocesan groups to promote justice and peace.
The parish Respect Life ministry can be reached at 951-836-0901 and the Diocese of San Bernardino Office of Life, Dignity and Justice can be reached at (909) 475-5478.
-Deacon John
Q. What ministry or ministries were you involved with before your ordination, and how do you see yourself embracing and living out the goals that ministry today?
A. The first ministry I was involved in at St. Catherine was the greeter’s ministry. Cheryl and I had been in the parish (but not active) for a number of years when we were approached by a member of the ministry who recognized our ‘gift’. Cheryl said ‘Yes!’ right away but I, an introvert, wondered ‘why a ministry of greeting was needed?’ And just as the words left my lips I heard a voice (God?) inside me say, “You don’t (greet).”
And that’s how our life here at St. Catherine began.
We attended the parish’s Renewal Weekend and soon became adult altar servers/Eucharistic ministers (EMs), RCIA team members and served on the annual parish picnic committee.
Today we continue this ministry of ‘welcome’ by our involvement with children’s RCIA and sacramental preparation (especially the three sacraments of initiation - Baptism, and First Communion and Confirmation), assisting others to encounter Jesus Christ.
Being a greeter is such a simple ministry (trust me, if I can do it…), yet it has the power to make a powerful impact on both the greeter and the one being greeted. We were strangers and St. Catherine welcomed us. Our lives have been permanently changed. So no one should say, “I am too young, too old, or too busy.” to serve the Lord.
Try it. All it takes is a few minutes of your time before or after mass (we chose to stay, have a donut and greet those arriving for the next mass!). There’s no telling who you will meet. A future spouse? An angel? Why you might even meet Jesus! And if you do, don’t be surprised if he says to you, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!”
-Deacon John
And that’s how our life here at St. Catherine began.
We attended the parish’s Renewal Weekend and soon became adult altar servers/Eucharistic ministers (EMs), RCIA team members and served on the annual parish picnic committee.
Today we continue this ministry of ‘welcome’ by our involvement with children’s RCIA and sacramental preparation (especially the three sacraments of initiation - Baptism, and First Communion and Confirmation), assisting others to encounter Jesus Christ.
Being a greeter is such a simple ministry (trust me, if I can do it…), yet it has the power to make a powerful impact on both the greeter and the one being greeted. We were strangers and St. Catherine welcomed us. Our lives have been permanently changed. So no one should say, “I am too young, too old, or too busy.” to serve the Lord.
Try it. All it takes is a few minutes of your time before or after mass (we chose to stay, have a donut and greet those arriving for the next mass!). There’s no telling who you will meet. A future spouse? An angel? Why you might even meet Jesus! And if you do, don’t be surprised if he says to you, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!”
-Deacon John
Q. What is your New Year's resolution for the community of St. Catherine's? What would be Jesus's resolution?
A. I know some people who do this and are successful but I, personally, don’t make ‘resolutions’ for New Year’s. Instead, I view the forty days of Lent as my reflective time -- using the tools of prayer, fasting and almsgiving to work on those things I need to and reset my course where needed.
Every elected leader should know what the people of St. Catherine want for their families, neighborhoods and community. These leaders should ask themselves, ‘How would St. Catherine respond to this issue?’ before making any decision affecting Riverside.
That takes a willingness on the part of every Catholic to know and love their faith so much (prioritize) that they may speak confidently at home or in the Halls of Power and do their part in bringing forth God’s kingdom of justice and peace.
Jesus would say the same thing, but with more eloquence. “Do not be afraid, I am with you.”
-Deacon John
- I certainly believe that the St. Catherine community is a caring community. They come through every year for requests for Thanksgiving turkeys and Christmas hams. They support the St. Vincent de Paul Society and our e-waste program and are conscientious about sending their children to receive their sacraments through our faith formation programs.
Every elected leader should know what the people of St. Catherine want for their families, neighborhoods and community. These leaders should ask themselves, ‘How would St. Catherine respond to this issue?’ before making any decision affecting Riverside.
