Recent Sermon
Where is the Love?
Fr. Brown
The parable of the Good Samaritan is well known, but few appreciate the significance of Our Lord’s words in their historical context. The Jewish understanding of “neighbor” was restrictive, while the Christian understanding extends to all mankind. As traditional Catholics, we must be on guard against merely observing the externals of the law while neglecting the charity upon which it should be based. This fault can be found in many Christian homes, where the members of the family display great generosity and kindness to strangers, but indifference and even cruelty to those closest to them. Our love of God is tested by our love of neighbor, because whatever we neglect in our care “for the least of these” exemplifies our lack of love for God. We must conquer uncharitable thoughts, words, and deeds, first to those nearest to us, and then to all mankind. Salvation is shown to faith and prepared for hope, but it is given only to charity.
From Our Archives
The Saints and the Power of Divine Love
Bp. Ward
Great knowledge does not necessarily result in great virtue, because knowledge is found in the mind while virtue is found in the will. However, St. Pius X tells us that we cannot hope to defend the Faith and fulfill our duties in life if we are ignorant. The attacks on the Church have been so effective because of the neglect of catechetical training.
There is a great lesson in the story of the two Roman martyrs, Saints Felix and Adauctus. The holiness of St. Felix was so apparent that the mere sight of him was enough to convert St. Adauctus and inspire him to give his life. Every priest should aspire to give such an example by his Christ-like life as to inspire the love of God in those around him.
Many who read the story of St. Rose of Lima are discouraged by her extreme mortifications and penances, believing they lack the strength to be such a saint. Yet, the foundation of holiness is love, not fortitude. It was her love that inspired her to remove all obstacles to union with God, and Our Lord called her His spouse because of her great love, not because of her penances.
The conversion of St. Paul increases our hope and assures us that no one is beyond the pale of mercy. All the knowledge granted by faith is for the purpose of love. Our Lord has loved us first, let us spend our lives returning that love.
