Dear Parishioners,
This is the Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. The Gospel for this Sunday (see Matthew 18: 21-35) is a challenge on many fronts. Before we consider the instruction of Jesus for this Sunday we need to recall it comes after weeks of hearing the Lord inviting us to a deeper faith in him and to follow him even to the cross. We are ready to learn as follows of Christ that we must forgive one another not seven times but seventy-seven times. Does this mean we forget the pain and hurt of being wronged in some way? Does this imply that we can allow almost anyone or anything to disrespect us and disregard our rights and dignity? No, this is not forgiveness. Forgiveness is the willingness to love someone without holding on to the offense. This is the way the Lord forgives us over and over again—more than seventy-seven times. This manner of forgiveness requires the true Christian spirit and the practice of it in our daily lives.
Also this Sunday is Catechetical Sunday. On this Sunday throughout the United States, those who teach the Faith in a formal way are acknowledged and blessed for their most needed service. All of us, by virtue of our Baptism and reception of Holy Communion each Sunday, are called to “Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.” We do this among our families and friends as well as at work and wherever we find ourselves. Some of us make known the message of faith in more formal settings such as schools and religious education programs. The Cathedral Parish does not have a parochial school nor a stand-alone religious education program. Yet, we have many catechists who assist with sacramental formation and preparation for infants, children, and adults. This Sunday, September 17, 2023, at the 8:45 A.M. Mass, these catechists will be present for a blessing for their important role in passing on the Faith.
Thank you to all of our parishioners and visitors for your kindness and generosity to Saint Benedict. Please continue helping us with the 2023 Diocesan Annual Appeal, we still need to collect $8,975.23 to reach the goal.
God bless you,
Father Jose Elias