That takes a willingness on the part of every Catholic to know and love their faith so much (prioritize) that they may speak confidently at home or in the Halls of Power and do their part in bringing forth God’s kingdom of justice and peace.
Jesus would say the same thing, but with more eloquence. “Do not be afraid, I am with you.”
-Deacon John
Q. What should we as Catholics do to prepare for Christmas?
A. For starters, remember to breathe.
Begin each day with a prayer of gratitude.
Then try not to get caught up in all the advertising media-hype and shopping frenzy.
And, finally, don’t spend more than you have. A card can say more than a piece of electronics.
Advent is the church’s season of waiting, so we should take more time to think about the ‘reason for the season’ – the birth of Jesus.
I think we sometimes forget it’s his birthday and not our own. Exchanging presents, decorating the house and preparing sumptuous feasts are fine (don’t forget to invite your clergy!) but they should not get in the way of your relationship with God or dull the gratitude we should feel toward God’s love and mercy, that he ‘sent his only son.. to die.. that we might live.’
Cheryl and I try and participate in the Advent and Lenten communal penance services when they are offered as part of our show of ‘gratitude’ and during the run up to Christmas we often attend posadas to ‘get in the spirit’ of the journey to Bethlehem. We also make a greater effort to gather with family and friends during the holidays, exchange presents and eat. And, of course, we attend Mass.
I would recommend watching as a family the movies, the Fourth Wiseman and A Charlie Brown Christmas. They have good faith messages. I also like Miracle on 34th Street and A Christmas Story (for a less religious take on the holiday season).
And since the Christmas season lasts for twelve days, use the time when people are hauling their trees to the curb or returning unwanted gifts to do your major shopping. One of the benefits of being Roman Catholic is the After-Christmas sales! True, we may miss out on a few fads but do we really need to stand in line for hours to buy our spouse a crock pot that plays DVDs?
‘nuf said
-Deacon John
A. I believe that we should prepare to make room for the full celebration of the Christmas season which is over two weeks in duration. We need to resist the shutting down our celebration of this season as society would have us do and make room for the feast of the Epiphany as well as the Baptism of the Lord. How many Christmas house lights do you see after the January 1st? How many Epiphany parties do you hear about in our families or even our churches? This is the perfect time to give witness that our God became like one of us in all ways except sin and walked the earth teaching, healing and ultimately gave His life to show us the way to the Father.
-Deaocn Dick
Begin each day with a prayer of gratitude.
Then try not to get caught up in all the advertising media-hype and shopping frenzy.
And, finally, don’t spend more than you have. A card can say more than a piece of electronics.
Advent is the church’s season of waiting, so we should take more time to think about the ‘reason for the season’ – the birth of Jesus.
I think we sometimes forget it’s his birthday and not our own. Exchanging presents, decorating the house and preparing sumptuous feasts are fine (don’t forget to invite your clergy!) but they should not get in the way of your relationship with God or dull the gratitude we should feel toward God’s love and mercy, that he ‘sent his only son.. to die.. that we might live.’
Cheryl and I try and participate in the Advent and Lenten communal penance services when they are offered as part of our show of ‘gratitude’ and during the run up to Christmas we often attend posadas to ‘get in the spirit’ of the journey to Bethlehem. We also make a greater effort to gather with family and friends during the holidays, exchange presents and eat. And, of course, we attend Mass.
I would recommend watching as a family the movies, the Fourth Wiseman and A Charlie Brown Christmas. They have good faith messages. I also like Miracle on 34th Street and A Christmas Story (for a less religious take on the holiday season).
And since the Christmas season lasts for twelve days, use the time when people are hauling their trees to the curb or returning unwanted gifts to do your major shopping. One of the benefits of being Roman Catholic is the After-Christmas sales! True, we may miss out on a few fads but do we really need to stand in line for hours to buy our spouse a crock pot that plays DVDs?
