Today is the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. This church or basilica was erected by the Emperor Constantine (324 AD) and is called the mother church of Christendom. The readings today ask us to reflect on the meaning and purpose of the...
In today’s first reading Paul calls upon the Philippians and us to be imitators of him. “Join with other in being imitators of me…and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us.” Ultimately Paul, as all disciples, is called upon...
Once again, we see that Jesus’ values and the those of the religious leaders of his times were diametrically opposed. Those leaders maintained their holiness by isolating themselves from any contamination with those whom they considered sinful or evil. In their view...
In today’s first reading from the Letter to the Philippines, we hear: “…work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For God is the one who, for his good purpose, works in you both to desire and to work.” (2:12-13). Work out our salvation? To be clear this...
From time to time, my dad would remind me that “every person you meet is your better in that you can learn something from them.” Good and sage advice. I wonder if he knew he was echoing Ralph Waldo Emerson who wrote: “In my walks, every man I meet is my superior in...