‘nuf said
-Deacon John
A. I believe that we should prepare to make room for the full celebration of the Christmas season which is over two weeks in duration. We need to resist the shutting down our celebration of this season as society would have us do and make room for the feast of the Epiphany as well as the Baptism of the Lord. How many Christmas house lights do you see after the January 1st? How many Epiphany parties do you hear about in our families or even our churches? This is the perfect time to give witness that our God became like one of us in all ways except sin and walked the earth teaching, healing and ultimately gave His life to show us the way to the Father.
-Deaocn Dick
We received a series of questions from a parishioner about the Holy Door of Mercy and received the following responses from Deacon John De Gano
Q. For how long is the Door of Mercy is going to be opened?
A. Pope Francis has declared the Year of Mercy to end on November 20, 2016. So at the Sunday 5:15 p.m. Liturgy, Fr. Gene will preside over the closing of our Holy Door.
Q. Is it all ready to late to enter?
A. It is not too late. You have the opportunity to pass through the door and fulfill the requirements anytime until then. The requirements are listed on a card inside the church – they include: entering through the door of mercy with the intent of fulfilling the requirements to receive the plenary indulgence, pray for the Pope’s intentions, attend mass (pray the Nicene Creed) and go to confession.
Q. Is there going to be another pilgrimage to the Holy Door? Where please!
A. We have been receiving requests from various parishes in our vicariate to bring their pilgrims to St. Catherine and many have already done so. We had a big event on October 1, 2016 which drew close to 1,000 pilgrims (from at least four parishes not including our own). It was a joyful experience, beginning with the 8 a.m. mass, the Blessing of the Animals in the Spirit of St. Francis at 9 a.m.; the arrival of the parishioners from several parishes, including the coordinated Diocesan pilgrimage tour (of all seven doors of mercy in our Diocese) at 10:20 a.m., the blessing of the pilgrims and their prayer intentions and concluded with the walking of the Stations of Mercy (next to the Ministry Center) and the Labyrinth (in the Parish Hall). You don’t have to go as a huge group but can do so by yourself or with family or friends.
If you want to come when others are scheduled to be there, check with the Parish office at (951) 781-9855 or the Liturgy Office.
Q. Why is this significant to Catholics?
A. Like our Lenten practices of prayer, fasting and alms giving, fulfilling the requirements of the Plenary Indulgence is a way to focus on conquering our human desires – or regaining control by placing our spiritual needs ahead of corporeal ones. We fast, for example, not to lose weight, but to ‘give up’ something so that we may be more in-tune with the needs and sufferings of those around us.
I am reminded of a couple of scriptures that for me, at least, are germane to this question.
The first one -- Jesus’ parable of the Talents – I put you in charge of small things. If you do well with them I will make you responsible for greater ones. If you fail to use even your smallest talent, then what good are you to be given greater ones?
And, the second one, of course: to those whom much is given, much will be expected.
As the recipients of the Holy Door of Mercy for our vicariate, it may be harder for us, seeing that we have the door with us all the time, to see it as special during this Year of Mercy. Had it been a door kept locked year-round, opening it would be perceived as being something new, something important. However, for those who pass through the door daily to mass, it may not seem so significant. We have to work harder than those who make pilgrimage because all is new for them. Their faith prepares them and leads them through the holy door. We have to redouble our efforts to see this door as spiritually significant and pass through it with an attitude of mercy and repentance. Good luck and God bless!
A. Pope Francis has declared the Year of Mercy to end on November 20, 2016. So at the Sunday 5:15 p.m. Liturgy, Fr. Gene will preside over the closing of our Holy Door.
Q. Is it all ready to late to enter?
A. It is not too late. You have the opportunity to pass through the door and fulfill the requirements anytime until then. The requirements are listed on a card inside the church – they include: entering through the door of mercy with the intent of fulfilling the requirements to receive the plenary indulgence, pray for the Pope’s intentions, attend mass (pray the Nicene Creed) and go to confession.
Q. Is there going to be another pilgrimage to the Holy Door? Where please!
A. We have been receiving requests from various parishes in our vicariate to bring their pilgrims to St. Catherine and many have already done so. We had a big event on October 1, 2016 which drew close to 1,000 pilgrims (from at least four parishes not including our own). It was a joyful experience, beginning with the 8 a.m. mass, the Blessing of the Animals in the Spirit of St. Francis at 9 a.m.; the arrival of the parishioners from several parishes, including the coordinated Diocesan pilgrimage tour (of all seven doors of mercy in our Diocese) at 10:20 a.m., the blessing of the pilgrims and their prayer intentions and concluded with the walking of the Stations of Mercy (next to the Ministry Center) and the Labyrinth (in the Parish Hall). You don’t have to go as a huge group but can do so by yourself or with family or friends.
If you want to come when others are scheduled to be there, check with the Parish office at (951) 781-9855 or the Liturgy Office.
Q. Why is this significant to Catholics?
A. Like our Lenten practices of prayer, fasting and alms giving, fulfilling the requirements of the Plenary Indulgence is a way to focus on conquering our human desires – or regaining control by placing our spiritual needs ahead of corporeal ones. We fast, for example, not to lose weight, but to ‘give up’ something so that we may be more in-tune with the needs and sufferings of those around us.
I am reminded of a couple of scriptures that for me, at least, are germane to this question.
The first one -- Jesus’ parable of the Talents – I put you in charge of small things. If you do well with them I will make you responsible for greater ones. If you fail to use even your smallest talent, then what good are you to be given greater ones?
And, the second one, of course: to those whom much is given, much will be expected.
As the recipients of the Holy Door of Mercy for our vicariate, it may be harder for us, seeing that we have the door with us all the time, to see it as special during this Year of Mercy. Had it been a door kept locked year-round, opening it would be perceived as being something new, something important. However, for those who pass through the door daily to mass, it may not seem so significant. We have to work harder than those who make pilgrimage because all is new for them. Their faith prepares them and leads them through the holy door. We have to redouble our efforts to see this door as spiritually significant and pass through it with an attitude of mercy and repentance. Good luck and God bless!
Q. With this Year of Mercy in mind, which of the spiritual or corporal Works of Mercy for you is most challenging? And how do you overcome that challenge?
A. If we take the works of mercy literally, the obvious answer for me is ‘visit the imprisoned’.
It often takes months to get paperwork approved in order to visit those in jail and/or prison. That alone can be off-putting to some, however, it can also be such a rewarding experience for those who do this regularly with our Jail Ministry, etc. that they frequently make it their prime ministry. I have to respect that kind of dedication.
However, not everyone is ‘imprisoned’ in a jail cell. Some are home bound. Under convalescent care. Homeless. Or just strangers to our parish and or community. In all these cases we are called to ‘go out’ to where they are and minister to their needs.
That’s where scheduling can be a challenge for me… When is the best time to ‘go out’? Where?
I can also get too comfortable at my computer (working on a homily or Byte column!) that I get Pope Francis’ message backwards and wait for people/sheep to come to me. It’s at times like these that I need ministers like Robert and others to invite me to go on a St. Vincent de Paul visit (or grocery run) with them or get sent to give ashes out to the patients and medical staff (who may have crazy-long shifts) at Kaiser Hospital and elsewhere at the start of Lent. ‘To smell like the sheep’… Then I am reminded that they, too, are in need of our support and grateful when the church reaches out to them in their need or workplace.
“The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few.”
It’s true. I and the other clergy can do only so much. We must rely on God to touch your hearts and send you into the fields to find those who seek the Lord (but are on the fringes) and minister to their needs. Your clergy can support you, we just can’t do it alone. It takes a parish. It takes commitment. It takes love. And mercy (like the Father).
-Deacon John
It often takes months to get paperwork approved in order to visit those in jail and/or prison. That alone can be off-putting to some, however, it can also be such a rewarding experience for those who do this regularly with our Jail Ministry, etc. that they frequently make it their prime ministry. I have to respect that kind of dedication.
However, not everyone is ‘imprisoned’ in a jail cell. Some are home bound. Under convalescent care. Homeless. Or just strangers to our parish and or community. In all these cases we are called to ‘go out’ to where they are and minister to their needs.
That’s where scheduling can be a challenge for me… When is the best time to ‘go out’? Where?
I can also get too comfortable at my computer (working on a homily or Byte column!) that I get Pope Francis’ message backwards and wait for people/sheep to come to me. It’s at times like these that I need ministers like Robert and others to invite me to go on a St. Vincent de Paul visit (or grocery run) with them or get sent to give ashes out to the patients and medical staff (who may have crazy-long shifts) at Kaiser Hospital and elsewhere at the start of Lent. ‘To smell like the sheep’… Then I am reminded that they, too, are in need of our support and grateful when the church reaches out to them in their need or workplace.
“The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few.”
It’s true. I and the other clergy can do only so much. We must rely on God to touch your hearts and send you into the fields to find those who seek the Lord (but are on the fringes) and minister to their needs. Your clergy can support you, we just can’t do it alone. It takes a parish. It takes commitment. It takes love. And mercy (like the Father).
-Deacon John
A. The specific work of mercy that is most challenging to me comes from the Spiritual works of Mercy. Specifically, the one where we are called to “Admonish the sinner”. It is a form of “tough love”. It is not easy to do. Society supports the “I’m ok and You’re ok..when in reality that is not always correct. Sometimes you’re not ok or I’m not ok and there needs to be clear discernment on this. It is so hard because we too feel that we are sinners and we ask "who am I to judge?” However I know we are not judging, but rather trying to be supportive in helping others to find their way and helping them to correct their mistakes. We need to seek prudence in finding the right moment and just the right words and sharing them that affirms the person dignity yet encounters the sin.
-Deacon Dick
-Deacon Dick
Q. What is you favorite prayer?
A. My favorite prayers are: Prayer of St Francis and Psalm 51.
Prayer of St Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved, as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.
Amen.
Psalm 51
A psalm of David,
when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your
merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions. Thoroughly wash away my guilt; and from my sin
cleanse me. For I know my transgressions; my sin is always before me. Against you, you alone have I sinned; I have done
what is evil in your eyes so that you are just in your word, and without reproach in your judgment. Behold, I was born in guilt,
in sin my mother conceived me. Behold, you desire true sincerity; and secretly you teach me wisdom. Cleanse me with
hyssop, that I may be pure; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. You will let me hear gladness and joy; the bones you
have crushed will rejoice. Turn away your face from my sins; blot out all my iniquities. A clean heart create for me, God;
renew within me a steadfast spirit. Do not drive me from before your face, nor take from me your holy spirit. Restore to
me the gladness of your salvation; uphold me with a willing spirit. I will teach the wicked your ways, that sinners may return
to you. Rescue me from violent bloodshed, God, my saving God, and my tongue will sing joyfully of your justice. Lord, you
will open my lips; and my mouth will proclaim your praise. For you do not desire sacrifice or I would give it; a burnt offering
you would not accept. My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a contrite, humbled heart, O God, you will not scorn.
Treat Zion kindly according to your good will; build up the walls of Jerusalem. Then you will desire the sacrifices of the
just, burnt offering and whole offerings; then they will offer up young bulls on your altar.
Why? It helps me living out my life in simplicity. Keep me out from selfishness.
-Fr Adri
Prayer of St Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved, as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.
Amen.
Psalm 51
A psalm of David,
when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, God, in accord with your
merciful love; in your abundant compassion blot out my transgressions. Thoroughly wash away my guilt; and from my sin
cleanse me. For I know my transgressions; my sin is always before me. Against you, you alone have I sinned; I have done
what is evil in your eyes so that you are just in your word, and without reproach in your judgment. Behold, I was born in guilt,
in sin my mother conceived me. Behold, you desire true sincerity; and secretly you teach me wisdom. Cleanse me with
hyssop, that I may be pure; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. You will let me hear gladness and joy; the bones you
have crushed will rejoice. Turn away your face from my sins; blot out all my iniquities. A clean heart create for me, God;
renew within me a steadfast spirit. Do not drive me from before your face, nor take from me your holy spirit. Restore to
me the gladness of your salvation; uphold me with a willing spirit. I will teach the wicked your ways, that sinners may return
to you. Rescue me from violent bloodshed, God, my saving God, and my tongue will sing joyfully of your justice. Lord, you
will open my lips; and my mouth will proclaim your praise. For you do not desire sacrifice or I would give it; a burnt offering
you would not accept. My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a contrite, humbled heart, O God, you will not scorn.
Treat Zion kindly according to your good will; build up the walls of Jerusalem. Then you will desire the sacrifices of the
just, burnt offering and whole offerings; then they will offer up young bulls on your altar.
Why? It helps me living out my life in simplicity. Keep me out from selfishness.
-Fr Adri
A. I would like to write my answer to the question posted asking what is your favorite prayer and why?
My favorite prayer at first is Our Lord's prayer- 'Our Father...' as most of us would have it. But here I consider to answer to the prayer of St. Francis of Asisi that is 'Make me a Channel of your peace....'
It is through my humble surrender to God's will and plan so that his own designs be operative in my ministry.
Blessings
-Fr. Sagay
My favorite prayer at first is Our Lord's prayer- 'Our Father...' as most of us would have it. But here I consider to answer to the prayer of St. Francis of Asisi that is 'Make me a Channel of your peace....'
It is through my humble surrender to God's will and plan so that his own designs be operative in my ministry.
Blessings
-Fr. Sagay
A. This is one of my favorites. It is often referred to as the Irish Fisherman's Prayer or the Breton Fisherman’s Prayer:
"Dear Lord, be good to me
the sea is so wide and my
boat is so small."
It’s simple, short and to the point. A humble reminder of the vastness of God’s Creation and my seemingly insignificant place in its grand design. Yet God delights in all of his creation and through his son Jesus Christ, invites each of us into a personal relationship with him so that if I place my trust in Jesus to steer the boat where I need to go I can count every encounter as blessing.
-Deacon John
"Dear Lord, be good to me
the sea is so wide and my
boat is so small."
It’s simple, short and to the point. A humble reminder of the vastness of God’s Creation and my seemingly insignificant place in its grand design. Yet God delights in all of his creation and through his son Jesus Christ, invites each of us into a personal relationship with him so that if I place my trust in Jesus to steer the boat where I need to go I can count every encounter as blessing.
-Deacon John
A. “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, Have mercy on me a sinner.”
It is a short prayer and I use it often to begin my daily meditation. I say it over and over …sometimes 20 or 30 times…not fast, in fact somewhat slow and methodical. This tends to establish a stillness where my mind and heart can be connected. Sometimes, however, I use it to help me to become still in the midst of chaos. Flying in a Navy Early Warning aircraft (E2C) aboard Aircraft carriers can sometimes turn into a real challenge when flying in the middle of the Ocean and there is no divert field when there is a problem…saying this pray calmed my nerves on numerous occasions and helped to clarity on what to do.
-Deacon Dick
It is a short prayer and I use it often to begin my daily meditation. I say it over and over …sometimes 20 or 30 times…not fast, in fact somewhat slow and methodical. This tends to establish a stillness where my mind and heart can be connected. Sometimes, however, I use it to help me to become still in the midst of chaos. Flying in a Navy Early Warning aircraft (E2C) aboard Aircraft carriers can sometimes turn into a real challenge when flying in the middle of the Ocean and there is no divert field when there is a problem…saying this pray calmed my nerves on numerous occasions and helped to clarity on what to do.
-Deacon Dick
Q. Who is your favorite saint and why?
A. My favorite Saint is St Francis of Assisi.
Why? He has a deep sense of religious that very close to God but at the same time is very close to his neighbors and creations.
-Fr Adri
Why? He has a deep sense of religious that very close to God but at the same time is very close to his neighbors and creations.
-Fr Adri
A. It probably comes as no surprise that I’m a huge fan of Saint Francis of Assisi. His respect for nature and love for God through his self-giving service to the Church are legendary.
On a personal note, just before I was ordained a permanent deacon for the Diocese of San Bernardino Cheryl and I took our cat to a blessing of the animals being celebrated at OLPH in Riverside. I was surprised afterwards to see how our cat’s demeanor visibly changed once she had received her blessing. It was amazing.
So just five months after my ordination we held our first Blessing of the Animals in the ‘spirit of St. Francis’ at St. Catherine. October 1st will mark our 12th year as a faith community honoring God and this humble saint through our joyful and somewhat chaotic celebration. Join us!
-Deacon John
On a personal note, just before I was ordained a permanent deacon for the Diocese of San Bernardino Cheryl and I took our cat to a blessing of the animals being celebrated at OLPH in Riverside. I was surprised afterwards to see how our cat’s demeanor visibly changed once she had received her blessing. It was amazing.
So just five months after my ordination we held our first Blessing of the Animals in the ‘spirit of St. Francis’ at St. Catherine. October 1st will mark our 12th year as a faith community honoring God and this humble saint through our joyful and somewhat chaotic celebration. Join us!
-Deacon John
A. Over the years I have had several favorite saints. When I was young I had St Christopher because we drove across the country in the mid 50’s to Arizona from Ohio due to my Mother sickness. We were all fearful of what lie ahead. I prayed to St Christopher for a safe trip (and we arrived safely). Later I discovered that St Christopher was no longer revered as a saint. However, as time moved on I had the opportunity to meet (Saint) Mother Teresa along with my Dad. It was a powerful moment since my Dad was not Catholic. I could see that this short nun whose powerful fingers could grab your hands and transmit the grace of God thru them really touched him. Well Dad was affected. He later become a Catholic. Thank you St Mother Teresa.
-Deacon Richard
-Deacon Richard
Q. What is your favorite Gospel reading and why?
A. Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?” Simon Peter answered him, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:67-68)
This dialogue between Jesus and Simon Peter in the bread of life and words of eternal life discourse, whereby Jesus says that his flesh is true food and his blood is true drink, is so close to my heart. Why? It saved and strengthened my vocation! Here’s my story.
Most if not all of my fellow seminarians entered the minor seminary after our 6th grade. In 1971 I was in the last semester of my Ateneo University studies. The allure of life outside the seminary walls was so strong among my fellow seminarians in the higher years. As the school year was ending, many of them sent their applications for jobs to various corporations, in order to experience “the other side of the coin” as we euphemistically termed it. Very few came back to continue their seminary studies; most left for good. Shall I also try to do the things they did? Am I truly called to the priesthood? Should I not be in a different profession? These were some of the questions I asked myself. Such uncertainty must have been apparent on my face that an elderly SVD priest, who was my classmate in one philosophy subject that he was taking up for updating asked me, “Is there something wrong?”
Then one day in the last 5 minutes or so of the last day of one of the Philosophy courses, the Jesuit professor unexpectedly quoted the dialogue between Jesus and Simon Peter in the Gospel of St. John. It jolted me because in my years of study in Philosophy, not once had any professor referred to any text in the bible! So when I heard the question of Jesus and the answer of Simon Peter, I was so moved that I felt like Christ was asking me personally the very same question, “Do you also want to leave?” And as the days passed the answer became more and more clear to me: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Four and a half years later, I was ordained to the priesthood; I chose this Gospel text for my ordination Mass.
This is my life story behind the Gospel text. So here I am, an MSC priest for the past 40 and a half years, ever grateful to the Lord for his loving providence and watchful guidance, grateful for the grace of listening to his his words and responding accordingly, and grateful for the gift of the priesthood and the faculty to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
-Fr. Gene Sabio, MSC
This dialogue between Jesus and Simon Peter in the bread of life and words of eternal life discourse, whereby Jesus says that his flesh is true food and his blood is true drink, is so close to my heart. Why? It saved and strengthened my vocation! Here’s my story.
Most if not all of my fellow seminarians entered the minor seminary after our 6th grade. In 1971 I was in the last semester of my Ateneo University studies. The allure of life outside the seminary walls was so strong among my fellow seminarians in the higher years. As the school year was ending, many of them sent their applications for jobs to various corporations, in order to experience “the other side of the coin” as we euphemistically termed it. Very few came back to continue their seminary studies; most left for good. Shall I also try to do the things they did? Am I truly called to the priesthood? Should I not be in a different profession? These were some of the questions I asked myself. Such uncertainty must have been apparent on my face that an elderly SVD priest, who was my classmate in one philosophy subject that he was taking up for updating asked me, “Is there something wrong?”
Then one day in the last 5 minutes or so of the last day of one of the Philosophy courses, the Jesuit professor unexpectedly quoted the dialogue between Jesus and Simon Peter in the Gospel of St. John. It jolted me because in my years of study in Philosophy, not once had any professor referred to any text in the bible! So when I heard the question of Jesus and the answer of Simon Peter, I was so moved that I felt like Christ was asking me personally the very same question, “Do you also want to leave?” And as the days passed the answer became more and more clear to me: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Four and a half years later, I was ordained to the priesthood; I chose this Gospel text for my ordination Mass.
This is my life story behind the Gospel text. So here I am, an MSC priest for the past 40 and a half years, ever grateful to the Lord for his loving providence and watchful guidance, grateful for the grace of listening to his his words and responding accordingly, and grateful for the gift of the priesthood and the faculty to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
-Fr. Gene Sabio, MSC
A. You pose a hard question. There are many I like. Two of my favorites have to be:
Psalm 121 (The Pilgrims’ Prayer) which I use quite often when leading graveside services. It is a reminder that God never sleeps and is always ready to come to our aid – so we need fear nothing! I have it memorized and find this Psalm a great source of comfort in trying times.
A second favorite would be John, Chapter 6 and, specifically, Jesus’ words “This is my body… this is my blood…” It is the crux of who we are and who I am as a Catholic-Christian. Through the Eucharist we find communion with our God who invites us into the Paschal mystery to ‘die and rise with Jesus Christ. It is why I am a Roman Catholic.
-Deacon John
Psalm 121 (The Pilgrims’ Prayer) which I use quite often when leading graveside services. It is a reminder that God never sleeps and is always ready to come to our aid – so we need fear nothing! I have it memorized and find this Psalm a great source of comfort in trying times.
A second favorite would be John, Chapter 6 and, specifically, Jesus’ words “This is my body… this is my blood…” It is the crux of who we are and who I am as a Catholic-Christian. Through the Eucharist we find communion with our God who invites us into the Paschal mystery to ‘die and rise with Jesus Christ. It is why I am a Roman Catholic.
-Deacon John
A. I enjoy reading all the gospels. They are different yet there are similarities among them. Many scripture scholars think that Mark and Luke might be considered as better sources of information. However, I prefer how Matthew writes. He was my introduction to the Gospels. He not only informs the reader, but writes with an invitation to be open for a change.
He illustrates this clearly with his description of Simon Peter. When we read his gospel we should ask what happened to Peter, as well as what happened to Jesus. Matthew not only arouses compassion and fear, but also disturbs our peace of mind (which is necessary at times). Matthew calls us to the unknown. We cannot appreciate the call of Jesus to pray, fast, and give alms without doing so ourselves. We cannot appreciate the challenge of the storms of sea without appreciating the challenges embedded in the Sermon on the mount.
-Deacon Dick
He illustrates this clearly with his description of Simon Peter. When we read his gospel we should ask what happened to Peter, as well as what happened to Jesus. Matthew not only arouses compassion and fear, but also disturbs our peace of mind (which is necessary at times). Matthew calls us to the unknown. We cannot appreciate the call of Jesus to pray, fast, and give alms without doing so ourselves. We cannot appreciate the challenge of the storms of sea without appreciating the challenges embedded in the Sermon on the mount.
-Deacon Dick